The Rugged Bunch

Heartfelt Service and London's Best Coffee

If there's one thing London café culture isn't short of, it's cozy little corner spots that tenderly nudge the soul open with the scent of fresh coffee. But every so often, you stumble upon a place like this little joint near the British Museum that balances being a proverbial local gem with an air of whimsical charm that would put your regular spot on any city guide's must-visit list. At the heart of this warm enclave are Federico and Valentina, along with an ensemble of spirited staff who go out of their way to serve rich concoctions with all the friendliness and flair of a close-knit Italian family. It's rare to find an establishment where you'd willingly be on a first-name basis with the entire team after just a couple of visits, but here, you do – and it's enchanting.

Strolling into the café is like hitting the espresso jackpot – from a downright exquisite dirty chai latte to perfect almond milk lattes tailored for the discerning palate. Food options beam comfort: thick and glorious toasties sizzling with cheese and fried onions, and even an enchanting spicy avocado toast that's mere comfort spread on a crunchy, heavenly silva platter. While the menu is sizeably small, it strikes a perfect punch like a heavyweight in training. Conversations waft vigorously in a fun, vibrant atmosphere that perhaps is just loud enough to bolster camaraderie rather than silent pensiveness. Popping in for a bite or a morning jolt is well accompanied by vibrant tunes baking the air warm, ensuring both smiles and stomachs are wholesomely fed. It’s a cheerful sanctuary nestled amidst London’s hustle, akin to finding a fleece on Stonehenge – extraordinary, unexpected, and wonderfully necessary. — Milo Tastemaker