The best cafés in Brixton

Parissi has a sunny atmosphere and flavoursome menu that'll transport you straight to the Mediterranean. This is a contemporary and relaxed place, complete with a secluded secret garden. The food offering is regularly updated, with dishes like mezze, frittata, toasties, and brunch favourites taking centre stage, while the eclectic array of hot and cold drinks includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Café on the Hill has an elegant dark exterior and is a cosy, family-run establishment. This compact venue serves coffee, smoothies, and milkshakes, plus a big choice of food. From fried breakfasts to burgers and sandwiches, there are plenty of options. The menu also includes dishes made just for kids.

Head to Brixton Blend for speciality coffee in a modern environment. Conveniently located near to the tube station, this lively Brixton coffee shop has its own signature blend and you can also buy beans to savour at home. Both the coffee beans and the food come from local suppliers.

If you're particular about your coffee, check out Stir Coffee, a rustic Brixton coffee shop with a laid-back, friendly feel and a resident pooch. A wide choice of drinks and snacks are available here – you can expect top-quality coffee along with cake and sandwiches. Craft beer and soft drinks are also on offer.

Breakfast fans can head to Sam's Café, which serves what they say is the biggest breakfast in Brixton. The understated café offers a classic British greasy spoon experience with loads of choice, including halal and veggie breakfasts. Other options include omelettes and paninis, plus coffee and milkshakes to drink.

Katakata is a colourful vegan café and community hub. It's a vibrant place with a friendly atmosphere, art on the walls, and a range of events like meditation classes. Plant-based dishes like galettes and salads are available here. Coffee, fresh juices and smoothies, and alcoholic drinks are also served.

Get a taste of Sicily when you visit San Marino, which has been open since 1993. This spacious corner café in Brixton offers a smart environment for trying traditional Italian recipes as well as café favourites like breakfasts, paninis, and jacket potatoes. Indoor and outdoor tables are available here.

In Market Row you'll see Express Café, an old-school counter-service eatery. It has a traditional look and a chequered floor. You'll find lots of options on the menu if you fancy a fried breakfast, plus omelettes, burgers, and sandwiches. Hot and cold drinks are also available here, as well as takeaways.

Brixton-based mini-chain F. Mondays has a cheeky name and lots of fun personality. First established in 2014, these bustling cafés have plants at the entrance and both indoor and outdoor tables. You can enjoy a hot or cold drink here, plus shop in the in-store grocery for bread, pastries, dairy, and kitchen cupboard essentials.

Homely Brixton café Madelina is a popular spot for brunch. It's a comfy space that has plenty of outdoor seating. The menu is simple but offers plenty of choice, including veggie and vegan dishes. Choose from cooked breakfasts, salads, sandwiches, bagels, and more, all served on colourful crockery.

Café Tana is a humble Brixton spot for classic café food. There are outdoor tables as well as a simple indoor space. Juices, hot drinks, and pastel de nata are available, as well as more filling food options. Expect hearty portions of popular dishes like fried breakfasts, jacket potatoes, and omelettes.

Neighbourhood favourite Brixtonia is low-key and relaxed. Framed pictures line the walls, music is on the speakers, and there are indoor and outdoor tables. Coffee, juices, and snacks are served here, and this community hub also offers services like photocopying, printing, and free wifi access.