5 Charming Coffee Shops Near Kensington Gardens
Craving a delightful coffee and pastry experience but prefer to stay in? Butter & Crust has you covered. Our delivery service brings London's finest artisanal bread and pastries straight to your doorstep, perfect for those cosy weekend mornings when you'd rather enjoy breakfast in bed.
But if you're up for an adventure, the area around Kensington Gardens is home to some truly exceptional independent coffee shops. Here are five hidden gems that will satisfy your cravings for exceptional coffee and baked goods.
1. Café Phillies
Tucked away on Kensington Church Street, Café Phillies is a local favourite known for its warm atmosphere and delicious offerings. This charming café serves up a fantastic selection of coffee, alongside freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast options.
Their coffee, sourced from ethical suppliers, is always perfectly brewed. Pair it with one of their famous almond croissants for a truly indulgent experience.
The café's cosy interior, adorned with vintage posters and mismatched furniture, makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely weekend brunch.
Website: www.cafephillies.co.uk
Address: 103 Kensington Church Street, London W8 7LN
Review: "A hidden gem in Kensington! The coffee is always perfect, and their almond croissants are to die for. It's become my go-to weekend spot." - Sarah L., Google Reviews
2. Montparnasse Café
For a taste of Paris in the heart of Kensington, look no further than Montparnasse Café. This quaint French-inspired café offers a delightful array of pastries, sandwiches, and of course, excellent coffee.
Their pain au chocolat is a local favourite, boasting layers of buttery, flaky pastry enveloping rich dark chocolate.
The café's outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching on sunny days, while the interior exudes Parisian charm with its vintage posters and chalkboard menus.
Website: www.montparnassecafe.co.uk
Address: 22 Thackeray Street, London W8 5ET
Review: "Montparnasse brings a slice of Paris to Kensington. The pastries are exquisite, and the coffee is excellent. It's become my little French escape in London." - Emma T., Yelp
3. Fait Maison
Fait Maison is a delightful family-run café that has been serving the Kensington community for over a decade. Known for their beautiful cakes and pastries, this café is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Their coffee menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic espresso-based drinks to more adventurous options like their rose latte. Don't miss their signature carrot cake, which has achieved cult status among locals.
The café's whimsical décor, complete with floral arrangements and pastel colours, makes it a perfect spot for afternoon tea.
Website: www.faitmaison.co.uk
Address: 3 Stratford Road, London W8 6RF
Review: "Fait Maison is a true gem. The cakes are works of art, and the coffee is always perfectly prepared. It's my go-to place for a treat." - James R., TripAdvisor
4. Café Tarte
Nestled on Kensington High Street, Café Tarte is a haven for those who appreciate fine patisserie and excellent coffee. This stylish café combines French baking traditions with modern London flair.
Their flat white is consistently smooth and well-balanced, perfectly complementing their range of freshly baked tarts and cakes. The lemon meringue tart is a particular standout, offering the perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
The café's sleek, minimalist interior provides a calm oasis amidst the bustle of High Street.
Website: www.cafetarte.co.uk
Address: 124 Kensington High Street, London W8 7RN
Review: "Café Tarte is my little slice of heaven in Kensington. The coffee is always spot on, and their lemon meringue tart is simply divine. A must-visit for any coffee and pastry lover." - Michael P., Google Reviews
5. The Muffin Man Tea Shop
Don't let the name fool you - while The Muffin Man Tea Shop does indeed serve excellent muffins, it's also a fantastic spot for coffee. This charming, old-world café has been a Kensington institution since the 1940s.
Their traditional filter coffee is a comforting classic, perfect alongside one of their famous cream teas. For something more indulgent, try their cappuccino with a slice of Victoria sponge cake.
The café's quaint, vintage interior transports you to a bygone era, making it a delightful spot for a relaxed afternoon.
Website: No official website
Address: 12 Wrights Lane, London W8 6TA
Review: "The Muffin Man is a true Kensington gem. The coffee is always good, and their cream teas are the best I've had in London. It's like stepping back in time in the best possible way." - Laura S., Yelp
These five independent coffee shops near Kensington Gardens offer a diverse range of experiences, each with its own unique charm and specialities. From French-inspired patisseries to traditional English tea rooms, there's something for every coffee and cake enthusiast.
What sets these places apart is not just the quality of their coffee and baked goods, but also their commitment to creating welcoming, characterful spaces that reflect the local community. Many of them source their ingredients locally and prepare their offerings fresh daily, ensuring that each visit is a treat for the senses.
Moreover, these establishments contribute to the vibrant, diverse atmosphere that Kensington is known for.
They offer visitors a chance to experience the neighbourhood like a local, supporting small businesses that have become integral parts of the community.
Remember, if you find yourself craving these delectable treats but prefer the comfort of your own home, Butter & Crust is here to help. Our delivery service brings the best of London's bakeries right to your doorstep, allowing you to enjoy fresh, local bread and pastries without leaving the house.
So whether you choose to explore these coffee shops in person or have their delights delivered, you're in for a treat.
Happy café hopping!
