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London - Cafes

Every underground station in London has its little clusters of coffee shops. Costa’s, Café Nero and Starbucks are all very well for a quick cup of coffee, but if you prefer your perfectly brewed cup of java in a more sober setting these are the spots to aim for:

Bar Italia

This Soho institution is charming and perhaps even a bit chaotic. Typically Italian, you can tell the barrista exactly how you want your coffe, he will make it for you. According to people in the know, this is the best café north of Milan.

Riba Café

This hidden gem, situated at the Royal Institute of British Architects, is worshipped by its faithful. In the summertime, coffee, sandwiches, and the light lunch menu are best sampled on the roof terrace (make reservations in good time).

  • Address66 Portland Place, W1
  • Phone+44 20 76310467
  • SubwayRegents Park

Lisboa Patisserie

After an early shopping round on Portobello Road, come here for the perfect Portuguese pastries.

  • Address57 Golborne Road, W10
  • SubwayWestbourne Park

Poetry Café

This café is a combined café/restaurant/bar with readings and performances organised every night. The menu varies daily, but is always vegetarian. Poetry and jazz evenings are held every Saturday. Tuesday evenings host the Poetry Unplugged open mic.

  • Address22 Betterton Street
  • Phone+44 20 74209887

The Café on the Square

After strolling around the National Gallery, why not drop in at the Café on the Square? Located at the bottom of the central staircase and to the right as you face the National Gallery, this café offers an all-day menu and fully licensed bar.

  • AddressTrafalgar Square

Pret a Manger

When out and about, drop by one of the many Pret a Manger sandwich bars. Its individual style makes the café very popular with Londoners. The food is all handmade and without chemicals, additives, or preservatives. The company donates the leftover food to charity, so there is never any "best-before-dates" on the products.

  • Address47. Great Peter Street
  • Webwww.pret.com
  • More InfoAlso at: 49 Tothill Street, 75B Victoria Street, 1 Whitehall

Caffè Nero

With branches springing up all over Festival Hall, Regent Street and Piccadilly, Caffè Nero is an ideal spot to sit after a hard days work or shopping. Tasteful decor, an exquisite cup of coffee and a fine choice of beverages make for a positive, appealing experience.

  • Address36a St Martin’s Lane
  • Phone+44 20 7836 5110
  • SubwayCovent Garden (Piccadilly)
  • Webwww.caffenero.com
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