Coffee Shops in Wanstead
One of the joys of staying in Wanstead is that your morning coffee is never far away. From artisan bakeries and speciality coffee roasters to independent neighbourhood cafés, Wanstead has developed a thriving coffee culture that rivals many parts of Central London.
Bare Brew
One of Wanstead’s most recognisable independent cafés, Bare Brew has become a favourite for speciality coffee, brunch and relaxed mornings on the High Street.
The deep blue frontage, outdoor seating and minimalist interior give it a modern East London feel while still maintaining the warmth of a neighbourhood café.
It’s particularly popular with remote workers, weekend brunch crowds and locals catching up over coffee.
The café reflects the newer side of Wanstead — creative, independent and quietly stylish without losing its community feel.
City Place
A stylish café and brunch spot with outdoor seating and a lively atmosphere on Clock House Parade.
Its location right beside the High Street makes it one of the easiest places to stop for coffee while exploring Wanstead.
The combination of outdoor tables, independent cafés and tree-lined streets is part of what gives Wanstead its relaxed village feel despite being so well connected to Central London.
More Italy Wanstead
More Italy adds a small touch of traditional Italian café culture to Wanstead.
A charming independent café and deli just off the High Street, it’s popular for authentic espresso, pastries, breakfast dishes and imported Italian produce.
The pace here feels slower and more European — the kind of place where people sit with coffee rather than rushing through takeaway queues.
For visitors, it offers a glimpse into the more relaxed rhythm that locals enjoy every day.
BOBO & WILD - Wanstead "Coffee, Brunch & Smokehouse"
Bobo & Wild has brought a vibrant energy to Wanstead’s food scene.
By day, it’s known for speciality coffee, brunch and pastries. In the evenings, it transforms into a lively smokehouse restaurant and cocktail venue.
Its location opposite Christ Church Green gives it one of the best spots on the High Street for people-watching and outdoor dining during spring and summer.
The atmosphere feels young, social and welcoming — perfectly suited to the changing character of modern East London.
La Bakerie & The Barrel Boulangerie
Wanstead’s bakery scene has also quietly flourished in recent years.
Independent bakeries like La Bakerie and The Barrel Boulangerie offer:
Both places contribute to the slower, more local feel of the neighbourhood — where grabbing coffee often turns into long conversations and relaxed mornings rather than rushed routines.
Joice Café
Joice has become one of Wanstead’s liveliest all-day cafés, offering speciality coffee, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, pastries and brunch favourites in a bright, welcoming setting.
Its modern interior and busy outdoor seating area create a lively atmosphere throughout the day, particularly at weekends when the High Street becomes especially vibrant.
It’s the kind of café that reflects Wanstead today:
a balance between traditional neighbourhood charm and a growing independent food scene.