A local’s guide to the most instagrammable secret cafes in London; with rustic breakfast spots, pink coffee shops, riverside food spots, vintage, and floral!
I just realised I’ve never actually shared my go-to secret cafes in London with you.
Sure, I’ve talked about the pretty pink coffee shops and the beautiful bakery spots, but not the low-key gems I love hanging out in.
Now that I’m splitting my time between London and Rome, I don’t get to explore every new pastel café that pops up.
But recently, I’ve stumbled across a bunch of hidden coffee shops that are genuinely worth checking out—especially if you like places that feel a little more under the radar.
London’s Secret Cafes: 25+ Breakfast Spots and Coffee Shops
Instagrammable and Secret Cafes in Central London
I’ve grouped them by area—Central, East, North, South, and West—so you can find something close no matter where you are.
This post isn’t only about cafes with views or floral coffee shops (I’ve written those up separately).
But if you’re looking for a mix of aesthetic corners and quiet charm, plus good coffee and a slice of something sweet, you’re in the right place.
If you already know me, you know I’m obsessed with finding the balance between aesthetic restaurants and cosy rustic cafés. These ones hit that sweet spot.
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: Apple Butter, Seven Dials
Right in the heart of Covent Garden and Seven Dials, Apple Butter Cafe on Monmouth Street has a quirky little secret that easily makes it one of the most instagrammable cafes in London…
There’s a full tree right inside the café.
Surrounded by brick walls, colour-pop lattes, and some of the prettiest breakfast and brunch dishes you’ll find in town, this spot is made for slow mornings and cute snapshots.
From floral pancakes to flowery French toast, everything looks like it was styled for your camera roll.
Bonus? You’re steps away from some of London’s best makeup shops, jewelry and clothing shops, and plenty of cosy cafes nearby if you’re planning a full day out.
Most Secret Cafes in Central London: Donutelier, Charing Cross Road
Okay, Donutelier isn’t exactly a secret anymore (it was when I first wrote this guide over a year ago), but it’s so pretty I had to include it.
If you’re into doughnuts like I am, this place is worth a stop.
The flavours go from pistachio to rose and raspberry, all filled with silky creams and jams—and the whole shop looks like a Parisian patisserie.
There’s a cute little back room too, perfect for a chai latte and one very photogenic pastry.
Read here my review of Donutelier on Charing Cross Road, for really tasty French-inspired pastries, a beautiful pink cafe vibe, and a seriously upscale experience.
Best Secret Cafes in London: Press Coffee Co, Fleet Street
I’ve mentioned Press Coffee Co before—it’s one of my favourite spots to read near Covent Garden and St Paul’s—and every time I go back, the vibe is still spot on.
There are two branches around Fleet Street, but the one near Gray’s Inn is the tiniest. Like, seven seats tiny.
I love the bow windows, the cosy rustic feel, and honestly? The banana bread. I’m not a chocolate-pastry person, so a good banana bread or carrot cake is always a win—and this one keeps pulling me back.
Best Hidden Coffee Shops in London: Bageriet, Rose Street
Bageriet in Covent Garden is one of the tiniest coffee shops in London—and one of the only proper Scandinavian bakeries in the city.
Love chai latte? That’s the spot for it.
I had the best cinnamon bun of my life here, and their Princess Cake is a must if you’ve never tried it.
Only a few tables inside and out, so it’s one of those early-bird places, especially in winter when the Christmas vibes are perfect.
It’s tucked away on Rose Street, one of the oldest streets in London, and a lovely spot for a quiet stroll or some window shopping.
Read here my full review of Bageriet in Covent Garden; one of the smallest and most beautiful bakeries in London, with outstanding chai latte and cinnamon buns.
Most Secret Cafes in Central London: Coffee Academy, Southbank
Right at the bottom of the Oxo Tower on Southbank, Coffee Academy is tucked inside Brand Academy, one of London’s quirkiest little shops.
I’ve had some of the best hot chocolate of my life here, with the Thames just a few steps away. It’s one of my favourite spots to sit down, breathe in the river air, and enjoy something sweet.
There are only a couple of tables, but since most people pass through on their way between Big Ben and London Bridge, you can usually grab a seat.
Once you’ve had your coffee, definitely check out Brand Academy—and if you love books, there’s a secondhand book market under the bridge near Tate Modern.
Pretty Secret Cafes in London: CA Japanese Pancakes, Victoria
Coffee Addict in Victoria is one of those pink cafes that actually delivers.
Tiny space, big floral energy, and Japanese-inspired vibes all the way.
The lattes are pink, blue, all kinds of pastel, the brunch plates are pretty, and yes—the coffee’s really good.
It’s right by the station and perfect if you want something fast, cute, and feed-ready, but come as early as possible as it gets crowded very, very quickly.
Best Secret Cafes in London: Aux Merveilleux de Fred, Leadenhall Market
Aux Merveilleux de Fred is one of the best French patisseries in London, hands down.
They make delicate meringue pastries filled with cream and topped with chocolate—and yes, they taste as dreamy as they look.
You’ll find this spot tucked inside Leadenhall Market, a beautifully preserved medieval arcade that’s also one of London’s free historical gems.
I usually grab a large latte, a couple of mini merveilleux, and a cramique (that soft, sweet brioche with sugar or chocolate chips).
Then I wander off to explore the nearby church gardens—honestly, my ideal kind of day.
Read here my review of Aux Merveilleux de Fred in Leadenhall Market; a beautiful French pastry shop in a historical setting, in the City of London.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Cutter & Squidge, Soho
I recently stopped by Cutter and Squidge in Soho and was honestly shocked it wasn’t packed.
We’ll get into more hidden cafes in this post, but this one’s worth a mention for the cakes alone.
Bright orange window, layered bakes stacked to perfection, and flavour that actually delivers.
If you’re after a cute date spot near Piccadilly Circus that’s both central and aesthetic, add this one to your list.
Instagrammable and Secret Cafes in East London
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: Cafe Brera, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf
Cafe Brera might be one of the most instagrammable cafes in London, but the real reason to go—especially to the Cabot Place location in Canary Wharf—is the breakfast.
It opens bright and early at 7 am on weekdays, which makes it perfect if you’re up for a slow, quiet morning before the city wakes up.
The breakfast options are fresh and elegant, with buttery pastries, warm sourdough paninis, and really good artisan coffee to go with it.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Kahaila, Brick Lane
Kahaila on Brick Lane is one of my favorite cafes to work—and it’s also a proper community space with amazing fresh pastries.
It fills up fast during rush hour and weekends, so go early if you can. I’m always hunting for rainbow cakes in London, but the vanilla Victoria sponge here might be even better.
You’re right by some of Shoreditch’s coolest markets and shops, so my go-to is breakfast at Kahaila, a bit of vintage shopping, then lunch at a street food spot I find on the way.
Find here my full review of Kahaila Brick Lane to discover a wonderful rustic coffee shop with Red Velvet cakes, carrot and rainbow cakes, and delicious chai latte.
Best Secret Cafes in London: Poplar E5 Bakehouse
Tucked away near Bethnal Green, Poplar E5 Bakehouse is one of the best hidden coffee shops I’ve found lately—and I’m so glad I did.
Their apple and cinnamon cake and cinnamon bun? Total childhood flashback. Like something your mum would bake during cartoons.
On sunny days, you even get a view of Canary Wharf in the distance. It’s also a great low-key study spot in East London, with lots of space to work (just don’t count on too many plugs).
Most Secret Cafes in London: Rinkoffs Bakery, Stepney Green
I’ve raved about Rinkoffs Bakery before – it’s one of my absolute favorites in East London. You’ll find it in Stepney Green, not far from either Whitechapel or Mile End.
It’s not just a secret local café. It’s one of the oldest bakeries in London, around since 1911.
And if you’re walking from Rinkoffs toward Mile End Road, look across the street and you’ll spot the Booth Memorial. Right behind it? The Trinity Green Almshouses, one of those quiet little historic gems that used to house the city’s poor. I love that this part of London still holds onto its history like that.
But before the sightseeing, grab something from Rinkoffs.
A bagel, a Danish, one of their dreamy filled doughnuts—just trust me.
I used to come here all the time when I lived in Mile End and Bethnal Green, and I still think about some of those pastries.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Grounded, Bow
I’ve talked about Grounded in Aldgate East before—it’s one of my go-to spots for breakfast, brunch, reading, and writing.
Well, there’s now a second Grounded café just steps from Bow Church station, and I kind of love it even more. It’s way more spacious than the Aldgate one, which gets long queues on weekends for good reason.
Grounded is easily one of the most delicious halal cafés in London. Even their Full English hits the spot.
If you’re ever near Mile End, Bow, or Stratford, this is one of those rustic cafés you have to try. And yes—their chai latte might just be the best in London.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Quarantacinque, Bethnal Green
Quarantacinque is one of the only proper Italian cafés near Bethnal Green and Globe Road—and definitely one of the tiniest.
But that pistachio cornetto? Takes me straight back to Rome, where I basically live on café breakfasts.
It’s got a half-Italian, half-rustic vibe, with just a few tables and some of the strongest coffee you’ll find in London.
Bonus: it’s right near some of the best charity shops in Bethnal Green, so make a little morning of it.
Cutest Secret Cafes in London: Dark Sugars, Brick Lane
If you’re into seriously rich, chocolatey hot chocolate, you need to stop by Dark Sugars on Brick Lane.
We’re back on the same street as London’s best bagels, and this one’s not far from Kahaila either. The only catch? No seats. Zero. Nada.
But for that cup of hot chocolate—piled high with shaved chocolate curls—I’d happily walk around getting rained on. It’s London, after all.
And with all the street art and hidden gems on Brick Lane, you kind of forget your umbrella anyway.
Read here my review of Dark Sugars on Brick Lane; for thick hot chocolate topped with shaved chocolate surrounded by street art and vintage shops.
Instagrammable and Secret Cafes in West London
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: Peggy Jean at Riverside Richmond, West London
Peggy Jean Riverside is part of the Daisy Green chain, and with its pink umbrellas and riverside views, it’s easily one of the cutest pink cafes in London.
There’s not a single corner here that isn’t photo-ready—gram-worthy Aussie dishes, the water glistening nearby, and that dreamy terrace.
It’s one of the most underrated Instagram cafes in London, and even though it’s a bit of a trip from Central, it’s 100% a hidden gem worth saving for a romantic breakfast date.
Best Secret Cafes in London: Nest Cafe, Willesden Green
I found Nest Café in Willesden Green on one of my recent trips, and because it’s a little out of the way from Central London, it’s mostly locals who hang out there.
I’ve already told you about some of the best cinnamon bun spots in the city—but Nest (also known as Nest Deli) deserves a shout.
Their cinnamon rolls are dreamy, the chai latte hits hard, and the banana bread… Top tier.
Most Secret Cafes in London: When Abby Met Claud, Notting Hill Gate
If you’re ever after secret cafes for breakfast in Notting Hill, When Abby Met Claud is surprisingly quiet in the morning—which makes it even better, if you ask me.
The French Toast is unreal, the chai latte is rich and creamy, and the place itself is one of the most colourful cafés in London. Bold brick walls, flowers everywhere, and that hidden-in-plain-sight vibe.
If you do swing by, don’t skip the nearby colourful streets. Beyond the usual ones, Farmer Street and Farmer Place are proper hidden gems worth the stroll.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Lisboa Patisserie, West London
For pastel de nata lovers, I’ve got one amazing spot for you: Lisboa Patisserie.
This has been one of my favourite bakeries for ages—it gives me that exact Lisbon café feeling I miss from my travels.
They serve the best bolo de arroz (a fluffy rice muffin), perfect pastel de nata, and some of the strongest coffee in London. The whole place feels properly Portuguese, like you’ve accidentally hopped on a plane for breakfast.
Come early though. It might be a hidden café, but locals know what’s up, and there’s often a queue outside.
Read here my review of Lisboa Patisserie on Golborne Road, West London; one of the best bakeries in London for outstanding pastel de nata and the strongest coffee ever.
Best Secret Cafes in London: Bread Ahead Bakery, Wembley Park
Bread Ahead Bakery in Wembley Park is right next to the stadium and the London Designer Outlet—but somehow, it’s mostly locals enjoying some of the best doughnuts in London.
The honeycomb, coconut, and vanilla ones are my go-tos, just like at their Borough Market spot.
It’s also a great place to get some work done in Wembley. Loads of seats, a few power outlets, and very good coffee to keep you going.
Read here my review of Bread Ahead Bakery in Wembley Park; a very spacious coffee shop perfect to work, have breakfast, lunch, or just a delicious filled doughnut.
Instagrammable and Secret Cafes in North London
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: Sanctuary Cafe at Sherriff Centre, West Hampstead
One of the prettiest secret cafes in London is hiding right inside a church. Literally. And I love my church cafes.
Sanctuary Cafe sits inside the Sherriff Centre at St James’s Church in West Hampstead, and I promise, it’s even more beautiful than it sounds.
We’re talking full-on stained glass windows, high arches, and a calm, open space that feels like it should echo—but somehow stays soft and peaceful.
There are comfy sofas, plenty of space to sit with a book or laptop, and really good coffee.
The cakes are even better—lots of vegan and gluten-free options too. And the best part? It’s all run as a social enterprise, with profits going to local community projects.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Redemption Roasters, Islington
I’ve tried a lot of study cafés in North London, but Redemption Roasters just off Islington High Street is still one of my favourites.
Upstairs is all clean and minimalist, but head to the basement—that’s where the magic is.
It’s theatrical, would-be Greek-inspired, all black and white, and usually pretty empty since most people head straight for the garden out back.
That garden is gorgeous, but if you’re looking for a quiet place to write, the basement’s the real gem.
Also, the carrot cake here? Easily one of the best I’ve had in London. Raisins, thick pastry cream, the whole dreamy package.
Read here my review of Redemption Roasters, Islington, to discover its secret basement, its atmosphere, and my thoughts about the coffee and cake.
Most Instagrammable Secret Cafes in London: Belle Epoque Patisserie, Islington
Belle Epoque Patisserie has a few branches around town, but if you’re after a beautiful café in Islington or Stoke Newington, these are the ones to head to.
Think Paris-Brest, religieuses, croissants, and colourful macarons—all with a view of Islington High Street and some seriously elegant interiors.
I love a good maximalist or pink café, but what I love even more is when flavour actually delivers. And at Belle Epoque, it really does.
The tarte au citron and pistachio raspberry religieuse? Total show-stoppers.
Find here my review of Belle Epoque Patisserie in Islington, for wonderful French pastries and an upscale morning, brunch, lunch or snack.
Instagrammable and Secret Cafes in South London
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: Minnow, Clapham
Minnow Cafe in Clapham is still one of the most underrated and prettiest floral cafes in London.
This South West London coffee shop is gorgeous inside and out, with flowers draped over the shopfront and a soft pastel interior that feels straight out of a magazine.
If you’re into clean, aesthetic spaces and beautiful plates, Minnow Cafe delivers. The Eggs Royale, Full English, and smashed avo toast all look as good as they taste.
Their floral decor changes with the seasons too, which makes it one of the most instagrammable cafes in London all year round.
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: Brickwood Cafe, Battersea
The Brickwood Cafe in Battersea is one of the most underrated pink cafes in London.
It’s spacious enough to chill for a while, so if you’re looking for a pretty spot to work in South London, this one’s got the perfect backdrop.
Just maybe don’t go during peak brunch hours.
There are soft pink touches mixed with industrial decor, which somehow makes it one of the prettiest cafes in London if you’re nearby.
The artisan coffee is top tier, and the cakes? Some of the best around. Even the vegan options are genuinely good—which is rare and worth celebrating.
You’ll also find Brickwood branches in Clapham Common, Streatham Green, Tooting Market, and Balham. Each one’s styled differently, but they’re all seriously aesthetic cafés in their own way.
Prettiest Secret Cafes in London: The Apple Blue, Balham
The Apple Blue in Balham is easily one of the prettiest cafes in London – and honestly, still wildly underrated.
Think colourful lattes, picture-perfect plates like Baby Dutch pancakes and golden French toast, plus an entire pastry counter that feels like it belongs in a gallery.
Their blue latte is a must, and the pastries? Classy, creative, and completely halal—just like the rest of the menu.
If you’re after one of the most instagrammable cafes in London that also delivers on flavour, Apple Blue is one to save.
Most Secret Cafes in London: La Mouche Bakery at The Vaults Collective, Crystal Palace
Tucked near Crystal Palace Park’s vintage shops, The Vaults Collective has to be one of my best finds yet.
Hidden inside a giant plant shop, it’s easily one of the top spots for a proper vegan breakfast in London—unicorn blondies, gooey brownies, the works.
There are about a dozen tables, so you can usually find a seat. And if pastries aren’t enough, there’s a dreamy basement full of gardening books, lush plants, and quirky home decor.
One of the most instagrammable shops in London—and the bakes actually taste as good as they look.
Find here my full review of The Vaults Collective to learn more about this wonderful cafe, plant and homeware shop.
Most Secret Cafes in London: Colairo’s, Crystal Palace
Located near Crystal Palace Park’s dinosaurs, Colairo’s is a dreamy little café deli I stumbled into one day—and instantly fell for.
Downstairs, it’s all soft chatter and shelves of Italian groceries, with locals popping in and out. Upstairs, though, is where the magic happens.
White walls, leafy botanical decor, and an atmosphere that feels made for slow afternoons and romantic dates.
The pastries are pure art. Their colourful doughnuts are the real show-stealers, and if I had to pick just one, the red velvet doughnut wins. Soft, rich, and almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
Find here my review of Colairo’s Cafe Deli for gorgeous floral and vintage vibes, red velvet doughnuts and delicious chai latte.
London’s Secret Cafes: 25+ Breakfast Spots and Coffee Shops
There you have it—all the cutest secret cafés in London, plus a few beautiful bakeries you’re definitely going to want on your list.
If you’re in the mood for spots tucked away from the main streets, you’ve got plenty to choose from right here.
I love my rustic coffee shops, and hopefully, you’ve just found a few new favourites of your own 🙂
If you’d like to keep going with discovering the secret London, here are a few guides I’ve written you may enjoy:
- Hidden Gems in Soho: 25 Food, Street Art and Shopping Spots
- 17 Unique Experiences in London (Far) from the Beaten Path
- Homesick in London: 19 Places That Feel Like Somewhere Else
Alternatively, for more secret places, you can also find here all the best hidden gems in London, East London, West London, North London and South London.