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GAIL's Bakery Notting Hill

You probably already know GAIL’s, but the Notting Hill location is especially useful during Carnival season. It’s quick, consistent, and stacked with golden pastries and crusty loaves. The flat whites are reliably smooth, and the almond croissant should be protected by the British Museum. Grab something to go, or snag a seat and let your feet recover over something flaky.

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Good Measure

Right on lively Lygon Street, Good Measure brings a cool, laid-back edge to the neighbourhood’s café scene. It’s the kind of spot that feels both relaxed and sharp, with smooth coffee, a playlist that leans more indie than mainstream, and a menu full of unexpected treats like matcha cheesecake and ramen eggs.

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Chris Mo

Head In The Cloud Coffee

Just off Chapel Street, this welcoming café focuses on single-origin beans and carefully roasted blends. Their signature flat white is smooth with warm aromatics and a velvety mouthfeel. The barista team brings both energy and expertise, making every visit feel special, even on an ordinary weekday. It's a spot that lives up to its name: the coffee will genuinely lift your mood.

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L’ETO Soho

L’ETO feels more like cake than coffee, which is fine, because the pastries are irresistible. Think fluffy sponges, scones, and flavorful baked items. They offer simple meals, Turkish-style breakfasts, and fun twists like halloumi chips. The vibe is friendly and upbeat, a little louder than your typical café, but full of energy.

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Energy Café

Energy Café may be small, but it’s packed with local charm. The staff go out of their way to make you feel at home, whether that means helping with trays or remembering your order. The coffee is spot on and the food options are more than decent. It's also child-friendly, which makes it a real bonus for student parents.

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Filo (South Kensington)

Filo may be small, but it makes a lasting impression with its standout bakes and well-crafted drinks. The pecan Danish and mango smoothie are especially good, and pair beautifully with a latte or mocha. Nestled between campus life and the cultural scene of South Kensington, it’s a pleasant in-between stop.

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EL&N London

Just a few minutes from Imperial, EL&N offers visually pleasing lattes and stylish cakes like their saffron and strawberry creations. It’s a polished space with quick, friendly service. Whether you fancy a pour-over, a traditional espresso or a slice of something sweet, it’s a solid café option.

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Da Bang Coffee

Da Bang feels like a hidden treasure: small, aesthetic, and intimate. You’ll find cozy bench seats and picturesque cups against exposed brick. It’s the kind of place where the owner greets you by name, but lets you open your laptop without a single prompt. The coffee and the pastries are simple but well-made. It’s an easy space to pause, think, and breathe in Surry Hills.

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The Hood - Paddington

Tucked away on William Street, The Hood has a small menu, but everything on it is solid. The service is warm and welcoming, and if you’re lucky, you’ll snag one of the seats out front where you can soak in the street scene. It’s a great stop if you're planning to explore Paddington’s quieter backstreets, and even better if you want to settle in with something hot and watch the world roll by.