Following my first post about overrated food & drink spots in London, I figured it was time for a second serving - because clearly, London has no shortage of places that look good on Instagram but leave you feeling a little… underwhelmed.

So here we go - another batch of beloved-but-overhyped spots, plus the ones that are actually worth your time (and your queue).

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1. Borough Market

The food is fine. The chaos is not.

Nope. Just like Camden Market, this one’s gone full tourist trap. The strawberries? Severely overpriced. The food stalls? A mix of chains and mid-tier vendors. It just doesn’t feel local anymore, and unless you love crowds, elbows, and trying to eat while being jostled, it’s honestly a stressful experience. Where do you even sit? Where do you even breathe?

Where to go instead:

• Brixton Village (Brixton) - A mix of covered/outdoor stalls. Some spots can feel a bit generic (Black Bear Burger, Arepa & Co. - nothing against them, just not tube-worthy for a North Londoner). Highlights: Irene Bakery (a Camberwell cult fave with an outpost here), Fish, Wings & Tings, and Three Uncles for proper Cantonese comfort food with sharp branding.

• Maltby Street Market (Bermondsey) - A bit fancier, a bit calmer. Nice spot to linger without dodging tourists.

• Broadway Market (Hackney) - (I put this one last time and I’ll put it again here!) A Saturday institution. Banh mi from Hanoi Kitchen, a haggis toasty from Deeney’s, or a sandwich upgrade at L’Eau à la Bouche

• Spitalfields Market (Spitalfields) - It’s on the edge of tipping into the overrated zone, but it still holds its charm. The antiques side gives it character. Faves include: Merkamo (Ethiopian stall), Cafe Caribbean (a cult classic, according to the husband), and Melt (if you’re craving a good grilled cheese)

Pro tip: Check which days markets run their special events e.g., Thursdays at Spitalfields = vintage and antique heaven.

2. The Breakfast Club

What was once quirky now feels queue-y.

Remember the Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town? I thought it was so cool when I first moved to London. Now it feels like a relic of a brunch era where hidden doors and neon signs made up for average food. The quality hasn’t kept up with the price, and there are too many better places to waste a queue on this one?

Where to go instead:

• E5 Bakehouse (London Fields) - More local, more laid back. Great bread, eggs on toast, excellent coffee. All made in-house, fresh out of the oven.

• Granger & Co (Multiple locations) - If you want something similar in spirit to The Breakfast Club but with genuinely good food (aka solid Aussie brunch). Always good vibes, but do book ahead.

• Kudu (Peckham & Nunhead) - A little fancier, with South African flair and killer weekend brunch.

Pro tip: E5 is perfect for a solo brunch or slow morning - zero pressure, relaxed atmosphere - and they have an outdoor terrace in the back!

3. Buns From Home

Loved you when you were low-key.

I’m sad to write about this one! A few months (years? am I that old?) ago it still felt like a hidden gem. The buns are still good and somewhat fresh - but once you see it pop up on Carnaby Street, and queues down the street, it kind of loses its charm.

Where to go instead:

• Breadery (Holloway) - Cutest little hole-in-the-wall. If you know, you know.

• Toad Bakery (Camberwell) - I posted about it in my South of the Thames trip post - still obsessed.

• Fortitude Bakehouse (Bloomsbury) - Soft, delicate buns made with real care.

• Mosey Cafe (Nunhead) - A newer discovery. Everything I've had so far has been thoughtful.

• Pavilion (Multiple locations) - Still one of my faves for a fresh cardamom bun and a morning walk.

Pro tip: A lot of these will sell out of their best pastries fast on weekends - be there early i.e., before 11.

4. BAO

The brand grew, the baos didn’t.

This one was actually called out in the comments on the last post - and honestly, I agree. I’ve loved BAO for years: the concept, the founder’s story, the original energy. But as they’ve scaled, the quality has slipped. The bao-to-filling ratio is off, and it never feels spontaneous - always needs a reservation, always a bit of a faff. Maybe I got unlucky, but the last time I went, it just didn’t hit.

Where to go instead:

• Mr Bao (Peckham) - Consistently great, more casual, satisfying.

• Daddy Bao (Tooting) - Feels like the early days of BAO - good energy, no hype.

• Bun House (Bethnal Green) - Especially this location. Still has that underground, cult-fave feel.

5. Brat

Cool kid turned crowd pleaser.

Ugh - I do love it. But when every tourist, friend, and out-of-towner wants to go to Brat, I can’t help but cringe a little. The Shoreditch location feels especially overrun now. It’s still delicious, but it’s not exactly hidden gem anymore. Honestly, the London Fields location (in Climpson's Arch) is way more fun - feels like a secret garden on a warm evening.

Where to go instead:

• Rochelle Canteen (Shoreditch) - Tucked away behind a school gate, seasonal British food in a courtyard that feels like you’ve stepped out of the city.

• Campania (Shoreditch) - Feels like a trattoria in Puglia. Charming, candlelit, pasta to cry about (in a good way).

• Levan Restaurant (Peckham) - South London’s answer to cool-but-comfortable. Solid, warm, and the wine list never disappoints.

• Llewelyn’s (Hernhill) - Proper neighborhood spot. If it were in Hackney, it’d be viral. But it’s better off not being.

Pro tip: Book one of these for a weekday lunch special.

6. Humble Crumble

Pretty desserts, pretty underwhelming.

I mean… do I even need to explain this one? Cute branding, adorable cups, but it’s all a bit much. The queues, the syrupy sweetness, the £6 crumble that kind of tastes like something you could make better at home.

Where to go instead:

• Dusty Knuckle (Dalston) - Lots of cafés and bakeries will have Dusty Knuckle pastries but if you go to the actual bakery, you’ll find loads of delicious pastry/dessert options - you might still get a crowd, but it’ll be worth the wait.

• Sablé London (Fulham) - Seasonal baking with way more finesse.

• Crème (Soho) - Some would call this one overrated too but that white chocolate miso number is dangerous.

Pro tip: Grab a Dusty Knuckle pastry, then walk it off along the canal. It’s a better memory.

That’s all for now - but you know there’s more coming.

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I’m thinking we move beyond food and into the overrated sights and experiences.

Think: where to actually go instead of the London Dungeon, why Portobello Market is maybe (definitely) not worth your weekend, and getting quintessential London views that don’t come with a 45-minute line and an overpriced ticket at the London Eye.

If you’ve got a place you think deserves a gentle roast, send it my way - I love a crowd-sourced controversy.

Thanks for reading!

xx Anna

I take pizza VERY seriously. You know that question - “What would be your last meal on earth?” or “If you could only eat one thing forever?” Easy. Pizza. Always pizza.

I think I actually peaked in life when my husband and I went to Naples on our honeymoon and got to eat pizza in the place where it all began (Rick Steves has the footage to prove it).

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It was magical.

This obsession is shared across my family - so much so that Friday night has become sacred: pizza night. We’ve looped in friends, neighbors, extended family, and the consensus is unanimous. Friday night Pizza night is a ritual worth keeping. It’s shareable, comforting, infinitely variable (though I do always go for the same toppings), and perfectly pairs with a glass of wine or an Aperol Spritz. Honestly? Pizza is the perfect food.

When we first moved to London, we were devout fans of Pizza Pilgrims and Franco Manca… but as we’ve discovered, there’s so much more to London’s pizza scene.

So, here they are: 6 of my absolute favorite pizzerias across the city, each awarded a very serious, very unofficial prize for their style of pizza greatness.

1. Oi Vita - The All-Around Winner

Dare I say this is probably one of the best pizzas I’ve had in my life? Big words, I know - but Oi Vita backs it up. Tucked just off Newington Green, this small, unassuming place is bursting with warmth and Italian charm. It’s run by two friends from southern Italy, and you feel that craft and heart in everything: the imported ingredients, an oven that doesn’t mess around, the crisp-yet-chewy Neapolitan-style dough and the cheeky drawings and notes from local kids tacked to the walls. Even when it’s packed (which is often), the owner always finds time to chat, laugh, and recommend wine.

To go when you want: You’re craving a proper Neapolitan pizza with a chewy crust and bold flavors, and you’re hungry-hungry - like, “I want to inhale a whole pizza and still have room for tiramisu” hungry. Ideal for midweek comfort or a relaxed Friday where you want great food without fuss.

What to order: No need to go crazy - the Diavola (tomato sauce, mozzarella, spicy salami, basil) or the Bufalina (tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, basil) are divine. And yes, get the tiramisu.

2. Sodo Pizza - The Best Sourdough Winner

Love love love the Bethnal Green location under the railway arches - it's peak East London energy - and their servings at the George and Vulture. But honestly, all the Sodo spots (Clapton, Walthamstow, etc.) have their charm. These guys do sourdough bases, local ingredients, and natural wines with a whole lot of style. The pizzas are crisp, slightly chewy, just blistered enough.

To go when you want: You want a slightly lighter, crispier pizza with a sourdough base that feels a bit more grown-up (but not boring). Good when you’re hungry but want to avoid a food coma.

What to order: The Wicker Man or Dirty Boy- Sodo’s standout pies. Add burrata if you’re feeling fancy.

3. Homeslice - The Atypical Pizza Pie Winner

This used to be our regular when we lived in Shoreditch (actually our last dinner out before lockdown hit in March 2020), and it’s still a go-to when I want a pizza with a twist. This isn’t Neapolitan - it’s NYC-by-way-of-London, and that means giant, 18-inch pies made for sharing, with toppings that are properly creative. You can do half-and-half (a must if you want variety), and the vibe is very casual - grab a beer and sprawl across a table with friends.

To go when you want: You’re feeling adventurous and not in the mood for a traditional margherita. Ideal for groups who want to try everything - or anyone craving pizza with toppings that sound like they came from a chef’s fever dream.

What to order: Mushroom, ricotta, pumpkin seeds & chilli on one side, ’nduja, tenderstem broccoli & chilli on the other. Balance, baby.

4. 50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo - The ‘I Want the Real Thing’ Winner

Sworn in as the best pizza in London by my husband’s Neapolitan colleague - and honestly, who am I to argue? This place is the London outpost of legendary pizzaiolo Ciro Salvo, and it brings the real-deal Naples experience to Trafalgar Square. It’s elegant, sleek, and slightly dramatic, like a pizza opera. The dough is made with hyper-hydrated flour, fermented for 48 hours, and cooked in a blazing 500°C oven. The result? Cloud-like crust, molten centre, yumyum perfection.

To go when you want: You’re in central and want something way better than a Pizza Express panic meal. More of a special dinner out, not hangry grab-and-go. Absolutely book ahead.

What to order: Margherita - no notes. But if you’re feeling bold, the Ndjua e Stracciata is phenomenal too.

5. BAR D4100 - The Good Times, Good Vibes Winner

Ventured South for this one (and I think I will get murdered if I don’t mention at least one pizza place below the Thames) - and it was so worth the Overground. Bar D4100 (that’s ‘Dinner for One Hundred’, love) is in Nunhead and it’s everything you want in a neighborhood pizzeria: pink tiles, flickering candles, sunflower murals, a drinks list that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and pizza combos that feel like little love letters to joy (and pizza). It’s designed for people to gather, drink, and eat well. Dough is long-fermented and blistered just right, toppings are creative without being fussy.

To go when you want: You’re pizza-hungry and party-hungry. You want bold flavors, rich toppings, and a crust that can hold its own under a pile of whipped feta and hot honey. Come when you’re starving and sociable.

What to order: The Macgyver - whipped feta, hot honey, and chorizo magic. And a £5 spritz to wash it down.

5. Sweet Thursday – The Neighborhood Favorite Winner

Nestled in the heart of De Beauvoir, this is the kind of pizzeria that makes you want to move into the area. It’s part wine shop, part pizza place, part hangout spot. Kids welcome, dogs allowed, and honestly? The vibes are plain sweet. The dough is light and well-fermented, ingredients are fresh and seasonal. They even have a gelato bar for dessert, and some great takeaway if you want to picnic in nearby Shoreditch Park.

To go when you want: Something low-key, satisfying, and nourishing with friends or family. Or takeaway-and-park if the sun’s out.

What to order: Their seasonal special (they always have one that’s a bit fun) and something from the wine wall.

Extras That Deserve a Slice of the Spotlight:

• Saponara - The Belongs-in-My-Heart Winner: This one absolutely belongs in the top 6 of my heart, but I’ve waxed poetic about it so many times that it’s only fair to let others shine. Still - if you haven’t, go.

• Flat Earth Pizza - The Vegan Revelation Winner: Vegan and veggie with wild-grain bases that defy expectations.

• Dough Hands - The New York Pie Winner: Their tomato pies are the stuff of legend - be prepared to queue. Also available at The Old Nun’s Head.

• Zia Lucia - The Solid Chain MVP Winner: We probably order in from here the most when we don’t want to head out. Charcoal base? A winner.

• 400 Rabbits - The South London Secret Winner: South Londoners know. North Londoners, time to catch up.

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It was so hard to pin this down to just 6 pizzerias. There are of course plenty of other good ones - so if you’ve got a go-to, please send it our way in the comments (I’ll probably be there within the week).

Long live pizza night.

xx Anna

Ah yes, it’s that time of year - when the texts start rolling in:

“So I’m going to Paris - what should I do?”

I love that text.

It means someone’s about to fall headfirst into one of the most beautiful, chaotic, pastry-fueled cities on earth. But it also usually means: they’re overwhelmed, slightly underprepared, and wondering whether to book five restaurants or just bring good walking shoes.

So here it is. My Paris-in-summer itinerary - the places I alway recommend, whether it’s your first time or your fifth.

And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, I always love The New Paris Dispatch, Festin Paris, and Franchement - especially this post, which is chef’s kiss and partially inspired this one.

☀️ Make it easy with my Google Maps here
☕️ Doing a Euro summer? Here’s one for sunny London too.

🥐 Start the day with a Boulangerie & a Café

In Paris, breakfast is all about bread - a tartine (slice of bread) with salted butter and jam - or a perfectly flaky viennoiserie (pastry) like a croissant or pain au chocolat. You don’t need pancakes or shakshuka. In fact, most “brunch” spots feel pretty Americanized.

Now, the coffee situation. The French are famously into their bitter espressos (this scene from the Olympics with the Italian commentators lives rent-free in my head). But the specialty coffee scene is evolving. If you know where to go, you’ll get something that rivals your favorite flat white from back home.

If you’re looking to sit down:

• COEUR (11eme). Tucked behind the St-Ambroise church, this is technically a healthy épicerie (small grocery store) but doubles as a café. If the place is full, you can head to CHANCEUX for an equally satisfying brekky. Sit outside with a view of Square Maurice Gardette.

• Partisan Café Artisanal (3eme). A proper coffee nerd spot. All the filter and espresso options you could dream of, plus a big sunny space that spills onto the street.

• Télescope Café (1er). Small and minimal, but the espresso is excellent, and the beans are carefully sourced from all over. (Also, this is probably where I’ve had the best oeufs brouillés (scrambled eggs) in my life).

If you're looking to grab-and-go:

• The French Bastards (2eme, 4eme, 7eme, 11eme, 17eme). We love the vibe, we love their ethos, we love their branding, we love their fresh take on traditional French delicacies - but we especially love their pain au chocolat.

• Du Pain et des Idées (10eme). A classic for a reason. Organic flour, signature pain des amis (bread of friends), and viennoiseries that truly live up to the hype. The queue can get long, but it’s worth it.

• Tout Autour du Pain (3eme). Placed three times in the top 10 finalists of Best Baguettes in Paris (yes, it’s a real thing and yes, it means a lot)

🧺 Hit the marchés (market)

Paris - and France in general - is a market city, and summer is when they come alive. There’s a market for everything - fruit, flowers, vintage, fabrics, old postcards, overpriced lemon juicers - you name it, they’ve got it. But they can get overwhelming fast, especially on the weekend. Best to go early.

If you're feeling peckish:

• Marché des Enfants Rouges (3eme). The oldest covered market in Paris, tucked away in the Marais. Flowers, produce, baked goods, but also amazing prepared food - Moroccan tagines, Japanese bentos, fresh juices, little wine bars. Good for a graze-and-stroll lunch, possible to book at some of the more popular spots if you want to skip the queues.

If you're feeling crafty:

• Marché Saint-Pierre (18eme). Near Montmartre, this is a haven for fabric lovers. You can also head to Tissus Reine if you want to browse rolls of linen, cotton, gingham, silk. Be aware - the area is buzzing and LOUD - combine with a walk through Place Saint-Pierre and a stop at Halle Saint Pierre, a museum-meets-art-bookshop.

If you're feeling thrifty:

• Marché aux puces de St Ouen (St-Ouen-Sur-Seine). A full-on flea market maze. Vintage mirrors, antique cutlery, leather trunks, movie posters, dusty chandeliers. It’s a bit of a trek to get to (northern edge of Paris) and chaotic in parts, but very fun if you love a rummage.

🍽 Lunch en terrasse

Lunch in Paris is an act of leisure. You’re not grabbing something quick. You’re sitting down - ideally outside, ideally facing the street - and staying a while. Have you ever noticed how all the chairs at Parisian cafés face out toward the sidewalk? That’s not an accident. It’s all about watching, side-eyeing, pretending you’re in a Godard film, and yes - obviously judging people’s shoes.

The best lunches are the simplest: a good steak frites, a salad that counts as a meal, and a glass of wine that quickly turns into two.

If you’re leaning into the cliché (hey, when in Paris):

• Café Charlot (3eme). Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s scene-y. But it delivers. Sit outside, get a croque or a chèvre chaud salad, and soak it in.

• La Cantine Diderot (12eme). You’ll find your typical boeuf bourguignon and tartare - and yet get more of a local feel than the tourist-central bouillons (a type of traditional, restaurant serving hearty, affordable meals).

• Chez Janou (3eme). Locals will call it overrated (you’ve definitely seen it on Reels or TikTok). But why not? Provençal dishes, and famously large bowls of mousse au chocolat you’re supposed to share (but maybe won’t).

If you’re not that hungry:

• Septime La Cave (11eme). The hip younger sibling of Septime. No reservations. Just very good wine and small plates in a relaxed, drop-in setting.

• Le Verre Volé (10eme). A natural wine bar by the canal with a tiny delicious menu.

If you’re feeling a bit fancy:

• Le Servan (11eme). Beautiful, thoughtful French cooking with subtle Asian notes.

• Bonhomme (10eme). Cozy, inventive, seasonal bistro fare.

• Clown Bar (11eme). Next to the old circus (hence the name). Tiled walls, natural wine, and a menu that changes often.

• Onze à Table (11eme). Order some planches (charcuterie and/or cheese boards). Located in a quieter street, quintessentially Parisian.

🎨 A musée for when it’s too hot or too wet

Paris has a lot of museums. It can feel like a checklist (Louvre? d'Orsay? Pompidou?) but you don’t have to follow the obvious route. The lesser-known museums are as memorable: still central, far less crowded, and full of exhibitions you won’t see copied and pasted across every major city.

Here’s what’s on my list this summer:

• Musée de la Marine - Jean Gaumy & the Sea (16eme). Recently renovated, this museum near Trocadéro is all about France’s maritime history - but feels more design-forward than dusty. The Jean Gaumy exhibit shows powerful, black-and-white photographs of life at sea.

• Musée Maillol - Robert Doisneau (7eme). This small, charming museum is often overlooked. It has a lived-in, human scale that doesn’t end in museum-fatigue. The current exhibit celebrates one of Paris’s most iconic street photographers.

• Musée d’Art Moderne - Gabriele Münter (16eme). A museum beside the Palais de Tokyo. Full of natural light and free to enter the permanent collection. This summer it’s hosting Gabriele Münter - a German expressionist painter known for her bold lines and colors.

• Fondation Louis Vuitton - David Hockney (16eme). Set inside a Frank Gehry building in the Bois de Boulogne, this is a destination in itself. Wide spaces and a rooftop terrace with views. The Hockney show is all color, countryside, and windows looking out onto the world. Take your time, then walk over to the Jardin d’Acclimatation next door for a full afternoon.

• (For September) Musée du Luxembourg - Pierre Soulages (6eme). One of the city’s most beautiful small museums, nestled right next to the Jardin du Luxembourg - so you can stroll straight into the park after. The upcoming Soulages show focuses on his drawings and work in black - very powerful.

Other museums with permanent collections worth a browse: Musée Rodin in the 7eme (timeless), Musée de l’Orangerie in the 1er (Monet always and forever), Le Petit Palais in the 8eme (full of art and architecture treasures).

🍷 Apéro on the Canal

Apéro (short for apéritif) is not just a drink before dinner. No, no. In the summer, it is dinner. Apéro is the moment. Especially when it turns into apéro dinatoire, aka the French way of saying: we’re eating cheese, bread, and snacks and calling it a meal.

Grab a few friends (or go solo with a good book), find a spot along Canal Saint-Martin (10eme), and let the evening unfold. It’s one of the simplest and best things to do in Paris on a warm evening.

And yes - Laure included this in her Once In post on where to go in the 10th, which just confirms it: this is the right move.

What to bring:

• A baguette (two, realistically - you’ll probably end up eating the first one on the way to the canal)

• A good gooey camembert or brie

• Saucisson and olives

• Cherry tomatoes, strawberries and raspberries

• Crisps, salted butter, maybe even a tin of sardines if you’re feeling bold

• Wine - chilled rosé or a cheap white or red (promise it’ll be amazing) from any Monop’, Carrefour City, or Franprix

• Paper napkins, a knife, plastic cups - be semi-prepared

Where to sit:

• Anywhere along the canal between République and Jaurès

• If you want a seat, go early - golden hour fills up fast

• Look for the little green metal bridges for extra charm

Where to grab the goods (if you want to make it fancy):

• SAIN Boulangerie for sourdough loaves

• La Cave à Michel for a bottle of natural wine

• Fromagerie Beillevaire for cheese that makes you weep

• Plan D for ready made sandwiches

🌇 Post-dinner stroll

If you come from a city like London, Berlin, New York, or Tokyo, Paris will feel small - in the best way. You’ll think you’re just heading home, and suddenly you’ve crossed a bridge, passed three monuments, and caught Notre-Dame in her full glory.

In the summer, daylight lingers. It’ll be 9:30pm and still feel like late afternoon. So walk or grab a Vélib or a Lime bike, and explore. There’s no better way to end the day.

Here’s a route I love when I’m feeling a little cliché:

Start on Île Saint-Louis - grab a scoop at Berthillon (you need fuel for that walk).

Cross to Hôtel de Ville, then cut down onto the Quai - the Seine-side path.

Pass Notre-Dame, glowing in the evening light.

Cross Pont Neuf, Paris’ oldest bridge.

Drift through the Louvre courtyards - magical when empty.

Glide into the Jardin des Tuileries if the gates are still open.

Continue through Place de la Concorde and cross Pont Alexandre III - the most cinematic bridge in the city.

Finish by strolling along the Quai d’Orsay, walking west toward Trocadéro, and arrive just in time to catch the Eiffel Tower light show at 10pm.

You’ll end the night full - of cheese, of light, of “is this real?” moments. Which is sort of the point of Paris, isn’t it?

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Paris in the summer doesn’t need to be perfectly planned.

You don’t need a packed itinerary or seven museum tickets.

You just need: an empty stomach for all those viennoiseries, shoes you can walk in, and enough flexibility to let your afternoon plans turn into evening ones. Who knows, you might end up catching the Eiffel Tower sparkle without even trying.

If you live in Paris or have spent a summer there - anything else you’d add?

Bon été 💙

xx Anna

These guest guides are about sharing real, personal favorites - from people who live there, love there, or know a neighborhood like the back of their hand. Less Tripadvisor, more “text from a friend.”

And who better to kick off the series than my very dear friend , the endlessly cool human behind Trouvé, a Substack all about secondhand treasure hunting and intentional style.

trouvé

where to shop secondhand in Paris

Bonjour! This week, we’re talking thrifting in the one, the only ✨Paris✨…

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a year ago · 57 likes · 10 comments · Laure Albouy

trouvé

6 under-the-radar european brands you should be thrifting

One of my favorite parts about Vinted is stumbling onto brands I’d never heard of, or had sort of forgotten about. My favorite to (re)discover are those that…

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a year ago · 64 likes · 13 comments · Laure Albouy

Laure and I go way back - we first met in preschool in suburban New York (!!) and life has kept bringing us back to each other: from studying in Montreal, to eurotripping together and crashing at each other’s flats for weekends away. Laure’s lived in New York, Montreal, Paris, Madrid, and now Amsterdam - and she’s the one who actually inspired me to start Once In. So this feels like a full-circle moment in the best way ❤️

Without further ado - Laure, take it away.

Why the 10th has Laure’s heart.

I was lucky to live in Paris 10th for 5 years right by the Canal Saint Martin. It became a running joke that anytime you would hang out with me, we would end up in the 10th. Luckily a lot of my best friends lived around that area too. I never got tired of walking by the canal and I miss it!

It's a lively area that attracts pretty much all of Paris on the weekends because of some its city (and world) renown spots (like Holy Belly) - but it's also a real, local, neighborhood.

It feels like a village (literally called "Le Village Saint Martin"), with a mix of neighborhood legends who've lived there forever (our gardienne (caretaker) for example), young families, or just yuppies like me.

There are a million new businesses popping up every month but also some that have been there forever. There's a really fun local initiative, La Gazette Saint Martin, that covers what's happening in the "village": interviews with business owners, spotlights on new places, local artists, etc.

As you can see, I love love love this neighborhood dearly!!! Hard to pick 6 spots, but I did my best!

☕ 1. Ten Belles

📍10 Rue de la Grange aux Belles, 75010

Ten Belles is an institution in the Paris coffee place, and for good reason: they were one of the first new-wave café in the city. Since 2019, they've also been roasting their own coffee. There are 3 locations in Paris, but the one in the 10th is the original, opened in 2012.

What to order: Oat milk latte! Their pastries and sandwiches are also incredible.

What’s nearby: You should take your coffee to go and walk along the canal St Martin!

🥐 2. Sain Boulangerie

📍13 Rue Alibert, 75010 Paris

There are a billion good boulangeries in the 10th but this one is a fave. Everything is made from sourdough.

What to order: Pain au chocolat! Or some seasonal picks: Chausson à la rhubarbe in the spring / Their Galette des Rois in January (make sure to order)

What’s nearby: My favorite weekend morning combo was: get coffee at Ten Belles, walk over to Sain, then have the two by the canal! And since you're in the area, take a stroll to Rue de Lancry and turn onto Rue Yves Toudic and Rue Beaurepaire - all some of my favorite streets in the area.

🍝 3. Mulino Mulé

📍25 Rue Sainte-Marthe, 75010 Paris

A Sicilian restaurant recommended by some good friends. It's one of those gems that isn't over-hyped, it's low-key, cozy and has great food.

What to order: Their Linguine with meatballs is incredible, and if the whole table gets it, you get a big platter which makes it feel like you're in someone's living room

What’s nearby: Meet for pre-dinner drinks on Place Saint Marthe, and make sure to enjoy the pretty rue Saint Marthe while you're at it.

📚 4. Philippe le Libraire

📍32 Rue des Vinaigriers, 75010

This is a neighborhood institution, and always fun to walk in (you might not walk out empty handed - you've been warned!). The owner, Philippe, sells all types of illustration books and graphic novels. I love the ordered chaos of this shop. It's where I found Marjane Satrapi's book "Embroideries" secondhand. (Anna comment: what an excellent book to find secondhand!)

What’s nearby: Since you're around the corner, make sure to also drop by Dingue de Lunettes for secondhand vintage glasses. Their selection is incredible.

🍸 5. Le Cinquante

📍50 Rue de Lancry, 75010

Half of why I'm recommending this place is because it's located on rue de Lancry, one of the liveliest streets of the neighborhood. It's also where you can notice businesses open and close constantly in this area.

But there are some that remain, and Le Cinquante is one of these and they make a point of staying true to the rougher pre-gentrified roots of the 10th. It has a dive-bar feeling and the bar tender is often wearing a sailor's outfit. Sundays they organize sing alongs with all their regulars. If you're in the area and want to have a fun after dinner drink: try this one!

What to order: Ask for their signature cocktail!

🧺 6. A Picnic on the Canal

📍Canal Saint-Martin, anywhere between République & Jaurès

The canal is the heart of the 10th, and when the sun's out, it's filled with people.

It felt like our backyard during the summer: we would make our salads at home and eat them by the canal.

If you're in the 10th during warmer days, spend an evening there. It's a bit quieter than the quais de Seine, a bit more local, and so charming.

A closing word from Laure…

This is the tip of the iceberg - the 10th has so so much to offer and the best way to experience it is by walking around it. Often tourists will stay towards the Marais - don't! Make your way to the Canal, it's one of those neighborhood that makes you feel at home immediately and where you think "man I could really live here" - and lucky for me, I got to :)

A big merci to Laure for kicking off this series in true style ❤️

If you loved this, go check out (and subscribe to) her newsletter Trouvé - it’s full of charm, character, and the best secondhand finds out there.

And while you’re at it, subscribe to Once In for more local gems, good places, and lovely people sharing what they know best.

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Know a city (or neighborhood) like the back of your hand? Maybe you’re next 👀
Comment here to be featured in a future Guest Edit - I’d love to hear from you!

xx Anna

Can you believe this post title? I know - I'm as surprised as you are.

I've always leaned North and East when it comes to London exploring, and a few of you kindly (and gently) called me out on it after recent posts. Fair enough! I hear you. Bring on all the ‘I told you so’s.

Honestly, this is what I love about writing here - it feels like a conversation. Whether it’s great recommendations, thoughtful nudges, or little gems like Chris’ comment below (thank you, I adored it), this space really does feel like a cozy group chat with good taste.

So! In the spirit of opening my mind, crossing the Thames, and following a few helpful recommendations (Benjamina Ebuehi and Hannah - you’re heroes) here are 6 Good Places I visited over some weekends in South London. Not an exhaustive list, but a very happy - and slightly converted - one.

Google Maps link to everything here.

1. TOAD Bakery & Café Mondo (edit: Camberwell)

📍 TOAD Bakery - 144 Peckham Rd, SE5 8PX
📍 Café Mondo - 142 Peckham Rd, SE5 8PX

Okay, I’m cheating a little with this two-in-one - but they’re literally side-by-side, and the combo makes for a perfect mini food tour.

I went to Café Mondo for a sandwich and, while waiting, popped into TOAD next door for a coffee and a little sweet treat.

What to order:

At TOAD, the morning bun was excellent. I was eyeing something else, then someone walked in and said, “Thanks for the morning bun - I’ve never tasted one that good.” Say less. Also worth grabbing: the everything bagel croissant - sweet, salty, and flaky. I’d travel back for it.

At Café Mondo, the chicken caesar sandwich was divine. Fluffy bread, properly seasoned chicken, crispy kale, red onions. Mmm salivating just writing this. I skipped the fish finger sandwich and haven’t stopped thinking about it.

Why it’s worth a visit: A low-key pocket away from busy Peckham Rye with excellent coffee, sandwiches, and pastries. A very strong start to going South.

What’s nearby: Wander over to Lucas Gardens for a pastry picnic. Head to the South London Gallery for a well-curated, nice break from the bigger central museums.

2. Chatsworth Bakehouse (Crystal Palace)

📍 Walk-in bakery - 116 Anerley Rd
📍 The little red shop - 120A Anerley Rd

A 5-minute walk from Crystal Palace Station, this tiny bakery has serious local love - and a great origin story (Kickstarter-funded and still going strong).

What to order: The weekly sandwich is the star - always creative, packed with flavor. A coffee and a loaf to take home never hurts either. Check their Instagram for the latest line-up before heading over.

Why it’s worth a visit: A neighborhood gem with heart, seasonality, and proper care in the details.

What’s nearby: Wander through Crystal Palace Park - yes, with the famous dinosaurs. Grab a second coffee at Blackbird Bakery.

3. LAMP LDN (Peckham)

📍 20b Maxted Rd, SE15 4LF

Tucked just off Bellenden Road, this tiny homewares shop packs in big Italian-flair style. Set up by two local mums during lockdown, it’s bold, colorful, and thoughtful. Think: if Glassette had a Peckham cousin who throws really good dinner parties.

Why it’s worth a visit: Independent designers, mostly UK/Europe-based, and always with a lean toward local. It’s one of those shops you pop into “just for a look” and emerge from 30 minutes later with a sculptural candlestick, a linen tablecloth, and a fresh take on your living room. Not ideal for your budget, but a delight for the eyes and soul.

What’s nearby: You’re right by Bellenden Road, where you can stop by General Store or Gather for foodie provisions, The Sourcing Table if you’re in a vino mood, and D.A.Y Boutique for a great edit of independent fashion and jewellery labels. Plus, a handful of cute cafés along the street.

4. Horniman Museum & Gardens (Dulwich / Forest Hill)

📍 100 London Rd, SE23 3PQ

Natural history, anthropology, music, gardens - all in one space, and without the central London crowds.

Why it’s worth a visit: Exhibits range from taxidermy to musical instruments, plus there’s a butterfly house, aquarium, and events like the plant fair. It’s easy to spend a couple of hours here - and the gardens come with great views.

What’s nearby: I quite appreciated Forest Hill’s strong local feel, with independent cafés and shops clustered near the station. Try The Teapot for lunch, St David Coffee House for coffee (duh), or browse vintage at Archie & Tallulah’s Emporium. Aga’s Little Deli for snacks to go.

5. El Vermut (Nunhead)

📍 28 Nunhead Grn, SE15 3QF

A little slice of Barcelona in South London, El Vermut is a relaxed neighbourhood spot specializing in Spanish vermouth. I can totally picture myself here on a weekday evening if I lived nearby (a girl can dream).

What to order: Vermouth (obviously). If red’s not your thing, try a white or their rose negroni. Tapas are small but solid.

Why it’s worth a visit: It sits right on Nunhead Green, and in spring/summer the place spills out onto the pavement - golden-hour drinks, chatter, great vibes. They also host a rotating mix of events - book clubs, creative writing nights, supper clubs, and the classic quizzes.

What’s nearby: Drop by The Old Nuns Head for a pint, Mosey for a cosy café moment, and ALKEMI Store for beautiful, thoughtful Japanese and Korean homewares.

6. Forza Wine (Peckham)

📍 The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ

It’s not a South London guide without a rooftop. Forza Wine serves “Italian-ish” small plates and natural wines, with full skyline views.

What to order: The snacks & wine menu changes regularly, but the cauliflower fritti, flatbreads, and the signature Custardo are perennial favourites.

Why it’s worth a visit: Food, wine, skyline - what more? Especially dreamy at sunset. Definitely book ahead on sunny days.

What’s nearby: If you're heading into the evening, Peckham Levels for DJs, cocktails, and a more casual party vibe. For a sleek dinner, Levan is a top notch modern European spot, and JandaDiner serves up comforting Malaysian dishes. Or, take a walk through Peckham Rye Park & Common - a green break from the bustle.

A Few More for Next Time

Still on the list...

Cafés & Bakeries: South London Louie / Kanella & Co. / Boulangerie Jade / Etude Coffee / Four Boroughs / Crespidia

Food Spots: MONDO SANDO / Evi's

Pubs: The Camberwell Arms / Westow House

Pizza: BAR D4100 / Made of Dough / Four Hundred Rabbits / Palazzo

Drinks: The Peckham Pelican

I’m still very much expanding my South London map - and open to suggestions.

I haven’t made it to Tooting yet (Juliet’s Quality Foods and Milk Run on the list), so send your favourites my way in the comments. I’d love to keep the list growing.

Thanks for reading Once In! See you on the next wander.

xx Anna

Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming: some hot takes on what not to do in London — and where to go instead...

1. Camden Market

Good vibes only... from 15 years ago.

Starting with the obvious, but it needs to be said: Camden, in 2025, feels like a Hot Topic fever dream. Sure, if it’s your first time in London, go for the nostalgia. Amy Winehouse’s ghost might still be hanging around somewhere.

But today? It’s mass-produced merch, weird pop-up stalls, overpriced food, and a whole lot of “why am I here?” energy. Camden was probably magical once — gritty, rebellious, underground. Now it’s become tourist trap central. I say this with love.

Where to go instead:

• Columbia Road Flower Market (Hackney) — Controlled Sunday chaos. Post-flower browsing, head to Cake Hole Café (vintage crockery + scones jackpot), Hackney Essentials for homeware gifts, or In Bloom for beautiful British pottery

• Broadway Market (Hackney) — A mix of local food stalls, vintage treasures, and genuinely good vibes. Standouts: banh mi from Hanoi Kitchen, a Scottish haggis toasty at Deeney’s, or a French sandwich upgrade at L’Eau à la Bouche

• Netil Market (Hackney) — Weekdays. Tiny but mighty indie food market tucked next to Broadway Market. Standouts: Pockets for cult-status plant-based pittas, and Bread Meats Sauce for hot ciabatta sandwiches

Pro tip: Get to Columbia Road Market and Broadway Market early (pre-11am) — before the influencers and tourists wake up

2. Beigel Bake

It’s a Reuben, not a bagel.

If I hear one more person say this is the best bagel in London… Look, respect where it’s due: 150 years of baking tradition is no joke.

But as a New Yorker who’s lived in Montreal, I have to say it — Beigel Bake is closer to a Reuben sandwich than a true bagel. If you’re expecting NY-style crisp, dense and chewy, you’ll be (very) disappointed.

Where to go instead:

• The Good Bagel (Stoke Newington) — From the team behind The Good Egg. Montreal-style bagels, Jewish deli soul, incredible shakshuka too for brunch

• The Bagel Guys at Netil Market (Hackney) — Chewy, boiled, beautiful. Feels like you’ve found a secret Brooklyn pop-up

• Papo’s Bagels (Various locations, pop-ups) — Classic NY bagels done right

Pro tip: For Papo’s — pre-order online and pick up early before they inevitably sell out

3. The Ivy

Celebrities don’t even go here anymore.

Once upon a time, The Ivy was the spot. I remember reading about it in my teen magazines — celebrities, glamour, old-school London luxury. Fast forward to now, and you’re paying way too much for food that’s... fine.

It’s still on a number of “Where to Eat in London” guides, but honestly? It’s all flash, very little substance. I once took a friend there thinking I was showing them something special — and ended up feeling embarrassed. You can do so much better.

Where to go instead:

• Brawn (Shoreditch) — A “neighbourhood restaurant” mediterranean-leaning, charming, beautifully creative

• St. John (City of London) — Legend. Simple, iconic British food without the frills

• The Baring (De Beauvoir Town) — New-school gastropub excellence

• The Pig and Butcher (Islington) — Proper seasonal pub fare in a rustic setting

• The Shed (Notting Hill) — Farm-to-fork menus sourced directly from the owners' Sussex farm.

Pro tip: Book The Shed for Sunday roast — it’s lowkey one of the best roasts in town

4. Dishoom

She’s beautiful. She’s iconic. She’s... not worth a 90-minute wait.

Listen, I love Dishoom. I’ve had amazing meals, great nights, the staff are angels. But standing in line for an hour and a half for a breakfast naan? Just no.

London is packed with incredible Indian food. You don’t need to spend half your life in a queue wondering if you’ll faint before you taste a samosa.

Where to go instead:

• Brigadiers (City of London) — Elevated Indian barbecue with a wood-paneled setting. The butter chicken wings and bone marrow naan are not optional

• The Tamil Prince (Islington) — Proper neighborhood gem: cosy, slightly raucous, and absolutely delicious South Indian plates

Pro tip: Book ahead for Brigadiers (even weekday lunches can fill up fast)

5. The Big Mamma Group

Overpriced pasta parties.

Six-years-ago me would gasp at this one. Back when they first opened Gloria in Shoreditch, it was cheap, delicious, full of heart. You could feel the excitement in every plate, every server.

But somewhere along the way, the sparkle turned into a circus. Now it’s viral gimmicks of pasta served from parmesan wheels, filled with crowds, and dishes that cost as much as your weekly grocery shop — but without the magic they used to have.

The last time I went, it felt... tired, expensive, and frankly a little hollow.

Where to go instead:

• Saponara (Islington) — I have a hard time given this one away, I want to keep it a secret! Old-school Italian deli turned trattoria, family-run, like stepping into Rome

• Oi Vita (Newington Green) — Real Neapolitan pizza with zero hype, just love

• 50 Kalò (Trafalgar Square) — Straight from Naples to London, their Margherita will restore your faith

Pro tip: Why not go for lunch — Oi Vita and Saponara both do stunning daytime menus

6. Sketch

Congrats, you’ve made it to the bathroom.

Disclaimer: I haven’t actually been to Sketch. But after seeing it splashed across every Instagram feed since 2015, I feel like I have.

The bathroom pods are iconic. I’ll give them that. But paying £22 for a cocktail just to get a bathroom selfie? Feels very "if I can make it here, I’ve made it" vibe — back when the filter on the photo mattered more than the drink itself.

Where to go instead:

• Newcomer Wines (Dalston) — Austrian natural wine specialists. Casual but serious about their pours

• Three Sheets (Dalston) — Minimalist, relaxed, some of the best cocktails in London

• Experimental Cocktail Club (Chinatown) — Hidden speakeasy vibes without trying too hard

• Firebird (Soho) — Central, a little glam, Mediterranean plates, serious wine list.

Pro tip: For Experimental Cocktail Club, you’ll need to ring a buzzer and walk up narrow stairs. A not-so-well-kept secret that’s still worth it

London is one of the best food and drinks cities in the world — but you have to know where to look. Trust the places that don’t need bathroom pods or TikTok lines to win your heart!

Any other overrated (controversial or not) food & drinks spots in London you’d like to rant about?

Thanks for reading!

xx Anna

A couple spring reads I’ve loved on Substack: This Month in London: April Edition by Julianna Cassata and Spring Awakening - A week in clothes, in a good mood by Becky Malinsky

Here’s a mini sunny-day London itinerary – pick and choose or make a full day of it.

And if you’re not in London, take this as inspo for your own city — and tell me where you go when the sun's out! We’re building our dream sunny-day maps together ☀️

1. Sun Ray & a Café

There’s something magical about being up early, sun already warming your back, pastries still untouched. Grab a coffee and get a head start on the rest of the city.

• Towpath Café (Regent’s Canal, Hoxton) – a canal-side classic, go early to beat the crowds

• Pavilion, Victoria Park (East London) – peaceful lake, birds gliding, that flaky almond croissant. Bring a book, or just people-watch. Great solo spot

• De Beauvoir Deli (De Beauvoir Town) – tucked into a leafy residential pocket. Very local, very chill

  

2. Sandwich & Green Space

Find a bench, find a patch of grass, unroll your sandwich — this is the sun-day move. Simple. Perfect.

• Dom’s Subs + Haggerston Park — They live by their slogan “impeccable sandwiches” and honestly, they’re not wrong. L’Italiano has my heart. Head to Haggerston park, walk out back past the tennis courts and you’ll find the perfect little green oasis

• Pockets + London Fields — Falafel dreams in a literal dough pocket. Nicely layered, garlicky, tahini-drenched. Yes, there’s often a line — but if you’re with friends, rotate queue duties while the rest scope out the nearby local trinket, jewellery and clothing stands. (For anybody into sewing, The New Craft House is right around the corner and only open on Saturdays! Great fabric finds). Head to London Fields, feet in the grass, someone’s Bluetooth speaker, good times

• The Ignatius Sancho Café + Greenwich Park — Ok yes, it’s technically operated by Benugo, so the coffee isn’t actually the best, but: the location! Grab a bagel or flatbread (those are worth it for sure) and head uphill for those proper city views

3. Brew & Blabla

A sunny beer garden moment isn’t about getting wasted — it’s about being somewhere you can settle in. That stretch of time where nothing happens and you don’t want it to. Food if you want it. Hours of talking if you don’t.

• 40FT Brewery (Dalston) — slightly hidden, east London craft beer made on-site. Literally metres from Dusty Knuckle if you’re snacky, or ACME Fire Cult if you want to go all in on food

• The Duke Organic / Earl of Essex (Angel) — two solid backstreet pubs with outside seating. Great after a canal walk or vintage crawl around Camden Passage. Easy to sit for hours

• Pub on the Park (London Fields) — the classic post-picnic drift. Gets rowdy as the day goes on, but in a lovable way. Sunset is a whole thing here

• Bermondsey Beer Mile — Brave this if you're feeling social and sun-fuelled. You don’t have to hit every stop — in fact, don’t. Wander between warehouses, sit outside, chat to strangers, or veer off to These Days Aperitivo bar for a reset

  

4. Walk & Blossom

Those first proper spring days, I just want to roam. You forget how much bloom there is in London until it’s all suddenly out — soft petals, blue skies, and people walking slower than usual, looking up.

• Hyde Park – enter from Lancaster Gate and walk toward the Serpentine. Great for catching early cherry blossoms

• Hampstead Heath – like a mini escape from the city. Hills, tall grass, off-leash dogs living their best lives. Finish at Parliament Hill for a view that always hits

• Regent’s Park > Notting Hill – start among the flower beds on Marylebone Road and head up. You can land in Notting Hill to hop onto the canal

5. Flea & Flirt

Not shopping-shopping — just browsing, wandering, maybe picking up a vintage mug you definitely don’t need. Flea markets are perfect to get inspired and flirt with prices. Be sure to check out the dates they’re on — April / May are popular times!

• Hackney Flea Market — when it’s on, it's one of the best. Records, prints, mid-century glassware, loads of vintage finds

• Peckham Salvage Yard — chaotic, charming, very south London. A bit of a treasure hunt

• The Giant London Flea Market — huge. Over 100 stalls, from mid-century homewares to old books and pre-loved fashion. Gets busy, but worth the dig

• Sunbury Antiques Market — for those willing to *gasp* head outside of London. French vide grenier energy. Go early (like… 6:30am early) for the best stuff

  

6. Rooftop & Golden Hour

By the end of the day, cheeks warm, shoulders sunkissed — there’s nothing better than watching the sun dip from up high.

• Seabird / The Standard (Southbank-ish) — fancy, a bit hotel-y, but those views and oysters make it feel like you’ve slipped away to somewhere coastal

• Franks (Peckham) — bit of a rite of passage. Vibes can be hit-or-miss, but sunset over the skyline here is something else

• Netil 360 (London Fields) — very East London. DJ on weekends, deckchairs, casual crowd, chilled spritz in hand

• NT’s (London Fields) — Netil’s louder, later-night sibling. Cocktails, dancing, that moment when golden hour turns into night

Why not make it a full day?

Start with pastries by the canal, wander toward a market, picnic in the park, pub pit stop, then land on a rooftop. Your very own little London spring festival 🌸

If you're outside London — tell me your sunshine spots. Where do you go when the jackets come off and the parks fill up?

It’s Friday afternoon. You’re excited. It’s TGIF after all. You have grand plans for the weekend in London—the city is your oyster!—but fast-forward to Saturday morning, and suddenly it’s hard to get out of the house. The thought of packed tube stations, tourist-filled streets, or a trek across town makes your cozy sofa look even more appealing.

And then, just like that, it’s Sunday afternoon. You’ve rested, but you feel restless. Another weekend gone by without really seeing or doing much.

That’s the rut Matt (husband in chief) and I often fall into. So we found a way to break out of it: pick a coffee shop (or sandwich spot—coming soon) as our destination, then build a plan around it. A little outing with a caffeine fix (and let’s be honest, a pastry treat), and suddenly, it feels like we did something with our weekend.

Here are six of my favorite London coffee spots—each with its own charm, a standout order, and something to explore nearby.

1. Victoria & Albert Museum

📍 Cromwell Rd, SW7 2RL

Tucked away at the back of the Victoria & Albert Museum, this café is what I find to be one of London’s best-kept secrets. Walk past the fountain, and you’ll find yourself in an elegant, light-filled space with intricate ceilings and a quiet buzz of conversation—like stepping into a painting. It’s part of the museum, so yes, it’s Benugo-run (aka: coffee is fine but not a revelation), but the setting more than makes up for it.

What to order: The carrot cake and Earl Grey-infused scone are the real stars here. They almost make me forget about the coffee situation. Almost.

Why it’s worth a visit: A moment of calm in one of London’s most beautiful museums. Perfect for when you want the culture without the crowds.

What’s nearby: If you’re in the mood for more art and history, you’ve got the V&A (obviously), the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum all within a stone’s throw. Or, if it’s sunny, grab your coffee and take a stroll through Hyde Park—maybe even make it to the Serpentine Gallery.

2. Pophams

📍 19 Prebend St, Islington, N1 8PF

Born out of a love for traditional viennoiserie techniques with a creative twist, Pophams started in a tiny, converted chemist’s shop in 2017 and has since become a staple. The Islington outpost is still my favorite—airy, warm, and filled with the smell of freshly baked pastries.

What to order: The pain au chocolat is hands-down the best we’ve found in London (and we’ve tried quite a few). But if you want something different, the honey & smoked salt bun or the cardamom bun will convert you instantly.

Why it’s worth a visit: Because no weekend should go by without a genuinely excellent pastry, and this place delivers every single time.

What’s nearby: Islington is packed with charm. Wander through Camden Passage for vintage and antique shopping, take a stroll along the Regent’s Canal, or check out what’s on at the Business Design Centre—you never know, you might stumble upon a cool exhibit.

3. Miel Bakery

📍 57 Warren St, Fitzrovia, W1T 5NR

Miel was one of those rare finds I stumbled upon by pure chance while desperately searching for a good coffee spot near central London. Tucked between Regent’s Park and Marylebone, it feels like a little pocket of Paris in the city created by the brilliant Shaheen Peerbhai (trained in French Cuisine and pâtisserie, s’il vous plaît). The space is small but inviting, and the scent of butter and sugar is impossible to resist.

What to order: The pain suisse is perfection. Also, grab a baguette to snack on while you explore.

Why it’s worth a visit: A hidden gem in the middle of London’s busiest streets. A moment of French indulgence before heading back into the chaos.

What’s nearby: Regent’s Park is just a short walk away, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or post-coffee stroll. Or, if you’re in the mood for something thought-provoking, head to the Wellcome Collection.

4. Batch Baby

📍 43 De Beauvoir Rd, De Beauvoir Town, N1 5SQ

Stepping into Batch Baby feels like stepping into another era. Housed in the Rose Lipman building, the interiors have a nostalgic, war-time aesthetic—down to the orange trays and vintage mugs. It’s independent, quirky, and the kind of place where the staff genuinely loves what they do. Bonus: the menu often follows fun, themed movie references.

What to order: Their banana cake or babka bun, and if you’re a coffee purist, this is the place for a strong espresso.

Why it’s worth a visit: A coffee shop with character. A spot that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special.

What’s nearby: De Beauvoir Town is one of London’s most charming little pockets. Walk south to Shoreditch Park, or head north towards Newington Green and Clissold Park for a more leisurely, village-like stroll.

5. Layla Bakery

📍 332 Portobello Rd, Notting Hill, W10 5SA

As someone who rarely ventures west, Layla is one of the few places that can get me to Notting Hill willingly. A small, “neighborhood bakery” (as they call themselves) with an open kitchen, it feels both relaxed and intentional. The pastries are excellent, and their sourdough is some of the best.

What to order: The croissant is unreal, and if you’re in the mood for something wholesome, the banana tahini loaf is it.

Why it’s worth a visit: A proper local bakery with a soul. Plus, the kind of place that makes you feel like a Notting Hill regular, even if you’re not.

What’s nearby: People-watching on Portobello Road (yes, you read correctly). If it’s Saturday, the Portobello Market is worth a browse, though it’s gotten a bit commercial. For something quieter, head to Holland Park and the Design Museum, or walk up towards the Grand Union Canal.

6. E5 Bakehouse

📍 396 Mentmore Terrace, London Fields, E8 3PH

Housed under a railway arch in London Fields, E5 Bakehouse is an East London institution. I mean under a railway arch? It doesn’t get more East London than that. Everything is made with fresh, stone-milled flour from local grains, and their commitment to sustainability runs deep. If you care about real bread, this is the place to go.

What to order: Anything involving their sourdough. The mushroom toast is excellent, but the house-made granola with fresh fruit is my go-to.

Why it’s worth a visit: Because good bread makes life better. Simple as that.

What’s nearby: Broadway Market is right there—go on a Saturday for the full experience. Otherwise, take your coffee and wander through London Fields or up to Netil 360 for rooftop views of the city.

That’s the list! Pick one, grab a coffee, and make a plan around it.

Ever been to one of these before? Any other ones you’d put in this list? What is your ride-or-die London coffee shop I need to know about? ☕☕☕