Matcha, cozy vibes, and spots you’ll never want to leave.
This year, I’ve had lots of quality time exploring London’s coffee (and matcha!) scene. I love doing this as a part of the extroverted or introverted or probably the more “ambiverted” me — chatting with friends, self-love, all are in need of a good coffee!
Let’s face it — London has no shortage of amazing cafes, but not all of them hit that sweet spot where you want to come back again and again. This is my internal grading system comes in. Like a pentagon, with five points that matter most to me:
1️⃣ Matcha Quality: If it’s on the menu, it better be good. No watery matcha, please!
2️⃣ Interior & Atmosphere: Is it cozy? Welcoming? Bonus points for beautiful lighting and well-thought-out design.
3️⃣ Vibes: The people around matter. A great café should feel relaxed, not rushed.
4️⃣ Menu Pairings: Cinnamon buns, pastries, or other irresistible treats are always a plus.
5️⃣ Laptop Policy: I’m not a fan of no-laptop rules. Flexible spaces that accommodate both work and conversation win my heart.
For me, a great café isn’t just about the drinks — it’s the vibes, the people, and whether I can sit there comfortably with my laptop or a good book. Other one of my criteria, if you’re putting matcha on the menu, it better be good!
Here’s my roundup of favourite spots this year. Whether you’re after a cozy nook, amazing coffee, or a spot to people-watch, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Best Independent: Moonstruck Café (Nine Elms)
This one’s a total hidden gem I only found because it’s near my hairdresser — but wow. With a perfect 5.0 rating on Google (not fake reviews), it’s an absolute winner! The vibes are warm and welcoming, the baristas are super friendly, and they even sell sleek leather bags made from coffee grounds (seriously cool). Their matcha latte is light but flavourful, and you can flip through Monocle magazine in your me-time, or laptop, or conversation with friends. (They even host their own run club on Wednesdays 6:30pm! Way to build a community)
Moonstruck Official Website: https://www.moonstruck.cafe/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9nNkvgQyx8nswG8x6
https://www.instagram.com/moonstruck.cafe/p/DC4JS4hsvPe/
2. Best Concept Café: Monocle Café (Marylebone)
At first, I didn’t realise this café was connected to the Monocle magazine, but it all makes sense now — it’s stylish, bright, and has such a creative vibe. Their matcha latte strikes the perfect balance: not too heavy, not too sweet. It’s also one of the few spots where the seating really works for conversations without feeling cramped.
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cuEVfdeUT4bhRttN8
3. Best Chain Coffee Store: WatchHouse (Various Locations)
Chains usually don’t impress me, but WatchHouse is on another level. From the warm welcome when you walk in to the thoughtfully designed coffee cards that explain the beans’ origins, everything feels special. The coffee is consistently excellent, and it’s one of those places where you feel like they actually care.
WatchHouse Official Website: https://watchhouse.com/
Google Maps (my favourite branch, Marylebone): https://maps.app.goo.gl/4QHgotnBfSGrdMfu8
4. Best Matcha: Nagare Coffee (Old Spitalfields Market)
This tiny spot near Spitalfields Market absolutely nails matcha. It’s got that strong, rich flavour that’s hard to get right. The open, airy space with natural lighting is perfect, especially in summer. A total win for matcha lovers!
Nagare Official Website: https://nagare.co.uk/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/stEvNYSK3YHwj49H9
5. Best Late-Night Spot: Crêpes, Coffee & Chai (Tottenham Court Road)
Late-night coffee? Yes, please. This place is open later than most coffee shops, and it’s perfect for catching up with friends, work/entrepreneur buddies or winding down after a long day. They’ve got inspiring quotes scattered around, which just adds to the charm (yes and when you’re going to order, you’ll add a crêpe).
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VCAqacuKm7fXJZhc6
6. Best Coffee Roaster: Monmouth Coffee
Anywhere that serves Monmouth Coffee has my heart. Their nutty, aromatic beans are just perfection. My favourite spot to enjoy them this year was Petit Bleu near Waterloo — amazing vibes, and the coffee smells divine.
Google Maps (Petit Bleu): https://maps.app.goo.gl/yEWKbZnro1w2A7qz8
7. Best Japanese Café: Katsute 100 (Brick Lane and Islington)
Walking into Katsute 100 feels like stepping into a secret garden. Their matcha and hojicha lattes are incredible, and the matcha cakes are a must-try. It’s cozy, beautiful, and such a unique experience — you can’t go wrong at either branch.
Google Maps (my favourite Islington branch): https://maps.app.goo.gl/K63boQQbpHnj1Tir8
8. Most Versatile Café: St George’s Café (Chelsea)
This place is huge, with plenty of comfy sofas and a welcoming vibe. Whether you’re reading a book, catching up with friends, or just chilling solo (a.k.a. quick nap), it’s perfect. I’ve done all three here, and it always feels like a home away from home.
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/joysLQtorgMrEUqM8
Honorable Mention: Teahouse Theatre (Vauxhall)
Okay, this isn’t a coffee shop, but it deserves a shoutout because it’s just so special. Teahouse Theatre has been around since 1886 (really Victorian vibes) and serves the most versatile selection of teas I’ve ever seen. It’s super cozy, full of charm, and the perfect place to unwind with a hot drink (even if it’s not coffee).
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wGiNTU3KgaoyHtxD6
Honorable Mention: Truedan (Various Locations)
Though it’s technically not a coffee shop, I couldn’t leave out my favourite bubble tea spot of 2024. I’ve been a bubble tea person since I’ve lived out in Asia — to be frank I couldn’t find anything good in London that was up to par originally. However Truedan, with branches in Holborn (new!), Russell Square, and South Quay, absolutely nailed it with their matcha red bean milk tea with bubbles. The flavours are so natural — none of that artificial taste — and the balance of matcha and sweetness is just perfect. It’s easily the best bubble tea I’ve had to date, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they expand with even more branches next year.
Google Maps (Holborn branch): https://maps.app.goo.gl/jchcgdhe2LA54SpYA
At the end of the day…
London’s coffee scene never disappoints, and these spots have made my 2024 extra cozy. Whether it’s a great matcha latte, good vibes, or just a comfy place to sit, these are the places I’ll keep coming back to!
What are your favourite spots? Let’s share recommendations! ;)