Looking for the best cafes in Hackney? From local independents to East London chain classics, here’s where to get your sip on in the area — like a Londoner.
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Hackney and good coffee go together like bread and wine.
Maybe it’s the East London postcode or perhaps it’s just the Hackney way.
Either way, when it comes to Hackney cafes, the list doesn’t disappoint.
As a previous East Londoner and consistent coffee lover, I’ve learned a thing or two about coffee shops in Hackney, so from me to you — here are the ones worth checking out.
The Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in Hackney, London
1. Franzè & Evans Café Hackney
203, 213 Mare St, Studios, London E8 3QE
Funnily enough, I’m actually writing this from Franzè & Evans Café — and it’s definitely earned its place on the list.
The family-owned business serves up the very best of British and Italian food (and of course, a mean Hackney coffee), right on the bustling Mare Street.
All their beans are straight from South London roasters, and seating and outlets are plenty. Perfect for cozying up with a hot cuppa and banging out your work for the day.
If you get a bit peckish, they also have a full-on breakfast and brunch menu along with small bites to keep you going, with a special emphasis on quality ingredients.
2. Climpson & Sons Café
67 Broadway Market, London E8 4PH
Climpson & Sons Café has been in the Hackney cafe scene for quite some time, and it’s easy to see why.
The specialty coffee roasters started as a humble market stall on Broadway Market in the early 2000’s, transforming 20 years later into one of London’s biggest go-to’s for sustainable beans.
The staff is uber-friendly and they’ve got a wide selection of roasts for my coffee aficionados.
Top it off with a pastry and rich views of Broadway Market for a day well sorted.
3. Wilton Way Cafe
63 Wilton Way, London E8 1BG
A lot of great businesses started on Wilton Way, including the externally-lovely Wilton Way Cafe.
The no-fuss coffee house is a pro in the art of East London pick-me-ups, with specialty coffee brewed by Climpson & Sons and a small deli with delicious lunch staples.
Its local charm has quickly made it a favourite for Wilton Way and Hackney residents alike, so prepare to hear customers on a first-name basis!
They’re also home to the London Fields Radio show if you’re a fan.
4. E5 Bakehouse
396 Mentmore Terrace, London E8 3PH
If the E5 Bakehouse has found its way into your Tik Tok algorithm, you’re not alone.
The viral bakeshop has been kicking it since 2010 and is well-known as one of the best cafes in Hackney.
Ethically baked goods are the specialty here, along with an excellent lunch menu (fluffy Focaccia Sandwich anyone?), freshly brewed coffee, fine hot drinks, and yummy pastries and cakes.
In other words, there’s something for everyone here, so if you’re looking for a cafe in Hackney that will leave you full — this is it.
5. 21 SID
21 Sidworth St, London E8 3SD
21 SID is an Italian cafe and Artisan bakery plopped on Sidworth Street.
Founded by self-taught baker Laura La Faro, everything made here is done with love — and it shows.
Delve into their Hackney coffee classics from flat whites to Chai, or have a go at their homemade pastries, cookies and Focaccias of the day.
P.S – They also do really good smoothies and frappes here too!
Read More: The Best Brunch & Breakfast Spots in Hackney
6. Finch Café
12 Sidworth St, London E8 3SD
If you want your cafe in Hackney experience to go beyond just the food, then it’s time to pay a visit to Finch Café.
On the sustenance side, they dabble in a fine array of Middle Eastern favourites — from Avocado and mushroom wraps to Roast Chicken Shawarma. And ample space for popping in with your laptop too.
But if you’re looking to spice things up, definitely pay a visit for their live jazz nights on Saturday! With local artists, drinks, and everything you need for a good East London time.
P.S – They also double as a multi-purpose venue if you’re ever looking to hire out a space
7. Paradox Design + Coffee
13 – 23 Westgate street Unit A Netil Market, London E8 3RL
A half-cafe half-design studio couldn’t get more Hackney, and that’s exactly why we love it.
Paradox Design + Coffee was started by husband and wife Zain Kara-Bernou and Katherine Miskulin, who decided to build something that put all their passions together in one — good coffee, creativity, and good design.
As such, the small and beautiful Hackney coffee shop serves an incredible range of coffee (for very decent prices). And their Rose Chai with Oat Milk is made of dreams.
8. Hackney Coffee Company
503 Hackney Rd, London E2 9ED
For a Hackney cafe that takes its coffee seriously (very seriously), look no further than the Hackney Coffee Company.
The Hackney coffee shop staple has made a name for itself in the East London artisan coffee scene, starting with a small shop on 499 Hackney Road after a South American road trip and some very good Colombian coffee inspired them to bring better brews to London.
Nowadays, you can find them on 503 Hackney Road (right next door) in an upcycled cafe haven — filled with high-ceiling, second-hand furniture, and everything you’d expect from a Hackney cafe, delicious locally-brewed coffee included.
9. Flying Horse Coffee
MARE STREET MARKET, E8 4RU
It’d be hard to be a coffee lover in London and not have heard of Flying Horse Coffee. But just in case you haven’t…
Splattered across London, the Hackney coffee brewers easily take the ranks for one of the best coffee shops in Hackney, let alone East London, let alone London!
Their Hackney location is just a small walkup with outdoor seating, so not the best for hunkering down with a laptop.
But if it’s a nice day, it’s a splendid place to grab a quality brew and take a walk in the nearby Victoria Park.
10. Sadie’s
224 Graham Rd, London E8 1BP
Female-owned with epically good coffee, Sadie’s is easily one of the best cafes in Hackney.
Outside of its fun and funky decor, Sadie’s is on a mission to challenge gender equality in the hospitality industry — with all their coffee, products, and alcohol sourced from female-owned companies.
They’re right outside Hackney Central station as well, so great for popping in and getting some work done alongside their wide range of coffee, cocktails, pastries, and light bites.
P.S – They also host tons of events year-round for female-owned businesses and meetups
Map of the Best Cafes in Hackney, London
Happy sipping,
