Our Journal

The West End may be synonymous with London’s exceptional nightlife, but it caters for early risers too! Despite many retailers not opening until mid-morning, @carnabylondon has some awesome spots who’s doors open early for local workers and eager shoppers to keen to grab a bite and caffeine fix.

Grind Soho

Open from 8am throughout the week and 10am at the weekends (when they offer a mean bottomless brunch), @Grind has a somewhat of a cult following across London, which is no wonder given the perfectly blended coffee and delicious smashed avocado spiced with chilli on offer, that wouldn’t feel out of place in a Sydney cafe.

We’re big advocates of their juices and smoothies, the Banana & Turmeric blend a perennial favourite that’s set us off on the right foot many times.

19 Beak Street, W1F 9RP | grind.co.uk

The Good Egg

While much of Kingly Court doesn’t wake until late morning, @thegoodegg_‘s kitchen swings into action from 9am, offering an extensive breakfast & brunch menu inspired by Middle Eastern flavours.

We’re partial to their mouthwatering Shakshuka (opt for the extra halloumi) but the Babka French Toast & Feta Hash are equally delish. And why not team it with a Mimosa or Bellini if it’s a special occasion? (or just because you can!)

Kingly Court, W1B 5PW | thegoodegg.co

Buns From Home

Starving? In a hurry? Fret not, as @bunsfromhome do breakfast to grab-and-go! These hand-rolled buns are hands down the best in town, glazed but perfectly flaky and created by founder Barney from his mum’s kitchen during lockdown, when his neighbours were treated to his baking skills. Post-Covid, Buns from Home has grown into a successful business with bakeries across the capital, but we’re lucky to have one close by on Broadwick Street (as well as Covent Garden, Tottenham Court Road & Piccadilly).

The classic cinnamon bun is perfectly sweet, but with an array of other flavours to choose from there’s something for everyone, like their pistachio or chocolate hazelnut varieties, as well some savoury flavours like spinach & feta. And if you’re more of a cornflake type, try the Cereal Milk Bun with its super creamy cereal‑infused custard, topped with honey‑drizzled cornflakes. Oh my…

63 Broadwick Street, W1F 9QS | bunsfromhome.com

Joe & The Juice

It may be a bit of a monster global brand these days, but we’ve been digging @joeandthejuice since it first came to London way back in 2009. Much time has passed but the authentic relaxed vibe and on-point music playlists still remain, with the fresh juices and smoothies still up there with the best. The breakfast options are plentiful, with the usual suspects of pastries, but we’re suckers for the Acai Bowl and Joe’s Instant Porridge.

65-67 Broadwick Street, W1F 9QY | joejuice.com

The Department of Coffee & Social Affairs

Open from 8 am on weekdays and tucked away just off Carnaby Street on Lowdnes Court, this social media shy sanctuary of coffee sells the best selection of baked & sweet things and is a great (and quiet) meeting spot for an early brew.

From chocolate muffins to vegan apple & blackcurrant crumble jacks, oat & raisin cookies to honey nut crunches and some seriously delicious shortbread millionaires and rocky roads, @depofcoffee is popular with the locals. The coffee? Award Winning and sourced from the best single estates across the world, need we say more…

3 Lowndes Court, W1F 7HD | departmentofcoffee.com

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