Seemor
Café de LivioB+Worth Trying
12D Smithfield St, London EC1A 9LA
· Cafe
· 4.8/5 Google (121 reviews)
Takeout
Warm, owner-led Italian cafe serving standout ciabatta, pasta, and budget-friendly breakfasts with genuine hospitality; expect quick-moving queues at busy times and occasional ordering-line confusion.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Café de Livio delivers solid neighborhood café performance through excellent food quality, particularly standout ciabatta and fresh Italian sandwiches, paired with warm, attentive service where owners know regulars by name. Modest space and design prevent grade A territory, though exceptional value and genuine hospitality make this a reliable local favorite worth visiting for a quick, satisfying meal.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cosy and welcoming, the kind of spot where the owner greets regulars by name and first-timers leave smiling. One diner summed it up: "The welcome alone brightened my day," and the coffee and hot ciabatta sealed the deal. Expect a lively counter at lunch, but the line moves quickly and the team keeps the vibe upbeat. Cooking leans classic Italian cafe—think toasted ciabatta, comforting pastas, and a bargain full English with a drink. Flavors are hearty and fresh rather than flashy; pesto gets love, the lasagne warms, and a spicy sausage pasta brings a gentle kick. This is food that favors freshness over fuss, ideal for workday lunches or a quick, satisfying breakfast. Families are treated kindly, and there are straightforward choices kids actually eat: toasted sandwiches, lasagne, and a full English. Portions are generous without being overwhelming, prices are gentle, and the space is casual and easy—though at peak times, a brief wait is likely.
At a Glance
- Warm, genuine owner hospitality with many returning regulars
- Excellent ciabatta and budget-friendly full English including drink
- Fast service even with a queue at lunch
- Occasional confusion in the queuing order at peak times
- Pricing for extras noted as unclear by one reviewer
What Sets It Apart
- owner_knows_regulars
- budget_full_english_with_drink
- exceptional_ciabatta_quality
What People Love
- Feeling like a regular from first visit
- Crisp, generously filled ciabatta
- Great value compared to nearby options
- Speedy service that respects lunch breaks
Points of Concern
- Peak-time queuing can feel disorganized for newcomers (isolated complaint but plausible at rush hour)
- Pricing for add-ons could be clearer according to one review
- Small, cosy space may feel tight during lunch rush
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£12-18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Based on reviews: order the full English if you want maximum value, or a pesto-forward ciabatta for a quick lunch.
Perfect For
- Quick, satisfying lunch near Smithfield
- Budget-friendly breakfast with coffee
- Casual meet-up with coworkers
- Solo coffee stop with a hearty sandwich
Location Insights
Area: Historic Smithfield market area with offices and commuters; daytime trade heavy, casual weekday vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, busy during business hours; standard City foot traffic and lighting.
Nearby: Near Smithfield Market, offices, and Farringdon/Barbican; strong weekday lunch crowd influence.
SmithfieldSmithfield is famous for its historic meat market and vibrant food scene, including a variety of pubs, restaurants, and street food vendors. The area attracts a mix of daytime professionals from nearby offices, food enthusiasts visiting the market, and tourists exploring the historic surroundings. Dining options range from traditional British fare to contemporary eateries, often with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Smithfield Market AreaThe immediate vicinity around Smithfield Market is characterized by its active food market environment, with a strong focus on fresh produce and meat. This micro-neighborhood has a bustling daytime vibe with market activity and casual dining spots, transitioning to quieter evenings with select pubs and restaurants catering to locals and visitors.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday05:00–16:00
Tuesday05:00–16:00
Wednesday05:00–16:00
Thursday05:00–16:00
Friday05:00–16:00
Saturday
Sunday
Available: Takeout
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