Seemor

SELV ROASTERYB+?Proceed Cautiously

Name: SELV ROASTERY
Address: 116 Upper St, London N1 1AP, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.9

116 Upper St, London N1 1AP · Cafe, Coffee shop · 4.9/5 Google (57 reviews)

Takeout · Outdoor seating

A tiny, charming Upper Street coffee spot pouring smooth, well-roasted espresso drinks with friendly owners and cozy covered outdoor seating.

Why it gets a B+? for overall quality

Preliminary Grade: This restaurant has only 61 reviews, which is below our 50-review minimum for reliable grading. This grade should be considered preliminary until more reviews are available. SELV ROASTERY delivers excellent espresso drinks and pastries with reliable execution and friendly, prompt service that creates a genuine regulars' atmosphere. The charming covered outdoor seating and strong customer loyalty reflect a well-executed neighborhood café, though limited interior space and straightforward (rather than distinctive) culinary approach prevent higher distinction.

Restaurant Summary

On Upper Street by St Mary’s, SELV ROASTERY feels warm and welcoming, a tiny nook with covered outdoor seats and blankets for chilly mornings. Reviewers keep calling out the baristas by name, and one regular put it simply: "I come for a quick flat white and watch the neighborhood go by." Service is friendly and prompt, and the vibe is relaxed without being sleepy. The drinks lean classic specialty coffee rather than flashy, with an excellent flat white as the calling card and a smooth medium roast profile many describe as balanced and clean. Pastries like croissants, brownies, and carrot cake round out a light snack, plus the occasional Turkish treat. The culinary approach is straightforward and quality-driven: well-executed standards over experimentation. For families, the setting is casual and approachable with pastries and hot chocolates likely available by implication, though no formal kids menu is mentioned. Space inside is tiny, so strollers may be easier outdoors under the cover. If your crew wants simple coffee and a sweet bite, this is kid-friendly enough; for full meals or picky eaters needing specific options, look elsewhere.

At a Glance

Smooth, well-balanced espresso drinks praised across many reviews
Cozy covered outdoor seating with blankets
Friendly owners and baristas create a regulars vibe
Very small interior; seats can be limited at busy times
One-off complaint about price and taste contrasts with overall praise

What Sets It Apart

covered_outdoor_arch_seating
owner_barista_presence
cozy_blankets_in_cold_weather
consistently_praised_flat_white

What People Love

Silky flat whites and balanced medium roast flavor
Genuinely friendly owner-operated service
Relaxed people-watching across from the church
Consistent quality over multiple visits

Points of Concern

Seating is limited; expect occasional waits during peak hours
Tiny interior may be tight for groups or strollers
A single review mentions high price and underwhelming coffee, but this is not a common theme

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£8-14 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Prioritize espresso-based drinks like flat white or cappuccino; add a pastry if you want a light bite; ask about Turkish treats if you want something different.

Perfect For

Morning coffee ritual before work or school
Solo time with a pastry and notebook
Quick caffeine stop during an Angel stroll
Casual meet-up in a cozy outdoor spot

Location Insights

Area: Bustling high street with boutiques, cafes, and pedestrian flow; popular with locals and office workers.

Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe day and evening with good lighting and footfall.

Nearby: Opposite St Mary’s Church by the entrance to Islington Square; covered outdoor arch seating noted by reviewers.

Islington Upper StreetA bustling and cosmopolitan neighborhood featuring a dense concentration of independent restaurants, cafes, boutique shops, and trendy dining establishments. The area is characterized by its Victorian townhouses, active street life, and sophisticated urban atmosphere.

AngelA dynamic sub-area known for its contemporary dining scene, proximity to tech businesses, and vibrant social environment with numerous gastropubs and modern restaurants.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday08:00–16:30 Tuesday08:00–16:30 Wednesday08:00–16:30 Thursday08:00–16:30 Friday08:00–16:30 Saturday08:00–17:00 Sunday09:00–16:00

Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating

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