The best of London 7 - coffee

I gave up on caffeine a couple years ago after one too many migraines. I reached the point I could not skip my daily dosage without having withdrawal symptoms, even after switching from coffee to tea.

Here are a couple of my choice picks though for an excellent cuppa joe in London (after my next trip to the Big Smoke I'll report on the decaff situation).

First up, the Festival Square Cafe Bar Deli. Sat amongst the concrete monstrosities of the South Bank cultural complex you'll find this large but nice cafe with comfy booths, classy tables and spacious outdoor seating area.

It is convenient for the Hayward Gallery, London Eye, National Theatre, IMAX, NFT, etc. I recall it made excellent coffee plus your usual pastries, sandwiches and other light bites.

INFO On the ground floor of the Royal Festival Hall, on the side facing away from the Thames. Nearest Tube is Waterloo (Jubilee, Northern and Bakerloo lines).

Next, the Algerian Coffee Stores. Soho has changed immensely over the past few years and many of the bohemian establishments for which it was famous in the 'swinging 60s' have been replaced by gay pubs and Chinese buffetts.

One of the hangers-on at 52 Old Compton Street is this fine coffee emporium, a cramped shop selling all manner of coffee and tea, loose or bagged. The expert staff will be happy to give their opinion on whether you might prefer a rich Sumatran, a medium-roasted Colombian, or (what the heck) a half kilo of Huehuetenango. In 2007 they celebrated their 120th anniversary and proudly retain many of the original features of the premises.

From the counter they sell what is possibly London's cheapest yet freshest ground coffee to drink, including a latte for £1.10. Takeaway only, as there is no room for seats. Check their website for their mail order service.

INFO The nearest tube stop is Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines). Open daily 9am till 7pm (till 8 on Sunday and till 9 on Thursday & Friday).