The Monocle Café is my favorite café in an upscale part of central London called Marylebone. When you walk in, there are beautiful sweets and snacks on display that remind me of most modern cafés back in LA. This means lots of matcha green tea desserts, flaky pastries and avocado savories. The café seems like a local favorite, especially for meet-ups. It has lots of seating on the upper and lower floor, mainly two-tops. Every time I go I see people in suits and business casual attire meeting over a cup of coffee.
The interesting observation was a bunch of magazines and ads showing the Monocle brand against the right wall. This made me curious, so I looked into it further. The café is a small piece of the brand. Monocle first started as a magazine in 2007 on global affairs, business, culture, design and more. They grew rapidly and now have a round-the-clock radio station, travel guides, design books, apparel, and of course cafés.
Marylebone is is close enough to Oxford Street and other fun areas of London but yet far enough to not feel the hustle or hear the noise. This area has a lot of really good food as well as a lot of really nice flats and buildings that remind me of quintessential London housing. What really adds to the ambience of the neighborhood is the beautiful red brick buildings and the hotel across the street. Right across the street is the Chiltern Firehouse, the old Marylebone Fire Station converted into a beautiful hotel. I found Monocle when I was looking for something to pass the time near my esthetician's office. Passing the time for me means a good cup of coffee.
Per my usual, I first tried a Flat White. Milk was velvety and smooth. Espresso was good and strong. They gave a small bit of raw sugar on the side with a piece of dark chocolate. Everything I could want with a good cup! Plus I always love sitting outside with a hot drink, and they have a cute little patio for just this. If you want to be close to busy areas but feel more local, I highly recommend The Monocle Café.
020 7135 2040
Monday-Wednesday 7am-7pm
Thursday-Friday 7am-8pm
Saturday 8am-8pm
Sunday 8am-7pm
