Allan’s, Tooley St (nr London Bridge, Hays Galleria)

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This small place on the corner beside the modern More London development looks French, but is more cosmopolitan than that.

Two tables and bar seating for four are expanded on by another four tables outside on the side street, in the sun. The layout is surprisingly charming.

The coffee is average. Tobacco overtones but without a lot of bitterness. Some will like it, but it’s not my preferred style.

There’s a good selection of food – sandwiches and pastries – but most importantly they make fresh pancakes. Fabulous.

Coffee ***
£1.50
Environment ****
Food ***+

Caffe Alba, Oxo Tower, South Thames Embankment

Good Italian cafe, run by real Italians.

Espresso is by Lavazza – which I normally find bland – but well made.

There are lots of nice seats and tables, with a few outside overlooking the Thames. If you’re walking between the London Eye and the Tate Modern, it’s one of the best places to stop for coffee.

Single espresso £1.54

Coffee ***

Environment ****