Bar Italia

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Soho at 22 Frith Street, Bar Italia is much more than just a coffee shop—it is a cherished London institution that has been delighting patrons for around 75 years. Stepping inside this iconic café, you immediately sense a palpable nostalgia woven into its well-worn floors and walls adorned with memorabilia, creating a warm, lived-in charm that invites you to linger.

Bar Italia specializes in authentic Italian coffee culture, serving expertly crafted espresso-based drinks that consistently earn rave reviews. From the invigorating Double Espresso and silky smooth Cortado, to the classic Cappuccino and velvety Flat White, each cup is brewed with precision and passion. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their rich Espresso and Schnaps or the distinctive Italian Latte. Fans of the café rave about the lightning-fast, yet richly intense espresso shots—the kind that both awaken the senses and soothe the soul.

The menu is a delightful blend of authentic Italian indulgences and crowd-pleasing comfort food. Savor a fresh Cannoli Siciliani with its crisp shell and luscious ricotta filling, or indulge in traditional Tiramisu Cake and the café’s heavenly Coffee Cake, perfect sweet endings to your coffee ritual. For a heartier bite, their HomeMade Lasagne, Spaghetti Napoli, and Pepperoni Pizza are made with an unmistakable Italian flair, combining fresh ingredients and bold, balanced flavors that fill the air with irresistible aromas.

Many customers describe Bar Italia as a hidden gem and an essential London experience. J N calls it “a classic Italian coffee shop” with “seriously fast and tasty espresso,” while Gaby highlights its “quality coffee and vibrant atmosphere.” Raúl Solorio shared how his visit, initially inspired by a Pulp song, turned into an unforgettable 10 out of 10 surprise. Meanwhile, Hywel Maslen appreciates the nostalgic ambiance, asserting it’s probably London’s most iconic coffee bar, where the atmosphere buzzes with energy almost any time of day.

Whether you’re stopping by for a morning pick-me-up, a casual lunch featuring comforting classics like Sourdough Rolls with Mozzarella, Tomato & Fresh Basil, or a late-night pizza and beer, Bar Italia provides an inviting space filled with genuine Italian warmth. The lively environment, punctuated by the hum of conversations and clinking coffee cups, makes every visit a memorable sensory experience.

For those who cherish a connection to London's cultural heart alongside great tasting coffee and authentic Italian flavors, Bar Italia stands as a steadfast beacon of tradition and delight. As one loyal patron, C Lam, beautifully puts it, “You’ve brought a lot of peaceful calming memories.” It’s a place where every sip and bite resonates with heartfelt craftsmanship and enduring charm.