Popular Cafe

85 Lever St, London EC1V 3RA, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(60 Reviews)

If you're wandering through the vibrant streets of London, make sure to take a detour to Popular Cafe, nestled at 85 Lever St, London EC1V 3RA. This charming café is not just a spot to grab a quick bite; it's an enticing blend of English and Italian culinary tradition, creating an atmosphere that invites you to linger a little longer.

The moment you step inside, you're greeted by the warm aromas of freshly brewed coffee and the delightful sizzle of breakfast being prepared. The owner, Raimondo, exudes a welcoming spirit, ensuring that every customer feels like a cherished guest rather than just another patron. With his friendly demeanor and engaging stories about Italy, it's no wonder that visitors leave feeling not only satisfied but enriched by a beautiful exchange.

When it comes to the menu, Popular Cafe excels in comfort food that is both affordable and heartwarming. Their famed bacon butty is a standout — imagine fresh focaccia, perfectly toasted, cradling crispy bacon and sautéed mushrooms, creating a symphony of texture and flavor. As Peter Cumming raves, it’s "the best bacon butty in London," making it a must-try for anyone looking for a meal that doesn’t break the bank but exceeds expectations on taste.

Whether you start your day with a hearty English breakfast or choose a delicious Italian coffee that brings you back for more, every dish reflects a commitment to quality. Marlene Rothkirch, a loyal patron, shares her appreciation for the café’s affordable and tasty English breakfast, and you'll find that each meal is crafted with love and attention to detail.

The sheer variety on offer, combined with the café's flexible menu options, means that there’s something for everyone. Alice Chan notes the improvements made under new ownership, highlighting friendly service and customizable dishes. It's this commitment to customer satisfaction that ensures visitors leave with more than just a delicious meal; they leave with memorable experiences.

Popular Cafe stands as a beacon of value in one of London's pricier neighborhoods. The café has garnered a devoted clientele, including international travelers and locals alike, drawn in by the prospect of good food, engaging conversation, and the possibility of discovering London’s culinary hidden gems. Don’t miss out on this brilliant spot — your taste buds will thank you!

Whether you're a weary traveler staying at a nearby hotel or a Londoner seeking a slice of comforting cuisine, make Popular Cafe your next stop. You're bound to leave with a smile, a full stomach, and perhaps a new friend in Raimondo. Call ahead at +44 20 7253 2570 and get ready to enjoy a delightful experience that bridges cultures through the joy of food.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Coffee
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

60 Reviews
ilidio pereira

04 Sep 2025

Really amazing place and good value for food ... delicius italian coffe with home made fresh food

Domenico Brunetti

24 Aug 2025

I was attracted to this place by the Italian flag and there I found old style joint that combines the best of English and Italian food and service. The owner is very friendly, prices are shockingly low for that part of London. At 7:30 in the morning I had a delicious bacon roll, a strong espresso and a lovely chat with Raimondo. Great way to start the day.

Peter Cumming

19 Aug 2025

This unsuspecting cafe is home to the best bacon butty in London. Fresh focaccia, lightly toasted, egg, bacon & mushrooms. All served with a friendly smile.

Thanet Leaflet Distribution

12 Aug 2025

Staying in the hotel across the road, I popped in here for breakfast this morning. The coffee is the best I’ve ever had and breakfast was great value for money. Had a fascinating talk with the owner about Italy and made to feel very welcome. I wish you well for the future Raymondo, you are a credit to the food industry. Steve

Byron Pollard

16 Jun 2025

Me and my friend found this little cafe on our second day visit to London we were staying at The Barbican Thistle Hotel over the road on Lever St who were charging £12 pp for breakfast .We declined there offer as we wasn't willing to pay over the odds for a cooked breakfast but do understand that London can be very expensive. On entering the cafe , the owner greeted us with a smile , we couldn't believe the price difference just by walking over the road has a cooked breakfast was between £3.50 to £5.95 depending on what size you wanted , so over half the price of the hotel, all the ingredients was of good quality, hot and so extremely excellent value for money. The owner explained to us all about the history of London and Italy where he was from , he was such an interesting character and full of the local history and knowledge. If we ever visit this area of London again we would definitely go back here for a meal , keep up the good work.

Marlene Rothkirch

14 Jun 2025

I've been going for three years to have the amazing English breakfast, the service is great, friendly and has interesting stories to tell! The food is cheap but does not taste cheap. :)

Alice Chan

03 Jun 2025

Much better since the new ownership and update. Friendly staff, good food and flexible with their set menus on switching bits in and out to suit your tastes.

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