Seemor
Qima Café and Pâtisserie - Covent GardenC+Mixed Bag
21-22 New Row, London WC2N 4LE
· Coffee shop, Bakery, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (502 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A visually stunning Covent Garden café with inventive pastries and specialty coffee, but expect slow service and premium prices.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Qima Café and Pâtisserie delivers exceptional setting appeal and creative food quality that justify a visit for Instagram-worthy pastries and specialty coffee. However, slow service, inconsistent execution, and food safety concerns (insect complaints) prevent a higher grade. Recent satisfaction decline and premium pricing further limit appeal for casual café-goers seeking reliable, efficient service.
Restaurant Summary
Qima Café and Pâtisserie in Covent Garden is a feast for the eyes and the palate, offering inventive desserts and specialty coffee in a setting that’s as stylish as it is welcoming. The interior design draws frequent praise for its modern, Instagrammable flair, and the pastry case is a showcase of creativity—think Black Forest reimagined as edible art and pistachio mousse encased in chocolate shells. While the atmosphere is lively and the location prime for people-watching, be prepared for long waits and occasional service hiccups, especially during peak hours. The culinary approach here is decidedly contemporary and fusion-driven, with a menu that pushes the boundaries of classic patisserie. Expect bold flavor pairings, artistic presentations, and a rotating selection of unique drinks like the Qishr Latte and Saint Ali Mokha. This is a spot for adventurous eaters and coffee aficionados who appreciate creativity over tradition. However, those seeking simple comfort food or lightning-fast service may find the experience less satisfying. For families: Qima offers a cozy, inviting space that kids may enjoy, and several reviews mention positive family outings. That said, the menu is not specifically tailored to children—most options are sophisticated pastries and specialty drinks, with few simple or familiar kid-friendly choices. If your little ones are open to trying new flavors, they’ll likely find something to love, but picky eaters may struggle. The café’s bustling vibe and occasional wait times may also test younger diners’ patience.
At a Glance
- Stunning, modern interior perfect for Instagram and relaxed meetups.
- Creative, fusion-inspired desserts and specialty coffee drinks.
- Service is frequently slow and disorganized, especially at busy times.
- Premium pricing—expect to pay £25+ per person for a full experience.
- Menu is adventurous; conservative eaters and kids may find limited options.
What Sets It Apart
- creative_fusion_pastries
- instagrammable_interior
- specialty_yemeni_coffee
What People Love
- The artistry and creativity of the desserts
- The beautiful, modern interior and relaxed vibe
- Unique drinks like the Qishr Latte and Saint Ali Mokha
- Friendly staff (when not overwhelmed) and welcoming atmosphere
- A sense of discovery—new flavors and menu items to try
Points of Concern
- Service is often slow, with long waits for orders and inconsistent attentiveness.
- Premium pricing and mandatory service charge surprise some diners.
- Menu items are frequently unavailable or sold out, especially later in the day.
- Reports of flies around the pastry display and an isolated but serious theft incident.
- Adventurous menu may not suit conservative palates or children.
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£25-35 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Try the signature desserts for a special treat, but budget accordingly (£14-18.50 each).
- If you want alternative milks, ask before ordering—availability varies.
- For families, consider sharing desserts as portions are rich and sophisticated.
Perfect For
- Adventurous dessert lovers seeking unique patisserie creations
- Coffee enthusiasts looking for specialty brews in a stylish setting
- Instagrammers and design fans wanting a photogenic café experience
- Small groups or friends meeting for a leisurely brunch or treat
Location Insights
Area: Bustling, upscale, and tourist-friendly; Covent Garden is known for its lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and cultural attractions.
Safety: Generally safe and well-patrolled, but reviews report occasional pickpocketing incidents inside the café; high foot traffic area.
Nearby: Surrounded by theatres, shopping, and other cafés; heavy tourist and local shopper presence.
Covent GardenA bustling historic area with a mix of high-end dining, street performers, boutique shops, and cultural attractions. The neighborhood offers a dynamic dining scene with restaurants ranging from casual cafes to upscale establishments.
Theatre DistrictA concentrated area around the Royal Opera House and major theaters, characterized by pre and post-performance dining and entertainment options.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–20:00
Tuesday10:00–20:00
Wednesday10:00–20:00
Thursday10:00–20:00
Friday10:00–20:00
Saturday10:00–20:00
Sunday10:00–20:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →