What makes the perfect coffee shop? We’ve asked Veronica Ardimento – caffeine addict and coffee shop explorer – to give us the lowdown on the coolest London coffee shops.
Excellent coffee, obviously. An interior fit for Insta doesn’t hurt. But, she says, the culture of a coffee shop is just as important. “When you’re served with a smile by someone who cares about the coffee they’re making, it adds something special to the experience.”
Veronica was brought up in Italy and moved to London ten years ago. She dreams of setting up her own coffee shop. But in the meantime, satisfies her coffee addiction by frequenting the many independent coffee shops of the capital.
Featured image from our personalised photo frame collection.
The London coffee scene is always evolving,” Veronica tells us, “The latest trend seems to be an interior full of plants and flowers – which I love. In fact, florals are even making their way into the coffee. You find menus featuring lavender and rose lattes now. They look and taste amazing!”
“The London coffee scene is always evolving,” Veronica tells us, “The latest trend seems to be an interior full of plants and flowers – which I love. In fact, florals are even making their way into the coffee. You find menus featuring lavender and rose lattes now. They look and taste amazing!”
But Veronica’s usual coffee order is a little more classic. A piccolo – “similar to an Italian macchiato” – an espresso or ristretto shot topped with steamed milk.
Here she tells us about a few of her favourites haunts – 5 of the coolest London coffee shops.
#1 Dark Arts
Ponsford Street, Hackney
Dark Arts, located under a railway arch in Hackney, is only open to the public on Saturday and Sunday. These guys are busy roasting coffee during the week.
But head down at the weekend and you can relax on a cosy sofa reading a book, chill outside while sipping your flat white. Or just tuck in to one of the best brunches in the area.
#2 Sawyer & Gray
St Paul’s Road, Highbury and Islington
I truly love this place. I can’t get enough of the black and white interior, the shelves full of books and the old cooking utensils they have hanging up on the walls.
Set over two floors – a bright, light ground floor and cosy basement – these guys brew excellent coffee. And they serve tasty breakfasts, lunches and brunches too.
#3 Hackney Coffee Co.
Hackney Road, Hackney
This is my go-to place when I need to get some work done and want a great coffee to keep me company. Sofas, flowers, plants – it’s the perfect ambience for tapping away on your laptop.
Besides delicious coffee you’ll find some really cool interiors here too. Every now and then they collaborate with local artists and completely redesign the place. It’s exciting never knowing what I’m going to find when I pop in.
#4 Chancery Press
Chancery Lane, Holborn
Seats at Press are limited – it’s a grab and go kind of place. These guys roast their own coffee and it tastes amazing.
Inside, it’s pretty minimal. Black and white, a sort of post-industrial style with a touch of vintage here and there. It reminds me of my hometown near Genoa, which is maybe why I like it so much.
#5 Morty & Bob’s
Coal Drops Yard, Hackney
This place has a rooftop – coffee with a view! Inside, it’s industrial style all the way with sofas and big long tables. It’s super chilled during the day but turns into a nightclub at night.
The thing I love most about this place is the people you find in there. It’s just opposite Central Saint Martin’s Arts University so there’s always a cool artsy, freelancer, studenty vibe.
Big thanks to Veronica for her London coffee shop recommendations. And for sharing her beautiful photography with us. You can see more of her images and coffee shop corners over on Instagram.