1️⃣ What is a traditional English breakfast?
Traditional English breakfast, also known as Full English, is a robust, filling meal that has earned its status as a culinary icon of the UK. It usually consists of several basic elements:
- Eggs (usually fried or sautéed),
- bacon,
- Sausages (aka sausages),
- mushrooms,
- Beans in tomato sauce (baked beans),
- grilled tomato,
- Toasted or fried bread,
- Sometimes also black pudding (black pudding).
This meal is usually served in the morning, although many cafes and pubs offer it throughout the day. It's not just breakfast - it's a real ritual and a great way to start a day full of exploring London.
2️⃣ What to look for when choosing a venue?
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London has no shortage of establishments serving English breakfast, but not every one deserves to be called "real." Here are some things to look out for before choosing a place:
💠 Authenticity of the premises
Family cafes, small "greasy spoons" and pubs with history often offer the most classic versions of breakfast. Look for places that have been around for years and are locally popular.
💠 Ingredients
You will know a good English breakfast by the quality of the products - crispy bacon, juicy sausages, creamy beans, fresh eggs and well-baked toast make all the difference.
💠 Portions and price
This is supposed to be a substantial, filling breakfast - a decent portion at a good price. Sometimes it's worth paying a few pounds extra for higher quality and a full belly for half a day.
💠 Atmosphere and service
Many people return to a place precisely for the atmosphere. Whether it's the retro decor or the homey laid-back feel, the atmosphere matters. Nice service is also a big plus.
💠 Vegetarian and vegan options
If you don't eat meat or are on a plant-based diet, see if the restaurant offers alternatives - it's increasingly common to find delicious meatless versions of Full English.
3️⃣ Regency Café - classics in art déco style
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📍 Address: 17-19 Regency Street, Westminster, London SW1P 4BY
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri. 7:00-14:30, Sat. 7:00-12:00, Sun. closed
🌐Website
Regency Café is a true institution on London's breakfast map. Opened in 1946, it has retained its distinctive art déco style with black and white tiles, old photos on the walls and an open kitchen where you can peep into the preparation of each serving.
💠 What to order?
Of course, the classic English breakfast - with bacon, sausage, eggs, beans, mushrooms, tomato and toast. Plus the obligatory tea or coffee with large milk. The portions are specific and the quality of the ingredients is really high.
💠 Why is it worth it?
It's a place beloved not only by locals, but also tourists - it has even appeared in several movies, including "Layer Cake." The atmosphere, prices (very affordable for London - very affordable) and taste together create an authentic British experience.
💠 Tip:
Regency Café can be crowded, especially in the morning hours - it's a good idea to come just after opening. Also, remember that payment is only possible in cash.
Regency Café gained additional notoriety with the film "Layer Cake" (2004), which starred Daniel Craig himself. It is in this iconic establishment that one of the characteristic dialogue scenes takes place - the place perfectly captures the atmosphere of London's half-world that the film depicts. Thanks to this production, Regency Café has become not only a breakfast icon, but also a recognizable film location visited by movie fans from all over the world.
4️⃣ The Breakfast Club - a modern version of a classic
📍 Address (Soho branch): 33 D'Arblay Street, London W1F 8EU
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-22:00, Sat-Sun. 8:00-22:00
🌐Website
The Breakfast Club is a chain of popular breakfast establishments with a light, hipster vibe. Their first location in Soho has been open since 2005 and still draws crowds today. The interior is a mix of retro style and pop culture, with posters, old appliances and neon signs on the walls.
💠 What to order?
"The Full Monty" - is their proprietary version of the Full English breakfast: bacon, Cumberland sausages, mushrooms, beans, egg, tomato, hash brown and toast. A vege and vegan version is also available.
💠 Why is it worth it?
If you want classics with a modern twist and cool surroundings - this is the place for you. The food is fresh and impressively served, the service is friendly, and the menu is very diverse - perfect for brunch with friends as well.
💠 Tip:
On weekends in Soho, queuing before entering is the norm - you can visit a less crowded venue in London Bridge, Spitalfields or Hoxton, for example, or book a table online at select locations.
5️⃣ E. Pellicci - an Italian accent with a history
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👉 What is worth seeing?
📍 Address: 332 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 0AG
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon-Sat. 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. closed
🌐Website
E. Pellicci is an iconic café in East London, run by the same family since 1900. The restaurant is listed as a historic landmark, and its interior is a real treasure - veneered wood, mirrors and 1940s style create a unique atmosphere.
💠 What to order?
Their Full English breakfast is a classic with character - eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, mushrooms, toast and the obligatory tea. The portions are very filling, and everything is prepared with heart before the guests' eyes.
💠 Why is it worth it?
This is a place with a soul - not only through history, but also thanks to the staff, who treat guests like family. Pellicci is the real London - without pomp, but with a huge heart and delicious food.
💠 Tip:
The restaurant is not large, so it can be crowded, especially at breakfast time. If you want to avoid queues, aim for later in the week.
6️⃣ Terry's Café - local flair and fresh ingredients
📍 Address: 158 Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 1PE
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri. 7:00 am - 2:00 pm, Sat. 8:00-13:00, Sun. closed
🌐Website
Terry's Café is a family-run establishment that has been operating since the 1980s, located near Borough and Southwark. The place is famous for its homey atmosphere and full dedication to the idea of a "traditional English breakfast." The atmosphere here is very local - as if time has stopped and customers have been regulars for generations.
💠 What to order?
It's worth ordering the "Terry's Traditional" set. - which is a full English breakfast with top quality ingredients: juicy sausages from a local butcher, crispy bacon, fresh eggs, tomatoes, beans, mushrooms, hash browns and toast. A cup of tea or coffee can be added for dessert.
💠 Why is it worth it?
Terry's focuses on the quality and provenance of the ingredients - there's nothing mass-produced here. On top of that, the service is authentic, warm and engaged - many customers know each other by name. The restaurant also has a great reputation among locals.
💠 Tip:
The place is quite intimate, so it can be difficult to get a table during the morning peak. It's worth visiting just after opening or ordering a takeaway if you don't have time to wait.
7️⃣ Dishoom - English breakfast with an Indian twist
📍 Address: 42 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, London SW11 8AL
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00-23:00 (breakfast until about 11:45)
🌐 Website
Dishoom is a unique place inspired by the old cafes of Mumbai. Although known mainly for its Indian cuisine, their proprietary approach to breakfast has won the hearts of Londoners. The restaurant serves one of the most original versions of Full English - with spices and unique flavors.
💠 What to order?
We recommend "Big Bombay" - a reinterpretation of the classic English breakfast. It includes grilled lamb sausage, tandoor bacon, eggs, grilled mushrooms, masala beans, homemade bread and spicy tomato sauce. Vegan and vegetarian versions also available.
💠 Why is it worth it?
This breakfast is a feast of flavors - familiar ingredients, but in a whole new way. Perfect for those who want to try something unique, yet filling and robust. On top of that, the interior is delightful - it transports you to an atmospheric café from the 1960s.
💠 Tip:
Dishoom is a very popular place - even for breakfast there can be queues. If you can, book a table in advance or come right away when it opens.
8️⃣ Is it worth booking a table?
When it comes to breakfasts in London, it may seem like booking is overkill - after all, it's "just" a morning meal. But the reality is that many popular English breakfast establishments are very popular - especially on weekends and in tourist areas.
💠 Regency Café - does not accept reservations, the first-come, first-served rule applies. It is advisable to show up early in the morning to avoid queues.
💠 The Breakfast Club - Reservations possible only in some branches (e.g. Canary Wharf), in Soho you have to queue.
💠 E. Pellicci - Does not accept reservations. Small venue, so morning crowds are almost guaranteed.
💠 Terry's Café - also no reservations, but service is efficient and traffic is smooth - it's worth coming as soon as it opens.
💠 Dishoom - It's definitely worth booking a table, especially if you plan to have breakfast on the weekend. This can be done online a few days in advance.
💠 To summarize:
If you care about a specific establishment, avoid waiting and have breakfast in a quiet atmosphere - booking (if possible) is a very good idea. If not - come early and arm yourself with a little patience.
9️⃣Podsumowanie - where to eat the best English breakfast in London?
English breakfast is not just a meal - it's part of British culture. You'll find dozens of places in London serving this classic, but if you're after quality, atmosphere and an authentic experience, it's worth betting on established establishments.
💠 Regency Café - For fans of classics in a movie setting.
💠 The Breakfast Club - A modern version of breakfast with a colorful interior.
💠 E. Pellicci - history, family atmosphere and food straight from the heart of London.
💠 Terry's Café - fresh ingredients and local flair, away from the tourist crowds.
💠 Dishoom - Something different: an English breakfast with an oriental twist.
Each of these places offers something unique - whether you're looking for a classic, a modern approach or a culinary adventure with spices. Pick one... or preferably visit all five and decide for yourself which English breakfast tastes best!
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