
As much as I like to steer clear of the kinds of places that people flock to purely for a photo, I can’t deny that some of London’s cafe’s and restaurants are just made for The Gram. From new cafes south of the river and West End spots smothered in pink to east London hangouts where you can literally hang on a cute swing, this lot are serving up more than just coffee or cake. Read all about London’s best Instagrammable cafes here – they really are a stunning bunch.
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ELAN Cafe
With cute cafes dotted all over the city, ELAN Cafe London is the place for pink decor, brunch dishes, mocktails and coffees. Choose between Dutch baby pancakes and French toast as you soak up lattes topped with Lucky Charms or – my favourite – an alcohol-free pina colada.
📍: Various London locations
Bafarat Cafe
Not only is this Saudi import a winner in the looks department, but it’s also packing a punch on the food side. French pastry chef Thomas Alphonsine creates gorgeous afternoon teas, torched cookies and croissants oozing with delicious fillings at this beautiful coffee shop.
📍: Soho, London W1B 5LU
🚉: Piccadilly Circus
Linnean Cafe
A nice cafe, spa and restaurant all wrapped up in one gorgeous location, Linnaean is one to watch. Whether you came for a facial in the medi-spa, haircut in the salon or just fancy some classic brunch dishes, you’ll find it all here.
📍: Nine Elms, London SW11 7AX
🚉: Battersea Park/Oval
Dalloway Terrace
After beaut cafes in central London? With foliage that changes with the seasons, Dalloway Terrace is a must all year round. The indulgent menu features breakfast, brunch, dinner and afternoon tea, though you can’t go wrong with a few cocktails. Outdoor dining in winter? They’ve even got heaters and blankets to keep you snug.
📍: Fitzrovia, London WC1B 3NN
🚉: Tottenham Court Road
Greenwich Grind
Coffee with a view of London doesn’t get better than this… Along with branches in Clerkenwell, Soho and beyond, Grind is the cafe brand that’s offering proper brews, neon-lit interiors and photo-worthy dishes. I can’t resist stopping by for an espresso martini, or three at one of the most famous cafes in London.
📍: Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 9JB
🚉: Greenwich
Locke at Broken Wharf
As part of Locke Hotels collection of stunning staycation spot, Locke at Broken Wharf is the riverside outpost home to Insta-worthy interiors and a banging brunch menu. No matter if you’re a freelancer in need of a desk or came for live DJs on the weekend, there’s a bit of everything here.
📍: Queenhithe, London EC4V 3DT
🚉: Cannon Street/Blackfriarss
Saint Aymes
On my list of aesthetic cafes in London? One for all you flower fans, Saint Aymes is the cafe owned by sisters Lois and Michela Wilson. When you’re done snapping away at the photogenic frontage, head inside for a menu of breakfast, cakes, shakes and cocktails.
📍: Hyde Park, London W2 2BB
🚉: Marble Arch/Paddington
Farm Girl
Though they have locations across London, Farm Girl’s original Notting Hill cafe is the one you need to visit. Get down to Portobello Road for rose lattes, meat-free plates and the option to sit both indoors or outdoors.
📍: Nine Elms, London SW11 7AX
🚉: Notting Hill Gate
Minnow
As a north Londoner born and raised, I don’t usually veer south of the river. But I’ll make an exception for Minnow, whose seasonal dishes and snap-worthy decor is one absolutely for Insta. Head to Clapham Common to see the independent restaurant and coffee shop for yourself.
📍: Clapham, London SW4 0HY
🚉: Clapham Common
Abuelo
When it comes to Instagrammable cafes in Covent Garden, Abuelo has you sorted with gorgeous brunch dishes, pared-back interiors and a simple aesthetic that’s just screaming to be photographed.
📍: 26 Southampton Street, WC2E 7RS
🚉: Covent Garden
Clean Hearts
Instagrammable coffee shops aren’t restricted to the West End – Shoreditch is also home to a few as well. Cue Clean Hearts, the organic spot that’s pioneering locally-sourced food in a beaut setting on Commercial Road. Think pastel tones and rattan swings.
📍: 52 Commercial Road, London EC1V 9DR
🚉: Old Street
Feya
From Marylebone to Knightsbridge, Feya is the cute Instagrammable cafe in central London that’s all about brunch and patisserie. Expect a bright interior that’s ideal for catch-ups over coffee.
📍: Various London locations
Aubaine Selfridges
Aubaine might have locations all around London, but it’s the Selfridges spot that holds the crown. Along with the gorgeous Brasserie of Light, the wisteria-filled room is one of the most beautiful places to eat around the West End. I took my mum here for a birthday meal which went down a treat.
📍: Marylebone, London W1A 1AB
🚉: Bond Street
Peggy Porschen
My list of luxury cafes in London really wouldn’t be complete without this west London gem, would it? You can’t miss Peggy Porschen’s flowery, pink exterior… it’s hiding delicious cakes and an afternoon tea spread.
📍: Chelsea and Belgravia
🚉: Sloane Square
Palm Vaults
After pretty pink cafes in London? Hanging plant pots, wooden decor and bare-brick walls are juxtaposed at Palm Vaults for pure shabby chic vibes. Head east to see the Mare Street cafe in action.
📍: Mare St, London E8 1HY
🚉: Hackney Central
Rachel’s Nails + Coffee
With drinks while you get your nails done, Rachel’s Nails + Coffee are giving a new meaning to self care with their menu of treatments. Oh, and did I mention the flower wall?
📍: Fitzrovia, London W1T 2JR
🚉: Goodge Street
