Looking for the best cafes in Bethnal Green? Here’s the best places to get your sip on in the neighbourhood — from a local.
This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.
Bethnal Green, a vibrant district in East London, has undergone a significant transformation in the last few decades — including a mega rise in lovely cafes.
Whether you live in Bethnal Green or just happen to be in the neighbourhood here’s a list of the best coffee shops to work, chat or enjoy East London life.
Table of Contents
The Best Bethnal Green Coffee Shops: Your Ultimate Cafe Guide (2023)
1. The Beehive
305 CAMBRIDGE HEATH ROAD, E2 9LH
Deckchairs, big tables to enhance creativity, and beautiful trees surrounding the inside and outside of the cafe, The Beehive is the ultimate welcoming space in the heart of Bethnal Green.
The first time I visited, I couldn’t understand if it was a cafe, a co-working space or just a community centre… But then I discovered it was all of those things!
If you’re looking for local vibes in Bethnal Green this is your place. And it’s a not-for-profit business too!
Must try: Their famous Overnight Oats
2. Bon Appetit Bethnal Green
88 ROMAN ROAD, E2 0PG
Bon Appetit Bethnal Green is one of those local cafes that stick to the classics, with the plus of having the best halal breakfast in the area.
The prices are some of the best I’ve seen in Bethnal Green, and the portions are guaranteed to keep you satisfied.
Perfect for a quick stop in the morning in Bethnal Green, just a short walk from the station.
Must try: The Spanish Omelette
3. Recharge
140 ROMAN ROAD, E2 0RY
If you’re looking for a literal recharge, why not try Recharge in Bethnal Green?
Contrary to my joke, the drinks, pastries, and savory food here are great. And its most special quality is that it’s all Turkish!
This local cafe has a very subtle entrance and a very (very) small menu, however they deliver big time.
Must try: Avocado Sourdough Toast with Halloumi
4. Rastro Café
475 BETHNAL GREEN ROAD, E2 9QH
Rastro Café is a convenient local espresso and sandwich bar right by Bethnal Green station. So if you’re looking for a quick one right before leaving or when arriving, this is your spot!
The European cafe is most often compared to “eating in Madrid” with the owners finding their opportunity to make this dream a reality when COVID hit.
It’s been making Bethnal Green mornings in the community extra special since!
Must try: The Serranito sandwich
5. Arches Cafe
202 THREE COLTS LN, E2 6JN
The Arches Cafe is a great local coffee shop that offers great cafe deals to the community of Bethnal Green, both to have in or take away.
They pride themselves on their British ‘diner’ style, and I wouldn’t go without having their amazing pancakes for dessert. They even do the American ones!
Must try: The authentic English Breakfast
6. Quarantacinque Bethnal Green
45 ROMAN ROAD, E2 0HU
Quarantacinque is the home of serious Italian coffee in the heart of the East End.
From a traditional Roman espresso to a famous flat white, fresh juices to smoothies, artisan pastries to cakes and homemade salads to paninis — you’ll taste scrumptious Italian ingredients in anything you order.
Pop in and, if you’re lucky and hungry, try the delicious and fresh Lasagna!
Must try: The famous Aperitivo Padovano
7. Sazzy & Fran
33 ROMAN ROAD, E2 0HU
Sazzy & Fran is one of the most popular vegan cafes in Bethnal Green. Funded by Sazzy & Fran (true story), they’re here to bring plant-based food and good coffee to the community.
Their food is soooo delicious, so I’d recommend going over and over again to enjoy the amazing salads, incredible porridge, and incomparable pancakes on offer.
If you can’t pop in, you should know that they make lunches for 5 or more and deliver them to you by bike! Just contact them with the time and they got you…
Must try: The Acai Bowl
8. The Full Monty
254 GLOBE ROAD, E2 0JD
The Full Monty is thee Bethnal Green cafe for outstanding flavors and a lively ambience.
Here, the charming staff always puts double effort into making your coffee with love.
Its big menu will guarantee a great option for every East London food mood, and they’re big advocates of sit-down style meals to bring people together to enjoy it too.
In other words, bring friends and bring the chat!
Must try: The Mediterranean Breakfast
9. Fuckoffee
429 BETHNAL GREEN ROAD, E2 0AN
If the name Fuckoffee isn’t enough to motivate you to visit, then let me sell the amazing coffee, pastries, and sandwiches they serve freshly every day.
Honestly, this is a place that will get a smile out of you even on the worst of Mondays, as the whole atmosphere is a vibe.
Merch, inspirational quotes, and a friendly crew are just a taste of what’s waiting for you in this charming cafe in Bethnal Green.
Must try: Rather than try, get a fun mug!
10. The Common E2
53 OLD BETHNAL GREEN RD, E2 6QA
The Common E2 knows that the coffee competition is strong in Bethnal Green, but they are here to deliver.
No one beats this place for a nice and long workday, as all their facilities are exquisitely designed with the ‘architecture design studio, art gallery, and co-working space’ aesthetic in mind.
It’s also a hub for East London freelancers, startups, and artists ready to sip their daily dose of caffeine or enjoy a delicious brunch during a work meeting.
Must try: The Miso Baked Aubergine
Chain Coffee Shops in Bethnal Green
Even though the list of local cafes in Bethnal Green is long, I understand if you’re in a rush or if you’d like your nice and familiar coffee to go. So if you’re looking for chain coffee shops, believe me when I say you will find more than enough here.
Costa Coffee
Costa Coffee, the British multinational coffeehouse-style cafe chain, has a spacious branch on Bethnal Green Road. Known for its Italian Roast coffee, it also offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and drinks with comfortable seating.
Starbucks
Despite being a global name, Starbucks at Bethnal Green manages to maintain a local appeal with its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere. Benefit from the Starbucks Rewards program and the free Wi-Fi service.
Pret A Manger
The extra popular café chain, Pret A Manger, is located on Roman Road. It prides itself on creating handmade, natural food, freshly prepared in-shop every day. Their mission to eliminate waste by the end of the day means you might enjoy a deal as closing time approaches!
Caffè Nero
With its charming Italian-inspired aesthetic, Caffè Nero offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere on Bethnal Green Road. This is a strong option for vegans and vegetarians, with many food and drink options.
Map of the Best Bethnal Green Coffee Shops
Thanks for reading my Bethnal Green Cafe Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- Where to Brunch in Bethnal Green: 10 Best Breakfast Spots
- 19 Best Things to do in Shoreditch 2023 (+ Maps!)
- Shoreditch Street Art: Top 10 Unique Streets to See (+Map!)
- London Coffee Shop Guides
- London Brunch & Breakfast Guides
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
