Seemor
Lever & Bloom CoffeeBWorth Trying
222 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8EB
· Bakery, Coffee shop
· 4.9/5 Google (682 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Excellent buns and friendly, small-shop vibes; coffee quality divides opinion and outdoor-only seating limits comfort.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Lever & Bloom delivers exceptional pastry quality with creative seasonal flavors and genuinely warm, attentive service that creates a welcoming neighborhood experience. However, food safety concerns with uncovered displays, outdoor-only seating limiting comfort, and inconsistent coffee execution prevent a higher grade. The venue excels as a quick pastry stop rather than a full cafe destination.
Restaurant Summary
A central London nook where buns steal the show, the scene feels warm and bustling around a tiny counter with pastry making on display. Staff come across as genuinely friendly, with multiple mentions of the owner greeting guests. One diner summed it up: "The pastries taste fresh, and the team makes you feel welcome." Outdoor tables keep it casual and street-side charming. The baking leans classic with a twist—think cinnamon and cardamom buns alongside playful seasonal flavors like pistachio orange or raspberry cheesecake. Pastry quality draws consistent praise, while coffee feedback is mixed: some say rich and well-pulled, others find it weak or inconsistent. Expect artisan pricing for freshly made buns rather than a sit-down cafe experience. Families do fine here thanks to kid-pleasing sweet buns and an easygoing setup; one parent mentioned their child’s love for the vanilla bun. Note that seating is outdoors only, drinks are served in takeaway cups, and there is no kids menu—simple, tasty, and best for quick stops rather than long meals.
At a Glance
- Freshly baked buns with creative flavors draw repeat visits
- Friendly, welcoming team and engaging owner presence
- Coffee quality is inconsistent across visits
- Outdoor-only seating and takeaway cups even when dining in
- Occasional reports of flies on uncovered pastry displays
What Sets It Apart
- scandinavian_style_buns_made_in_view
- tiny_quaint_shop_with_outdoor_tables
- friendly_owner_presence
What People Love
- Warm service that feels personal
- Seeing buns made behind the counter
- Creative spins on classic Scandinavian-style pastries
- The XL cinnamon bun experience
Points of Concern
- Coffee can be weak or poorly extracted at times, especially when busy
- Outdoor-only seating and disposable cups reduce comfort for lingerers
- Occasional hygiene concerns about uncovered displays with insects (reported by multiple reviewers)
- Queues and slower drink prep during rushes can delay orders
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£10-16 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Based on reviews: buns around £5.50-6.50; pair with espresso drinks if you like stronger coffee; fruit matcha blends divide opinion
Perfect For
- A sweet-focused coffee break near Covent Garden
- Casual meetups or solo pastry pit stops
- Touring central London with a quick treat
- Morning snack before shopping or theatre
Location Insights
Area: Central London cultural district near theatres and shops; heavy footfall with tourists and office workers.
Safety: Generally safe, busy streets, good lighting and constant foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Covent Garden, Holborn and Soho; minutes from Tottenham Court Road station and retail corridors.
Covent GardenCovent Garden is a lively neighborhood famous for its historic market, theaters, and diverse dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The area has a dynamic social atmosphere with a mix of visitors and locals enjoying entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences.
Shaftesbury Avenue Theatre DistrictThis micro-neighborhood is centered around Shaftesbury Avenue, known for its concentration of major West End theaters and vibrant nightlife. Dining here often caters to pre- and post-show crowds, with a mix of trendy bars, casual dining, and upscale restaurants.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–18:00
Tuesday08:00–18:00
Wednesday08:00–18:00
Thursday08:00–18:00
Friday08:00–18:00
Saturday08:30–18:00
Sunday09:00–17:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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