Best Breakfast in East London | 22 Outstanding Cafes & Brunch Spots
Here are 22 of the best breakfast in East London to get start your day at!
Part of the fun and one of the reasons I love East London is the array of breakfast spots that seem to pop-up out of no-were almost weekly.
I believe that breakfast is MY most important meal of the day and sets me up to be right as rain.
Plus, I know how hard it can be when visiting a new city like London to find locally sourced, delicious food at an affordable price.
So, I’ve created this guide on the best breakfast in East London.
When in East London, finding a good brekkie spot is essential. Fuel yourself for a day of gallivanting around the streets of East London. If early wakeups aren’t your thing, a late brunch is always on the table.
For locals like myself, the perfect breakfast spot means having a hangout place where you can gather with your friends and catch up with the latest gossip or after gym sesh. Perhaps you’ll find a dreamy date spot to grab your Sunday brunch?
Explore the best breakfast in East London. Who knows, you could find your new favourite dish at any one of these fabulous cafes and restaurants.
22 Best Spots for Brunch in East London
Looking for the best brunch in East London? Why not visit these trendy places that have stolen the hearts of Londoners.
Serving iconic English fry-ups and bottomless brunches to chicken fried waffles and even some farm-fresh dishes, you’ll find the best of the bunch below.
Hawksmoor Guildhall, Basinghall Street
Adventuring in London means starting the day right. Hawksmoor Guildhall is known around London as the go-to place for grabbing a power breakfast.
It’s also got the reputation of being one of the top steakhouses. But steak for breakfast? While it might seem a bit odd, steak and eggs are an iconic part of an English breakfast.
If steak isn’t your thing, fear not; their breakfast menu is killer. Expect to quench your thirst on healthy juices while feasting on lobster benedict, bacon sandwiches or Greek yoghurt with seasonal compote.
Snackbar, Dalston
Situated in Dalston, one of the vibiest neighbourhoods in East London, Snackbar is a female-led initiative that is taking the idea of a snackbar to new levels.
As an urban farm, you’ll be treated with fresh, local produce that stands out from the rest. Here are a few of the menu favourites: Breakfast tacos featuring banging eggs, chorizo and jalapeno, kimchi and stichelton toastie, and a soba noodle salad.
Plus, it’s a brilliant Dalston brunch and co-working space for digital nomads looking to squeeze in some grub on a busy day.
Gloria, Shoreditch
While eating pizza sounds delightful, there are some Italian treats we should probably save for dinner. Why not try out some other superb Italian delights for breakfast? Like Italian sausage,
beans and eggs, or egg alla Fiorentina with Tuscan ham and soft brioche.
With the interior being a little on the fancy side, you can get all dressed up for a morning spent drinking mimosas and snacking on smoked stracciatella before breakfast.
Gloria is also a pleasantly affordable brunch in Shoreditch spot, so don’t be shy when it comes to ordering sides.
Jolene, Mayville Estate
Once one of the coolest bakeries, Jolene is now on its way to expanding into one of the trendiest East London brunch spots.
You’re probably going to be as stuffed as an olive when you’re done here, but don’t let that stop you from taking home some treats.
There’s a wonderful selection of artisan bread and pastries to bring back to your accommodation spot.
Crispin, Spitalfields
By day, this young and fresh cafe serves mainly as a coffee shop and wine bar, while offering a simple breakfast that aims to please. And it does just that.
This isn’t a place that’s going to overwhelm you with choices. Instead of trying to master everything, they stick to what they know best.
Favouring local produce, salmon is sourced from the local smokehouse and fresh bread from the Dusty Knuckle bakery.
If you’re looking to go all-out, take advantage of their brunch in Spitalfields feast for just £25.
Esters, Stoke Newington
Deemed one of the best Stoke Newington brunch spots, Esters is where you can indulge in hearty, wholesome meals made with local produce.
It’s a particularly great cafe for visiting during winter when you need to nourish your body with some extra goodness.
Packed to the brim, sandwiches are their speciality, so grab a breakfast sandwich if you’re on the go.
For sit-down options, try out their Roman pizza topped with baked blood peaches. Pair it with a Hill Farm juice, and your tummy will be thanking you.
Duck and Waffle, Liverpool Street
As London’s highest 24-hour restaurant, you’ll be blown away by the unbeatable views from the 40th floor.
The interior is just as dreamy as the views, with a bustling open kitchen featuring white marble and rustic metal decor.
Oh, and the breakfast is always worth writing home about. As the name suggests, waffles are a must-try – choose from the duck benedict, caramelised banana, eggs Florentine or lemon meringue waffles.
This place is super popular, so you’ll need to book a table in advance. Head to their website for simple online reservations.
Bistrotheque, Wadeson Street
In the mood for lavishly made breakfast? Bistrotheque is a trendy neighbourhood bistro set in an old warehouse that provides guests with a tasteful menu.
While remaining fancy, their breakfast is also on the fun side. French toast complemented with pears and chocolate sauce, soft shell crab benedict, and ‘twinkly toes’ breakfast cocktails are a few of the menu delights.
Top tip: This place is definitely worth visiting on the weekend, as brunch features a live cabaret show that’s always a vibe.
Ask For Janice, Farringdon
Picture yourself sitting in the English countryside feasting on a farm-to-table breakfast. At Ask For Janice, you might not be in the countryside, but you’ll still be treated with a wonderful English style brekkie.
The buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and bacon, chargrilled sweetcorn fritters and smoked salmon hash browns are beyond delicious – you’ll feel like you’re tasting a bit of heaven!
Ozone Coffee, Shoreditch
Breakfast could be good, but as soon as you pair it with bad coffee, you might get some unhappy foodies.
Ozone Coffee’s philosophy is that coffee shouldn’t be enjoyed in isolation – it should also be enjoyed around friends and food.
Be sure to bring along an eco-friendly takeaway cup for coffee on the go!
Expect top-quality coffee paired with sustainable and whole-cycle cooking in one of the best cafes in East London.
With pickling and fermenting methods, you’re treating your gut with the healthiest of meals.
Dishoom, Shoreditch
East London is a cultural gem where you can find new cuisines and exceptional dishes around every corner.
Dishoom is no exception, but it has a twist on what Londoners generally view Indian food as.
It’s a combination of homestyle cooking with excellent produce and a trendy atmosphere.
Plus, you get to feast on the verandah that overlooks Shoreditch High Street and London skyscrapers.
Be prepared to wait for a table because people can’t get enough of the food! There’s generally a queue outside each of their London locations.
The Drift, Liverpool Street
Part of what makes your experience at The Drift so wonderful is the interior design. Set in the impressive Heron Tower skyscraper, the cafe has a modern European feel to it – with the cocktail bar looking way too appealing.
Ever tried a grilled pink grapefruit? It comes topped with crème fraîche and pistachios. Alternatively, try out the buttermilk pancakes topped with caramelised banana and pecan nuts.
Arepa & Co, Haggerston
Venezuelan food is something you don’t get to try often enough in the heart of London. Arepa & Co’s menu aims to bring traditional Venezuelan recipes to Londoners while allowing their chefs to put their own unique twist on the dishes.
Their style provides guests with loads of small and large dishes to share amongst friends and family.
Dig into scrambled eggs with shredded beef and creamy black beans, chilli avocado sunrises, cornbread sides, ripe plantains and creamy sweet potato mash.
Towpath Cafe, Haggerston
Towpath Cafe is a secret gem in East London that often gets overlooked because of its hidden location.
Situated on Regent’s Canal right next to Haggerston Station, it’s nestled alongside a canal, offering spectacular views.
Those who’ve discovered its location keep on returning for their superb dishes. Picture yourself eating Spanish sausage sandwiches, delicious bean concoctions and scrumptious cheese toasties.
Rochelle Canteen, Shoreditch
Soak up the sun in London’s warmer months and have a meal overlooking the trees of Arnold Circus with a brunch in.
If the weather isn’t too promising, the canteen is just as delightful and cosy inside.
While it’s in the heart of Shoreditch, it has this magical ability to transport you out of London to somewhere less busy.
The canteens menu changes daily, so depending on the length of your stay, you can expect to eat a new breakfast each day.
Jam doughnuts, smoked cod’s roe, hearty soups and open sandwiches are some of the specialities.
The Good Egg, Stoke Newington
Catering perfectly to both vegetarians and meat-eaters, The Good Egg is a ‘kind of Middle Eastern restaurant’.
They’re open throughout the day, but breakfasts are particularly yummy, with their main focus being on all thing’s bagel related. Some of which may be totally foreign to you.
Their PBJ bagel is kitted out with blackberry jam, streusel, cream cheese and pistachio butter. The Harris egg mayo topped with crispy bacon is another mouthwatering option.
Be sure to stop for a visit on Sunday for bottomless brunch – a wonderful activity for large groups of friends.
Browns Brasserie & Bar West India Quay
Informal yet well-refined is one way to sum up Browns West India Quay. Their beautiful interior is set in a striking historic building, creating the perfect environment for tucking into indulgent dishes.
Those of you who are looking to treat themselves can order the luxurious brown lobster benedict. There’s also the option of smoked pancetta and buttermilk pancakes.
But if you like things plain and simple, smashed avo on sourdough never disappoints.
Palm Vaults, Hackney
This is another secret gem that is cute and quirky, and a great option for a laid-back brekkie that won’t break the bank.
Filled with retro pot plants, pastel colours, hanging plants and groovy tunes, it’s a delight to visit.
Breakfast in Hackney Palm Vaults is superb, but don’t forget to order one of their incredible drinks.
Avocado coffee, lavender lattes, loose teas and matcha frappés are what made Palm Vaults famous.
The cafe is also a hit with vegans. Delicious meat-free bacon made from coconut oil is topped on smashed avo and chilli.
Lantana Cafe, Shoreditch
This large urban space has a casual, comfortable feel, making it a great place to grab a no-fuss brekkie.
Their healthy and delicious breakfast menu has plenty of options for all kinds of dietary requirements – there are vegan, gluten-free and nut-free options.
You’ll spot some not-so-common dishes on their breakfast menu, like kimchi fried rice, breakfast tacos and avocado poke bowls.
For those with a sweet tooth but still trying to be healthy, the banoffee banana bread is a tasty takeaway treat for a midnight snack.
Breakfast Club, Hoxton
The East London Breakfast Club has its own adorable story that deserves a read. The cafe is a place where you can go and feel right at home.
With cosy seats, polaroids dotting the face-brick wall and plenty of faces, it fails to disappoint.
And it wouldn’t be the Breakfast Club without breakfast being served all day. Get your hands on a stack of fluffy pancakes, cornflake chicken and waffles, or chorizo hash browns.
Host Coffee, Mansion House
If you’re looking for an absurdly unique breakfast spot, look no further than Host Coffee. Set inside one of the oldest churches in London, Saint Mary Aldermary, your view couldn’t hold more magic.
Things are pretty simple here; grab a slice of decadent cake while chatting over a good cup of Joe. There’s also a selection of pastries, artisan bread loaves and heartwarming soups.
Barboun, Shoreditch
Visit an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant in the vibey suburb of Shoreditch. A place with beautiful indoor olive trees that add to the Mediterranean experience.
Bourbon’s menu is inspired by the flavours released when food is cooked over a wood fire.
With a simple menu, you can enjoy dishes that have been mastered by the chefs: a Barboun fry up, croissants, shakshuka, and salmon and eggs.
The Yummiest Brunch Places in East London
Start a winter’s day over a steaming bowl of shakshuka, or a summery morning alongside a canal, snacking on a creamy bagel.
Whatever you fancy, these good brunch places in London are sure to put a smile on your face.
Fuel up for an adventure around the city, or create an excuse for catching up with an old friend over a bottomless brunch.
Brunch in London is always an event, so be sure to stop at at least one of these fantastic breakfast spots.