Artigiano

I stand by my first review of a year or so ago. I love this café — the location, the coffee, the pastries, the excellent service and the fun ambiance. And, despite what Unilocal shows, it’s open ok Sunday’s! I love coming here to work before attending mass at St Paul’s. Every time I order a regular cappuccino (and it’s a very generous cup!) and once in awhile, I like to indulge with a chocolate twist pastry — it’s heavenly! This venue also is a wine bar, although I’ve only come here for coffee on Sunday mornings. I’d be interested in checking it out in the evening some time. All in all, still my favorite spot in London!

I like it! The concept of combining an espresso bar with a wine bar is novel to me! The staff in this branch is cute and fast ready to serve when you arrive. As the shop is fairly small it do feel crap at busy time.
The coffee taste good and the pastries are very fresh! You have the option of sitting inside or outside under St Paul’s trees!

Most days, I walk into a coffee shop with the sole intention of ordering coffee. But few things are more tempting than a warm tray of fresh, buttery croissants being carried out right under my nose and arranged on varied tiered trays at the counter, as is the case at Artigiano.
The shop is cozy, and on a warm sunny day, you can grab an espresso (or glass of wine), sip outside and take in the view of St. Paul’s, and it’s glorious.

There is much to like about Artigiano. It has extended opening hours meaning that you can grab a coffee and cake (as well as teas and wine) well into the evening. The cakes itself are perfectly pleasant — the ginger and apricot flapjack has hit the spot for me more than once. The coffee is pretty good as well, made in a separate barista ‘station’ away from the till. Origin provide beans for the house blend if that is your thing.
Despite all these good points, I don’t find myself returning here very often. I think that is because it just feels a little too formal for me and the environment feels just a little sterile — a bit too close to. Being an indie Starbucks. That said, there is nothing drastically wrong. Maybe I am getting spoilt by the wealth of top spots that have sprung up around the city? Artigiano is certainly still well above average and I am sure to be back for one of those flapjacks before too long!