Café Below

Stepping into Café Below is like slipping into a quiet sanctuary nestled just beneath the vibrant rhythm of London’s Cheapside. Tucked away under the historic silhouette of St Mary Le Bow Church, this café invites you to slow down and breathe amidst its intimate, tucked-away charm. The space hums with a gentle, unhurried beat—more a comfortable pause than a bustling rush—where moments feel personal, and time stretches softly.

The lighting here is warm and inviting, casting a gentle glow on the quirky, relaxed dining corners that feel both uniquely historic and quietly contemporary. It’s the kind of place where the thoughtful hum of conversation swells just enough to blend with the delicate clink of cups and plates, creating a subtle soundtrack to your visit. Whether arriving early to savor a calm breakfast or winding down later for an unexpected midweek dinner, the café’s atmosphere offers a welcoming retreat from the city’s pace.

Food at Café Below reveals a thoughtful connection to seasonal, modern European flavors with subtle global influences, reflecting a kitchen that values both comfort and creativity. Imagine the soothing warmth of a richly spiced curry paired with the soft familiarity of homemade naan, or the bright, lively twist of Korean gochujang chicken set alongside fresh, pickled accents—a narrative of flavor that is engaging yet unpretentious. Breakfast is a gentle affair here too, known for softly stacked buttermilk pancakes that carry a lightness and warmth heard on early morning tables, inviting solo visitors and small groups to start the day in quiet contentment.

The drinks menu complements the food’s thoughtful character, presenting a carefully curated selection of wines and prosecco that align perfectly with the café’s easy-going refinement—great companions for both a midday pause or a relaxed evening indulgence.

What feels most genuine about Café Below is its ability to offer an escape within the city—down the steep steps into a space that seems to exist out of time. It has an honest, approachable warmth that encourages visitors to linger not out of necessity, but because it simply feels right. Here, service is quietly attentive without ever feeling intrusive, and the patchwork of visitors—from busy locals to curious visitors—add to the sense of this being a shared yet intimate corner of London.

In essence, Café Below is much more than a place to eat or drink; it is a subtle retreat, a step beneath the surface where the city’s noise is softened, inviting you to rediscover quiet pleasures through thoughtful food, considered drink, and the gentle rhythm of human moments.