With more people than ever migrating south of the river, it’s no wonder that hundreds of new places to eat are popping up all over the area. From bustling Bermondsey to leafy Dulwich, here are some of the quirkiest cafes South East London has to offer!
Fuckoffee
Bermondsey
A bright, colourful, and slightly offensive staple on Bermondsey Street, you can’t miss it. Fuckoffee is famed for its great coffee and hilarious decor, as well as their ongoing battle with the local council about their name.
Machine
Bermondsey
Love bikes? Love coffee? This is the place for you! The first cycling cafe in SE1, where you can grab a drink, get your bike repaired, and catch up with fellow bikers all in one place. Independent and family run, Machine partners with local bakeries and coffee roaster Monmounth, who are all just a short bike ride away.
Scootercaffe
Waterloo
This cafe is packed full of retro Italian memorabilia (including the coffee machine used to make your order), Vespa scooters and the resident cat, Bob. They roast their own organic, fairtrade coffee and make their own cakes, as well as turning into a cocktail bar / live music venue at night. Bellissimo!
Love Walk
Camberwell
If it’s quality breakfast fare you’re after, look no further. Love Walk is a firm favourite with locals who go there for traditional breakfast food, as well as the eclectic decor – grab a seat downstairs and check out the art, you won’t regret it!
Little Nan's
Deptford
Locals know Little Nan’s for its retro living room decor (think Eastenders, leopard print and vintage china) and colourful cocktails served in teapots, however it’s also great for a spot of afternoon tea or a boozy bottomless brunch!
The Waiting Room
Deptford
This cafe features a menu full of plant-based food, including bagels, muffins, hotdogs, ‘chicken’ wings and vegan milkshakes, just to name a few! If you venture out the back of the cafe you’ll find a cosy little garden, perfect on a sunny day.
Good Hope Cafe
Hither Green
A cafe with a good cause close to it’s heart – For Jimmy. For Jimmy was founded after Jimmy Mizen was murdered in Lee in 2008, after which Jimmy’s family spoke of compassion and peace, the foundations on which the charity has been built. Good Hope Cafe supports the charity, so you can eat here knowing all the proceeds are going to a good cause within the local community.
You Don't Bring Me Flowers
Hither Green
This floral utopia is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of London life. Florist-cum-coffee shop, this pretty spot in Hither Green will entice you in with the mountains of flowers outside the shopfront, but it’s the gorgeous cakes and huge sandwiches you’ll keep coming back for!
You Don't Bring Me Flowers Facebook
Old Spike Roastery
Peckham
One of the finest coffee spots in Peckham who also offer something a bit different. They train and employ homeless people across the business, ensuring every drink you buy goes towards ending homelessness in the UK!
St. David Coffee House
Forest Hill
A really cosy cafe, perfect for a day lazing around and reading a book! In the heart of Forest Hill, this is a great place to unwind after a day of local sightseeing. Their focus is on fresh ingredients, seasonal specials and environmentally conscious living.
St David Coffee House Facebook
Alexandra Nurseries
Penge
For all the plant enthusiasts, here's a place you can grab a few new house plants whilst enjoying a bite to eat. As you wind your way through the maze of plants you’ll find a pint-sized cafe serving simple food that will hit the spot.
Pato Lounge
Orpington
This colourful spot in Orpington will entice you inside with the cosy furniture and colourful mural behind the bar, a homage to ex-Orpington resident Charles Darwin. The menu is huge so there will be something for everyone, a great option for big get togethers!