Spotahome's Guide to London's Secret Cafes

London is a coffee haven, but sometimes it's just way too easy to stick to your Starbucks, Pret, Costa or Nero. But if you want to expand your coffee taste buds and dive deeper in the London cafe scene, you absolutely need to check out some of London's most secret coffee shops!

Host Cafe

Host Cafe is an extremely charming cafe, located in an actual functioning church. As soon as you come in, you’re hit with the typical church smell, accompanied with the incredibly calming atmosphere. This cafe welcomes everyone with open arms.

Photo credit: Host Cafe Facebook page

Address: St Mary Aldermary, Watling St, London EC4M 9BW

Kape Barako

Kape Barako is one of those cafes you’d probably never even notice unless you paid attention. This is the iconic red telephone box turned into an actual fully functioning cafe. Along with excellent coffee, this secret cafe also features pastries, smoothies, and much more. Perfect on-the-go breakfast!

Photo credit: Kape Barako Facebook page

Address: 25-Hampstead High Street, Outside Natwest Bank (Red Phone Box), Camden NW3 1QJ

Candid Cafe

As the name suggests, this cafe is totally candid. Although hard to find, this London cafe has a must-visit shabby-chic decor. Not only is it cute on the inside, it also has an incredibly charming backyard. You won’t find heaps of tourists here - just locals who are in their zen mode, enjoying their time with their friends.

Photo credit: Candid Cafe Facebook page

Address: 3 Torrens St, London EC1V 1NQ

Ziferblat

If you’re looking for London’s secret cafes, you absolutely should hang out in Shoreditch and stop by Ziferblat. You have to ring the bell and be buzzed in to get access to this cafe. But once you’re in, it’ll feel like home. From books, board games, and, of course, refreshments, Ziferblat is the place to be.

Photo credit: Ziferblat Facebook page

Address: 88 Old St, Shoreditch, London EC1V 9LT

Nyokee

Nyokee is located in the back street of Mansion House tube station, usually used by businessmen who are working in the area. But if you’ve never been, you’re missing out on some of the best Italian coffee in the city and authentic Italian food. Just trust us on this one.

Photo credit: Nyokee Facebook page

Address: 27 Garlick Hill, London EC4V 2BA

Sew Over It

As strange as it sounds, Sew Over It is a sewing shop with a small, quirky cafe. If you’re a fashion designer or just someone who needs some creative inspiration, come sit in the Sew Over It cafe and use one of their sewing machines! You can get in for £6 per hour and get unlimited cups of tea - sold!

Photo credit: Sew Over It Facebook page

Address: 78 Landor Rd, London SW9 9PH

The Sanctuary Cafe

London loves its church cafes - here’s another one! The Sanctuary Cafe is located in West Hampstead, but don’t let that put you off - it’s totally worth going out of your regular route for this one. This is a secret cafe, post office, and a church all in one!

Photo credit: The Sanctuary Cafe website

Address: St James Church, Sherriff Road, London NW6 2AP

Barbour and Parlour

A barber shop AND a cafe? Yes please! Along with a beauty fix, you can get your coffee fix as well as a cold-pressed juice and other healthy options. From nails and hair to food, this is a perfect secret place for a day spa - treat yourself!

Photo credit: Barbour and Parlour Facebook page

Address: 64-66 Redchurch St, London E2 7DP

Monmouth Coffee Company

Monmouth is considered one of the best coffee shops in London. The coffee’s strong and the shop’s small and intimate and it could be easily missed. Don’t be put off by the long queue of people, usually stretching out down the street - there’s a reason they’re there!

Photo credit: Monmouth Coffee Company website

Address: 27 Monmouth St, London WC2H 9EU

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium

“In this house, the cat’s in charge.” Well, they’re not wrong. Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium is London’s cat cafe and the first cat cafe to exist in the UK. You have to book your place for this one and prices go anywhere from £20 to £50 for an entry - all worth it!

Photo credit: Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium Facebook page

Address: 152-154 Bethnal Green Rd, London E2 6DG