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FoylesCWorth Trying

Name: Foyles
Address: 107 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0EB, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.7

107 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0EB · Cafe, Book store, Music store · 4.7/5 Google (12703 reviews)

Delivery

A legendary multi-level bookstore with a bright café, beloved by book lovers and families, but with inconsistent café service and occasional crowding.

Why it gets a C for overall quality

Foyles delivers a distinctive experience as a beloved literary destination with exceptional setting appeal and design that draws book lovers and tourists alike. However, the integrated café shows modest food quality and inconsistent execution, particularly in service speed and reliability, which prevents a higher grade. The venue excels as a bookstore experience but falls short as a dedicated café destination.

Restaurant Summary

Step into Foyles and you’re entering a literary wonderland—five floors of books, music, and stationery, all wrapped in a bright, modern design that’s as inspiring as it is welcoming. Book lovers will find themselves lost (in the best way) among endless shelves, cozy corners, and a vibrant café perched on the top floor. The atmosphere is lively yet peaceful, making it a favorite escape for locals, tourists, and families alike. Staff are generally praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, though the occasional service hiccup does crop up, especially in the café. The culinary approach here is classic café fare: fresh bakes, scones, cakes, salads, and coffee are the mainstays, with most visitors popping in for a light bite or sweet treat rather than a full meal. Don’t expect avant-garde cuisine—this is a place for comfort and convenience, not culinary experimentation. The café’s pricing is typical for central London, with some finding it a touch high, but most accept it as part of the experience. The scones, in particular, are a crowd favorite, and the café’s sunlit setting is perfect for a reading break or a chat with friends. For families, Foyles is a kid-friendly haven. The children’s section is extensive, and reviews frequently mention happy young readers and family outings. While the café menu isn’t detailed in reviews, there’s no evidence of kid-specific meals, but the presence of simple baked goods and a relaxed vibe make it easy for families to enjoy a visit. If you’re hoping for a full lunch menu or adventurous food, you may want to look elsewhere, but for a treat and a browse, it’s hard to beat.

At a Glance

Stunning multi-level bookstore with a bright, modern design.
Knowledgeable, helpful staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Café with popular scones and cakes—perfect for a reading break.
Café service and food quality can be inconsistent, especially late in the day.
Seating fills up quickly; can be crowded at peak times.

What Sets It Apart

multi_level_bookstore
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children's_section
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What People Love

The sheer scale and selection of books across every genre
The bright, inspiring design and cozy reading nooks
Friendly, knowledgeable staff who go the extra mile
The café’s scones and cakes—perfect for a treat
A sense of tradition and community that keeps regulars coming back

Points of Concern

Café service can be slow or unfriendly at times, especially during busy periods
Food quality is inconsistent, with some reports of stale or poorly prepared items
Seating is limited both in the café and near bookshelves—expect to wait or hunt for a spot
Some isolated complaints about customer service and problem resolution, particularly with vouchers or refunds

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleHybrid Average Cost£12-18 (estimate based on café lunch/dessert mentions) per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Try the scones and cakes for a classic Foyles café experience.
Opt for coffee and a light snack rather than expecting a full meal.
Families should head to the children’s section for the best kid-friendly experience.

Perfect For

Spending a leisurely afternoon browsing books and sipping coffee
Family outings with children who love to read
Solo visitors seeking a peaceful escape in the city
Meeting friends for a light snack and conversation

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, creative, and literary Soho/Charing Cross Road area, popular with students, families, and tourists. Vibrant, urban, and walkable.

Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic, well-lit, but occasional reports of petty theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas.

Nearby: Surrounded by theatres, music shops, cafes, and other bookstores; close to Tottenham Court Road and Leicester Square.

Covent GardenA bustling neighborhood with a rich theatrical heritage, featuring numerous restaurants, street performers, boutique shops, and historic venues. The dining scene is eclectic, mixing traditional British establishments with international cuisine and trendy eateries.

Seven DialsA charming sub-area characterized by its unique seven-way street intersection, featuring independent boutiques, artisan cafes, and a bohemian atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–21:00 Tuesday09:00–21:00 Wednesday09:00–21:00 Thursday09:00–21:00 Friday09:00–21:00 Saturday09:00–21:00 Sunday11:30–18:00

Available: Delivery

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