Undoubtedly one of my favourite ways to kick off the weekend is a slow Saturday morning over coffee or brunch. From the two years I have spent living, brunching and caffeinating in Brixton, this adopted Londoner can report that it’s brimming with cosy, well-designed coffee shops serving up delightful coffee.
It’s no secret Brixton’s infamous covered market has changed beyond recognition in the past ten years. Hailed as exciting regeneration by some, condemned as capitalist-fuelled gentrification by others, we can all agree the area has become something of a foodie mecca. Brixton remains one of the ever-dwindling places in London you can still feast on a plateful of world-class food for under a tenner. I only hope it stays this way for years to come for the sake of locals and visitors alike.
These five coffee shops in Brixton, South London are a great place to start your day in London and perfect for catching up with friends or for hiding out for a while. From Instagrammable flat whites to coffee gardens, this list affirms London’s continuing love affair with real, excellent coffee.
1. F. Mondays
An unpretentious, relaxed hangout space located on Brixton Hill, a short bus ride away or a brisk walk from bustling Brixton village. The Brixton Hill neighbourhood boats a more mellow, local vibe. It’s a fitting setting for F. Mondays, whose team serve up great coffee, outstanding cakes and simple yet delicious brunch options. Oh, and don’t miss the lush secret garden out back!
112a Brixton Hill, Brixton, London SW2 1AH
2. Federation Coffee
Self-proclaimed as the best speciality coffee shop in Brixton, Federation Coffee is an attractive corner café nestled into the ever-bustling Brixton village. It’s compact and incredibly popular, offering external seats with views of the market. I love the plant packed interior, friendly service and neighbourhood atmosphere. There’s a house blend to try that is roasted in a nearby unit, and you can sample sweet and savoury baked goods to your heart’s content.
Unit 77-78 Brixton Village Market Brixton SW9 8PS
3. Stir Coffee Brixton
A great coffee shop isn’t just about the drink. As well as coffee from around the world and an interesting selection of craft beers, Stir Coffee embodies its mantra of ‘Good Vibes Matter’. Schwan and I recently popped in and devoured one of their excellent pastries. The baristas were super friendly, and we loved the mini terrariums on each table as well as the stack of retro National Geographic magazines. We shall certainly be returning.
111 Brixton Hill, SW2 1AA
4. Brockwell Blend
This simple café may not look extravagant from the outside, but it serves the most smooth and silky coffee I have tasted in Brixton. They also do a mean green smoothie, fresh cakes and light lunches. A lovely sun terrace and murialled walls complete this quaint neighbourhood cafe.
19 Tulse Hill, Brixton, London, SW2 2TH
5. Burnt Toast Café
Just around the corner from Federation is Burnt Toast Café. Don’t let the name deceive you, these guys know how to cater for coffee and brunch aficionados. Enjoy your house-roasted coffee alongside freshly in-house baked bread and cakes. Insider tip: It’s considered one of the best all-day breakfast places in Brixton so visitation on an empty stomach is strongly advised.
88 Brixton Village Market, London SW9 8PS
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