Creative brunch cafe with standout pastrami and fluffy pancakes; generally warm service and lively vibe, with pricing on the higher side for a casual spot.
Trade delivers solid neighborhood cafe excellence through exceptional food quality anchored by house-smoked pastrami and creative brunch dishes, supported by warm, attentive service. Consistency shows minor variability during peak times when food waits on the pass, and crowding during busy hours prevents the higher distinction needed for grade A territory. Strong loyalty and reliable execution across most dimensions position it competitively among the area's better neighborhood cafes.
Trade feels like a neighborhood anchor where house-smoked pastrami meets a lively brunch crowd. The room is modern and bright, often buzzing on weekends, and staff are typically warm and upbeat. One diner summed it up simply: "The Reuben recommendation was perfect and the portions were generous." Pricing leans mid-range for a cafe, and at peak times it can feel a bit crowded. The cooking leans elevated comfort with creative brunch touches rather than theatrics. Expect fluffy pancakes with crisp edges, a well-loved Reuben, and twists like miso aubergine or chilli-slicked eggs; the culinary approach reads elevated traditional with global accents, ideal for diners who enjoy bold flavors without a fine-dining vibe. Coffee feedback is mostly positive though a few found it mild, and execution can dip during rush with plates lingering on the pass. For families, there are plenty of kid-approachable options like buttermilk pancakes, grilled cheese, and eggs on toast, plus cookies and cakes. The menu lacks a formal kids menu, portions can be generous, and the room gets busy on weekends, so earlier visits may be more comfortable. Review experiences were mixed for teens on pancakes, but choices are broad enough that most kids will find something familiar.
Area vibe: Trendy inner-north London corridor with independent cafes, creative shops, and a local residential base.
Safety: Generally safe, busy during daytimes with steady foot traffic.
What's nearby: Between Angel and Highbury & Islington; near neighborhood retail and transit links along Essex Road.
House-smoked pastrami, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, and a standout vegan sandwich are the safest bets.
Casual dress is fine, you can walk in but brunch waits are common and the place gets busy.
A modern, buzzy neighborhood cafe that fills up quickly on weekends.