Don’t get me wrong – I love introducing my hotel guests to the quirky charms of British cuisine, from our obsession with baked beans to our perfectly brewed tea. But after 12 years of running a London hotel, I’ve learned that sometimes, especially during those jet-lagged early mornings, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of familiar flavors from home. While London has embraced many American dining trends, finding a truly satisfying American-style breakfast (complete with free coffee refills!) can still feel like searching for a needle in a very British haystack. That’s why I’ve compiled this guide to my tried-and-tested breakfast spots that offer a taste of home, along with some British options that even the most homesick American traveler will appreciate. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, or just a proper cup of filter coffee, I’ve got you covered.
The Full English vs. The Full American: Where to Find Both
As a hotel owner in London for over a decade, I’ve witnessed countless bleary-eyed American guests stumble into our breakfast room, desperately seeking the familiar comfort of pancakes and bacon. While I’ll always champion trying our beloved Full English (trust me, it’s a life-changing experience), I completely understand the need for a taste of home – especially before tackling a day of sightseeing.
The Breakfast Club in Soho has become my go-to recommendation for guests craving American breakfast classics. Their “All American” plate (£14.50/$18) is a slice of stars-and-stripes heaven: three fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon (though slightly different from US-style – we Brits cut it a bit thicker), eggs your way, and proper hash browns. What’s more, they offer free refills on filter coffee – a rarity in London that never fails to delight my American visitors. Pro tip: Visit their Soho location before 8:30 AM to avoid the notorious queues, or pop into their Spitalfields branch which tends to be less crowded.
For those ready to venture into British breakfast territory, The Regency Café in Westminster serves what I consider the best Full English in central London. At £7.50 ($9.50), it’s also one of the most reasonable. Don’t be intimidated by the booming voices calling out orders – it’s part of the charm! Your plate will arrive loaded with back bacon, British sausages (less seasoned than American ones), eggs, baked beans (yes, for breakfast!), grilled tomatoes, and golden-brown toast. I always tell my American guests to think of it as a cultural adventure with a knife and fork.
Want the best of both worlds? Duck & Waffle Local in Piccadilly offers an exciting fusion menu. Their “Full Elvis” waffle (£16/$20) comes topped with peanut butter, banana, berries, and Chantilly cream – pure American indulgence – while their “Full English Waffle” gives you all the components of a traditional fry-up atop a crispy waffle base. It’s the perfect compromise when you’re feeling adventurous but still want that comfort food feeling.
Remember: Most London breakfast spots start serving at 8:00 AM, later than you might be used to in the States. If you’re dealing with jet lag and up early, pop into any Pret A Manger – they open at 6:30 AM and serve decent American-style filter coffee and breakfast sandwiches that’ll tide you over until the proper breakfast spots open.
Best Spots for Real Filter Coffee (Yes, It Exists in London!)
Let’s address the elephant in the room – yes, we Brits are known for our tea, but I’ve made it my mission to help coffee-loving Americans find their perfect cup in London. After years of apologetically directing my guests to the nearest Starbucks, I’m thrilled to report that London’s coffee scene has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days of weak, instant coffee being your only option!
Notes Coffee in Covent Garden has become my top recommendation for Americans seeking their morning coffee fix. They offer unlimited filter coffee during breakfast hours (£3.50, about $4.40) – a concept that’s surprisingly rare in London. What really sets them apart is their partnership with a Seattle-based roaster, bringing that familiar Pacific Northwest coffee profile to central London. The baristas actually understand what you mean when you ask for a “regular coffee,” and they won’t raise an eyebrow at requests for room for cream (though remember, we call it “milk” here!). My insider tip: their loyalty card gives you every 10th drink free, perfect if you’re here for a longer stay.
For those times when you need a proper American-sized coffee to combat jet lag, head to Department of Coffee and Social Affairs near Liverpool Street. Their large filter coffee actually means large – not the dainty cups you might find elsewhere in London. They’ve mastered the art of strong, smooth filter coffee that rivals any major US coffee chain, and their baristas are refreshingly accommodating to American coffee preferences. Bonus: they open at 7:00 AM on weekdays, earlier than most independent coffee shops in the city. Just remember to ask for “filter coffee” rather than “drip coffee” – same thing, different name!
Where to Start Your London Morning (Final Thoughts)
After years of watching bleary-eyed Americans navigate their first London breakfasts, I’ve learned that starting your day with familiar comforts can make exploring our wonderful city so much more enjoyable. While I always encourage my guests to venture into British breakfast territory at some point during their stay (perhaps after that initial jet lag wears off!), there’s absolutely nothing wrong with easing into London life with pancakes and filter coffee.
The spots I’ve mentioned above are all centrally located and well-connected by public transport (feel free to ask your hotel concierge for specific directions). Remember that breakfast in London tends to start a bit later than in the States, so plan accordingly. And here’s a money-saving tip from your friendly London hotelier: most of these establishments offer cheaper prices for takeaway, so if you’re trying to stretch your vacation budget, consider grabbing your breakfast to enjoy in one of London’s beautiful parks or squares.
Have you discovered another American-friendly breakfast spot in London? I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment below or send me a message through the contact form. And don’t forget to check out my other guides for making the most of your London adventure, including “Navigating the Tube Like a Local” and “London’s Best Budget-Friendly Hotels.”