Seemor
Anfa CafeA-Worth Trying
102 St John St, London EC1M 4EH
· Cafe
· 4.9/5 Google (140 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Welcoming Clerkenwell cafe serving generous, freshly made sandwiches, wraps, breakfasts, and mint tea with standout hospitality at budget pricing.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Anfa Cafe delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality and outstanding service warmth, with genuine repeat loyalty and consistent execution over years. The pleasant neighborhood setting and excellent value reinforce its appeal as a local favorite, though it remains a destination for nearby workers and regulars rather than a cross-town draw. Lunchtime queues and modest ambiance prevent grade A territory, but this is precisely what makes it work—unpretentious, reliable, and genuinely welcoming.
Restaurant Summary
Anfa Cafe feels like a neighborhood spot where the welcome is as nourishing as the portions. The room comes across as warm and bustling, with food assembled in view and easy conversation at the counter. One diner summed it up simply: "They remember your usual and make it just right." You get the sense of real hospitality without the fuss, and a place that is easy to settle into for coffee and a hearty lunch. The cooking leans classic cafe fare with Moroccan lift—think kofta, harissa, and mint tea alongside English breakfasts and jacket potatoes. The culinary approach is elevated traditional: familiar formats like wraps and salad boxes, brightened with house sauces and juicy ginger and lime chicken rather than showy techniques. It suits diners who value freshness, big portions, and made-to-order care. For families, this is quietly kid-friendly. There are plenty of comfort items kids tend to like—cheese and beans jackets, bacon sandwiches, eggs, hot chocolate—and staff are happy to adjust (no bread, extra eggs). While there is no formal kids menu, the straightforward dishes and flexible service make it easy to feed different appetites.
At a Glance
- Generous portions and fresh, made-to-order food
- Kind, conversational service from the owner and team
- Excellent value for central London
- Lunchtime queues can slow things down
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- house_moroccan_mint_tea
- custom_made_sandwiches_in_front_of_you
- exceptional_value_portions
What People Love
- Friendly owners who remember regulars
- Juicy ginger and lime chicken and bold house sauces
- Proper sandwiches made in front of you
- Mint tea that feels like a small ritual
- Feeling of community and welcome
Points of Concern
- Busy lunch periods can mean a queue and longer wait for made-to-order items
- Isolated report of a coffee order mismatch (espresso vs. long black)
- Small cafe footprint may not suit large groups at peak
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (templated owner replies and occasional marketing-style praise) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£12-18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- If you like heat, request the house harissa with the Ginger & Lime Chicken Wrap.
- Vegetarian diners should consider the Spinach & Feta or Falafel Wrap with mixed leaves and couscous.
- For a lighter option, choose the Fresh Salad Box and add halloumi or falafel.
Perfect For
- Quick but satisfying workday lunch
- Casual weekend breakfast with mint tea
- Solo bite with people-watching
- Easygoing meet-up before or after Farringdon trains
Location Insights
Area: Historic Clerkenwell/Farringdon area with a mix of design firms, media, and residents; daytime office crowd and locals.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during business hours with good lighting and steady footfall.
Nearby: Near Farringdon and Smithfield; surrounded by cafes, pubs, and creative studios; frequent lunchtime takeaway traffic.
ClerkenwellA trendy, historically industrial area known for its vibrant design scene, innovative restaurants, and converted warehouse spaces. Characterized by a mix of historic architecture and contemporary urban development.
SmithfieldHistoric market area with strong gastronomic heritage, featuring traditional meat markets alongside modern dining establishments and creative workspaces.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–16:00
Tuesday07:00–16:00
Wednesday07:00–16:00
Thursday07:00–16:00
Friday07:00–16:00
Saturday
Sunday
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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