We know what you’re thinking. London Fields? That’s the one with the lido, right? That’s the one with the park? That’s the one with Broadway Market.
But you might not be thinking, “that’s the one with all the killer cafes.” Well, let us change your mind.
As is well documented, London has had a longstanding love affair with coffee. Before tea was the hot beverage of choice, in 1652 the first British coffee house, located in St. Michael’s Alley, was opened by a Greek immigrant called Pasqua Rosee, and they spread like wildfire. (Fun fact: the first time tea was actually sold as a drink, it was in a coffee house in 1660.)
Cafes have always been beloved places where people sit and debate politics and discuss current affairs. In the mid 17th century, they were so popular that they inspired broadsheet protests about them. In 1674, the Women’s Petition Against Coffee claimed that the men “sup muddy water, and murmur insignificant notes till half a dozen of them out-babble an equal number of us at gossiping”. Yes. That is the whole point of a coffee house. (Although there is some debate on whether or not the broadsheets were actually written by women.)
There’s also a rumor that Isaac Newton and Edmond Halley dissected a dolphin on a table in a coffee house. We are not suggesting that you follow their example.
If you desire a good latte and a long gossip, here are our favourite cafes in London Fields:
Opened in fall of 2019 on Broadway Market St, this Kyoto-based coffee chain is glossy and minimalist. If you like your coffee strong and sweet, their Spanish latte is for you. They’ve also got custom made Slayer espresso machines made in Seattle, and tubs of freshly roasted beans. The only downside is that their seating is limited, so you can’t launch into fiery debate without hitting someone.
In a tiny glass hut in Netil Market, this shop only fits four people, tops. However, it is perfect if you’re in a rush or if you want to peruse the vendors in Netil Market. Run by partners Katherine Miskulkin and Zain Kara Bernou, these guys blend their love of design with their coffee business. They also offer laser cutting and engraving services, but the reason we love them is because they always have new independent coffee roasters featured in their shop. The only downside is there is only enough space to hop in and hop out again.
This beautiful shop in the middle of Broadway Market is renowned in London for roasting its own beans. The owner Ian Burgess started it as a stall in Broadway Market before moving it to a former butcher shop, which came with the name Climpson & Sons. They liked it so much they named the whole business after it. We love it because on market day, it’s a perfect place to pop in and get a cup of coffee so strong it could grow hairs on your chest whether you wanted them there or not. The inside is full of plants and wooden stools where people can congregate and watch the poor fools outside in the rain.
Flying Horse Coffee has a tiny window in Mare Street Market that faces the alleyway if you need to grab a cup of coffee and run. If you turn the corner, however, and walk into Mare Street Market, there are long tables where you can chat for hours with your friends under hanging plants and greenery. There is also free WIFI if you’re rushing to finish some work. Run by Jack Bradshaw and Philip Way, the roasters are also dedicated to sustainably sourced beans, so you can feel good about your morning cup. They even offer roasting classes for those who are so inclined.
If you are lucky enough to be at Broadway Market when the market is open on Saturdays and the weather is sunny, check out the Merito Coffee stall. These guys roast their coffees using ethically sourced beans and they brew both filter and espresso drinks. They are strong. They will get you through the crowds with ease and fuel your goodwill, so you do not elbow the old lady who just jumped the donut queue. (May or may not be based on a true story.) They also sell their own beans, which they can grind for you on the spot if need be. The only downside is they’re only there on Saturdays.
