Once upon a time in Britain, the day began with the gentle clink of porcelain cups and the soothing aroma of tea. The “cuppa” was more than a drink—it was a ritual, a symbol of national identity. But something new began to stir. In 2015, 67% of Britons drank tea regularly, compared to 63% who drank coffee (Beverages consumed regularly 2015 survey| Statista). Fast forward to 2025, and the tables have turned: 62% now prefer coffee, with tea slipping just behind at 59%. Chart: Tea or Coffee? | Statista

This quiet revolution isn’t just about taste; London’s coffee culture is thriving thanks to independent businesses creating spaces that are more than just cafés. From coworking corners to community hubs, these small businesses are helping reshape how we socialise and work.

Just off North End Road in Fulham, three new coffee shops have opened in less than a year. One of them, The Civet House, was launched by 30-year-old Rafitk, who left his corporate job to follow his dream.

“I come from Dubai and used to visit London on holiday; I have a special feeling for this city” says Rafitk. “Back then, the coffee didn’t always taste amazing—but now, the scene has transformed. The quality’s so much better, and people really care. That’s a big part of why I opened my shop. There’s been groundbreaking work in London’s café culture—and I wanted to be part of it.”

The Civet House brings a touch of Indonesia to London, with warm design and standout item, the viral pistachio cream is sold there. Since December, he’s seen growing community support and monthly business increases.

“These days, people know what you eat, what you drink, and if you serve great food and coffee, they’ll come back. People socialise more in coffee shop.” Rafitk says.

Across the river in Southwark, Scenery offers something different. Bright, modern, and hidden behind old brick walls, it’s quickly become part of the morning ritual for a growing fanbase of local professionals. With jazz music, swift service, and genuinely sharp coffee, Scenery fuels the start of a new kind of workday.

Founded by three friends —who left their full-time jobs to launch the café—Scenery reflects a fresh energy in London’s independent coffee scene.

“London’s social scene has changed for the better,” says Stu, 25, one of Scenery’s three co-founders. “Before, people might have gone to the pub to catch up. But now, they’d rather meet over coffee, especially in the morning. Working from home has also made cafés the new office. During lockdown, everyone was baking banana bread and making their own brews, but now, they really appreciate the effort behind a simple coffee.”

In just a few months, Scenery has become more than just a coffee spot; it’s a community hub, where people relax and have a chat with the team, when they remember their order and their names.

“Independent coffee shops in London are growing rapidly because they offer something you just can’t get anywhere else: authenticity, quality, and a real sense of community. We’ve seen this firsthand at our ‘Coffee Fridays’ events, held at local cafés across London, where entrepreneurs come together, connect, and support one another.” says Vanesa Perez Sanchez, Director of the Small Business Service at London & Partners.
“We’re also seeing more people leave employment to become their own boss, drawn to the idea of building something local and meaningful. As these cafés expand, there’s always support available—like Grow London Local—for those looking to create a neighbourhood café or new business.”
So, while Britain may now be a coffee-first nation, its evolving drink culture is less about rivalry and more about reinvention. It’s about people like Rafitk and Stu; small business owners whose passion is steeped in every pour and pull.