Elder Press Cafe — Restaurant in London

I have to say I really didn’t want to have to write this review as I’ve loved the cafe for a while now, so much so that it was my absolute first choice to have my birthday brunch! I booked months in advance and was very organised with pre orders/ sending spreadsheets ahead of time however when we arrived with my cake we were told there was a £20 fee for this (I was quite frustrated this hadn’t been mentioned in all of the planning) but I said that we’d pay, just suggested it should be listed somewhere before. My friend saw I was upset from this and raised the query to the team that legally this policy should be written somewhere and it put us in an awkward position, (but we were still going to pay). Us and the staff team were all fine, and Lisa the amazing manager double checked if we still wanted the cake and we agreed again with smiles- all was well until… The owners came to the table asking to speak with me. They took me outside (the other side of a glass wall my entire party were watching through) and were very hostile in stating that we were “refusing to pay and threatening lawyers!” I assured that was not the case and calmly re explained the situation and that we were happy to pay (which Lisa confirmed) but they were very argumentative and patronising. I suggested that it be mentioned or listed somewhere that this was a policy and they do cakes (which they said was on their website but myself and my friends still can’t find this) and I was scoffed at. I had been pulled away from my party on my birthday to be belittled and made to feel silly in front of all of my friends. It was such a shame as I was so excited to take all of my friends to my favourite spot, and in every fairness every other part of the experience was lovely but I felt I really couldn’t defend this treatment. My hesitation to go back is just the treatment I would get again. I’d also like to add that Lisa the manager offered to take on the fee which was over and above from her and felt a welcome ray of kindness in this situation- so thank you for that!! A very mixed review but I thought (as they don’t deem it necessary) I should make a public PSA of...

Having stayed in for weeks, finding somewhere that has excellent coffee, helpful and friendly service, healthy options, accessible toilet, close to thames path for dog walking, excellent social distancing, outdoor seating also available for the nice weather. I would give the Elderpress six stars if I could.

This Cafe is close to the thames path from Hammersmith Bridge to Barnes on Black Lion Lane directly across from The Black Lion Pub. Having been a few times, I have to say the coffee is amazing. It has taken me a few visits before I realised how much space there was inside and out, I have been anxious about being around too many people during this crisis.

I have to be extremely careful and dog walking is my only outing. It was fantastic to find out how many seating options and how safe this cafe is. This is the only place so far I have felt comfortable to eat in from. I bring my little dog and am always told she can come in which is helpful for dog owners. Not all venues along the river allow dogs.

There is indoor and outdoor seating, an excellent range of bread and pastries, chutneys, jams etc... for sale. Have had a filled croissant and it was fantastic. The staff are so friendly and helpful, service is quick as at busy times they have two baristas serving.

Hand sanitizer is available and a limit to how many to enter a time. I have never had to wait very long. There are lots of spaces to park bicycles and access at the side would accommodate pushchairs, wheelchairs or like me leg braces and a dog. The front door has one small step which could make it difficult for wheelchair users. Side access and a window means however access is available.

They have water for dogs at the door and are extremely dog friendly and even sell face masks for anyone who might have forgotten theirs for fifty pence.

It took me a while to discover this cafe despite my walking up and down the river but am so glad that I have. This is my healthier option in all ways for food, social distancing and somewhere I can sit in and eat or grab a coffee on my walk. I always need the caffeine...

Really annoyed order person because I wasn't familiar with the menu and specials. My first at this restaurant and I'm from the U.S. It's unreasonable to get all impatient because I don't know how things work. So you don't make the same mistake, Don't try to order at the front desk. Specials are on the blackboard to the right. Read that first. Then if you want to sit, stand to the left and wait to be seated.

Also, I wanted another coffee, but no server in sight. The manager was lovely when I mentioned things, including the added pan au chocolate added to my bill that I didn't order. (ALWAYS REVIEW YOUR BILL!) And the disappearing server for when I wanted another coffee. (Manager gave me a coffee for amends. That was sweet, unexpected and a nice thing to do. She's a keeper.)

I had the Turkish eggs with yogurt, pomegranate seeds and I think it was basil. Nice combination. Great bread, but you have to ask for butter.

Honestly, for the brand, they could do better. Turned a potentially charming breakfast into something less than. Won't be back.

PS Free...