Indeed, I returned to London last month in July following a family getaway in Morocco, and I’m eager to share with you my specialty coffee experiences in London, particularly since numerous new coffee shops have opened, countering the notion that the proliferation of coffee shops is merely a fleeting fad…. Hmmm! To summarize, it seems there’s a trend where international coffee brands from locations like Dubai (mentioned in my previous post), Nairobi (yes, from Kenya, Africa), Asia, and Europe are establishing branches in London. I also revisited some of my favorites, which were conveniently situated along my explorations of London and visits with friends.
The Barn Café, 36 Charlotte Street
Just recently launched on Charlotte Street, a short stroll from Oxford Street (Tottenham Court Road end and near Goodge Street), Barn Berlin has chosen to open a branch in the vibrant heart of London, named The Barn Café (distinct from Barn Berlin). A quaint hideaway, the ambiance is urban chic with exposed brick, providing a natural aesthetic, complemented by wooden furnishings and flooring that I suppose aligns with their coffee bags, reminding me of my coffee shop in Cape Town. They utilize a La Marzocco two-group Linea machine paired with Victoria Arduino grinders. There’s some outdoor seating, which was ideal on the warm sunny 30°C day I visited. However, I opted to sit inside to capture pictures and videos and engage a bit with their amiable staff, which I did. As I hadn’t indulged in milk-based coffee that day, I ordered a flat white made with their blend.
Perfectly balanced.
They offer a wide selection of their coffees, allowing you to enjoy and purchase.
Spring Valley, 24 Camden Passage, Islington
I was thrilled to discover this new coffee shop opening in London just before my visit, but you may wonder why. In brief, I have been aware of this Kenyan coffee brand since 2018, and the fact that an African brand is launching in one of London’s most esteemed neighborhoods signified to me two key points: one, an African F&B company has the audacity to establish a presence in London, and two, a dedicated coffee shop will regularly serve Kenyan coffee. So, I headed there with my daughter on a rather rainy Sunday and was astonished by how lively the area was. Even more impressive was the size of the shop. Equipped with all the top-notch tools I had seen in Nairobi, such as a La Marzocco Strada and a Swan grinder.
I chose a cappuccino with their dark roast, although I must admit, I would have preferred their medium roast, but they were already out of stock, even by 11:30 am. They also offer a plethora of merchandise from Africa, and I can envision them becoming a center for locals and British Africans alike.
Frequency Specialty Coffee, 13 Camden Passage Islington
Not far from Spring Valley was what appeared to be a small coffee shop. However, upon climbing the stairs, I discovered that Frequency boasts seating across four floors, including a garden patio. On that rainy day, we settled on the second floor as I relished my Brazilian cortado – with delightful hints of dark chocolate dancing on my tongue.
So delightful that I bought a bag of their espresso beans to take back to Dubai.
Later that week, I returned with my brother, and guess what? It was raining again, but I opted for a V60 that was equally enjoyable.
Zero to One, 19 Widegate, near Liverpool Street Station
We know that Vietnam is currently the second largest coffee producer in the world, but I had never visited or encountered a Vietnamese specialty coffee shop until now – located just a stone’s throw from Liverpool Street tube station – the epicenter for bankers, lawyers, and the individuals who generate wealth in London. My daughter actually recommended this place, so I visited with my wife to give it a try. Outfitted with a Kees van der Westen Spirit espresso machine, operated by a friendly barista, it was evident they were serious about their coffee.
I chose a cortado made with…. Guess what? A medium-light roasted Vietnamese specialty robusta natural coffee bean, fermented with kefir (typically used for yogurt fermentation) – yes, somewhat of a mouthful, but a mouthful of delight as well. Delicious!
They also roast and sell their beans, so if you’re in the mood for something unique, be sure to give them a shot.
So, where else did I stop by?
Well, I popped into a few other tried-and-true spots that I’ve previously written about, such as:
Kiss the Hippo on Margaret Street, near Oxford Street, which was actually my very first specialty coffee destination. I enjoyed a well-balanced fruity V60 made with Colombian Pink Bourbon Arabica beans.
Urban Botanica in Kennington for a cortado made with a Rwanda natural brewed on their Kees van der Westen Spirit espresso machine.
WatchHouse (with branches in Fitzrovia and Bond Street) for scrumptious banana bread and batch brew, and on another visit, a flat white. I adore the interiors and the meticulous attention to detail displayed by the staff at this establishment, and you can typically expect a great experience when you stop by. Did I mention they have a customer loyalty app too?
The Shed at Clapham South underground station, which now sources Assembly coffee (previously it was Caravan) for a quick cortado.
2 Love to Coffee House (on St Johns Road, Clapham) for my final coffee fix, which was a flat white made with their espresso blend – a delightful conclusion to my coffee adventures in London.
**Discovering Coffee Culture in London: Summer 2025 Edition**
As the summer of 2025 progresses, London’s coffee culture remains vibrant and dynamic, providing a rich and varied experience for both residents and visitors. The city’s coffee landscape has greatly evolved, embracing innovation, sustainability, and a profound appreciation for high-quality brews. Here’s an insight into what makes London’s coffee culture so intriguing this summer.
**1. Specialty Coffee Shops: A Hub of Innovation**
London’s specialty coffee shops are leading the charge in innovation, with baristas trying out new brewing methods and flavor combinations. This summer, expect to encounter unique offerings like nitro cold brews infused with fresh seasonal fruits, and single-origin espressos sourced from emerging coffee producers. Cafés like “Brewed Awakening” in Shoreditch and “The Coffee Alchemist” in Soho are essential stops for their imaginative concoctions and expertly crafted beverages.
**2. Sustainable Practices: A Green Revolution**
Sustainability is a significant focus within London’s coffee scene, as many cafés embrace eco-friendly measures. From utilizing biodegradable cups and straws to sourcing beans from ethical vendors, the city’s coffee shops strive to minimize their environmental footprint. “EcoBrew” in Camden has gained traction for its zero-waste strategy, offering discounts to patrons who bring their reusable cups.
**3. Coffee and Community: A Social Experience**
In London, coffee transcends being merely a drink; it serves as a social occasion. Numerous cafés host events such as latte art workshops, coffee tastings, and community gatherings. “The Common Grounds” in Hackney is famous for its lively community vibe, where customers can enjoy live music and art presentations while savoring their favorite beverages.
**4. The Rise of Coffee Subscriptions**
For those keen on enjoying London’s coffee culture from the comfort of home, coffee subscription services have surged in popularity. Companies like “London Brew Box” offer curated selections of beans from the top roasters in the city, delivered directly to your doorstep. This trend allows coffee aficionados to explore a range of flavors while supporting local enterprises.
**5. Iconic Coffee Spots: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity**
While new cafés continue to make their mark, London’s legendary coffee spots remain cherished mainstays. “Monmouth Coffee” in Covent Garden and “Kaffeine” in Fitzrovia are celebrated for their rich heritage and consistently excellent brews. These locations seamlessly blend tradition with modernity, offering a timeless coffee experience that appeals to both purists and adventurers.
**6. Coffee Tours: A Journey Through Flavor**
For those eager to immerse themselves deeper into the city’s coffee culture, guided coffee tours offer a comprehensive experience. These tours take participants to some of London’s finest coffee shops, providing insights into the coffee-making process and the narratives behind each cup. “London Coffee Tours” offers a summer schedule that includes tastings, workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours of roasteries.
In summary, London’s coffee culture in the summer of 2025 represents a captivating fusion of innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee lover or a curious newcomer, the city’s diverse selections promise a rich and enjoyable experience. So, grab a cup, explore the neighborhoods, and savor the unique flavors that make London’s coffee scene truly extraordinary.
