The Best Places for Breakfast and Brunch in East London.
East London is a breakfast and brunch lover’s paradise, offering an eclectic mix of creative cafés, stylish restaurants, and hidden gems. These spots have mastered the art of morning meals, serving everything from classic plates to globally inspired dishes. Here’s where to start your day in East London.
Barbie Green and Paradise Green bring some Aussie energy to the East London brunch scene. The spaces are stunning, with bold art installations and plenty of natural light, making them as Instagrammable as they are welcoming. The colourful, produce-forward dishes are packed with flavour. Opt for the signature full breakfast board, where every element, from the shakshuka to the perfectly crispy bacon, is thoughtfully crafted. Their creative cocktails make brunch feel like a celebration.
Don’t Miss: The banana bread sandwich, a layered masterpiece with mascarpone, berries, flaked almonds, and a drizzle of honey.
Website: Daisy Green Food
Hoxton’s Friends of Ours delivers a cosy yet modern brunch experience with an inventive menu and relaxed atmosphere. This spot is all about pushing the boundaries of breakfast, with dishes like crab benedict served on a buttery English muffin or the umami-packed kimchi pancakes. It’s a place where you can savour a slow morning with expertly brewed coffee.
Must Try: Sweetcorn fritters, served with halloumi, poached eggs, smashed avocado, and a hint of chili for a dish that’s as filling as it is flavourful.
Website: Friends of Ours
A neighbourhood gem located on Toynbee St, Potter & Reid brings a warm, understated charm to Hackney’s brunch scene. Their focus on simple, high-quality ingredients means every dish shines. Whether you’re there for avocado toast with a spicy kick or a flaky almond croissant, the food is as comforting as the friendly vibe. The sleek yet cozy interior invites you to linger, making it perfect for those slower mornings.
Highlight: Sourdough toast piled high with smashed avocado, chili flakes, and a zesty squeeze of lime.
Website: Potter & Reid
Ozone Coffee Roasters is a cornerstone of East London’s coffee scene, offering not just exceptional brews but also a menu that redefines breakfast classics. At their Shoreditch and London Fields locations, you’ll find a welcoming industrial aesthetic paired with hearty, flavourful dishes like smoked kahawai fish cakes topped with perfectly poached eggs. For a lighter option, the house-made granola with seasonal fruit is a delight. Their commitment to sustainability and quality shines in every plate and cup.
Top Pick: Don’t leave without trying the house-made crumpets, served with whipped butter and a touch of marmite—comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Website: Ozone Coffee
If you’re looking for an unforgettable brunch experience, Duck & Waffle is the place to be. Perched 40 stories above the city, this iconic spot offers breathtaking views alongside indulgent plates. The menu features unique takes on breakfast favourites, like their signature duck confit served atop a crisp waffle with mustard maple syrup. The panoramic setting is as memorable as the food, making it a go-to for special occasions or when hosting out-of-town visitors.
Pro Tip: Book an early morning table to watch the sunrise as you sip on a cup of expertly brewed coffee.
Website: Duck & Waffle
Attendant Shoreditch brings a touch of East London cool to the local brunch scene. Located in a beautifully restored Victorian workshop, the café combines history with contemporary style. The menu changes seasonally, offering dishes like Turkish eggs with yogurt, chili butter, and fresh herbs or comforting breakfast buns packed with bacon jam and fried egg. Their house-roasted coffee is the perfect complement to any meal.
Signature Dish: The Attendant breakfast bun, a decadent combination of smoky bacon jam, fried egg, and gooey cheese.
Website: Attendant Coffee Roasters
Mare Street Market in Hackney is more than just a brunch spot—it’s a community hub where locals gather over great food and coffee. The airy, plant-filled space offers everything from buttery pastries fresh out of the oven to heartier options like shakshuka and eggs royale. With an on-site florist and record shop, it’s an ideal spot to spend a leisurely morning.
Try This: The house-baked sourdough served warm with creamy butter or piled high with avocado.
Website: Mare Street Market
Tucked away near Spitalfields Market, Crispin is a minimalist café with a big focus on flavour. Their seasonal menu is inventive yet approachable, offering dishes like black rice pudding with mango and coconut or their take on French toast, served with caramelized banana. The welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail make Crispin a standout in East London’s brunch scene.
Recommendation: The wild mushroom and poached egg on toast, a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant.
Website: Crispin
Brother Marcus brings the bold, fresh flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean to East London. This Spitalfields spot has a relaxed, friendly vibe, making it perfect for both solo brunches and group outings. The menu is packed with vibrant dishes, from their signature Step Sister plate to indulgent sweet options. It’s all made with care and designed to transport you to sunnier shores.
Must Try: The Step Sister—a heavenly mix of sweet potato, avocado, poached eggs, and zhoug, topped with tangy yogurt.
Website: Brother Marcus
Pachamama East offers a Peruvian twist on brunch that’s both exciting and delicious. Located in Shoreditch, this stylish spot is known for its bold flavours and creative menu. The menu features small plates like ceviche and larger dishes like their signature plantain waffles. The vibrant, modern décor creates a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for a weekend feast.
Dish to Order: Sweet potato waffles with fried chicken, a perfect balance of savoury, sweet, and smoky spice.
Website: Pachamama East