Best Places to Eat Breakfast in Islington and Holloway
Whether you have an early start or benefit from flexible working, popping out for a late breakfast or delicious brunch is a perfect way to take a break and fuel up for the day ahead. We’ve scoured the local area to find some of the best breakfast options in Holloway and Islington for you.
Best Breakfast in Islington
The BARN
60 Holloway Rd, London N7 8JL
A cozy café blending exceptional coffee crafted by highly trained baristas with a homely atmosphere and delicious homemade food.
The BARN is a warm and welcoming café on Holloway Road, run by three brothers who share a passion for creating a home-away-from-home experience for their customers. Renowned for its consistently high coffee standards, The Barn combines the finest beans, cutting-edge technology, and skilled baristas to deliver a truly unique coffee experience to start your day off right.
Alongside the exceptional coffee, guests can enjoy homemade cakes and an all-day breakfast and lunch menu, all served in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
This is the second time we have featured The BARN on our list of top local businesses. We also noted it as one of the best cafes in Islington and Holloway.
How to get there
Popping out to the BARN couldn’t be easier as it is only a 10 minute walk from Electric Works N7. Simply head toward Holloway Road and turn right. You will find the BARN less than half a mile away, just past Islington Central Library.
Urban Cafe & Bistro
103 St Paul’s Rd, London N1 2NA
https://www.urbancafebistro.co.uk/
A charming cafe and bistro in Islington offering fresh, high-quality Italian and French cuisine in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Urban Cafe & Bistro in Islington is your go-to spot for a relaxed dining experience with a delightful fusion of Italian and French cuisine. Specializing in fresh, high-quality dishes, the spot serves everything from authentic Italian pastas and classic French delicacies to a daily breakfast selection perfect for starting your day right.
Their menu caters to all tastes, whether you’re stopping in for a quick coffee and pastry or indulging in a hearty breakfast. With a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, reviewers praise Urban Cafe & Bistro as the perfect destination for new and returning customers alike.
How to get there
The Urban Cafe and Bistro is a little farther away than some of the other eateries on our list. It’s a 17 minute walk from Electric Works N7, or you can jump on a bus outside London Metropolitan University (Bus Stop SY), which will get you there in just over 10 minutes.
If you want to walk, head south down Holloway Road and turn left into St Paul’s Road. The Bistro will be on your right.
Fig Tree Cafe
228 St Paul’s Rd, London N1 2LJ
A rustic coffee shop serving freshly baked bread, wholesome meals, and a personalized, welcoming experience.
Nestled in a cozy, rustic coffee shop adorned with warm wood interiors, this spot is a gem that delivers an unforgettable breakfast experience. Whether it’s the fresh, tasty chicken salad loaded with grilled veggies or the house-baked olive ciabatta crafted into a perfect sandwich, every dish showcases the chef’s passion for quality and freshness.
Mustafa, the charming owner, and his friendly team make every visit feel special with their welcoming service and thoughtful touches, like complimentary homemade biscuits. From hearty salads to artisan sandwiches made with bread fresh out of the oven, this café is the go-to destination for those seeking real, wholesome breakfast food in a charming, intimate atmosphere.
How to get there
The Fig Tree Cafe is on the same street as Urban Cafe and Bistro, just a little farther down the road at number 228 St Paul’s Road. It’s only another 3 minutes away on foot. The same bus routes from Electric Works N7 – 43, 21, and 393 – will deliver you to the Highbury and Islington Station Bus Stop.
Best Breakfast in Holloway
Rabbit Hole Cafe
411A Holloway Rd, London N7 6HJ
https://www.rabbitholecafe.co.uk/
A cozy, halal-friendly café offering creative dishes, daily Sunday roasts, and exceptional hospitality in the heart of Holloway Road.
Rabbit Hole Cafe is a vibrant, unique gem located on Holloway Road in North London, known for its welcoming atmosphere and creative takes on classic dishes. Open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, this cozy café is a haven for brunch lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and anyone seeking delicious freshly prepared breakfasts.
With a diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences and no alcohol on the premises, the café creates an inclusive and family-friendly environment. The attentive, friendly staff make every visit feel like home, explaining menu options and ensuring top-notch service. Paired with its inviting ambiance, tasty coffee, and irresistible desserts, Rabbit Hole Cafe is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed breakfast.
How to get there
The Rabbit Hole Cafe is only a short walk away north on Holloway Road, so it is easy to stop in mid-morning or on your way to work. Turn left out of Electric Works N7, cross over Camden Road and Parkhurst Road, and The Rabbit Hole Cafe will be on your left.
Coffee Zee
266 Holloway Rd, London N7 6NE
https://www.instagram.com/coffeezeeholloway/
A cozy café with creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, homemade cornbread specialties, and a relaxing environment ideal for breakfast, brunch, working, or relaxing.
This charming café is a treasure, offering a delightful mix of cozy atmosphere, exceptional breakfast food, and outstanding service. Bruch specials include Sourdough Toast and creatively crafted vegetarian options like smoked cheddar cornbread with crushed avocado, and jalapeño. The attention to detail is evident, from the beautifully thought-out décor to the owner’s hands-on approach, making guests feel truly welcome.
Whether you’re enjoying a cappuccino with bread pudding, trying the unique chai latte, or savoring poached egg or two, there’s something for everyone. With soft music, a relaxed environment, Wi-Fi, and charging stations, this café is not just a great spot for meals but also perfect for studying or working. It’s a must-visit breakfast destination for locals and travelers alike—once you stumble upon it, you’ll want to return again and again.
How to get there
Coffee Zee is one of the closest breakfast spots that we rate as the best in the area. Head toward Holloway Road from Electric Works N7 and turn left. Walk under the bridge and cross the road, and Coffee Zee will be on your right, next door to Fireaway Pizza and directly opposite Sainsbury’s Local.
Titanic Cafe
306 Holloway Rd, London N7 6NJ
https://placejuice.com/titanic-cafe-kohblia
A cozy café offering the best English breakfasts in London, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere with standout vegetarian options.
This café is a true gem, blending the charm of a traditional greasy spoon with modernized interiors and a welcoming atmosphere. Renowned for serving some of the best English breakfasts in London, it offers hearty portions at affordable prices, including a standout full veggie breakfast and other vegetarian options that cater thoughtfully to all preferences. Whether you’re indulging in a classic bacon plate or trying a chef-crafted dish made to order, the food is always piping hot, satisfying, and full of flavour.
With friendly staff who go out of their way to ensure a great experience, this spot is not just a place to eat but a community hub where regulars and newcomers alike feel at home. Perfect for a nostalgic visit or discovering hidden gems, it’s the ideal choice for those seeking great value, delicious food, and genuine hospitality.
How to get there
Titanic Cafe is a little farther north on Holloway Road, but still less than 10 minute’s walk away. After you leave Electric Works N7, turn left and cross the road. Titanic Cafe will be on your right, just before Mailboxes Etc.
If you’re interested in more local attractions check out our other local area content. We have already covered local cafes and some of the best pub beer gardens in North London.
This abundance of great quality local cafes is just one of the reasons Electric Works N7 is the perfect home for your business, whether you are looking for a flexible office or a collaborative working space, or just looking to expand, our Islington and Holloway office space is just what you need. Get in touch and see how we can help your business thrive.