Cafe
Prufrock Coffee
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Prufrock Coffee is a haven for coffee purists, nestled on Leather Lane in the heart of London's diamond district. The cafe is named after T.S. Eliot's poem 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock,' and its interior reflects a literary, understated elegance, white walls, marble counters, and a gleaming La Marzocco espresso machine. They are famous for their pour-over and siphon brewing, offering single-origin beans from top roasters like Square Mile and Workshop. The menu is concise: espresso drinks, filter coffee, and a few pastries. What makes Prufrock distinctive is its commitment to education, they run a coffee school in the basement, offering barista courses and cupping sessions. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, happy to discuss extraction methods or bean profiles. It's a quiet, contemplative space away from the city's hustle, perfect for a focused coffee experience.
Don't miss
- Order a siphon-brewed coffee for a theatrical and flavorful experience
- Take a barista course in their on-site training lab
- Try a flat white made with their signature espresso blend
- Browse the retail shelf for beans and brewing gear
- Attend a cupping session to learn flavor profiling
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Prufrock Coffee
You can visit on your own (No ticket needed for the cafe. Courses and cupping sessions require booking via their website). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inLondon Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs5★ · 11,326 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$40 per personSee dates →
Most bookedLondon Traditional English Scone Making and Tea Workshop5★ · 471 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$41 per personSee dates →
Top ratedPaddington Bear - Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in London4.9★ · 139 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$94 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- Try a filter coffee from their rotating single-origin selection, ask staff for recommendations.
- They sell coffee-related books and equipment; perfect for enthusiasts.
- Book a barista course in advance if interested; they fill up quickly.
- Free Wi-Fi available, but the atmosphere encourages conversation over laptops.
A bit of history
Prufrock opened in 2010, founded by Gwilym Davies, a former World Barista Champion. The cafe quickly became a destination for coffee enthusiasts and has trained many of London's top baristas. The name nods to the cafe's literary and artistic leanings.
Common questions
Do they serve food?
Pastries and cakes only; no full meals. Focus is on coffee.
Can I buy coffee beans?
Yes, they sell beans from various roasters, often with tasting notes.
Is there seating?
Yes, a few tables and a counter bar. It can get crowded.
Do they offer dairy-free milk?
Yes, oat, almond, and soy milk are available.
What is a cupping session?
A guided tasting of multiple coffees to compare flavors, like a wine tasting for coffee.
Is it suitable for working?
Yes, but it's small and can be noisy. Better for a quick coffee or a focused session.
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