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Imagine starting your day with a hearty meal combining the best breakfast and lunch, set in one of the world’s most exciting cities. London’s brunch scene is a testament to its culinary diversity, offering everything from classic British fare to innovative international dishes. 

Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional English breakfast, a vegan delight, or a trendy avocado toast, London’s brunch spots have got you covered. Let’s dive into some of the best places to enjoy brunch in this bustling metropolis.

Criteria for Selection

To bring you the crème de la crème of London’s brunch spots, we considered several key factors:

  • Quality of Food: Taste and presentation of dishes.
  • Ambience: Overall atmosphere, including decor and comfort.
  • Location: Accessibility and neighborhood charm.
  • Price Range: Affordability for various budgets.
  • Unique Offerings: Special features like signature dishes, dietary options, and unique experiences.

Our recommendations are based on personal visits, reviews from reputable sources, and expert opinions to ensure you get the best brunch experience in London.

Highlight Top Brunch Spots

Classic British

The Wolseley

  • Location: 160 Piccadilly, St James’s, London W1J 9EB
  • Ambience: Housed in a grand 1920s building, The Wolseley exudes old-world charm with its high ceilings, marble pillars, and art deco interiors.
  • Menu Highlights: Traditional English breakfast, Eggs Benedict, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs.
  • Price Range: £££
  • Special Features: Renowned for its impeccable service and elegant setting, it is perfect for a sophisticated brunch experience.
  • Personal Tips: Make a reservation well in advance, especially on weekends.

Dishoom

  • Location: Various locations, including Shoreditch, Covent Garden, and King’s Cross
  • Ambience: Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom features vintage decor with a vibrant, bustling atmosphere.
  • Menu Highlights: Bacon naan roll, Bombay omelette, Akuri (spicy scrambled eggs).
  • Price Range: ££
  • Special Features: Unique fusion of British and Indian breakfast traditions, serving dishes with a twist.
  • Personal Tips: Try the house chai and be prepared for a wait, as Dishoom is very popular.

International

Granger & Co.

  • Location: Various locations, including Notting Hill, Clerkenwell, and King’s Cross
  • Ambience: Bright, airy spaces with a laid-back, Australian vibe.
  • Menu Highlights: Ricotta hotcakes with honeycomb butter, scrambled eggs with sourdough, fresh fruit platters.
  • Price Range: ££
  • Special Features: Known for fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes.
  • Personal Tips: Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.

Balthazar

  • Location: 4-6 Russell Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5HZ
  • Ambience: Parisian brasserie-style with a touch of New York sophistication, featuring red leather banquettes and antique mirrors.
  • Menu Highlights: Eggs Royale, brioche French toast, steak and eggs.
  • Price Range: £££
  • Special Features: Authentic brasserie feel with a diverse menu.
  • Personal Tips: Ideal for a leisurely brunch; make a reservation to ensure a spot.

Vegan/Vegetarian

Farmacy

  • Location: 74-76 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London W2 5SH
  • Ambience: Earthy and chic, with a focus on sustainability and natural decor elements.
  • Menu Highlights: Farmacy breakfast (quinoa, avocado, kale), buckwheat pancakes, plant-based full English.
  • Price Range: £££
  • Special Features: 100% plant-based menu promoting healthy and organic eating.
  • Personal Tips: Try their range of wellness lattes for a unique beverage experience.

Mildreds

  • Location: Various locations, including Soho, Camden, and Dalston
  • Ambience: Modern and vibrant, with colourful interiors and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Menu Highlights: Avocado toast with chilli and lime, vegan pancakes, tofu scramble.
  • Price Range: ££
  • Special Features: Extensive vegan and vegetarian options with international influences.
  • Personal Tips: This is a great spot for both brunch and dinner; no reservations, so plan accordingly.

Trendy Hotspots

The Breakfast Club

  • Location: Various locations, including Soho, London Bridge, and Canary Wharf
  • Ambience: Quirky and retro, with eclectic decor and a fun, relaxed vibe.
  • Menu Highlights: Pancakes with berries, The Full Monty (full English breakfast), avocado and poached eggs on toast.
  • Price Range: ££
  • Special Features: Playful atmosphere with generous portions.
  • Personal Tips: Expect a wait, especially at the Soho location, but it’s worth it.

Duck & Waffle

  • Location: 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
  • Ambience: Set on the 40th floor, offering stunning panoramic city views.
  • Menu Highlights: Duck & Waffle (crispy duck leg, fried egg, mustard maple syrup), Colombian eggs, caramelised banana waffles.
  • Price Range: £££
  • Special Features: Open 24/7, making it a perfect spot for early risers and late-night cravings alike.
  • Personal Tips: Book a table by the window for the best views.

Map and Practical Information

To help you navigate through these brunch spots, here’s a handy map:

[Insert Map with Brunch Spots Marked]

Each pin on the map corresponds to a brunch spot listed above, ensuring you can easily find your way around London. Below, you’ll find practical information for each location:

  1. The Wolseley:
    • Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
    • Reservations: Recommended
    • Contact: +44 20 7499 6996
  2. Dishoom:
    • Opening Hours: Varies by location
    • Reservations: Limited; walk-ins welcome
    • Contact: +44 20 7420 9320
  3. Granger & Co.:
    • Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    • Reservations: Not taken; walk-ins only
    • Contact: +44 20 3141 9330
  4. Balthazar:
    • Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
    • Reservations: Recommended
    • Contact: +44 20 3301 1155
  5. Farmacy:
    • Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    • Reservations: Recommended
    • Contact: +44 20 7221 0705
  6. Mildreds:
    • Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
    • Reservations: Not taken; walk-ins only
    • Contact: +44 20 7494 1634
  7. The Breakfast Club:
    • Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
    • Reservations: Not taken; walk-ins only
    • Contact: +44 20 7078 9634
  8. Duck & Waffle:
    • Opening Hours: 24/7
    • Reservations: Highly recommended
    • Contact: +44 20 3640 7310

What’s Next?

London’s brunch scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From the elegant and classic to the quirky and trendy, there’s something to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re indulging in a traditional English breakfast or savouring a vegan delight, these brunch spots promise a memorable start to your day. So, gather your friends, make a reservation, or simply walk in, and enjoy the best brunches London offers.

We’d love to hear about your brunch experiences in London! In the comments below, share your favourite spots or any hidden gems we might have missed. Happy brunching!