The Wolseley in Piccadilly Named London's Top Breakfast Destination by Time Out
In a city brimming with culinary delights, breakfast often takes a backseat to trendier brunches or is skipped entirely. However, Time Out has recently spotlighted the best places to start your day in the capital, with The Wolseley in Piccadilly claiming the number one spot. This iconic restaurant has long been celebrated for its dedication to the first meal of the day, earning praise from critics and food enthusiasts alike.
A Legacy of Breakfast Excellence
The Wolseley's reputation for breakfast is not new; it has been a staple for decades, even inspiring the late AA Gill to write a book dedicated to its offerings. Time Out's food editor, Leonie Cooper, describes it as an "always-fun and always-busy art deco-styled grand café - and still a celeb-spotting paradise." She emphasises that for those seeking a sense of occasion with their morning meal, The Wolseley is unparalleled.
From freshly baked pastries to decadent dishes like omelette Arnold Bennett and creamed porridge with fruit compote, the menu is packed with classics. Specialties include grilled kipper with mustard butter, fired haggis and duck eggs with whiskey sauce, and fishcakes with poached eggs and hollandaise, ensuring there's something for every palate.
Practical Details and Pricing
As a rather posh venue, prices at The Wolseley reflect its exceptional quality. Hot breakfasts range from £7.50 for classic porridge to £25.50 for kedgeree with poached egg. Leonie Cooper notes that at such a high-calibre establishment, these costs are expected. Breakfast service runs from 7am to 11.30am on weekdays and starts at 8.30am on weekends. For those unable to secure a table at the Piccadilly location, there is an additional branch in the City.
Other Notable Breakfast Spots in London
While The Wolseley tops the list, Time Out also highlights other favourites in the capital. These include the croissant royale at Fallow, the stonking breakfast burrito at Bad Manners—touted as "the greatest hangover cure in town"—and the proper fry-up at E Pellicci. This ranking underscores London's diverse and vibrant breakfast scene, offering options for every taste and budget.
The recognition of The Wolseley comes amid other exciting culinary developments, such as London's first Michelin-starred breakfast tasting menu launching in Mayfair and new restaurant openings slated for February 2026. For the latest updates on London's food and culture, following Time Out's channels is recommended.
