Best Breakfasts in London: A Complete Guide to Starting Your Day Right
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite or a visitor eager to experience the capital’s diverse morning offerings, London is home to some of the finest breakfasts in the world. From traditional full English breakfasts to trendy plant-based plates, the city’s breakfast scene is vibrant and constantly evolving.
This comprehensive guide explores the best breakfasts in London, covering a range of dietary preferences, locations, and atmospheres to suit every palate and occasion.
1. Traditional English Breakfast Spots
The Regency Café – Westminster
Established in 1946, this art deco-style café is a cornerstone of British breakfast culture. Serving hearty full English breakfasts with sausage, bacon, eggs, baked beans, mushrooms, and black pudding, The Regency Café is as authentic as it gets. Popular with both locals and tourists, it has also been featured in several films and TV series.
E. Pellicci – Bethnal Green
A family-run Italian café with a strong British heart, E. Pellicci offers a nostalgic experience with its charming service and generous breakfast portions. Expect thick-cut bacon, runny eggs, and fried bread served in a bustling, friendly environment that evokes the spirit of old East London.
2. Best Brunch Cafés in London
Granger & Co. – Notting Hill
Owned by Australian chef Bill Granger, this café is famous for its ricotta hotcakes, avocado on sourdough, and chilli scrambled eggs. With bright interiors and fresh produce, it’s a go-to for those seeking a light yet indulgent brunch.
Dishoom – Covent Garden
While technically an Irani café inspired by Bombay’s old eateries, Dishoom offers an unforgettable breakfast. Their signature bacon naan roll, bottomless chai, and house granola blend Indian and British flavours in a way that makes mornings feel special.
3. Vegan and Plant-Based Breakfasts
Mildreds – Soho
Known for their creative and satisfying vegan dishes, Mildreds serves breakfast classics with a plant-based twist. Try their sweetcorn fritters with avocado, chipotle sauce, and tofu scramble for a cruelty-free start to your day.
Farmacy – Notting Hill
This elegant, health-focused restaurant offers organic, plant-based meals in a serene setting. Their “Full English” includes house-baked beans, herbed mushrooms, and tempeh bacon. It’s as nutritious as it is filling.
4. Trendy Instagram-Worthy Breakfasts
The Breakfast Club – Soho
With quirky interiors and a playful menu, The Breakfast Club offers everything from American-style pancakes to loaded breakfast burritos. Their “Big Breakfast” comes in several variations, including veggie and vegan versions.
EL&N – Knightsbridge
Possibly London’s most Instagrammable café, EL&N (Eat, Love & Nourish) boasts bright pink décor, floral walls, and pastel-coloured lattes. Their breakfast menu includes açai bowls, shakshuka, and indulgent French toast – all beautifully presented for the camera and the palate.
5. Best Luxury Breakfasts in London
The Wolseley – Piccadilly
Set in a grand former car showroom, The Wolseley offers a luxurious breakfast with impeccable service. Options range from the classic eggs Benedict and kedgeree to caviar and smoked salmon platters. Ideal for special occasions or business meetings.
The Ritz London – Mayfair
For the ultimate breakfast experience, dine at The Ritz. With white-glove service, silver teapots, and fine china, their full English is an opulent affair. Guests can also enjoy freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruits, and bespoke teas in a majestic setting.
6. Best Budget-Friendly Breakfasts
Pavilion Café – Victoria Park
This lakeside café offers simple yet tasty breakfast options at reasonable prices. Popular among early-morning joggers and dog walkers, it’s perfect for a peaceful bite surrounded by nature. Try the bacon sandwich or poached eggs with sourdough.
Gail’s Bakery – Various Locations
For those on the go, Gail’s offers high-quality, affordable breakfast options including pastries, breakfast buns, and granola pots. Their fresh sourdough and almond croissants are customer favourites.
7. Global Breakfast Options
Balans No. 60 – Soho
Open from breakfast until late, Balans offers globally inspired breakfast dishes. Choose from huevos rancheros, Turkish eggs, or their famous full English. Their inclusive menu caters to diverse tastes and dietary requirements.
Honey & Co. – Fitzrovia
Middle Eastern cuisine takes centre stage here with delights like shakshuka, tahini-drizzled toast, and labneh with warm pitta. This cosy café brings warmth and spice to London’s breakfast scene.
8. Breakfast with a View
Duck & Waffle – Liverpool Street
Situated on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, Duck & Waffle offers panoramic views of London along with an innovative breakfast menu. Their namesake dish—duck confit with a waffle, fried egg, and maple mustard syrup—is a must-try.
Sky Garden – Fenchurch Street
Enjoy breakfast surrounded by lush greenery and skyline views at Sky Garden. There are multiple restaurants to choose from, with options ranging from light bites to full English breakfasts in a botanical garden atmosphere.
9. Child-Friendly Breakfast Places
Megan’s – Clapham
A favourite among families, Megan’s offers Mediterranean-inspired breakfasts in a dog- and child-friendly environment. Their menu includes pancakes, eggs any style, and colourful fruit bowls, with ample space for prams and playful little ones.
Riding House Café – Fitzrovia
This stylish yet laid-back spot is great for families. Their kids’ breakfast menu includes mini pancakes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies, all served in a spacious dining area with high chairs and friendly staff.
10. Hidden Gems for Breakfast Lovers
Milk – Balham
A true local gem, Milk serves creative breakfast plates with bold flavours. Their corn fritters, homemade hot sauces, and ethically sourced coffee have earned them a loyal following. Be prepared to queue on weekends—it’s worth the wait.
The Barge House – Haggerston
Famous for their “Breakfast in Bread” concept—an artisan sourdough loaf hollowed out and filled with eggs, bacon, cheese, and other savoury treats. Unique and filling, it’s a hidden gem that foodies rave about.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the best breakfasts in London, the city offers endless choices. From luxury hotel dining to casual local cafés, vegan havens to carnivorous feasts, the capital caters to every kind of breakfast lover. Whether you’re starting a day of sightseeing, planning a morning meeting, or simply craving a quality plate of eggs and toast, there’s a breakfast destination in London waiting for you.
As breakfast continues to evolve from a quick bite to an essential dining experience, London’s eateries rise to the occasion with inventive, delicious, and culturally rich options. So set your alarm, bring your appetite, and start your day the London way.
