The Best Coffee in East London
East London, a hub of creative energy and culinary innovation, is home to a vibrant coffee scene that rivals any other part of the city. For those seeking the perfect cup, here are some of the best coffee shops in East London, each offering a unique experience that complements the area's eclectic charm.
Climpson & Sons
Located in the heart of Broadway Market, Climpson & Sons is a stalwart of the East London coffee scene. Since 2002, this café-cum-roastery has been serving up expertly crafted espresso-based drinks and single-origin filter coffees. The industrial-chic interior, complete with a view of their roasting operation, creates a buzzing atmosphere that is perfect for both locals and visitors. On Saturdays, you can enjoy your coffee while browsing the bustling Broadway Market right outside45.
The Attendant
For a truly unique coffee experience, head to The Attendant, housed in a former Victorian public toilet on Great Eastern Street. This beautifully restored café maintains many of its original features while offering a cosy, intimate space. The Attendant takes its coffee seriously, sourcing beans from sustainable farms and roasting them in-house. Their menu features a range of speciality coffees and delicious, locally-sourced food options4.
Hackney Coffee Company
Tucked away in a beautifully restored 18th-century building on Hackney Road, Hackney Coffee Company is a hidden gem. With its exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and eclectic mix of vintage furniture, this café exudes East London cool. The coffee is sourced from ethical suppliers and roasted on-site, ensuring a fresh and flavourful cup every time. The spacious interior and peaceful courtyard make it an ideal spot for remote working or catching up with friends45.
Dark Arts Coffee
For those who like their coffee with a side of rock 'n' roll, Dark Arts Coffee in Homerton is the place to be. This roastery and café embraces a distinctly edgy aesthetic, with skull motifs and heavy metal vibes throughout. Despite its unconventional appearance, Dark Arts takes its coffee very seriously, roasting small batches of carefully sourced beans to create unique and flavourful blends. Their café offers a range of espresso-based drinks and filter coffees, along with vegan-friendly snacks45.
Paradox Design + Coffee
Located in Netil Market on Mare Street, Paradox Design + Coffee is the creation of husband and wife team Katherine & Zain. This tiny space is dedicated to championing variety, showcasing the best of independent roasters as part of their ever-evolving roastery lineup. Paradox has earned a reputation as one of the finest coffee curators in the country, with a lineup that has included roasters like Kiss the Hippo, Hard Lines, and Onibus5.
Pairing Your Coffee with Premium Baked Goods
To fully appreciate the rich flavors of these exceptional coffees, consider pairing them with some of the best baked goods London has to offer. For a perfect match, try Butter & Crust's artisanal pastries and bread, which are crafted with the same dedication to quality and flavor as these top-tier coffee shops.