Vanilla Black Coffee & Books

4.4 ( 485 reviews )
Checking... 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM See Hours
£10–20
308 Kennington Rd, London SE11 4LD, United Kingdom
Vanilla Black Coffee & Books, located on the vibrant Kennington Road in London, is a delightful blend of a coffee shop and a cozy bookstore. The atmosphere is inviting, especially with its spacious outdoor seating that’s perfect for enjoying the sun and savoring excellent coffee. Reviewers consistently rave about the coffee, particularly the espresso from Assembly roasting, which boasts juicy flavors and delightful crema. The food menu, though compact, features carefully prepared dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Highlights include the avocado on sourdough and delicious toasties, which are perfect for a quick takeaway or a relaxed brunch. Many customers have expressed their love for the banana bread served with yogurt and fruit, suggesting it’s a must-try. Service is generally friendly and helpful, contributing to the warm vibe of the place. While some have experienced slight delays during busy times, the quality of both food and coffee makes it well worth the wait. With a selection of cookbooks for sale, Vanilla Black Coffee & Books is not just a place to eat and drink but a destination for food lovers and bookworms alike. Whether you're visiting for coffee or a light meal, it’s a charming spot that encourages you to stay and enjoy.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • No wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • On-site services available
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Serves great coffee
    • Serves great dessert
    • Has great tea selection
  • Popular for
    • Popular for breakfast
    • Popular for lunch
    • Good for solo dining
    • Good for working on laptop
  • Offerings
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves healthy options
    • Serves organic dishes
    • Quick bite
    • Serves vegan dishes
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
  • Dining options
    • Serves breakfast
    • Serves brunch
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Popular with university students
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available

Reviews For Vanilla Black Coffee & Books

Gemma Boothroyd
May 13,2025
Such a terrific atmosphere with great outdoor seating to soak up the sun (when sunny.. of course!) Really loved their espresso from Assembly roasting. Juicy flavours, delightful crema!
Olly Browning
May 7,2025
I just always go back for the toasties. Small but delicious menu of food, carefully prepared with fresh and local ingredients, even a little grocery market in front for when you need some special ingredients. I’ve yet to try their outdoor dining, but normally grab a takeaway toastie and eat it in the park. Service can be a little slow, especially if you’re just getting takeaway instead of stopping, but I don’t mind going for a quick walk and it’s usually ready by the time I’m back.
Karin Cohen
Apr 17,2025
Food and coffee were amazing! We came for breakfast and had the avocado on sourdough and salmon on sourdough which were excellent. Banana bread with yogurt and fruit was also very tasty. Would definitely come back.
Alessandra Durkin
Apr 13,2025
Had brunch here! We got poached eggs on toast and it was absolutely delicious. Coffee was great, all the staff were friendly and helpful, and the place was very clean :) Great atmosphere, will definitely be returning - and taking another look at all their cookbooks for sale!
Colby Goettel
Mar 29,2025
The food was delicious. Lots of seating and a large outdoor seating area, too. Great service. Delicious coffee. Highly recommend.
James Santhi
Mar 26,2025
What a great place for brunch! Staff were all really friendly and cooked my eggs the way I like it! Chiara, Patrick and Eva thank you a great experience and we will certainly be returning. Would highly recommend!
Gülnur Direkoglu
Mar 13,2025
On the days we bring my son to art school, we always stop by for breakfast. Make sure you have enough time to have some of their wonderful coffee and fresh cakes. Although there are similar places on the street, my favorite is "Vanilla Black" There is a small garden in the back. The chef did wonders with the poached egg today! What an orange color! Just come here for a taste. You won't regret it... There are also two great libraries nearby. To pamper yourself, say hello to the friendly team... It's worth it. Thank you , see you soon.
Xen Xenophontes
Feb 16,2025
A great seasonal menu with a focus on fresh and tasty ingredients. The current special is really delicious (Truffle Mushrooms). The peanut butter/jam porridge was also yumm! The poached eggs with Rose Harissa Beans are delish! They also make a great tasting coffee.

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