The Yurt Café

If you ever find yourself wandering around East London, The Yurt Café is the kind of place you’ll want to stumble into-and then never want to leave. Tucked away in the peaceful St. Katharine’s Precinct at 2 Butcher Row, London E14, this charming café-restaurant is a hidden gem that blends community spirit with cozy aesthetics and seriously good food.

Whether you’re an early riser craving a hearty Full English Breakfast or a freelancer in search of the perfect Matcha Latte to nurse while working on your laptop, The Yurt Café effortlessly caters to both.

Let’s talk vibes first-because they matter. This isn’t just a café, it’s an experience. Built around a traditional Mongolian-style yurt, it has a warm, rustic interior with natural wood accents, a fireplace to curl up beside in colder months, and live music sessions that give it a homey, artistic feel. There’s something incredibly grounding about sipping a Cappuccino while listening to acoustic guitar in a yurt surrounded by London’s urban buzz.

Accessibility is clearly a priority here, which is worth highlighting. The café is wheelchair-friendly, with accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms, making it a welcoming spot for everyone. Outdoor seating is also available if you’re someone who enjoys their Vegan Brunch with a side of sunshine.

When it comes to food, The Yurt Café doesn’t just tick boxes-it gets creative. Their Avocado Toast is a fan favorite, often topped with just the right touch of chili flakes and lemon zest. The Eggs Benedict is beautifully plated and satisfyingly rich, while the Sour Dough Toast served with Banana Bread or Coffee Cake makes a fantastic quick bite. Vegans and vegetarians aren’t left out either-Vegan Sandwiches, Vegan Breakfasts, and even Goats Cheese Sandwiches for the flexitarians offer a wide range of flavorful, nourishing options.

Drink-wise, you’ll find more than just the usual suspects. While their coffee game is strong (think Macchiato, Matcha Latte, and great tea selections), they also serve organic wines, craft beer, cocktails, and happy-hour drinks. It’s the kind of place where you can start with brunch and stay for the drinks.

It’s no surprise that The Yurt Café is popular for both breakfast and lunch, and especially loved by solo diners and remote workers. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to set up your laptop for a couple of hours, and there are plenty of power outlets and free water refills to keep you fueled.

Another feature worth noting: the café offers delivery and takeaway, making it a great option for locals in East London who want the Yurt experience at home. And yes-they even sell prepared foods for those too busy (or too lazy, no judgment here) to cook.

Desserts are a highlight all their own. The Carrot Cake is moist with just the right level of spice, the Cherry & Apple Doughnut is indulgent without being too sweet, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a free Macaroon with your coffee. These small gestures-along with the friendly staff-make you feel more like a regular, even if it’s your first visit.

One of the things that sets The Yurt Café apart from other East London cafés is its seamless balance between comfort and creativity. You’re just as likely to find a family enjoying a lazy brunch as you are a couple sipping cocktails over live jazz or someone quietly journaling in a corner. It’s this flexibility, along with its thoughtful offerings-healthy options, late-night bites, organic dishes, and more-that make it stand out.

Whether you’re looking for the best café for working in London, somewhere to impress your vegan friend, or just a spot to grab a perfectly made Cronut and chill, The Yurt Café should be on your list.