Welcome to the heart of London's vibrant café scene! Soho, with its rich history, artistic flair, and bustling atmosphere, is a hotspot for coffee enthusiasts, digital nomads, locals, and tourists alike. In this blog post, we'll be your guide to the best cafes in Soho, where you can sip your favourite brew and soak in the eclectic vibes of this iconic neighbourhood.
Whether you live in London, or are just visiting the city, Soho is a worthy spot to grab a fresh cup of coffee. We've combed the streets of Soho to come up with a tried and tested list of our favourite independant cafes.
Top Cafes in Soho
Flat White
Address: 17 Berwick St, Soho, London W1F 0PT
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, Flat White is cozy yet vibrant, perfect for social gatherings and solo visits alike.
What Makes It Special: Known for its dedication to high-quality, smooth espresso blends, Flat White Known for introducing the flat white coffee to the city before it became widely available in the UK, this cozy cafe is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The intimate atmosphere and delicious Kiwi-inspired treats will transport you to the cafes of New Zealand.
Must Try: The Flat White Coffee paired with their signature banana bread.
Price Range: ££ - £££
Google Rating: 4.5 stars
Blank Street Coffee
Address: 22 Noel St, London W1F 8GS
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, Blank Street is modern and minimalist, ideal for quick stops and coffee on the go.
What Makes It Special: Blank Street Coffee is a stylish coffee shop that originated in New York and arrived in London in 2022. It has gained popularity for its minimalist design, quality coffee, and affordability. Their quick-service model is perfect for busy commuters.
Must Try: The Iced Matcha Latte and Croissant Sandwich.
Price Range: £ - ££
Google Rating: 4.5 stars
The Attendant
Address: 27A Foley St, Fitzrovia, London W1W 6DY
What makes it special: Housed in a converted Victorian public toilet, The Attendant offers a unique and Instagram-worthy café experience. Beyond its quirky setting, Attendant Coffee Roasters is renowned for its specialty coffee. They source and roast their beans meticulously, offering a range of exquisite coffee blends that cater to both coffee aficionados and casual drinkers.
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, this former Victorian restroom turned café is quirky and open-plan, great for unique coffee experiences.
What Makes It Special: The Attendant offers a unique and Instagram-worthy café experience. Famous for its unusual location and freshly roasted single-origin beans, offering a truly memorable atmosphere.
Must Try: The Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs alongside their hand-brewed filter coffee. Beyond its quirky setting, Attendant Coffee Roasters is renowned for its specialty coffee. They source and roast their beans meticulously, offering a range of exquisite coffee blends that cater to both coffee aficionados and casual drinkers.
Price Range: ££ - £££
Google Rating: 4.6 stars
Bafarat Cafe, London
Address: 6 Warwick St, London W1B 5LU
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, Bafarat Cafe combines luxury and elegance, drawing crowds for its Instagrammable interiors.
What Makes It Special: Bafarat Cafe London is a delightful gem that beckons coffee connoisseurs and pastry enthusiasts alike. Their Warwick Street spot features modern and sophisticated interiors that your instagram feed will love, the perfect spot to enjoy the fancy pastries on offer. Their exquisite pastries and specialty coffee are crafted to perfection, bringing French and Middle Eastern influences to the heart of Soho.
Must Try: The Mango Cheesecake paired with a silky Flat White.
Price Range: ££ - £££
Google Rating: 4.5 stars
Söderberg Soho
Address: 36 Berwick St, London W1F 8RR
What makes it special:
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, this Scandinavian café is a calm retreat in Soho, perfect for relaxed gatherings and solo workdays.
What Makes It Special:Söderberg is a charming Swedish coffee shop and bakery with a presence in London's Soho and East Dulwich. Known for its Scandinavian-inspired delights, Söderberg offers a delightful blend of aromatic coffee, freshly baked pastries, and traditional Swedish treats. The Soho location in particular has garnered positive reviews and offers a cosy atmosphere for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers. With its Swedish heritage and warm ambiance, Söderberg invites you to savor the flavors of Scandinavia while enjoying a cup of their expertly brewed coffee, experience a Nordic twist to the Soho café scene.
Must Try: The Cardamom Bun with a smooth Hand-Brewed Filter Coffee.
Price Range: ££
Google Rating: 4.4 stars
Algerian Coffee Stores
Address: 52 Old Compton St, London W1D 4QE
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, this historic gem is cozy and brimming with character, perfect for coffee lovers and history buffs.
What Makes It Special: From outside, it doesn’t look like what you’d expect from a cafe, but Algerian Coffee Stores is a must-visit historic haven for coffee enthusiasts. Established in 1887, this family-run coffee emporium has been serving the finest freshly roasted coffee and loose-leaf tea for over a century. Beyond its rich heritage, Algerian Coffee Stores is known for its exceptional quality, offering a diverse range of coffee blends and aromatic teas. The store's commitment to delivering a delightful coffee experience makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of London's coffee culture.
Must Try: Their Classic Espresso Blend with Biscotti.
Price Range: £ - ££
Google Rating: 4.7 stars
Grind Soho
Address: 19 Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9RP
Vibe: Industrial-chic and bustling, Grind combines modern café vibes with stylish interiors, great for day-to-night coffee and cocktails.
What Makes It Special: Situated near popular areas like Carnaby Street, Oxford Street, and Piccadilly Circus, Grind is an ideal spot to refuel with breakfast pastries, cakes, and small bites. Whether you're in the mood for a delicious coffee to kickstart your day or looking for a stylish setting to enjoy cocktails in the evening, Grind offers a versatile experience that caters to both coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Must Try: The Espresso Martini or a classic Flat White.
Price Range: ££ - £££
Google Rating: 4.4 stars
Why Soho's Café Scene Stands Out
Soho's rich cultural and historical significance infuses every café with a unique charm. From the legacy of the swinging sixties to its role as a hub for artists and musicians, Soho's heritage contributes to the creativity and diversity of its coffee shops.
When exploring Soho's café scene, keep an eye out for coffee that's expertly brewed, a welcoming atmosphere, friendly and knowledgeable baristas, and a diverse menu with options for every palate. The variety of experiences you'll encounter is a testament to Soho's ever-evolving coffee culture.
Conclusion
Soho's café scene offers a blend of history, innovation, and community spirit that's hard to find anywhere else in London. Whether you're a coffee aficionado, an explorer of cultural hotspots, or simply looking for a place to unwind, Soho's best cafes have something for everyone. So, grab your favourite book, your laptop, or a friend, and embark on a caffeinated adventure through the charming streets of Soho. Your next coffee oasis awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best coffee shops in Soho for working remotely?
Flat White and Grind Soho offer cozy seating and free Wi-Fi, perfect for working remotely.
Are there any Instagram-worthy cafés in Soho?
Yes! The Attendant and Bafarat Cafe are highly photogenic, ideal for Instagram enthusiasts.
Which Soho café serves the best pastries?
Söderberg Soho and Bafarat Cafe are famous for their Scandinavian pastries and French-inspired desserts.
Are there historic coffee shops in Soho?
Algerian Coffee Stores, established in 1887, is a must-visit for its rich history and high-quality coffee.
Where can I find budget-friendly coffee in Soho?
Blank Street Coffee is known for its affordable, quality coffee options.
