Hackney’s Cafe Guide: Finest Coffee Spots For A Morning Boost
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To those who appreciate the symphony of frothing milk, the murmur of grinding beans, and the appeal of a steaming espresso to kick-start the day, we’ve handpicked the most divine cafes in Hackney, solely for you.
Whether you’re a Hackney local or an explorer in search of the finest brews that cafes in East London have to offer, we’ve got you covered with our definitive guide to Hackney’s coffee spots.
From artisan pop-ups to quintessential coffee shop homesteads, Hackney brims with unique cafes that are more than ready to serve your morning caffeine fix.
And guess what? They are not just any coffee shops in Hackney. We’re talking about establishments that have crafted a name for themselves amidst the dynamic coffee scene of Hackney and broader East London.
Explore Hackney’s coffee shops down winding lanes and unearth hidden gems revered for their superior beans and enticing aromas.
Whether you’re a seasoned java enthusiast or a novice barista in the making, we’re ready to take you on an exhilarating flavour journey of the best cafes Hackney boasts.
Mug at the ready? Let’s dive in!
1. Climpson & Sons Café
Climpson & Sons Café was established by Ian Burgess in 2002 and is one of the pioneers in the thriving London coffee scene. The café is named after its founder's late grandfather, William Climpson.
Climpson & Sons Café is popular among locals and tourists alike for its exceptional coffee and friendly, knowledgeable staff.
The café offers a wide selection of coffee, from espresso-based drinks to filter coffees, and also serves delicious pastries and sandwiches.
They also provide coffee brewing equipment and barista training, and have a coffee subscription service available.
Address: 67 Broadway Market, London E8 4PH
2. Palm Vaults
Palm Vaults is a popular independent café famous for its unique vintage-inspired, tropical decor and a charming ambience that distinguishes it from other cafés in the area.
Palm Vaults offers a diverse menu with health-focused food options, including vegan and gluten-free choices, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers.
The café is also known for its ethically sourced coffee as well as its vibrant, colourful lattes, such as beetroot and matcha lattes, and an array of homemade cakes.
It also sells a variety of indoor plants, reinforcing its jungle-themed interior.
Address: 411 Mare Street, Hackney, London, E8 1HY
3. Grow Hackney
Grow Hackney is a bar, kitchen, and creative space located in Hackney Wick, East London.
Established with the idea of creating a space for communal growth, it emphasises sustainable living and supports local, social enterprises.
The venue is a multipurpose space, incorporating a bar and restaurant that serves locally sourced organic food, a creative space for live music and art exhibitions, and a community garden.
But that doesn’t they skimp on their coffee! It is well-known for its delicious locally sourced coffee beans and organic food options.
Address: Main Yard, Hackney Wick, E9 5LN
4. The Bodega 50
The Bodega 50 is a popular local coffee shop known for its relaxed atmosphere, unique decor, and extensive menu of high-quality beverages and foods.
At Bodega 50, you can enjoy a variety of coffee blends from different parts of the world, freshly made pastries, and a selection of sandwiches and salads.
The shop is also vegan-friendly, providing various plant-based options for its customers.
Aside from its delightful menu, Bodega 50 is highly praised for its friendly and welcoming staff, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors to Hackney.
The coffee shop has become a community staple, perfect for casual meet-ups, work, or relaxation.
Address: 50 Allen Rd, London N16 8RZ
5. AllPress Espresso Roastery
Allpress Espresso is a top-rated coffee roaster and café.
The company was founded in New Zealand in 1989 and has since expanded globally with roasteries in cities such as Tokyo, Sydney, and London.
The Allpress Espresso in Hackney is both a roastery and a café, offering a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the coffee roasting process.
They are renowned for their exceptional coffee, which is sourced from the finest producers around the world and roasted on-site.
The café serves a wide variety of coffee styles, from classic espressos to pour-over coffees, along with a selection of fresh pastries and healthy snacks.
Address: 55 Dalston Ln, Dalston, London, E8 2NG
6. Pophams - London Fields
Pophams is a popular Scandinavian-style artisan bakery and coffee shop renowned for its wide range of unique, handmade pastries, baked goods, and coffee blends that are meticulously prepared to tease the taste palates of its customers.
Conceptualised by Ollie Gold and Florin Grama, Pophams opened its first location in 2017 in Islington and has since expanded to London Fields, Hackney.
The bakery takes pride in its innovative approach to traditional viennoiserie, which is elevated by using classic techniques combined with a chef’s creativity to craft visually interesting and delicious pastries.
Pophams’ London Fields branch is not just known for its bakery items, but also for its coffee shop.
The coffee served here is sourced from local roasters, ensuring that each cup is fresh, aromatic, and of the highest quality.
Address: 197 Richmond Road, London, England, E8 3NJ
7. Ozone Coffee Roasters
Ozone Coffee Roasters is a speciality coffee company that originated in New Zealand in 1998, the brand has since expanded to the UK and is recognised for its dedication to creating quality coffee roasts.
Ozone Coffee Roasters involves itself in every stage of coffee production, from sourcing green beans from sustainable and ethical producers across various parts of the world, to carefully roasting them to bring out unique flavours.
The roasting process at Ozone Coffee Roasters is both a science and an art. They employ traditional methods along with innovative technology to create unique roasts.
Apart from providing wholesale coffee to cafes and restaurants, Ozone Coffee Roasters also run their own cafes, which are famed for their immersive coffee experience.
Address: Creechurch Lane, London, EC3A 5AY
8. The Bach
The Bach is a popular and unique café that draws inspiration from the relaxed and laid-back style of café culture in New Zealand.
The name ‘Bach’ (pronounced ‘Batch’) is a New Zealand term for a simple holiday home - a place to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect, which is exactly the vibe this coffee shop aims to provide.
The Bach Coffee Shop is famous for its high-quality coffee, serving a variety of beans sourced from renowned roasters.
In addition to coffee, they offer a wide range of other beverages and a comprehensive food menu that includes freshly made sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
Their food menu also features a mix of traditional and innovative dishes, such as the Kiwi classic - ‘Eggs Benedict’ and ‘Acai Bowl’.
Address: 12 Broadway Market, London E8 4QJ
Practical Tips For Visiting Cafes
Visiting cafes or coffee shops can be great, whether you’re a regular or exploring new places.
Here are some practical tips to enhance your coffee shop visits:
Research Local Coffee Shops: Before heading out, look up local coffee shops. Explore reviews, ratings, and recommendations to find places that will suit you best.
Be Open to Variety: Try different types of coffee, brewing methods, and specialties. It’s an excellent opportunity to expand your palate and discover new favourites.
Consider the Atmosphere: Choose a coffee shop based on the atmosphere you’re seeking. Whether you prefer a cosy ambience, a vibrant social setting, or a quiet space for work, find a spot that suits your mood.
Respect Seating Etiquette: If the coffee shop is busy, be mindful of taking up space for extended periods. Some places might have a limited number of seats, so it’s considerate to leave when you’re finished.
Bring Your Own Reusable Cup: Reduce waste by bringing your reusable cup. Many coffee shops offer discounts to customers who bring their own cups, and it’s an eco-friendly choice - it’s a win-win!
Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask the barista for recommendations based on your preferences. They often have insights into their specialty drinks or popular choices.
Be Mindful of Laptop Usage: If you plan to work on your laptop, check the coffee shop’s policy on Wi-Fi usage and table occupancy. Some places may have specific areas for those wanting to work.
Support Local: Opt to support local, independent coffee shops. They often offer unique blends and a more personalised experience compared to larger chains.
