The Black Cab Coffee Co - Iconic Mobile Coffee Vans, Nine Elms Battersea Coffee Shop, Coffee Roaster, Evening Beers & Burgers — Restaurant in London

Black Cab Coffee – A Mixed Experience

I think I had an unrealistic expectation that Black Can Coffee was more of a cosy café or restaurant. In reality, it’s more of a bar/coffee shop that serves some food — an important difference that set the tone for the visit.

We went based on some strong online reviews and fab photos, particularly for the pancakes (a treat for the kids), and because it’s close to where we were. When I arrived, I walked to the bar and asked if I could order. I was told to go back to the till by the door entrance — only a few steps away — but in that short time, three other people had walked in right behind me and were served ahead of me. I waited as thé man behind the bar made all of their coffees. A fourth person arrived, and he was about to take her order too, until she corrected him and pointed out that I’d been waiting.

I ordered a simple mushroom, spinach & feta omelette, a side of sausage, banana Nutella pancakes, and a coffee. I asked how many sausages came in a portion (he said two) and paid around £34. Service charge is added at the point of ordering, which I often decline — I prefer to tip at the end based on actual service, a habit from my NYC days.

Beyond taking the order and delivering the food, there wasn’t much effort made to look after us - functional rather than welcoming.

Even though we were sitting just a few steps from the bar, my coffee wasn’t brought over — I was beckoned to come and get it myself. We waited almost 30 minutes for food, and there were only two other tables in at the time and they had been served! When food arrived, I had to get up again to collect cutlery, which the server pointed to while standing next to it.

I asked for mustard and ketchup, and was directed to collect them from the entrance. So again, I stood up and went over to get it myself.

There was only one sausage, not two as I was told. It was a juicy, shorter-style Cumberland and honestly, a little piece of joy! Maybe I couldn’t have eaten two, but the point is, I ordered based on what I was told.

The pancakes, according to my child, were “the best.”

I do think the quality of ingredients is there. But in terms of service — there was no warmth, no intuition, no sense of hospitality beyond the basics.

I get it’s not a restaurant but at £16 for a breakfast and with an optional 15–20% tip suggested you’d think there’d be more motivation to offer a little care or attentiveness. I did tip at the end, but not what I would’ve had we received better service. The difference between a great experience and a bad one is usually people and how they treat you - you can forgive a lot as a customer but when no one cares it is nearly impossible to go back and enjoy any food. Such a shame as other reviews seem to reflect an entirely...

A little cafe in the new Nine Elms residential area. We waited for 45 minutes to get our breakfast dishes because they clearly had a reservation booked and they wanted to serve them before us, despite that fact that they arrived in the cafe 15 minutes after we paid. It was weird and they acted annoyed we we asked if there was anything wrong. It would have been nice to know in advance, given that they clearly knew. On top of the fun experience, the food wasn't particularly amazing. Quite average. All and all, we might have been unlucky and got them on a bad day. Unfortunately, it was a 1 star experience for us.

EDIT: See, I do digital marketing for a living, and that, my friend, is the wrong way to reply. There was no sarcasm in my review. I geniuenly don't know if it was just a bad time or not. How could I? It was my first time. I always give the benefit of the doubt to places that give a sub-optimal service. It might be a hiccup. We are all humans, it's just work, so we might get it wrong. But your answer is disappointing. Own up to your mistakes. As I wrote, the right thing to do was informing clients that a minimum of 45 minutes wait was needed. You didn't have to make magic happen. Just be direct, as you claim you like to be.

Nah, sorry. You are not coming off in a good light. I appreciate that you feel the need to defend yourself and get some keyboard revenge. But it's not gonna work in favour of your business. Which is a pity, because the location is super cute....

The café boasted not only accurate directions but also a cozy ambiance that made the visit memorable.

Upon arriving, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The coffee itself was a delight, boasting a rich and smooth flavor that was a perfect pick-me-up. What truly stood out, though, was the warmth of the staff. Their friendly demeanor and attentive service created an inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

The café's outdoor seating area was another highlight. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the outdoor seating offered a refreshing change from the indoor setting. Among the options was a unique chilled and laid-back seat, perfect for basking in the sun while sipping on a cold beverage. This thoughtful addition added an extra layer of relaxation to the experience.

In a world where fast-paced lives dominate, finding a place where time slows down is a rarity. This café, discovered through the ever-reliable Google Maps, achieved just that. With its exceptional coffee, amiable staff, and serene outdoor seating, it provided a tranquil haven for a few moments of respite. Whether you're a local seeking a new favorite spot or a traveler exploring the city, this café is a must-visit for a truly...