The best coffee shops in Shoreditch

If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t officially start until that first glorious sip of coffee. Few places in the capital have as many specialty coffee shops than Shoreditch, which has been at the forefront of the third-wave coffee movement in London for years.

With every street corner playing host to a slickly branded café, staffed by heavily tattooed baristas sporting a beanie, it's hard to know which spot to pick to refuel. Whether you’re a flat white fanatic, a cold brew connoisseur, or just looking for a cosy spot to people-watch while pretending to work, we've scoured the streets to bring you the ultimate guide to the best coffee shops in Shoreditch.

Shoreditch Grind

Shoreditch Grind stands out on Old Street with its distinctive neon sign and circular architecture, drawing in a trendy crowd day and night. Established in 2011, it’s a cornerstone for those who thrive in the blend of robust coffee and bustling nightlife.

By day, it’s a cafe with artisanal coffee and savory breakfasts; by night, it transforms into a buzzing cocktail bar with an array of creative drinks and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a hip spot to unwind, work remotely, or enjoy a night out right by Old Street tube station.

Top tip: Booking a table is preferred, but Grind always keep a table free for walk-ins. Make sure to grab one of their iconic pink coffee tins to bring the taste of artisinal coffee home.

Address: 213 Old St, London EC1V 9NR

OAT

OAT Coffee, with its spots in Brick Lane and Shoreditch, is all about rejuvenating the neighbourhood café culture. They offer a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy excellent food and coffee.

Known for its community vibe, OAT also hosts various events and is open for bookings, making it a great venue for both socializing and relaxing. They strive to make every visit a pleasant experience with their friendly service and commitment to quality.

Top tip: Try something new and unique their Orange Soda Americano, a citrus-y take on a classic drink.

Address: 154 Brick Ln, London E1 6RU

Paper and Cup

Paper & Cup is a charming coffee shop located in London, operating as a social enterprise under the Spitalfields Crypt Trust. It serves specialty coffee, tea, and snacks while also functioning as a training ground for individuals recovering from addiction.

The shop sells second-hand and vintage items, and all profits support recovery programs. For a cosy cup of coffee in East London that helps give back to the community, Paper & Cup is an excellent choice.

Top tip: Support Paper and Cup by donating your clothes, shoes accessories or homeware.

Address: 18 Calvert Ave, London E2 7JP

Blank Street Coffee

Blank Street Coffee, squeezing high-quality brews into the nooks and crannies of bustling city streets, is your pocket-sized pit stop for caffeinated bliss. These tiny coffee havens dot the urban landscape, promising top-notch joe on-the-go.

Perfect for the city slicker with places to be and no time to waste, Blank  Street dishes out more than just your morning buzz — they’re reinventing how the fast-paced metropolis gets its coffee fix. Step into any spot for a quick sip and watch your day take off!

Relatively new to the London coffee scene and rapidly growing due to fresh financial backing, skeptics say Blank Street is merely the new Starbucks with trendy branding. Try it out and come to your own conculsions.

Address: 3 Redchurch St, London E2 7DJ

WatchHouse Spitalfields

WatchHouse crafts a uniquely scientific coffee affair, where each bean is not just brewed, but born from meticulous lab love in London and New York. Here, coffee isn’t just made; it’s engineered for excellence, promising a sip that’s as refined as its urban chic surroundings.

Expect a tapestry of tastes, each cup a canvas of complex flavors waiting to be explored. It’s less of a coffee break and more of a flavour expedition, designed for the coffee enthusiast who craves a dash of modernity with their caffeine.

Top tip: Have a coffee machine at home? Here you can pick up whole, ground and pod coffee to bring the taste of WatchHouse home.

Address: 139 Commercial St, London E1 6EB

% Arabica Spitalfields Market

% Arabica Coffee at Spitalfields Market offers top notch coffee from an insanely minimalist and clean kiosk that wouldn’t look out of place in the latest Sci-Fi movie. Known for their artisanal approach, they serve expertly crafted coffees along with a selection of teas and other beverages.

Originating from Kyoto, % Arabica’s locations around the world are architectural marvels that promise to inspire you while you sip your latte. They’re basically the Apple stores of coffee shops.

Top tip: If you’re the type of coffee drinker who knows your washed beans from your naturally process beans, you’ll appreciate their detailed menu of coffee beans, complete with tasting notes.

Address: Ground Floor, Old Spitalfields Market, 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW

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And there you have it—Shoreditch’s finest coffee havens, each with its own unique vibe and unbeatable brews. Whether you're here for a quick caffeine fix, a long chat with friends, or just to soak in the creative energy that defines this neighbourhood, these coffee shops have got you covered.

So whether you live in Shoreditch or are just visiting for the day, skip the chains and dive into one of these local gems. Trust us, your taste buds—and your Instagram feed—will thank you.

Now go forth and caffeinate!