No longer trailing behind avocado-loving Melbourne or Bloody Mary-obsessed New York, London’s brunch scene has been thriving for years now, thanks to some of the best restaurants in London starting to open their doors earlier, giving health freaks and hedonists alike many more tables to book.
Seemingly every corner of London has brunch favourites from all corners of the world: try an American feast at Sunday in Brooklyn in Notting Hill, order Tel Aviv-influenced small plates at Stoke Newington’s The Good Egg or the must-order egg naan at branches of Dishoom across the capital. All of this, plus anyone extra thirsty can try one of the city’s best bottomless brunches, whereas purists can still get a proper old-school fry-up (we recommend St John’s Bread and Wine for the best bacon sandwich in town).
After enjoying London's exquisite brunch scene, staying for a while longer might cross your mind. If that does become a consideration, you can check out some great accommodations across the city. To view affordable yet comfortable stay options, like apartments, you can click here to view more.
Experience Brunch in London with Breathtaking Views
London's vibrant restaurant scene offers not just delicious food but also stunning views of the cityscape. If you're looking for a brunch spot where you can enjoy a panoramic view, look no further. Located ten floors above ground level in King's Cross, The Standard's Decimo offers a brunch experience unlike any other. Sip on refreshing margaritas and indulge in delectable Spanish tortilla while taking in the mesmerizing city skyline.
If you prefer to brunch in the heart of the city, head to Duck and Waffle, nestled 40 floors up the iconic Heron Tower. This restaurant takes pride in its round-the-clock service, so you can satisfy your brunch cravings at any time of the day or night, all while marveling at the breathtaking vistas of London.
How we choose the best brunches in London
Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has eaten at that restaurant. When choosing restaurants, our editors consider both high end and affordable eateries that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We're always looking for stand-out dishes, a great location and warm service – as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve.
These are the tables to book for the best breakfast in London – plus our hot tip on the dish to order at each – for your next weekend in the capital.
1. Akub
Best brush for: Palestinian small plates
Dish to order: the grilled nabulsi cheese
There were many grumblings resounding through the pastel-hued streets of Hillgate Village when much-loved Indian restaurant Malabar closed during the pandemic after nearly 40 years. But the opening of Akub in January 2023 in Malabar's old digs quickly put a stop to that. The Palestinian restaurant offers a soothing, light-filled haven in Notting Hill’s backstreets. Whitewashed walls, copper tables, dangling plants and potted olive trees exude tranquillity inside the sage-green facade. During the day, sunlight streams through the vast skylight into the main dining area – making the space a perfect spot for a sunny weekend brunch. The menu blends traditional flavours of the Middle East with seasonal ingredients, curated into sharing plates of dips, loaded flatbreads and slow-roasted dishes.
Start with the beyd (fried eggs sprinkled with sumac served on fluffy bread) and as many dips as you can manage – the labneh drizzled olive oil and zaatar, smooth and moreish hummus and stewed fava beans in a tomato and garlic sauce should be spooned onto the selection of homemade breads. Order some fatteh for a traditional Palestinian breakfast dish of torn bread topped with slow-cooked beef short ribs with garlic yoghurt and pomegranate or aubergine in a spiced tomato sauce. A side nabulsi is a must, a salty Palestinian cheese grilled and topped with crunchy nigella seeds. Save room for the Arabic coffee French toast, crispy brioche with laban (a Middle Eastern yoghurt) and a dusting of cocoa and pistachio chunks. Wash it all down with a spicy zataar bloody mary. Olivia Morelli
Address: 27 Uxbridge Street, London W8 7TQ
Website:akub-restaurant.com
2. The Maine, Mayfair
Best for: Summer terrace vibes
Dish to order: Lobster roll
Just a stone’s throw from Bond Street’s hustle and bustle, this hidden gem is perfectly placed for lunchtime shopping breaks or birthday brunches. With a newly renovated garden square and a sunny terrace, sit outside to soak up the sun or cosy up inside the townhouse’s Georgian drawing room – a stylish haven for any unpredictable weather spells.
The DJ gives this smart outfit a casual Ibiza vibe, and the New England-inspired menu – a nod to Canadian founder Joey Ghazal’s love for Maine’s famous seafood – features everything from traditional lobster rolls to oyster platters presented on an impressive multi-tier serving stand. Lighter bites packed with flavour include the fresh, zingy tuna tartar, fish tacos and Instagram-friendly berry meringue. For meat lovers, the filet mignon is buttery soft and complemented by the truffle mac and cheese, while the white chocolate cheesecake served in ice cream scoops will have you dreaming about it for days afterwards. Finish with a gin-based ‘Fairy Touch’ cocktail, garnished with lavender sprigs to keep you calm for your return to the concrete jungle. Jessica Rach
Address: 6 Medici Court, London
Website:themainemayfair.com
3. Somerset House Presents: Dipna Anand
The Place To Go: for picturesque river scenery
Must-Try Dish: unlimited Thali
One of the most magnificent buildings in all of London is the Somerset House. Its restaurant, Dipna Anand's, masterfully matches the grandiosity of its parent structure. With towering ceilings and an abundance of art installations filling its walls, Dipna Anand's is a breathtaking space lit by sunlight streaming in through its enormous windows, all against the stunning backdrop of River Thames. It's indeed the perfect place to savour South Indian and Punjabi culinary delights crafted by the incredible Dipna Anand.
Offerings range from the scrumptious Tandoori chicken tikka burger and deliciously tangy Chollay bhatura paired with sweet mango chutney, to the mouth-watering Chicken tikka naan coupled with savoury masala fries. Among these delectable options, the unlimited meat thali truly steals the show. Presented on a classic silver dish, this meal includes a variety of mini curry pots featuring succulent chicken, flavoursome Lamb kofta, and creamy black lentil Dal Makhani. These curries are complemented with buttery naan, an ample amount of rice, crunchy bite-sized poppadoms, along with the most delicious samosa and onion bhaji you could find. The highlight? The thali never stops coming! Indulge in this limitless feast until you're absolutely satiated. But, it would be wise to save a bit of space for the spiced cheesecake adorned with delectable, juicy mandarin pieces—a perfect end to your meal. - Sophie Knight
Location: Dipna Anand, Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA
Website:dipnasomersethouse.co.uk
4. Double Standard
Best for: build your own Bloody Mary’s
Dish to order: buttermilk chicken waffle
The Standard Hotel’suber-modern exterior, with an inside-out lift to its muted retro interiors, is filled with cool guests donning baggy vintage Levi’s, leather jackets and branded tote bags. Sunday brunch is served on the ground floor in the Double Standard restaurant and on the outdoor terrace. The 1970s-inspired space is covered in mosaic tiles, polished wooden tables and a bar with leather stools spanning the whole back wall. There’s also a vintage photo booth to capture the mems.
It’s all about the Bloody Mary here. DIY your perfect concoction by choosing a desired spirit of gin, mezcal or classic vodka, the spice level and toppings including gherkins, stilton, bacon crumbs and prawns – yes, an actual prawn in a cocktail. Served in a pint glass, we’d be surprised if you could knock back more than two of these. Of course, bottomless mimosas and prosecco are also an option.
Brunch includes the classics from avo on toast to eggs benedict. Still, we are here for the indulgent American-inspired dishes, including the buttermilk chicken waffle, baby back pork ribs and our favourite, the short rib mac’ n’ cheese.Dessertis a no-brainer – warm waffles topped with caramelised banana and salted caramel ice cream drizzled in chocolate sauce. Sophie Knight
Address:Ground Floor, The Standard, 10 Argyle Street, London WC1H 8EG
Website: standardhotels.com
5. Saltie Girl
Best brunch for:a seafood start to a Sunday
Dish to order: buttermilk waffles with fried lobster
This isn’t just any regular brunch spot inMayfair. Yes, you’ll find avocado toast and eggs served multiple ways on the menu. But at Saltie Girl, these classics get reimagined with a seafood twist (all sustainably sourced, of course). Gone are the days of chicken and waffles, replaced with crispy yet fork-tender lobster. The eggs benedict and scrambled eggs are topped with caviar – and even their version of a Bloody Mary has it too. Oysters are starters, while spicy crab served on buttery brioche is considered a small plate. For something sweet, there’s a triple berry yoghurt parfait with granola, but we hear the passionfruit cocktail with puree and grapefruit bitters hits the sweet spot.
Saltie Girl’s address is also part of its appeal – with its blue exterior jutting out against the Georgian-style facades of North Audley Street, it brings a new lively energy to the otherwise classically timeless neighbourhood. We recommend nabbing a table by the window to truly marvel at the aquamarine-hued space, replete with sea-inspired art, a canned tuna-lined bar and mermaid-embossed cutlery. Book well in advance, as brunch is only served on Sundays.Zahra Surya Darma
Address:15 N Audley Street, London W1K 6WZ, United Kingdom
Website:saltiegirl.com
6. Peggy Jean, Richmond
Best brunch for:Riverside munching
Dish to order:Mars Bar Cheesecake
There’s no denying Londoners are suckers for a unique new opening. Whether it has a sprawling rooftop terrace or walls lined with twinkling lights and thousands of bottles, we’re there – phone in hand, ready to capture it. One of the latest such openings comes courtesy of Daisy Green group, upon a renovated barge gently bobbing in the Thames for all ofRichmond’sresidents to see.
Aussie classics are on the menu for early risers, such as smashed avocado on charcoal toast, sweetcorn fritters and full Bondi breakfasts with bacon, eggs, sausage and mushrooms. Enjoy these dishes atop the barge over coffee, or get your glad rags on in time for the lunch menu. Gargantuanpizzasare generously littered with toppings and can quite easily be shared during late brunch sittings under the sun. We paired our pizza with a handful of side plates; while the squid wasn’t to our taste, the halloumi fries were some of the best we’d ever tried, accompanied by tangy lemon and mint yoghurt. Frosé is in, judging by the popularity of the icy drink during our visit, and we slurped on glasses of the fruity tipple garnished with vibrant dried raspberries. Full from our spread of sides and pizzas, we opted to share the Mars Bar cheesecake after encouragement from the table next to ours. We were thankful we did – the spherical creation filled with cheesecake filling, molten caramel and chunks of Mars Bar rocketed to the top of the tastiest desserts we’ve ever had after just a mouthful.
One warning – keep an eye on the tides. Richmond’s riverside is no stranger to being submerged as the Thames breaks its banks, and – while the lure of such tasty fare means it’s no real deterrent – you’ll want to be well prepared for wading through the water when disembarking, hand rubbing your belly post-feast. Connor Sturges
Address: Peggy Jean at Riverside Green, The Boat, Bridge Boathouses, Riverside, Richmond TW9 1TH
Website: daisygreenfood.com
7. The Cultural Epicentre of Brunch: The Wolseley, Green Park
Renowned for: Embodying the quintessence of grand café customs
Must-have dish: Delectable smoked salmon coupled with creamy scrambled eggs
One might argue that the offerings here tend to lean more towards breakfast, served until 11.30am, nevertheless, the brilliance of this Mayfair establishment cannot be understated. The ostentatious aesthetic of the locale, dominated by hues of black, gold, and cream, is but one of its many charms. Sadly, photography is off-limits here, owing to the possibility of the presence of one too many famous personalities. Expect impeccable service, marked by ironed newspapers and gleaming silver teapots. The Scottish-reared smoked salmon served here is unrivaled, while the eggs, effulgent and laced with butter, complement it perfectly. Even an unassuming order of half a grapefruit amply testifies to The Wolseley's laurels as the crème de la crème of London brunch venues. As it is perpetually bustling with activity, prior reservation is highly recommended.
Address: The Wolseley, 160 Piccadilly, London W1
Contact: +44 20 7499 6996
Website: thewolseley.com
8. The Barbary Next Door, Covent Garden
Best brunch for: pretending you’re on a sunny European holiday
Dish to order: Bus station eggs
Since opening in October 2021, The Barbary Next Door has easily become one of Covent Garden’s most popular spots, thanks to its knack for blending the smoky flavours of Moorish Spain with North African cooking. Breakfast is the latest addition to the restaurant's roster and head chef Daniel Alt is serving up a cheery array of dishes. Bus station eggs – inspired by the roadside meal eaten throughout North Africa and the Middle East – arrive on top of al dente butter beans with a warming hint of cumin, and the crumbly, salty four cheese boureka pastries with zingy pickles and zhoug is how more days should start. Head there on a sunny day and set yourself up on the outdoor terrace to be instantly transported to a European pavement cafe far beyond Neal’s Yard. If you really want a treat, order an extra coffee and the ras-el-hanout pumpkin bread served with pumpkin and sunflower seed clotted cream. You won’t regret it. Sarah Allard
Address: 16A Neal's Yard, London WC2H 9DP
Website: thebarbarynextdoor.co.uk
9. Ottolenghi - A Spitalfields Brunch Sanctuary
An ideal brunch spot for: Sociable brunch enthusiasts
Must-try dish: Shakshuka
Crafted by the renowned Yotam Ottolenghi, Ottolenghi showcases an infusion of Middle Eastern tastes right in the heart of London. Tucked away on Artillery Lane, it’s an elegant dining space adorned with rich velvet curtains and exquisite floral arrangements. As an added touch, the oatmeal is served with oven-baked plums and a fruity compote. The Shakshuka is the hero dish here, loaded in a charred mini skillet teeming with simmered tomatoes and aromatic labneh. Don't forget to soak the focaccia into the vibrant, oozy yolks. There's also whispers of a scrambled tofu dish with shredded tomato and preserved garlic that deserves a try. Known for its culinary prowess, Ottolenghi was also the winner of Observer Food Monthly Awards for the best cookbook of the year in 2010.
Location: Ottolenghi, 50 Artillery Ln, London E1 7LJ
Website: ottolenghi.co.uk
The Tantalizing Dishoom in Covent Garden
An ideal brunch spot for: Kicking off the day with some spice
Must-try item: The Bacon Naan Roll
In 2010, Dishoom revolutionized London's Indian restaurant scene by introducing the city to its unique take on a Bombay café-style dining experience. Nestled in Covent Garden, this place is famous for its heavenly Bacon Naan Roll. Stuffed with ginger pig bacon that offers a sticky sweet contrast to the cream cheese and chilli jam, this dish has amassed quite the devoted fan base. Beyond that, there is also the Ludlow Sausage Naan, with an additional option to include an egg. This brunch gets even more delightful when paired with a refreshing breakfast lassi, a concoction of mango, banana and oats that caps off an ultimate Indian-English fusion experience.
Location: Dishoom, 12 Upper St Martin's Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2
Contact Number: +44 20 7420 9320
Online Portal: dishoom.com
11. Where The Pancakes Are, London Bridge
Best brunch for: Pancakes
The dish to order: American pancakes
The festival favourite has opened its first permanent restaurant in Borough Market as part of Flat Iron Square's new foodie hub. The standard batter is made with buttermilk which makes for perfect fluffy pancakes, but there are also vegan, dairy- and wheat-free options on the menu. The American stack with Canadian maple syrup (healthier than honey, they say), streaky bacon and blueberries is the go-to. For something a little different, the 20-minute oven-baked Dutch Baby is also excellent, made with goat's cheese, rosemary and thyme.
Address: Where The Pancakes Are, Arch 35a, 85a Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1
Website: wherethepancakesare.com
12. Laurent at Cafe Royal
Best brunch for: a New York-inspired Sunday
Dish to order: Peanut butter and jam doughnuts
Brunch has been ubiquitous in New York for decades, and has been a London institution for nearly as long. Hotel Café Royal is bringing Manhattan’s classic style to Sunday mornings at first-floor restaurant Laurent, where a handsome jazz trio freestyle a tinkling, cheery soundtrack during the bustling brunch service. Start with the pastry basket, stacked with flaky peach and blackberry brioche, cinnamon-pecan buns, fluffy jalapeño cornbread and sticky peanut butter and jam doughnuts. Bottomless brunch will set you back £45 for 90 minutes of umami-rich Bloody Marys or sweet Mimosas and comes a choice of main, which makes it a fairly good deal for such a fancy spot. Go classic with avocado, smoked salmon and poached eggs on toast or thickly stacked pancakes with rum and banana. New York staples include bitter-almond French toast, a crispy buttermilk-fried-chicken sandwich and truffle popovers. Or go rogue and order the Italian-NYC mash-up of silky scrambled eggs cacio e pepe. Try to bag a seat near the windows, which overlook the chaos of Regent Street at perfect people-watching level and stay to listen to the music and drink coffee. Sarah James
Address: Laurent at Café Royal, 68 Regent St, Soho, London W1B 4DY
Website: laurentatcaferoyal.com
13. Decimo, Kings Cross
Best brunch for: Spanish-Mexican dishes with views of King's Cross
Dish to order: Spanish Tortilla
Ten floors up in The Standard hotel, a live music brunch kicks off every Saturday from 12pm to 4.30pm. The menu, by Michelin-starred chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, highlights Spanish dishes with a Mexican twist and a cocktail menu full of margaritas (splash out on a jug if you’re feeling brave) and the house twist on a Bloody Mary, the Bloody Maria, made with tequila and tomato water. The menu is divided into snacks, tacos, eggs, meat and fish, and vegetables – all served as small plates for the table to share. Our favourites were the marinated red peppers, served on a cool marble stone with smoked bread dripping in olive oil, and the tacos – there’s a choice of three (cauliflower, Baja and chistorra with black bean) and we recommend ordering one each. You won’t want to share. But the Spanish tortilla was the real highlight – cut through the soft potato and egg exterior and watch the soft egg ooze out from within. Eat with a selection of charred skewers and a generous helping of fried potatoes and potent aioli. Sophie Knight
Address: Decimo, 10th Floor, 10 Argyle St, London WC1H 8EG
Website: decimo.london
14. Balthazar, Covent Garden
Best brunch for: Hungry brunchers in a New York state of mind
The dish to order: Almond waffles
A great spot for brunch and afternoon in London, Balthazar London mimics the New York original perfectly with its red-leather booths, giant antique mirrored walls and mosaic floors - a Manhattan interpretation of a traditional French brasserie. Luckily the brunch menu is available until 4pm because the steak and egg served with pommes frites is a punchy start to any day, and the Full English is a feast complete with fries and fried bread. For something sweet, the almond waffles with warm berries, crème fraîche and maple syrup come highly recommended.
Address: Balthazar, 4-6 Russell Street, Covent Garden, London WC2
Website: balthazarlondon.com
15. The Buttery, Belgravia
Best brunch for: country-style dishes in London’s swishest postcode
Dish to order: nutella french toast
A couple of converted Georgian townhouses in the middle of Belgravia might not be the obvious place to go when you’re craving a country hit. But Lime Tree Hotel’s pandemic-inspired tip-to-toe makeover made it our favourite spot for pretending you’re on a bracing weekend away in a bucolic British corner. During the 2020 renovation, owners Matt and Charlotte gave the properly good value rooms a costume change and added a café at street level. It’s here where brunch-lovers in the neighbourhood, guests at the hotel and weekenders visiting the area head for plates of Cumberland herbed sausages, smoked salmon and poached St. Ewe eggs or scrambled eggs on Chestnut Bakery sourdough from their bakery up the road. Coffee is sourced from The Gentlemen Baristas in Borough, pastries have been collected from Paul Rhodes Bakery in Greenwich. Inside, honey-hued wood, brushed velvet and plenty of ferns ramp up the country feel. Top tip: there’s a secret garden out-back for when the sun is shining, or nab the corner table inside for top-notch people watching. Sarah James
Address:The Buttery, 135, 137 Ebury Street, London SW1W 9QU
Website: limetreehotel.co.uk
16. The Unveiling of Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings, Clerkenwell
Unrivalled brunch experience at: London's premier bottomless and boozy brunch
Highly recommended dishes: Unending Bellinis and a classic Eggs Benedict
This spot, bathed in stunning white and nestled near Exmouth Market, is a blend of the unexpected. Its unique decor includes chairs adorned with tropical patterns and ceiling-dangling plants in abundance. Weekend sees the bar area teeming with a mix of culinary enthusiasts and trendy locals. Their sole purpose? Relishing the limitless jug-fulls of piquant Bloody Marys and Bellinis, following the rhythms of the seasons. Opt for the bottomless policy for ceaseless refills and indulge in the delectably prepared Eggs Benedict, featuring ham hock - an absolute culinary classic.
Location: Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings, 42 Northampton Road, Clerkenwell, London EC1
Explore More: www.bandhbuildings.com
BiBo in Shoreditch: A Prime Brunch Destination
Brunch spotlight: A culinary journey to southern Spain
A must-try dish: Authentic paella, accentuated with fried eggs and rich cecina
Welcome to BiBo, a gem tucked away in the heart of Shoreditch that has been creating a culinary storm since its launch in August 2021. Boasting of an elegant and vibrant atmosphere, it successfully mirrors the essence of Andalusia right here in London. This stellar gastronomic establishment is helmed by the acclaimed chef Dani García, a culinary genius who has garnered numerous Michelin stars through his past endeavours. Synonymous with finesse and creativity, BiBo recently introduced its brunch menu, intertwining traditional Spanish flavors with breakfast delights in the most ingenious way.
Standout dishes for the conventional brunch crowd include a reinterpreted Eggs Benedict, swapping standard ham for a deluxe jamón ibérico. Not to be underestimated is the unique avocado dish that sports an enticing medley of grilled avocado, coriander pesto, feta, and a light drizzle of crème fraîche. Their pan con tomate is a reputable choice too, hitting all the right notes of freshness and seasoning, acting as the perfect pairing for their delectably cheesy and utterly irresistible croquetas. However, the shining stars of their menu remain the paellas, available with a variety of toppings: prime lobster, succulent chicken, or tender ribs. Our recommendation? The paella adorned with four vibrant, perfectly fried eggs and generous heaps of savory cecina — a rewarding dish we thoroughly enjoyed savoring. Complement your brunch experience with their refreshing sangria Blanca, and you'll find yourself daydreaming about your next Spanish getaway. - Sarah Allard
Location: BiBo, 45 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3PT
Online Portal: sbe.com
18. The Mandrake
Best brunch for: tropical holiday vibes
Dish to order: buttermilk fried chicken bun
Off a busy street inFitzrovia,The Mandrake'sterrace is a secluded hideaway far from the rush of shoppers nearby. Pray that it’s sunny on your visit – there's no need to board a flight to soak up that holiday feeling when the weather is good. The tropical Jurema terrace has hanging green vines, bamboo lounging chairs and tassel umbrellas, while a DJ plays chilled tunes, all overlooking the courtyard where two huge Tasmanian ferns that unravel in the centre. Bring your the whole gang for the sharing brunch menu, which is served every Sunday between 12pm – 4pm. Brunch comes with a choice of drink packages – four cocktails or six glasses of champagne – for an extra fee.
Start with homemade sourdough served with dipping oil and salty butter, Padron peppers dusted in chilli salt, smooth guacamole and bite-size crab and fennel tostadas. There are four mains to choose from – we went for the popular buttermilk fried chicken bun with a pickled Jalapeno coleslaw. If you’re after a more traditional brunch dish, we recommend the chorizo and poached egg muffin with a generous drizzling of chimichurri hollandaise. Other options include brioche french toast with bacon, banana and maple butter and a veggie option of mushroom tacos. Sides are unlimited – fill up on house fries with chipotle aioli and a green salad of coriander and coconut dressing. Onto pudding – served in a marble bowl, the fresh strawberry parfait is a delightful ending to brunch; sweet, juicy and saucy. The Guatemalan chocolate mousse is heavier but just as tasty.Sophie Knight
Address: The Mandrake, 20-21 Newman Street, London W1T 1PG
Website: themandrake.com
19. Mortimer House Kitchen
Best brunch for: kerbside catch-ups
Dish to order: Spiced Shakshuka
A short walk from Oxford Circus is Mortimer House, an Art Deco building on a street corner with large windows and sage-striped awning. The co-working, gym, and events spaces are just for members, but Mortimer House Kitchen is open to all. The restaurant is beautifully designed– classy but relaxed, full of plants, sofas, and armchairs. We arrived on a day with clear blue skies and sat outside for an al-fresco brunch. Although the menu claimsMediterraneanand Middle Eastern influences, the brunch has a mostly classic selection; smoothies, avocado on toast, granola, and eggs in various ways. The stand-out dish is the spiced shakshuka with rose harissa yoghurt,guindillapeppers, and a very welcome chunk of smoky chorizo. Follow up with syrupy french toast, topped with cream and berries –crispy on the outside, cloud-like inside, and addictive. The cocktail menu is seasonal. We relived the holidays with fresh summery flavours, strawberry and balsamic in one, watermelon and thyme in another. Then (as all good things must come to an end) time to jump back to reality with a deliciously sharp espresso to go. Lily Bonesso
Address: Mortimer House Kitchen, 37-41 Mortimer Street, London W1T 3JH
Website: mortimerhousekitchen.com
20. Park Chinois, Mayfair
Best brunch for: circus acts and elite Asian food
Dish to order: chef’s selection of dim sum
When swanky Park Chinois launches a Saturday Dim Sum Soirée, you know to expect big things. Head down the spiral staircase into the dimly lit dining space, take a seat in a plush velvet chair and wait for the show to begin. Once you're sipping on a frosty flute of Champagne, go about choosing from the three-course set menu. To start, we recommend the dim sum: each intricate parcel is just as joyous and flavoursome as the next. Choose from 10 main dishes such as perfectly cooked steamed sea bass with chive and stir-fried wagyu bavette cooked in a fiery black bean sauce. Finish with the seasonal dessert chosen by the pastry chef. Throughout supper, the lights dim, red and blue stage lights flood the room and the DJ cranks up the music to introduce five different acts who perform while you sip on cocktails – fire-breathing, drag and a half-naked man hanging from the ceiling make this a mad showstopper of a brunch. Sophie Knight
Address: Park Chinois, 17 Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London W1J 8EA
Website: parkchinois.com
21. The Good Egg, Soho
Best brunch for: Jerusalem-style sharing plates
The dish to order: babka
The Stoke Newington institution, famous for its daily-changing babka, has landed in Kingly Court. And the Eastern European still-warm brioche-like-bread (we recommend the pistachio and date) doesn’t disappoint. Inspired by the owners’ travels in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (as well as California and Montreal) the brunch and breakfast menu features highlights of deep-fried halloumi cooked with honey and thyme; marinated aubergine with tahini and pine nuts, and house labneh with preserved lemon and pumpkin seeds. Granola is also served with a thick labneh and sticky dates. The new central location is roomy and you can book.
Address: Good Egg, Ground Floor, Kingly Court, Kingly St, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW
Website: thegoodegg.co
22. Hide, Piccadilly
Best brunch for: fine dining
Dish to order: Baked meatloaf with a fried egg and crispy potato
Hide was one of London’s most talked-about tables to book when it opened in 2018. The Michelin-starred follow-up to chef Ollie Dabbous’ sold-out debut, which he closed in 2017, it is set in a sweeping building on a stretch of prime real estate on Piccadilly. There are three floors – Below, Ground and Above. Upstairs, in the fanciest of the three, the eight-course tasting menu with wine starts at £245 and the final bill can tot up to as much as £685. For a more affordable take on Dabbous’ food – and a better chance of bagging a table – book brunch on the ground floor.
The set menu costs £48, so it’s still far from the cheapest breakfast in town – but it might be one of the best-value options. First, a selection of snacks to share is sent out from the kitchen: plump olives, Porthilly oysters with Amalfi lemon, light Tempura aubergine and, our favourite, freshly made, fluffy flatbread cooked over charcoal. To start, order creamy foie gras parfait with a warm buckwheat waffle or thick-cut salmon served with deviled eggs, and follow up with mains of silky crab linguine, 50-day aged beef short rib or comforting meatloaf. If you have room – these aren’t dinky, fine-dining portions – order pudding, we liked the classic crumpets with honey. Sarah James
Address: Hide, 85 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London W1J 7NB
Website: hide.co.uk
23. Abuelo, Covent Garden
Best brunch for: a laidback bite in the middle of Covent Garden
The dish to order: huevos divorciados de turco
Step inside Abuelo and you’ll completely forget you’re bang in the middle of tourist hub Covent Garden. The dinky, wood-filled space is occupied by a long, family-style table and countertops overflowing with impressive cakes – this is the sort of laidback spot you’d expect to find in one of London’s cooler, far-flung neighbourhoods. The interiors are dominated by muted, earthy browns and greens, but Abuelo doesn’t hold back on colour when it comes to the food. Plates arrive adorned with a rainbow of edible petals and herbs and are nearly too pretty to eat. The menu is a South American-Aussie fusion – inspired by the Australian mother-daughter team who own the place and their family’s Argentinian heritage (abuelo means grandfather in Spanish).
The huevos divorciados de turco are a spicy version of baked eggs with labneh, salsa roja and chimichurri, served alongside a generous portion of crispy sourdough for mopping up the juice. There’s also the classic avocado on toast (a Bondi Beach mainstay) and a barbecue croque monsieur stuffed with slow-cooked pulled pork and caramelised onions. The coffee is great too: strong and smooth – the best we’ve found in the area. For something different, the vegan green smoothie is a delicately sweet and creamy blend of spinach, banana, dates and almond milk. It’s a popular place and they don’t take bookings so we’d suggest turning up early. If you do have to wait, order a coffee and make friends with your neighbours in the queue – you’ll probably end up sitting next to them on the sharing table anyway. Olivia Holborow
Address: Abuelo, 26 Southampton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7RS
Website: abuelocafe.co.uk
24. Experience British Brunch at 45 Jermyn St, St James's
Quintessential brunch experience: A true blue British Breakfast
Main attraction: The Hearty Full English
45 Jermyn St, located behind the famous landmark Fortnum & Masons, is the place where the day starts early. Even before the clock strikes 8, it comes alive with energy and it stays bustling till 11 in the morning when it welcomes media stalwarts. It succeeds the former rather formal café and impresses with its fresh and vibrant ambience. The décor features bright orange leather couches and humorous signage pointing the way to the toilets, labelled 'Peas and Leeks'. The breakfast fare is an exciting blend of old world charm and unexpected twists with specialties like tempting kedgeree and tantalizing Orkney kippers, beautifully offset by the unique flavour of Marmite smeared soft crumpets crowned with enticing duck eggs. What else but Fortnum & Mason tea and coffee could perfectly complement such a feast!
Destination: 45 Jermyn St, St James's, London SW1
Explore more: 45jermynst.com
25. Duck & Waffle: A Must-Visit Spot in The City
Ideal brunch spot for: Enjoying panoramic views of East London
A must-have dish: Signature Duck & Waffle
Prepare yourself for a brunch that's a thrilling culinary journey, served in an astonishing setting 40 stories above ground in the Heron Tower. The menu offers an exciting mix of flavors like the crunch of pig's ears, the freshness of raw tuna, and the comfort of a unique ox cheek Benedict. Their standout offering, the Duck & Waffle, consists of succulent duck leg confit and a perfectly fried egg atop a crispy waffle, all complemented with a tangy mustard maple syrup. This venue operates round the clock. So don't be surprised if hip millennials winding down from a late night cross paths with corporate executives gearing up for the business day.
From 2020, Duck & Waffle began using locally sourced ingredients, contributing to sustainability efforts in the city and enhancing the freshness of their dishes. Even more impressively, the restaurant offers a specific menu for those dining after midnight, adding an intriguing twist to London's late-night culinary scene.
Location: Duck & Waffle, Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, The City, London EC2
Official website: duckandwaffle.com
Darcie and May Green: Paddington's Culinary Gem
Top choice for: Captivating Australian cuisine and engaging social scenes
Must-try delicacy: sumptuous banana bread sandwich
Enchantingly positioned at the heart of Paddington, Darcie & May Green's vibrant boats allure visitors with their homely ambiance punctuated by cozy blankets, dappled sunlight streaming through clear walls, and an awe-inspiring view of the canal from the open deck. Their gastronomic offerings are a testament to Aussie innovation, with the banana bread sandwich, brimming with lush vanilla cream and ripe berries, being a delectable 'light bite' that's generous enough to serve as your main course. In addition, the brunch menu offers an interesting twist to the conventional morning-after fix, showcasing a bacon roll tucked inside a crunchy roti wrap, spiced up with a generous helping of chillies. Not to mention, their trendsetting presentation of the beloved smashed avocado on rich charcoal toast. So whether you're in it for food, ambiance or a bit of both, every visit is a chance to indulge in warmth and delight.
Sarah James
Location: Darcie & May Green, Sheldon Square, Paddington Central, London, W2 6DS
More information: daisygreenfood.com
27. 26 Grains, Covent Garden
Best brunch for: Wholesome bowls of pretty porridge
The dish to order: Banana and cacao nib porridge
British porridge is reimagined at this Scandinavian-style courtyard Covent Garden restaurant in the health-food hotspot of Neal's Yard. Oats are cooked in a variety of milks (coconut, cashew, almond) or juice, and flavoured with cardamom, ginger, nutmeg and star anise. Toppings are also inspired: we love the cacao nibs with banana and date syrup and the almond milk oats with poached quince, cashew maple cream, redcurrants and redwood sorrel. For those that would never opt for porridge for brunch, there are options. A flatbread with halloumi, pickles, garlic yoghurt and golden beetroot is just as pretty as the porridge bowls, and a wholseome roasted delica pumpkin is served with lentils, goat’s curd and scattered chillis. There's also a savourty oat dish which comes with shiitake mushrooms and a soft-boiled egg.
Address: 26 Grains, 1 Neal's Yard, Covent Garden, London WC2H
Website: 26grains.com
28. Avenue, St James's
Best brunch for: champagne and dancing
The dish to order: Hoisin confit duck with fried egg, fried rice balls and Avenue slaw
Like an airy slice of Nikki Beach or gleaming Dubai in the midst of St James's, Avenue has the art of the party brunch down to a finely-timed confetti gun. Diners arrive dressed to the nines, 10's and 11's from 11am onwards, and there's a palpable gear change in the air whenever the first brave soul rises to their feet to start grooving, table-side (from around 3pm), before slowly progressing to the restaurant’s small dancefloor. Ambitious Champagne fountains, chandeliers crafted from large wine glasses and chipper waiters with man-buns all help fuel the free-flowing weekend cheer.
Food plays second fiddle to the drinks (Moët & Chandon chills in ice buckets at the end of each table), but among the handful of options on the menu there are, surprisingly, some relatively wholesome finds - choose from Greek, sheep's or soya yoghurt with fresh fruit salad and honey granola and hoisin duck with special slaw - or skip straight to the scrambled egg and white toasted sourdough, chased by mac 'n' cheese and lobster (pictured). Anything to absorb the bottomless bubbles and Bloody Marys, yours for a small extra fee. Becky Lucas
Address: Avenue, 7-9 St James's Street, London, SW1A 1EE
Website: avenue-restaurant.co.uk
29. Modern Pantry, Clerkenwell
Best brunch for: fusion flavours
There are plenty of trend-led touches at the pretty Modern Pantry in Clerkenwell: white-washed brick walls, copper light fixtures, plants abounding. The stripped-back tables and chairs are sometimes shoved together for big groups, sometimes jostled neatly in twos and fours for young friends and couples who have sought refuge on a hungover weekend morning.
New Zealand-born chef Anna Hansen (previously of The Providores in Marylebone) specialises in fusion food, overseeing a menu that features dishes such as eggs with chorizo and fried plantain, coconut and ricotta pancakes and a sugar-cured prawn omelette. If you’re feeling super decadent, you can finish off your brunch with ice cream or a cheese board.
It’s a very chilled out place: settle in for a cocktail, or skip out and make the most of the food-central location: head across dinky St John’s Square for a drink at Zetter Townhouse or around the corner for tacos and margaritas at punchy Breddos Tacos. Sarah James
Address: Modern Pantry 47-48 St John's Square, Clerkenwell, London EC1V 4JJ
Website: themodernpantry.co.uk
30. Caravan Clerkenwell's Charm
Most favourited by: Coffee enthusiasts and New Zealanders
Can't miss dish: Eggplant purée with poached eggs, za'atar, and yoghurt
Bearing the title of artisan coffee-roasters, Caravan has formed a small, energetic empire. It's not uncommon to find every seat taken at their flagship Clerkenwell spot, and their establishments in King's Cross and Southwark are consistently lively. Patrons flock for the masterfully brewed coffee but stick around for the globally inspired brunch offerings. Elevate your brunch experience by adding a well-seasoned merguez sausage to your eggplant and poached eggs plate, or venture to Mexico with the flavourful jalapeño cornbread, accompanied by black bean frijoles negro, fried eggs, and a dash of chipotle.
Fabulous brunch locations are scattered all around London, however, if you're looking for a location where gourmet coffee meets a multicultural brunch menu, Caravan has got you covered.
Location: Caravan, 11-13 Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, London, EC1
Explore: caravanrestaurants.co.uk
Discover the secrets of crafting a perfect flat white with Caravan's coffee maestro, Simon Lewthwaite
31. Lantana: Shoreditch's Pride
A brunch haven for: Veggie Enthusiasts
Signature Dish to Experience: Crushed Avocado on Toast
Nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Shoreditch, Lantana is a bustling eatery known for dishing out what could arguably be London's tastiest avocado on toast. A fan-favourite, this dish is an artistic concoction of creamy avocado organically sourced, smoothly spread over a crusty slice of sourdough. Complementing the dish is a velvety spread of labneh and a sprinkle of hazelnut dukkah. As a finishing touch, a crisp salad of fresh herbs is added, and for those looking to elevate the dish, beetroot-cured salmon is an option. Not to mention, their French toast is something to look forward to, presented along with poached rhubarb, citrusy orange mousse and crumbled pistachios. Sweetcorn fritters, another dish worthy of attention, are served with a portion of oven-roasted tomatoes and a dollop of zesty lemon crème fraîche.
Did you know? Lantana is an Australian-Owned café, bringing out the best flavors of Australian's street food scene to London brunch lovers!!. It is also renowned for keeping the menu fresh and seasonal.
Eatery's Location: Lantana, 2 Oliver's Yard, 55 City Road, Shoreditch, London EC1
Contact: +44 20 7253 5273
Website: lantanacafe.co.uk
32. Ozone, Hackney and Shoreditch
Best brunch for: twists on classics
The dish to order: eggs Benedict on bubble-and-squeak cakes
Ozone started out as a small roastery and café in a New Zealand surf town, and brought the same edgy-cool, easygoing charm to this side of the world in 2012 with its first UK outpost in Shoreditch. It’s now one of the best brunch bets in east London, and hungry diners flock to the Old Street spot every weekend, braving the formidable queue. To our delight, a second – sizeable – London branch has finally opened, just off Hackney Road, serving up eggs Benedict on crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside bubble-and-squeak cakes (order with gin-cured trout) and veggie brekkie with tangy kimchi greens, a fluffy hash brown and halloumi made in London. In true Antipodean style, there are also more adventurous options such as feta and quinoa tortillas and braised mince on focaccia with smoked cheddar and piccalilli. Plus those nursing a hangover will be pleased to hear pizzas are served from 12pm – with both red - and white-sauce bases and toppings such as pork and fennel salumi with caramelised fennel and fermented chilli. And as you’d expect for a roastery (you can buy their beans by the bag), the coffee is fresh and perfectly potent. Sonya Barber
Address: Ozone, Emma Street, London E2 9AP and 11 Leonard Street, London, EC2A 4AQ
Website: ozonecoffee.co.uk
Ozone Coffee is available for delivery of coffee beans at ozonecoffee.co.uk
33. St John, Remarkable Dining in Spitalfields
Recommended brunch for: Meat lovers in search of a sensational remedy for a hangover
Try this exceptional dish: The delectable rare breed bacon sandwich (though ensuring some tummy space for a doughnut is recommended)
At the helm of the kitchen, Chef Fergus Henderson has created a bacon sandwich that is nothing short of legendary. And the rest of the bill of fare? Unapologetically traditional, adding a sense of nostalgia to every bite. The rare sight of ham, eggs, and fried bread in top culinary London establishments is standard here. Why not give the sausage bun dripping in brown sauce a go? Or perhaps a grilled kipper lying atop freshly baked sourdough toast? The dessert offerings are equally as praised, with the custard doughnuts worshipped nearly as much as the bacon delight. But, while the custard variation is certainly notable, it's hard to surpass the timeless satisfaction of a raspberry-jam stuffed classic doughnut.
Location: St John, 94-96 Commercial Street, Spitalfields, London E1
Visit their site: stjohngroup.uk.com
34. St Leonards, Shoreditch
Best brunch for: grown-up dishes and drinks
The dish to order: hot-smoked salmon
Shoreditch restaurant St Leonards has been standing out on its own since opening in 2018 – an enormous, airy space filled with natural, organic textures and materials (polished concrete walls, toffee-coloured wooden tables, little trees lining the front wall along huge picture windows) and simple but bang on-trend details (the warmly lit globe pendant lights are an interior-junkie’s dream). Tattooed, bearded chefs Jackson Boxer and Andrew Clarke marry simple charcoal-kissed dishes from the hearth with delicate raw dishes from the ice bar.
Kick off with a breakfast cocktail that’s got a little more edge than your standard Bellini – the beef-stock Bloody Mary is super-savoury, with a brothy quality that some might find challenging, but others will love. That reluctance to create safe dishes continues as you move onto the food, where each dish has an unusual element (or five) to pique interest. The pork hash is crispy and fluffy, topped with gooey eggs, while the bavette steak is cooked over an open fire, and left silky, soft and pink. The hot-smoked salmon was our standout, a Scandi-style smörgåsbord with peppery and spicy fish, pickled vegetables, rye bread and a dollop of tart beetroot yogurt. Sarah James
Address: St Leonards, 70 Leonard Street, Hackney, London EC2A 4QX
Website: stleonards.london
35. Morito, Hackney
Best brunch for: exotic flavours
The dish to order: traditional Turkish menemen
In the evenings Morito is a tapas joint and sharing is how we think the weekend-only brunch here should be approached too. The menu is on the brief side, but you’ll want everything on it. Humble eggs are spiced up with Mediterranean flavours. The traditional Turkish menemen, a creamy pile of eggs scrambled with tomato, peppers and feta, with a hunk of toast for mopping up juices, is the crowd favourite and ends up on nearly every table. For the sweet-toothed, the bougatsa, a filo pastry stuffed with fresh cheese and coated with cinnamon and sugar, is tiny (you might need two) but tasty. Coffee is served fresh and strong any way you like, or for something different try the Cretan mountain tea, an extraction of sage and thyme that was described to us as ‘the Cretan grandmother’s remedy for everything’. It’s lovely sweetened with a drop of honey. Join the East Londoners soaking up last night’s revelry and then walk it all off with a stroll along nearby Regent’s Canal. Olivia Holborow
Address: Morito, 195 Hackney Rd, London E2 8JL
Website: moritohackneyroad.co.uk
36. Pavilion Café, Victoria Park
Best brunch for: Sri-Lankan inspired dishes
The dish to order: cardamom buns
This cute little café, with its glass dome ceiling and cool monochromatic colour scheme, is an East London icon. Sat at the edge of the boating lake in vast Victoria Park, Pavilion Café makes nearly everything on its plant-based menu in house. The result is seriously delicious baked goods (the cardamom buns are must-try, and you may well leave with your bag stuffed with sourdough loaves) and a menu of wholesome brunch dishes. There’s a Sri-Lankan spice to the food: Sri Lankan Hoppers feature, and pancakes are served with coconut as well as maple syrup and crème fraiche. In a city that doesn’t think twice about dropping £20 on avocado toast and a flat white, it’s a joy to find that builders tea here costs just £1. In the summer, occupy a picnic bench looking out over the park, or walk off your brunch with a stroll around the park’s glittery lake. Sarah James
Address: Pavilion Café, Victoria Park, Crown Gate West Old Ford Road, London E9 7DE
Website: pavilionbakery.com
37. The Farmer’s Mistress, Battersea
Best brunch for: treat days without the guilt
As the Battersea café’s neon sign describes it, the ‘naturally naughty’ food focuses on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and plenty of gluten-free and vegan options, and avoids refined sugars. For brunch this means an expansive menu of greatest hits and inventive plates. The organic buttermilk waffles are served with streaky bacon, just the right amount of maple syrup and a fried Clarence Court egg with a sunset-orange yolk. For something experimental, a gluten-free and vegan brunch option is the salt-baked beetroot served with non-dairy goat’s cheese, beetroot hummus, multi-seed toast, pumpkin seeds and beetroot crisp.
The café’s signature is its healthy twist on the English breakfast, a generous plate of beans, bacon, sausages and mushrooms, but with poached eggs, hash browns that are more like chubby veggie cakes, made from potato, carrot and spinach, and charcoal sourdough toast (apparently better for digestion) from Celtic Bakers in Tottenham. Even the dog treats on offer have charcoal in them. To drink, there’s organic coffee from The Gentlemen Baristas, plus healthy fresh juices and smoothies including the Morning Glory with banana, oats, honey, espresso, maca and oat milk. But it’s in the cocktails that things start to get clever, such as a Margarita served with apple kombucha or a quinoa vodka Bloody Mary. Lauren Burvill
Address: The Farmer’s Mistress, 300 Battersea Park Road, London SW11 3BU
Website: thefarmersmistress.co.uk
38. Lina Stores, Marylebone
Best brunch for: an Italian start to the weekend
Lina Stores has long since expanded from its original mint-green deli in Soho. After opening a tiny fresh-pasta place a few minutes away from the shop, Umbrian chef Masha Rener moved north to King’s Cross to open an outpost just behind Granary Square – and another high-profile launch followed in Marylebone. It’s decked out in the same fr