Katharine Heim, Wednesday 11 July 2012
Try any one of the cafés on our list of Food & Drink Awards nominees for an experience in delicious coffee and genuine customer service.
These cafés offer fine French food, unique coffee blends and signature cakes; there’s sure to be at least one place that will strike your fancy. So get out and support your local businesses, whilst possibly finding your new favourite hideaway.
This family owned café combines authentic Italian cuisine in addition to traditional UK food. The fun-loving staff serves up coffee, cappuccinos and an indulgent Cannolicchi & Sfogliatelle – imported weekly from Turin in Italy. Pop in for a full breakfast, lunch and dinner for a very reasonable price.
31-33 High Street, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 2AX
Run by local Sophie Moore, this quaint café has a nostalgic atmosphere and old-fashioned theme. In addition to selling delicious cakes as well as old style sweets, customers can purchase antique toys.
90 High Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1RE
After a leisurely stroll in Nonsuch Park, pop into Nonsuch Pantry. Julie and Andrew Gray serve up delightful teas and cakes. This place is great for moms; there is plenty of space to park your pram. Outside tables are equipped with water bowls so dog walkers are welcome too.
Nonsuch Park, Ewell Road, Cheam SM3 8AL
Ditch the high-priced chains on high street and head over to Hussar’s for friendly service and incredible coffee. Complimentary books and newspapers make for a relaxing break from the office. Buy seven coffees, get the eighth one free.
23 High Street, Hampton Wick, London KT1 4DA
Owned and run by Sarah and Eric Guignard who own neighbouring and very popular, French Table. Munch on Parisian style pastries and sandwiches whilst soaking up the summer sun at one of their outside tables.
83 Maple Road, Surbiton, London KT6 4AW
With locations in Fulham and Kingston, it’s easy to support your local shops. Order at the counter, and their friendly staff will bring over your coffee. Don’t forget to order one of their delectable cakes.
640 Fulham Road, London SW6 5RT
22 Thames Street, London KT1 1PE
Whether grocery shopping, grabbing drinks with friends or getting food to take away Del Pane has it all. They stock a range of own-brand coffees and have outside seating available.
171 Kingston Road, Wimbledon SW 19 1LH
Known for their famous cupcakes, Truckles also serves up unique coffee blended from Ethiopian, Guatemalan and Ugandan beans. Fresh cakes, pastries and mains (which vary daily) are also available. Or, try one of their easy bean hot pots with interesting flavours like Mexican Chili or Moroccan Tagine.
255 Coombe La, London SW20 0RH
After an educational trip to the Wandsworth museum head over to the Longstaff café. The Longstaff serves up fair-trade coffee and cakes like their lemon rosemary – a customer favourite. Homemade soups and paninis are also available. There is a play area for children and free wifi.
Wandsworth Museum, 38 West Hill, Wandsworth, London UK, SW18 1RZ
Known for their quirky décor, customers can sit in old school house desks and outside lounge chairs in the summer. Bertie & Boo’s is great for families with a reasonably priced menu, friendly staff and scrumptious cakes.
162 Balham High Road, London SW12 9BW
Founded by former graphic designers Australian Cameron and Cuban Alexi, Birdhouse is one of the most aesthetically pleasing cafés around. The avian theme is complimented by a signature bright yellow. Their coffee is local, and comes from East London roaster Climpson. The simple menu serves up delicious soups and sandwiches, and changes seasonally.
123 St John's Hill SW11 1SZ
Deli Boutique is open daily from 8am to 6pm and serves both traditional British and European dishes, influenced by fine French food. The sunny conservatory garden seats 25 and is a great place to enjoy one of their sandwiches, which come on fresh baked bread.
157 St John’s Hill, Battersea, London SW11 1TQ