The Observatory Coffee Shop

Located in: London

The Observatory Coffee Shop

Rating: 4.5 / 5 (301 reviews)

Perfect Blend of Art and Coffee

Experience a delightful escape at this café, where the ambiance is enhanced by captivating photography displays and a cozy atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for coffee lovers and those looking to unwind or get some work done. With a limited but delicious menu, friendly staff, and a peaceful setting just a short stroll from Russel Square, it’s a hidden gem that promises a pleasant visit. Enjoy a beautifully crafted drink, and don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in its unique artistic vibe!

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Description

Nestled in a tranquil corner near Russel Square, this charming café offers an inviting atmosphere that artfully blends the world of photography with the rich experience of coffee drinking. As you walk in, you are greeted by an aesthetic charm — the walls adorned with captivating photography that invites you to appreciate the stories each piece tells. The café’s minimalistic design creates a serene space that is perfect for both catching up with friends and indulging in some quiet work time.

The café is well-loved for its decent coffee and delightful breakfast offerings. Customers rave about the great range of drinks available, from luscious lattes sporting beautiful latte art to comforting teas, creatively served in glass pots. The attention to detail in every cup, particularly for tea lovers, makes it a special spot for those who value a well-prepared beverage. While personal opinions about the pricing vary, many agree that the quality of the coffee here sets it apart from typical coffee spots in central London.

One of the main highlights of this café is its dual-level seating arrangement, where you can choose to enjoy the buzz of the ground floor or retreat to the quieter downstairs area for a more focused working environment. It boasts ample seating, power sockets, and decent Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for remote workers or students looking for a cozy nook to get things done. The welcoming staff are frequently praised for their friendliness and efficiency, ensuring that every visit feels as pleasant as possible.

The atmosphere remains consistently calm and inviting, providing a much-needed escape from the busy streets of London. Whether you’re there to savor a delicious avocado toast, indulge in a delectable pastry, or simply immerse yourself in the intriguing art on display, this café stands out as a true gem. Its charming blend of creativity, comfort, and quality makes it a must-visit for both locals and travelers seeking a memorable café experience.

Highlights

  • Artistic Ambiance: Experience a beautifully decorated cafe that seamlessly blends photography and coffee, featuring rotating art exhibitions.
  • Cozy and Quiet Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful environment perfect for light work, reading, or catching up with friends, with a cozy setup both upstairs and downstairs.
  • Variety of Seating: Choose from plenty of seating options, including communal tables, cozy sofas in the basement, and small round tables ideal for solo work.
  • Delicious Drinks and Food: Savor a menu that includes high-quality coffee, a selection of teas, and delicious breakfast options like avocado toast and hearty porridge.
  • Friendly Staff: Interact with a helpful and friendly team that provides excellent customer service and is willing to accommodate special requests.
  • Adequate Amenities for Remote Work: This cafe offers free Wi-Fi, power sockets for your devices, and a calm volume of background noise suitable for working remotely.
  • Accessible Location: Conveniently located just a short walk from major transport hubs like Russel Square and St. Pancras, making it easy to visit.
  • Affordable Prices: Enjoy a range of beverages and food at reasonable prices, providing good value for both quality and quantity.

Features

Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, Outdoor seating, On-site services, Takeaway, Dine-in, Great tea selection, Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Free water refills, Prepared foods, Small plates, Spirits, Vegan options, Vegetarian options, Wine, Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dessert, Seating, Gender-neutral toilets, Toilets, Wi-Fi, Free Wi-Fi, Casual, Cosy, Family friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safe space, Credit cards, Debit cards, Mobile payments, Good for kids, Kids’ menu, Paid multi-storey car park, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Dogs allowed, Dogs allowed inside, Dogs allowed outside

Opening Hours

  • Monday : Closed
  • Tuesday : Closed
  • Wednesday : Closed
  • Thursday : 8:45 am to 5 pm
  • Friday : Closed
  • Saturday : Closed
  • Sunday : Closed

Directions

Address: 64 Marchmont St, London WC1N 1AB, United Kingdom View on Google Maps