Kaffeine — Restaurant in London

The second Kaffeine on Eastcastle Street delivers great coffee, delicious food and friendly service in a modern environment. Whenever you want to take a break from the busy surroundings of Oxford Street (or your office - if you work in the area), there is not much more you could ask for!

In early spring 2015, Kaffeine opened its second branch on Fitzrovia's Eastcastle Street, just a few minutes from the original store, but significantly closer to the constant hustle and bustle of Oxford Street.

No question, after I have been visiting the original Kaffeine store regularly for several years now, I am biased and probably not the most objective reviewer. So I intentionally waited a few weeks before I wrote this review, to get a better impression of the new location and not write everything based on previous experience at the first shop.

The second Kaffeine feels very familiar and also a little bit alien at the same time. The general layout of the shop is recognisable, like a mirrored setup of the first shop. The abundance of free space in the middle of the new store on Eastcastle Street certainly creates a slightly different atmosphere and makes take-away orders much easier.

Most materials used appear more modern, while preserving basic characteristics of the Kaffeine style - if there is such a thing. The high tables are a beautiful mix of wood and concrete. Where people are used to exposed brick walls these days, the new Kaffeine presents itself sleek and polished with washed concrete, light wood, copper, a black wall and white tiles. I also like that the design of the tables is continued on the walls.

When I first walked in, I was surprised about the interior, because I probably expected something that looked more like the first shop. But after looking around and spending some time there, I really enjoy the refreshing mix of colours and surfaces.

I got to think that Kaffeine in Eastcastle Street puts more emphasis on food. Since the shop opened, I've already discovered a few tasty new treats, like the absolutely delicious chocolate and raspberry cake - and some of the new items also make their way to the Great Titchfield Street shop.

The coffee is excellent, as you expect from Kaffeine: beautiful black cups, filled with great Square Mile coffee and finished off with carefully crafted latte art by lovely and skillful baristas.

Now, I must admit, that I kind of prefer the original shop. The darker wood, the brick wall, the size or probably just the different floor plan create a warm coziness that makes me smile. Besides this, the bench and the tables simply work a little bit better for me - maybe just because I am used to it all.

However, altogether I do really like Kaffeine on Eastcastle Street and will soon be back for another coffee, and to check out the rest of...

There is a brief moment of panic when I take the first sip and realize it is not a flat white at all. The taste is weak, diluted, utterly lifeless. The milk is overheated, flat, collapsing instantly. The texture is thin, hollow, grotesque. I stare at the surface. No crema. No balance. No body. My God, it even lacks foam. My hand begins to tremble slightly as I lift the cup again. The temperature is wrong. The weight feels insubstantial, cheap. I think about the grinder, and wonder, is it cleaned? Is it maintained? The shot, if she even pulled one, must have run blond in ten seconds. I look around the café, see the typical London café cups disguising subpar product. I force a smile, nod politely, thank her. My expression never changes. But inside I am seething, burning. Every detail is grotesque in its imperfection. I place the cup down gently, as if it might stain me. I walk out into the street, the smile still fixed on my face. I would rather starve for caffeine than ever drink here again. To the owner: Re-review with a few corrections for accuracy. Rather than argue with reviews you don't like, it would be better to institute some quality control to ensure your staff aren't serving low-effort coffee when they feel they can get away with it. I have (had) been coming to this shop for quite a while and have noted the decline in quality, from always getting a good cup to getting it 50% of the time to less than 10% now. Your own product speaks against you as that it what I am comparing it to and is why I am no...

Visiting Kaffeine in Fitzrovia, London, is always a highlight of my trips to the area. From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere welcomes you, setting the stage for a truly exceptional coffee experience. The attention to detail in every cup they serve is evident, showcasing their commitment to quality and the craft of coffee making.

What sets Kaffeine apart is not just the perfect coffee, which is consistently rich, smooth, and full of flavor, but also the vibrant and friendly vibe that fills the space. The baristas are not only skilled in their craft but are genuinely happy to see every customer, contributing to a uniquely pleasant and welcoming experience every time.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Kaffeine is a must-visit for coffee lovers. Its central location in Fitzrovia makes it an ideal stop for a morning caffeine fix or an afternoon pick-me-up.

I’m always happy to visit Kaffeine whenever I’m around, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an outstanding coffee experience in London. It’s clear that Kaffeine isn’t just about serving great coffee; it’s about creating a moment of joy...