Exploring the Best Breakfasts in London: A Guide for Residents and Tourists

Introduction to London Breakfasts

London is a city that serves up a diversity of breakfast options, ranging from luxurious hotel spreads to humble, traditional 'greasy spoon' cafes. The best breakfast experience is highly subjective and can vary based on personal taste and budget. From the posh and pricey to the down-to-earth and budget-friendly, let's delve into some of London's finest breakfast establishments.

What is the Best Breakfast in London?

There is no single nicest breakfast in London, as the definition of nicest can vary widely depending on personal preferences. Some might value a fancy hotel breakfast with a wide selection and artistic presentation, while others might prefer a hearty, traditional English fry-up at a 'greasy spoon' café with all the comfort food they can handle.

Fortnum and Mason at Royal Exchange

Fortnum and Masonis a famous department store that offers a delightful breakfast experience at their restaurant in the Royal Exchange. The menu is diverse, catering to all tastes, and the ambiance is upscale and sophisticated. It's the perfect place for those who enjoy a posh and refined breakfast experience.

Local Greasy Spoon at Cutty Sark, Greenwich

For a more traditional and cozy experience, head to The Cutty Sark in Greenwich. While not fancy, this 'greasy spoon' serves an impressive array of English fry-ups and offers vegetarian options as well. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike who want to fully enjoy a classic English breakfast.

Regency Cafe in Pimlico

For those seeking a more traditional and nostalgic experience, the Regency Cafe in Pimlico is a must-visit. This Art Deco café from 1946 offers a charming traditional English breakfast. It's a bit of a gap-toothed affair with a no-frills approach, emphasizing friendly service and hearty food. The café has a retro feel with its black-and gold decor and clear, straight-ahead ordering etiquette. The food here is simple but satisfying, and it's the perfect place to experience a bit of old-school London.

Wetherspoon’s Standard English Breakfast

There are also options for those looking for a budget-friendly and straightforward breakfast. Wetherspoon's is a popular chain with many London locations. Their cooked breakfasts are quite good value, with a set menu that includes bacon, sausages, egg, beans, mushrooms, and a couple of rashers of back bacon. They also offer a vegetarian option and other breakfast offerings like pancakes, porridge, avocado bagels, and toast. The coffee is served from a self-service machine, but the prices are very reasonable, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

High-End Hotel Buffets

For a truly exceptional and luxurious breakfast experience, consider checking out the Wolseley Hotel in Mayfair. The breakfast at this hotel is so good that it inspired a book by AA Gill, titled The Best Breakfast in the World. Egg Benedict and Kedgeree are particularly excellent here. Alternatively, the breakfast at Hawksmoor Guildhallis a massive portion that fills you up for the rest of the day. However, the true artery-destroying experience comes with short-rib bubble and squeak and bone marrow, which are a must-try.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From the views of the Royal Exchange to the cozy corners of Pimlico, and from the hearty meals at 'greasy spoon' cafes to the high-end experience at luxury hotels, London has something for everyone when it comes to breakfast. Whether you prefer a traditional fry-up, a fancy hotel spread, or a budget-friendly meal at your local pub, London's breakfast scene is rich and varied. So, the best breakfast in London largely depends on your personal taste and budget, and there's no better place to explore this than the City of London.