The queue was terribly long, and while I was in it, the barista came out with paper cups and a marker pen, taking our orders along the way. Such was the spectacle of Monmouth, I was rather surprised that the queue was quick and free flowing as I didn’t even have time to think about what to photograph at this legendary London institution. If you haven’t had a Monmouth yet, well, you need to apply now.
Brewmasters
I am not an expert on coffee, although I do like my cuppa. There’s a generally accepted handful of the best coffee places in London; Monmouth is usually mentioned. Though, if you are after a current and definitive one, look no further than Daniel Young’s Top 10 places for coffee in London.
Oh the buzz, the buzz! I sampled my first monmouth at the Borough market branch and I was completely taken by the whole atmosphere of the shop. Packed to the brim, the air was rich of roast and aroma but what I loved most was the communal table acting as the coffee shop’s centerpiece. A family headed by a distinguished looking silver maned gentlemen dominated it, conversation, laughter, magic.
If you’re wondering, I didn’t have cakes on this trip, just cappuccino to go, with just abit of brown sugar. The pastry and baguettes are apparently supplied by Paul and Villandry.
Spot the pour through cone-filters.
Mmmm … such smooth consistency in the froth, with a milky sweetness and very mild bitterness, it also felt strangely innocent and pure. The coffee itself had a silky mouthfeel, with a rich and bitter hit, and went down like a good vintage year. Indeed, very good.
Now where is my copy of the Sunday Times…
Do you think that Monmouth serves the best brew in town? What is your favourite coffee shop in London, or otherwise? I’m interested to know, so I can go write about it.
Monmouth Coffee Company Official Website
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james
so absolutely the best espresso and cappacino in london
June 7, 2009 at 1:27 pm
r khooks
I’m more of a tea person myself. But if I was to have a coffee, Monmouth would definetly be the place!
r khooks’s last blog post..Rose ricotta clouds with strawberries
June 7, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Laissez Fare
Hey, glad you liked it. I have the pleasure of working within a short walk from Monmouth in Covent Garden and think it is the best cuppa joe in town. Their house espresso blend is so smooth and rich – love it!
Laissez Fare’s last blog post..Some Other Good Offers
June 8, 2009 at 8:18 am
Nik
I had always rated Monmouth as the best in London.. until I found the unnamed coffee cart on Whitecross St Markets that is run by Gwilym Davies (who recently became the 2009 World Barista Champion).
June 8, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Steve
Hey, have you tried Soko Coffee?
The website is http://www.sokocoffee.co.uk
June 9, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Dan
As well as the great coffee – I’m quite partial to breakfast at the communal table – Massive pots of Jam, a pavement slab of butter, baskets of baguettes – its all you can eat for something like £3……and you can eat (in my experience) suprisingly less than you think.
Dan’s last blog post..What I’ve been cooking – a roundup.
June 9, 2009 at 9:20 pm
catty
GREAT blog… I’ve just discovered it and can’t wait to try half the places you’ve written about. Monmouth coffee is good – combine that with the amazing food at Lantana (Charlotte Place) and you have the perfect brunch.
catty’s last blog post..what do you mean I can’t eat it?
June 10, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Lalita
I went to Monmouth a couple of times. I would not say that it is the best coffee in London. For me, coffee bean which they brew and sell you is one thing; but the attitude of the people who sell the coffee to you is also important. I ended up there once when the shop was almost empty. They told me I could not have a capuccino and they were only serving filter coffee. My friend and I said it was fine even though I hate filter coffee. Ten minutes later, a lady came in and ordered a capuccino and got it! Clearly they did not run out of milk. I was so surprised that I did not say anything and just left and swore to myself I wouldn’t be bothered to go back there again. Milk Bar that uses coffee beans from Square Mile is far more superior that Monmouth. I have pretty much been to almost every ‘famous’ London coffee shop. And, hey, Monmouth is one of my least favourite.
February 20, 2010 at 3:15 pm
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[...] London, my other, local, independent coffee house/ brand is Monmouth. Fabulous coffee. Beautifully served. Great location in Borough Market. Fun experience. Not that [...]
March 9, 2010 at 4:34 pm