One of North London’s trendiest and liveliest neighbourhoods is Islington. As such, its hip cafés, eateries and specialty coffee shops are the driving forces behind its bustling brunch scene. Both residents and tourists enjoy brunch as a weekend rite.
Brunch’s popularity is a reflection of Islington’s laid-back way of living. People in the neighbourhood appreciate hanging out with friends and enjoying delicious food and drink, and the area has an artistic, bohemian air. Enjoying a leisurely breakfast on Saturday or Sunday mornings has evolved into a quintessential aspect of the community’s culture. It’s a chance to relax, see friends, or just people watch.
There are several charming independent restaurants and Instagram-worthy eateries among Islington brunch favourites. Everywhere you go, you can count on inventive takes on traditional brunch fare like avocado toast, eggs benedict, pancakes, and more, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. For example, The Breakfast Club is known for its halloumi hash, and Lantana Cafe is well-known for its blueberry and lemon ricotta pancakes.
Third Rail is a favourite when it comes to coffee because of its skillfully brewed cups made with beans from renowned roasters. Grind, on the other hand, focuses on filter coffee produced from beans that rotate by origin. And an Islington brunch wouldn’t be complete without a visit to independent favourite Climpson & Sons, where you can get artisanal coffee bags to-go.
In addition, Islington welcomes non-traditional and wholesome brunch alternatives that cater to all dietary needs, such as Season’s plant-based brunch menu and Legs’ wholesome bowls. Traditional British fry-ups are still a hit at straightforward neighbourhood mainstays like Molly’s Cafe.
Cocktails for brunch have also become popular. The Blood Orange Bellini at the Italian restaurant Ottolenghi, the Poison Apple cocktail at High Water (tequila and apple juice), and the cool English Garden beverage at Frederick’s (gin, elderflower, and thyme) are our top choices for wild brunch cocktails.
The brunch scene in Islington is bustling all weekend long. On weekends, however, the neighborhood’s eateries, pubs, and cafes come alive from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Locations often fill up quickly, so plan to arrive early or be ready to wait. If you have to wait in queue, bring a good book or the morning paper because brunch is worth it.
Weekend brunch venues in Islington have a bustling, yet relaxed vibe. The diverse array of patrons includes young professionals recuperating from a hangover, couples engrossed in reading, families with young children, and groups reconnecting over endless mimosas. People are excitedly tucking into their lunches as laughter and chatter fill the air. Behind them, coffee makers churn. Servers hustle.
Islington is conveniently accessible for both residents and guests arriving for brunch, as it is well-connected to central London through the tube and buses. The district’s primary road, Upper Street, is a hub for hotspots. Top brunch options may also be found on Islington High Street and Cross Street. No matter where you wander, there are delicious brunch options close by.
Islington’s brunch menus are always changing, although classic full English breakfasts and avocado toast are still important items. These days, you can find inventive eggs benedicts topped with fried chicken or cured salmon, upgraded pancakes made with ingredients like tahini, orange blossom water, or black sesame, and brunch bowls made with grains and greens. Seasonal changes in specials ensure that there’s always something fresh to try.
Brunch has become a beloved weekend habit for many people. Enjoying a leisurely meal with friends or family provides a break from the fast-paced lifestyle of London. Eating, drinking, and people watching for hours on end captures the laid-back vibe of Islington. There are many of great cafes and restaurants in the area, making the brunch scene there diverse, high-caliber, and lively. Going out for brunch has become ingrained in Islington’s culture, and it’s much more than just a meal.