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Drury 188-189 Covent Garden | Cafe & Brunch

Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom

Best café in Covent Garden

The "Drury 188-189 Covent Garden | Cafe & Brunch" in London, England, is a small, independent café that has evolved since its opening in December 2016 into one of the most popular and highly-rated cafes in the city. Founded by two best friends, Ali and Cemal, who left their previous jobs in the security and education sectors, the café was born out of a desire to create a space where people can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and form genuine connections. Located in the heart of Covent Garden, it offers an oasis of calm amidst the chaos, with a conscious decision to forgo Wi-Fi to encourage guests to focus on conversations, a good book, or simply enjoying the moment. The café has earned a reputation as the "best café in London and Covent Garden," thanks in part to numerous positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, where it is regularly honored with awards such as the Travellers’ Choice Award.

Café with fresh granola

The menu at "Drury 188-189" is diverse and places a strong emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, prepared by a talented team in an open kitchen. A highlight is the "French Toast," loved by many guests for its fluffy texture and sweet accompaniments like fresh berries or syrup, and considered one of the best in London. Also popular are the "Eggs Drury," a creative take on poached eggs on sourdough bread, which delight with perfectly balanced flavors such as herbs or avocado. For a lighter option, the "Homemade Granola with Greek Yogurt" offers a delicious combination of crunchy granola, creamy yogurt, and fresh fruits, making it both healthy and enjoyable. The homemade cakes, such as the "Pistachio Caramel Brownie," are another crowd-pleaser—rich, moist, and often described as irresistible, making them the perfect companion for coffee.

Cozy breakfast in London

The beverage selection is also an important part of the experience at "Drury 188-189." The coffee, roasted by Allpress Espresso in Dalston, East London, is praised by connoisseurs for its quality and balanced flavor and forms the centerpiece of the drink offerings. The "Freshly Squeezed Juices," featuring green ingredients like spinach and apple, provide a refreshing and healthy option that pairs perfectly with the meals. For those who prefer something alcoholic, there are locally brewed beers and organic wines that highlight the café's commitment to regional products.

Brunch with homemade cakes

The atmosphere at "Drury 188-189" is cozy and inviting, with decor that radiates warmth and character. The walls are adorned with drawings and notes from guests who have visited the café over the years, creating a personal and communal vibe. Particularly on weekends or during peak times, it can get busy, which only underscores the place's popularity and charm. The service is consistently friendly and warm—the staff greets guests with a smile and ensures everyone feels welcome, whether for a quick coffee stop or a leisurely brunch. The café is also known for its flexibility, offering takeaway options, making it ideal for those on the go.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
188-189 Drury Ln
WC2B 5QD London

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday8:00 - 18:00
Monday7:30 - 17:00
Tuesday7:30 - 17:00
17:30 - 22:00
Wednesday7:30 - 17:00
17:30 - 22:00
Thursday7:30 - 17:00
17:30 - 22:00
Friday7:30 - 17:00
17:30 - 22:30
Saturday8:00 - 18:00
18:30 - 22:30

Reviews

2709 Reviews

Y Hu
09.03.2025

Food is just Ok but absolutely not match its price, and general rating is totally overrated.
Teoh Wen Qi
09.03.2025

We came on a Sunday, and it was so crowded. We waited for quite a while (approximately an hour?) when the waiter said it wasn’t going to be a long wait. After we went it, a table of three of us + 1 dog was squeezed into a tiny square table. They didn’t ask for our allergies when we ordered our food as well. The food took very long to arrive as well. The food was meh, not as hyped as what other reviewers say. We ordered the hyped french toast and it was only meh. I have had better ones in London. And coffee was not what I would prefer, some may like it though. The ones with the sourdough was a big portion, worth it for the price. The one with english muffin was very small. The waiter had a very stern expression and didn’t smile at us throughout our time at the restaurant. (Could it be we were asians? I have no idea, but I spoke fluent English so language shouldn’t have been a problem). But with that they asked for £7 service charge 🤯 Anyways, I personally think a 4.8 star rating is really too much for such a cafe. I bear no ill will to the restaurant but paying £66 for what we had was quite disappointing.
Ola Augustyn
09.03.2025

Delicious eggs Benedict and most incredible baklava pancakes 🥞 highly recommend for good start the day.
Элтуран Нурдинов
09.03.2025

very tasty, I recommend it to everyone
P G7
09.03.2025

Great service and the food was exquisite!
Cécile Nguyen-Ngoc
08.03.2025

Nous sommes passés là par hasard pour boire un verre de vin, le prix est un peu cher mais le verre de vin vient avec plusieurs tapas fait maison délicieux + vin nature 👍🏻 ambiance hyper cosy, on reviendra pour le brunch !
Camille C.
08.03.2025

There was a small queue when my friend and I arrived, but the place was well worth the wait, which was actually very quick! It’s the perfect spot for a great brunch, and the smashed avocado sourdough toasts were delicious (especially with this great mint & lemon dressing!) The fresh juices are fantastic too. Thanks for this lovely moment!
Jialu Yan
08.03.2025

A Cozy Hidden Gem Near the British Museum** A perfect spot for intimate dates or relaxed evenings with friends! Tried the Charcuterie Board – loved the blue cheese with berry jam and prosciutto-melon pairing. The Gutturnio Superior (bold Red)paired beautifully with meats, while the Orange Wine offered a unique citrusy twist. ✨ Why I loved it: • Ambiance: Vintage books, candlelit tables, and jazz music create a warm, romantic vibe. • Natural Wines: Curated selection – staff happily let me sample before choosing! • Late-Night Quiet: A rare peaceful oasis in busy Soho after 8 PM. 📌 Tips: • Try the blue cheese – trust the jam pairing! • Ask for wine recommendations based on your taste. • Weekend nights get cozier than brunch crowds.
Winky Z
08.03.2025

great place to spend Friday night at central London, cozy and quiet place to chat
Caramb Rog
08.03.2025

Perfect place for a perfect brunch
Celia Cafiot
08.03.2025

On reviendra, c’est certain !!!! Ouvert tôt, nous avons fait la file 10 minutes avant d’être installés ( petite salle). Je me suis régalé avec ce bacon anglais. Les assiettes étaient très bonnes, les cafés et jus également . Le service est très attentionné et gentil. 65£ a deux, chacun une boisson en plus de nos plats (voir photo).
yseult vn
08.03.2025

Perfect.
Israel Mokwe
07.03.2025

It was an incredible night! Music and atmosphere and most importantly the food was delightful. I will 100% recommend this place for a day out with family and friends and especially a loved one!!
David Kamau
07.03.2025

An excellent place to dine and socialise.
Ilana Ri
07.03.2025

Delicious
Lorenzo Lioy
06.03.2025

we ate very well, pancakes and ice cream cup excellent. kind staff and quick to satisfy requests. excellent food pictures. to recommend
C Chen
24.04.2024

Used to visit here quite a lot and noticed the rise in popularity. Unfortunately we had to cue for 30 minutes outside even though there were plenty of empty tables. No one lead us in and even the white guy behind us cut the cue. Its confusing about the take-away cue and the dine-in cue. what an chaotic experience
Xia Z
06.03.2025

Absolutely love this hidden gem in central London! Drury 188-189 is the perfect spot for an intimate evening with amazing wine and delicious charcuterie. The Drury Charcuterie Board was beautifully presented, with a great selection of cured meats, cheeses, nuts, and fresh grapes. Pairing it with the Côtes du Rhône Rosé was a game-changer – light, fruity, and refreshing! The atmosphere is cozy, elegant, and perfect for a date night or a relaxed evening with friends. Service was top-notch, and the staff were incredibly knowledgeable about the wines. Highly recommend booking in advance – this place deserves all the hype!
Catherine Dumas
05.03.2025

Nous avons été émerveillé par la chaleur, la convivialité, l'accueil, l'efficacité, et nous nous sommes régalés 2 jours de suite (malheureusement ensuite nous quittions Londres) de petits déjeuners délicieux, faits de produits de qualité et servis généreusement !!!
Vanessa Brand
05.03.2025

Que delicia de café da manhã, tudo dá pra dividir em 2, super bem servidos os pratos e muito saborosos. Atendimento gentil e solícito. Serve muito bem pra brunch também. Chegamos bem cedo e não pegamos fila, porém quando fomos embora já estava se formando uma pequena fila, mas a rotatividade é rápida.
ismail mert akbulut
03.03.2025

Everything is perfect.Thanks for all hospitalty🙏🙏
V NM
02.03.2025

The coffee is great, the pastries too. The staff is friendly and the location is great. We’ve been here a couple of times and we really enjoy it. Would absolutely recommend.
Oliverrr Laila
01.03.2025

Had a great time at Drury 188-189! The gutturnio superiore red wine was rich and well-balanced, pairing perfectly with the salami and cheese—both fresh and full of flavor. The cozy, candle-lit atmosphere made it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening with good drinks and bites.
Nargiza Jorayeva
01.03.2025

Замечательное кафе! Уютная атмосфера, вкусный кофе и отличный сервис. Осталась в восторге и обязательно вернусь снова! ☕✨

 

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