The Black Penny Covent Garden image

The Black Penny Covent Garden

Restaurant Cafe Bar Coffee shop Breakfast restaurant Cocktail bar Brunch restaurant Small plates restaurant

Chic cafe with bare brick walls, for gourmet coffees and heath-conscious fare from organic produce. People often mention good, coffee, service, breakfast, great, eggs, time, brunch, friendly, delicious,


Address

34 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5AA, United Kingdom

Website

www.theblackpenny.com

Contact

+44 20 7242 2580

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.30 (1.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (18) coffee (16) service (15) breakfast (15) great (12) eggs (11) time (10) brunch (10) friendly (10) delicious (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Syd E. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent coffee and delectable breakfasts - the eggs 🫠 … they were huge, farm fresh and poached to perfection. The golden yellow of the yolks were glorious. The tomatoes were incredibly flavourful - they may have been slow roasted as the edges had a tantalising tang as though sun-dried. Everything was perfect including the seasoning (remember to always taste before salting). The atmosphere was also lovely - really kind attentive staff who checked items contents for me (dairy intolerant) and good vibes. I am genuinely impressed and wish I could give 6 stars 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Veronica L. 2 years ago on Google
    The atmosphere is cute, but service and quality was very sub par. We ordered two iced lattes with same milk and received two with very different strengths. One was literally white and the other was the darker colour. We found one of them very odd and sour in taste and asked about it, only to find the hostess acting pretty aggressively towards us. I understand perceptions can be different but I think how you deal with is what differentiates good service to bad service. And regardless how they can be so inconsistent with two same coffees made at the same time I have no clue. They made new ones for us but it was also very bland. We had a table next to us also complain about the food and leave early so don’t think we were the only ones. There are much better places around here. 서비스도 별론데 맛도 별로입니다. 위치는 좋지만 추천하고 싶지 않은 곳이예요ㅜㅜ
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Paul V. 3 months ago on Google • 484 reviews New
    Very solid place to grab a delicious breakfast. The hostesses Irena and our server Hussain were terrific and helpful. Worth checking out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dorothy T. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best coffees I've had in London. The coffee is perfect anyone who like coffee beans which are nutty and strong. The breakfast is great too. We had the "hunter" and "gatherer" breakfast meals. The mushroom, egg, French sourdough, and sausage are all perfectly cooked. However, there is a bit of sewage smell if you are sitting outdoor. I will definitely recommend sitting indoors instead.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Stephen M. 2 years ago on Google
    Food was great and coffee was good. Portion sizes were on the larger side, verging on to much. Interior is nice. The experience was let down a bit by the staff, though. We were served by multiple people, one of which was happy and enthusiastic, but the other was almost the polar opposite. Perhaps they were having a bad day, but definitely did not seem like they wanted to be there and felt very inattentive, they were not aware a drinks order had been made and started taking plates whilst we were still eating. Worth saying I would still revisit in the future.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kristjana N. 1 year ago on Google
    If you like strong nutty flavoured coffee this is the perfect place. I had oat milk which balanced out the coffee beans but overall it was rich and really smooth with strong flavours. On the more expensive end at £3.70 for an oat latte. The brunch menu looks divine and would come back to try it. The interior is really cool but quite a small place over all. In the summer the outdoor seating is really lovely
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mingjia Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely one of the best brunch spots in Covent Garden (or in London!) Food was super tasty, well balanced and decent portioned with fresh ingredients. Friendly staff and cozy atmosphere! Went on a Saturday noon and it was very busy with a long queue outside since it’s walk-ins only on weekends. I was about to give up queuing and leave for another brunch place, but I’m so happy that I stayed and queued for a bit - as it turned out to be such a wise decision! The queue moved pretty fast, defo much faster than I expected. So I only waited for about 10 minutes and then got seated. Foodwise, I tried their signature hash, which was a really special but super delicious combination. Got the wild mushroom, polenta, spinach with rockets and poached egg hash, which was really yummy - full of flavour and not greasy at all! More on the healthy side but still very filling. The poached egg on top was cooked perfectly with beautiful runny yolk. Will definitely come back and highly recommend!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Hyunser P. 2 years ago on Google
    I got the gatherer and it was nice and pretty big! The coconut cake was so so but not bad. The place was cozy and in a good location, and the service was really good!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Nadine O. 1 year ago on Google
    The coffee and food were okay. Portions are good but nothing really special. Cake looked amazing but did not taste fresh. Overall okay but for the prices they charge their food/service should be better. I would recommend making a booking before going especially during weekends. Waiting time can be up to an hour.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joanna L. 6 months ago on Google • 159 reviews
    First time at a Black Penny Cafe, and I was not disappointed. Food was delicious, well presented, and there is a good variety to choose from the menu. A note, they do not substitute anything from the menu. You can ask to have something taken off but will still have to pay extra if you want something added. The menu is varied so I can’t see this happening often. Service was great. Staff were friendly, liked to tell a joke, and all said bye as we left. The cafe is also situated in a great location. The cafe is on the pricier side, but I can’t fault anything with the experience I had.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hani S. 7 months ago on Google • 158 reviews
    What a delightful experience that was, we truly did have an enjoyable one for sure. We ordered scrambled, fried as well as their pushed eggs on sourdough toast and it was impressive I had to say. That comes along with vegetables in the side with a very good presentation. We also ordered their vegetable breakfast that combined their pushed eggs, halloumi cheese, sundried tomato and beans all on top of their lovely thick slice of crunchy sourdough bread and was amazing. Something remarkable about their egg is the standout color of the yolks, which was orange color and tasted so organic. It was obvious that they do care about the smallest detail of their ingredients which proved the high quality of all listed options and overall the flavors were a delightful fusion of freshness and creativity. The coffee drinks were all fantastic and perfectly brewed and the milk was frothed just well and for sure did not disappoint. The impeccable service was stood out, in particular by Sami, who was so sweet and friendly making sure all was well. She did make our experience at this café a memorable one for sure. The café interior design and décor have a charming blend of cozy and modern making it a perfect spot for unwinding. All in all, our visit to the Black Penny was a unique one and we all left with a desire to come back anytime we’re close by. So it is highly recommended and surely should not be missed whenever your around wither you’re after a delicious meal for a satisfied palate or a cozy place to chillout. Good luck guys and thanks Sami again for being wonderful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nab A. 9 months ago on Google • 152 reviews
    I recently had the pleasure of dining here, and I must say, it was a truly delightful experience. I ordered their poached eggs on sourdough toast with a side of vegetables, and I was thoroughly impressed. The dish was beautifully presented, with perfectly poached eggs that oozed golden yolks when I cut into them. The eggs were placed on a thick slice of toasted sourdough bread, which had a lovely crunch on the outside and a soft, chewy interior. The combination of the creamy eggs and the hearty bread was simply mouthwatering. What really stood out to me was the addition of fresh vegetables. They were cooked to perfection, maintaining their vibrant colors and crisp texture. The medley of vegetables added a refreshing element to the dish, providing a balance to the richness of the eggs and bread. It was evident that great care was taken in selecting and preparing the ingredients. The staff at The Black Penny were alright, polite and attentive. Their professionalism and friendly demeanor created a welcoming atmosphere that made my dining experience all the more enjoyable. Overall, I highly recommend it. Whether you're looking for a satisfying brunch or a delicious cup of coffee, The Black Penny is sure to impress. I am already looking forward to my next visit to this charming café.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 SL M. 6 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    Upscale cafe with really good food options that run all day. Love the twist on the classic foods and the flavours of the dishes I had. I came around a quiet time and it was wonderful to sit with friends and catch up. Love the nook at the back with the interesting decoration on the walls and ceilings. The service was also really nice, and the people were part of the experience that made me give this place a high rating. Only downside is the above-average price. It does not seem all that worth it for what it is, but you’re also paying for the location.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sai V. 10 months ago on Google
    Really enjoyed my time here, the service and food were enjoyable and the service was really good too. Toilets were clean. Food was good but not amazing. Also, the latte was served in a flat white size glass. The flat whites, in even smaller glasses. Also, the fresh juice proportions were tiny for £6. So I wouldn't say you get value for money.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Faith E. 2 years ago on Google
    The food here was actually very very nice, really tasty. Good service. It is quite a pricey place a m'mosa is £8 but very enjoyable u get what you pay for
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eric S. 1 year ago on Google
    Ordered the Green Eggs. Delicious! Perfectly cooked eggs. Salmon tasted fresh and well seasoned. The sourdough bread tied it all together. Too bad I only had room for a quick brunch. Will be back for more!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Wishy '. 1 year ago on Google
    Brilliant little breakfast joint near Covent Garden. Food was delicious and served hot. The coffee was also amazing. Service was great, quick and friendly. There was a queue which went down quickly but may be better to reserve if it's possible
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Onyeka O. 2 years ago on Google
    Great spot, located opposite the Freemason’s building just off Covent Garden. The cafe is not too busy, although it’s situated just off the main road. The staff are super friendly, and the food and coffee is A1! Will be back, for sure
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Angela P. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent brunch menu. I shared my Hunter Breakfast with my mum - it's huge! Also recommend the bubble and squeak, it's not greasy at all and the sausages are delicious
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Lorenzo S. 5 months ago on Google • 64 reviews
    I wish I could give the Black Penny 4.5 ⭐️ The food is made with high quality ingredients and aside from the usual suspects for brunch they have a few extra plates like the Ozdemir Pasha which really elevate the menu. But: basically being walk-in only, which will force you to wait at least 15/20 minutes outside every visit AND above-average price (yes, even for this area) really stop me for giving it 5 stars. But I hope it won’t stop you from visiting it; it’s much better than most of the brunch spots you can find in central London, that are much more uniform and bland.

  • 5/5 graham v. 3 months ago on Google • 23 reviews New
    One of the best breakfasts I've ever had, we had 'the gatherer' and the bubble and squeak and both were fantastic. The homemade baked beans were incredible and even the tea was great!

  • 5/5 CORGAN B. 10 months ago on Google
    Great food and drinks! Would defo recommend if looking for a nice breakfast in covert garden. Is quite expensive, but what you can expect for good food in London! The service was a little slow as it’s quite busy however the food and drinks came out very speedy. You might have to queue for a little bit but just because it’s so popular! And is definitely worth the wait. Would 100% recommend, great experience.

  • 5/5 Lucy R. 8 months ago on Google
    Wow! Wow! Wow! Are the only words that are needed. Myself and my daughter loved our breakfast. It's very clear that its very popular, as there was a large cue to dine here. We arrived just in time to beat the cue. Be prepared to wait, but you certainly won't be disappointed. The bill came to £53 for two of us. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Linh L. 6 months ago on Google
    Treat myself a traditional English Full Breakfast (called Hunter). Now I know why British call “brunch”, that covers both breakfast and lunch 😂. Got explained by the lovely waiter that black penny the name itselft comes from a story of coffee was brought to England via Blacksea and everybody was welcome in the coffee house whether you were an aristocrat or a street hustler, all you needed was a penny. A good story to hear.

  • 4/5 Theodore T. 2 months ago on Google • 14 reviews New
    Nice taste ,good presentation interesting choices and overall friendly atmosphere and service.The only thing that was off for me was the small cup for the double espresso!!!But that is personal preference I suppose!Just a suggestion that might improve your friendly service. Maybe when I visit next time I might be asked for the cup size I prefer for my double espresso.Maybe?

  • 5/5 Clint Z. 1 year ago on Google
    Found this little gem online had great reviews so tried it out and was not disappointed. It was our wedding anniversary and we came here had hunter's breakfast which was amazing. Staff were great one of them stood on a chair to take a photo of us which we really appreciated. It is a busy place on a Saturday fortunately we got there early in the morning.

  • 5/5 Fernanda L. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the best breakfast we have ever tried. Their porridge is one of the favorites dishes overall. Their breakfast sandwiches are also really good. Available seating outside.

  • 4/5 Ana M. 1 year ago on Google
    The place itself is very cozy and cute. Staff was friendly and the food was really good! Also recommended for English breakfasts and homemade cakes and sweets. The only thing is that the coffee was a bit too strong.

  • 5/5 Jacky C. 1 year ago on Google
    A perfect place for breakfast/brunch with nice coffee, friendly staffs, and the best hash in town! We passed by Black Penny when we were on our way to British Museum. There are both outdoor and indoor seating. We picked the indoor table because we like its interior and music 😆 i must say the Crispy duck hash is a very unique menu in London, a must-try delicious item!

  • 4/5 Jean-Marc M. 1 year ago on Google
    Gets busy quickly! As such can be tricky to catch attention of staff of you're tucked away. Other than that, GREAT! Staff are polite and friendly and the dish I had (Green Eggs) was excellent Surprisingly large account of space inside. Just the one unisex toilet, which was clean..

  • 4/5 Ruari P. 1 year ago on Google
    I had the Crispy Duck Hash which was great in it's balance of flavor between the sweet of the sweet potato and saltiness of the duck. Overall cozy atmosphere. Espresso was nothing incredible, but was still good.

  • 5/5 Mags B. 2 years ago on Google
    Great breakfast here this morning, GF toast available, tea from tea leaves too 👍🏻 The Green eggs was delicious and no complaints from my husband as he munched through his bubble and squeak.. highly recommended

  • 5/5 Matthew D. 2 years ago on Google
    Coffee, breakfast, juices all amazing.

  • 5/5 Jingyan S. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved the crispy duck hash and French toast

  • 1/5 Sonya P. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the worst places I have ever been in London. The food looks nice but it’s tasteless and bland. I ordered something that did not like, it made me feel sick when I just had a bite of it. The waiter saw it and didn’t even come to ask if there was something wrong with it. He also made a very rude comment when my friend ordered her drink initially. When the waitress, I think the manager, saw I had only barely touched my order she asked what was wrong and I explained I was not to my likings, she said it was a shame as that’s a very nice dish and offered a take away box for me to take it away (even when I had just explained I didn’t like it). I said i was not interested in taking it with me and she still charged me the full price for it.. Regardless of my personal taste the food is waay more expensive for what it is; my friend had something completely different from mine and she also thought it was barely average especially for the price. She ordered “poached eggs” and she got a hard egg. The place could do with some professional training to their staff but overall I don’t think it will survive the harsh competition out there especially for much much higher food and service standards.

  • 5/5 james h. 2 years ago on Google
    Possibly the best breakfast I’ve ever had. They obviously use good quality ingredients and excellent chefs. Staff were polite and helpful. Loved it.

  • 1/5 O S. 2 years ago on Google
    The food here was amazing and I was very happy with what we received in terms of that. Lovey flavours and great coffee. The reason for 1 star is the service we received. It was one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had. Our server barely opened her mouth to say anything to us the entire time. It was really quite uncomfortable actually. While taking our order she just looked from one person to the other while writing on her pad. Never called back the order to us and just walked off. Our food arrived and we weren’t checked back on, thankfully there were no issues with it as it was so tasty. Our server then came over to the table as soon as someone had finished their food and lifted the plates one by one while the others were still eating. I always find that a bit odd to do, but this time was just so so awkward. We could really feel her hovering at the table and it made for such an uncomfortable time. Once we all had finished she didn’t ask us if we wanted anything else but instead ‘want the bill?’ was said very bluntly. We received the bill (and she also brought the card machine over with it) and I asked for a couple of minutes to look it over. However the server said ‘you splitting it’ instead and proceeded to take payments. It was honestly one of the most uncomfortable and rudest experiences we’ve ever had anywhere and I’m in no rush to go back here.


Call +44 20 7242 2580 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Prepared foods
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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