Cafe Maya

Hearty Breakfast, Friendly Staff, Unbeatable Value

Ah, Cafe Maya—here's a spot that would make even a seasoned bruncher like myself kick back and add a grin to their java-sipping rostrum. Tucked away in the reliably charming Clerkenwell area, this cafe takes what could be a cliché-laden full English breakfast and gives it just enough panache to stand out amongst its numerous competitors. The menu reads like a breakfast enthusiast's fever dream scattered with Mediterranean touches like smashed avocado that's both unapologetically green and nostalgically abundant. As for the coffee—it wouldn't dare to shy from being heralded by many as the best cappuccino in the neighborhood.

Walking in feels much like entering someone's cozy attempt at an impromptu dinner party: warm, slightly chaotic, yet inherently comforting. The staff seem happy to be there, which infuses a jocular atmosphere between servers and diners like old friends meeting for the umpteenth time. Prices are mercilessly reasonable, astonishing given London’s notorious cafe price inflation. Yes, the occasional sticky sauce bottle may remind one of a well-loved local haunt rather than Michelin-star promise, but when the "Perfect portions" and "superb service" chorus rings echoing from every customer’s lips, one can hardly quibble over minuscule distractions. Whether you bask in the sunny corner sipping freshly squeezed juices or dig into a vast spread of flaky poached eggs with happy abandon, rest assured, Clinic on Street isn’t the only thing worth visiting in Clerkenwell. — Penelope Savory