Top 5 Places for Coffee and Cake in London

If you're on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to London, then it's worth taking in high tea at one of the grand hotels. The Ritz, the Park Lane, the Dorchester. Or even one of the higher end department stores, like Harrod's or Fortnum and Mason.

But what about those times when you fancy a little luxury in the middle of the day, without going the whole hog? These are my favourite London spots for a quality cup of Italian coffee and a slice of something delectable.

Ottolenghi

Whether it's the Islington branch or the Ladbroke Grove branch, I defy you to walk past Ottolenghi's windows without stopping to drool over the gorgeous goodies piled high in the windows. The meringues may be the most eye-catching, but the iced polenta cake is the far more interesting.

Daylesford Organic

Daylesford Organic also have a Ladbroke Grove branch, and one more in Belgravia (the Clifton Gardens branch at Little Venice has closed now, sadly). Don't miss out on their amazing smoothies, guaranteed to be the best (and most creative) you've ever had. It's also the place to go for a perfectly poured cappuccino or latte.

Baker and Spice

Yottam Ottolenghi (see 'Ottolenghi', above) honed his culinary skills while working at Baker and Spice. And it's evident in the delicious - if pricey - baked goods. From gorgeous flaky croissants to the legendary carrot cake and divine brownies. There's a Belgravia branch and a Little Venice branch on Clifton Road.

Monmouth Coffee House

The coffee takes the starring role at Monmouth, but there are delicious pastries, cakes and chocolates on offer, too. The coffee is roast, ground and brewed to perfection on site. Grab a bag of Indian Blue Mountain to go, or pull up a seat and soak up the boho chic vibe. There's the original Monmouth Street branch in Covent Garden, a Borough Market branch (and a coffee-only takeaway stall in Borough Market itself).

Del'AzizDel'Aziz is a relative newcomer to London, but sure to make a splash. There are several branches to choose, from Bermondsey in the East to Westfield in the West, and Fulham in the South to Swiss Cottage in the North. The cakes, tarts and sweets in this North African gourmet bakery ooze elegance and taste every bit as heavenly as they look.