The British are famous for their artery-blocking full English breakfasts, mixing baked beans with fried eggs, sausages, bacon, hash browns and their infamous black puddings. So it’s no surprise that the English capital is full of places that serve a brilliant fry up. But if you want to start the day on a healthier footing, there are also lots of saintly options on the list. While the humble breakfast might have been overshadowed in recent years by it's younger, trendier cousin, known as brunch, it’s still the most important meal of the day. So get your fill at one of our favourite London breakfast spots.
Regency Cafe
Right in the middle of Westminster, this historic cafe has been open since 1946, serving breakfast to both workmen and politicians. The art deco style interiors haven’t changed since it opened and the menu doesn’t seem to have either. They’re famous for their full English breakfast and their bacon rolls.
Source: The City Story
Terry’s Cafe
Hidden away in Southwark, Terry’s is off the beaten tourist track but worth seeking out for its unique atmosphere. The cafe has been open since 1982 and prides itself on its honest, home cooking. All of their produce come from the nearby Borough Market and their meat comes from Smithfield. Fry ups and breakfast sandwiches are order of the day but they also have vegetarian and vegan options.
Source: Terry's London
Duck and Waffle
This 24 hour restaurant at the top of the Heron Tower is famous for having one of the best views in London and it also serves one of the best breakfasts. Their breakfast menu starts at 5am, perfect if you’re an early bird. You could try their signature duck and waffle dish or opt for something more traditional like eggs Benedict.
Source: Duck and Waffle
The Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club has gained a bit of a bad rep among locals over the past five years due to its popularity with tourists. On the weekend there are often queues around the block. But in fairness to them, their full English breakfast is still one of the best in London. You’ll also find healthy options on the menu and more international dishes like breakfast burritos and blueberry pancakes.
Source: Breakfast Club
Ottolenghi
Like everything that Ottolenghi does, his breakfasts are delicious with unexpected flavour combinations and ingredients you might not see on other menus. Classics like scrambled eggs and bacon feature but you’ll also find chickpea pancakes and lots of dishes with a signature Middle Eastern twist.
Source: Ottolenghi
E.Pelicci
This cafe on Bethnal Green Road is an institution, run by the same Italian family for over 50 years. It harks back to the time before this area of East London was gentrified beyond recognition and is one of the last remaining places that hasn’t changed. Order the full English breakfast and imagine East London as it used to be.
Source: Cool Places
Balthazar
Balthazar is a cult New York restaurant, now open in Covent Garden. The bistro style dining room is an indulgent place to spend a morning, reading the papers and people watching. You might even see some celebrities. As well as their brilliant breakfast, we have to say that Balthazar also serve one of the best brunches in London.
Source: Open Table
Farm Girl
Tucked away behind Portobello Road, Farm Girl is a favourite with health conscious millennials. Such is it’s popularity, that it has even expanded in the last year to open branches in Soho and Chelsea. Their predominantly plant-based menu will give you a health kick before starting your day. Try the avocado on toast (we’ve heard it described as the best of anywhere in London)!
Source: Farm Girl
The Haberdashery
This North London favourite is a must-visit if you find yourself in Stoke Newington, one of London’s coolest neighbourhoods. The mismatched decor and home-cooked style food gives The Haberdashery a cosy vibe. As well as all the usual breakfast items like hash browns and porridge, they bake amazing muffins fresh every day.
Source: The Haberdashery
Malibu Kitchen
The Ned is a hotel in the old Bank of England building, right in the centre of the city. The grand lobby area is home to a number of brilliant restaurants and Malibu Kitchen is our favourite place to go for a healthy breakfast. Expect smoothie bowls, turmeric lattes, granola and of course, avocado.
Source: Malibu Kitchen
Kettner’s Town House
If you need to impress a client or have a breakfast meeting planned then Kettner’s Town House is a very delicious and very classy bet. Owned by the Soho House Group, this London favourite will let you enjoy your breakfast in elegant surroundings.
Source: Kettner's
Hawksmoor
Famous for their meat, this home-grown chain of steak houses serve one of the best full English breakfasts you will find anywhere in the world. And that’s thanks to their top quality ingredients. Go to their Spitalfields branch and once you’ve had you fill for breakfast, you can waddle round the corner to Ozone Coffee to enjoy one of the best coffees in London.
Source: Hawksmoor
Cafe 338
This unassuming cafe on Bethnal Green Road might not have the history or reputation of E.Peliccis, but the breakfast is just as good. The portions are huge, very good value and come with unlimited tea. You’ll likely be sharing the cafe with a group of East London locals instead of tourists.
Source: Cafe 338
