Marina Cafe

£8 - £20 / African, Greek, Mediterranean, Turkish, Arabic, Vegetarian options

36 High Rd, London

Opening hours

6AM-8PM

Sunday 6AM-8PM
Monday 6AM-8PM
Tuesday 6AM-8PM
Wednesday 6AM-8PM
Thursday 6AM-8PM
Friday 6AM-9PM
Saturday 6AM-9PM

Cozy Cafe with Unforgettable Pancakes

I recently visited the delightful enclave called Marina Cafe, nestled in the bustling area of Willesden, and was immediately drawn to its unique charm. From the kaleidoscope of accents among the staff to the selection of both Turkish specialties and British classics, this spot is a fusion foodie's dream. The cafe hums with a lively energy that's slightly contagious, seemingly pulling both locals and newcomers into a rhythmic dance of coffee cups clinking and conversations flowing. There's an intoxicating aroma of fresh pancakes and impeccably brewed coffee that greets guests the moment they step through the door, fully justifying their praise as the best in town.

During my visit, the service stood out for its warmth and attentiveness. Waitresses like Lulu and Katy were gracefully bustling about, ensuring each patron felt personally attended to—no mean feat in such a buzzing locale. I ordered their famed French toast alongside an adventurous pistachio latte, both tempting and soulful, perfect to start any day on a high note. Though there were minor creases with cramped seating and listless ambient lighting indoors, these seemed trivial setbacks in the grand tapestry of the Marina experience. To have full-bodied flavors presented against the backdrop of cozy, joyful chaos is a charm in itself—a universe worth returning to. — Audrey Al Dente