A Guide To London's Exmouth Market
Sophie Hay returns to one of London’s most quietly charismatic corners—Exmouth Market—with a curated guide on where to eat, drink, and shop.
Wedged between Clerkenwell and Farringdon, Exmouth Market has quietly built a reputation as one of London’s most charming little stretches. Surrounded by design studios, branding agencies and architecture firms, the street hums with a steady stream of working lunches, coffee runs and after-work drinks. But despite the buzz, it somehow still feels local — packed with independent shops and cafés where the staff remember your order.
I spent a lot of time here in my twenties. A friend’s aunt lived just off the market, and we’d stay with her any chance we got. Nearly a decade on, whenever I’m back in town, I make a point of swinging by. Most of our favourite haunts are still here, still thriving. It’s that mix of cult classics, well-established bars and offbeat boutiques that make Exemouth market a favourite for those who live and work in the area—and those who wish they did.
TO EAT
A candlelit offshoot of Dan’s just down the road in Dalston, Ken’s is part wine bar, part neighbourhood bistro. And, it already feels like a classic. From the team behind Perilla, it brings the same thoughtful, produce-led cooking to a more relaxed setting. Expect small plates like nduja-spiked mussels, bavette with anchovy butter, and clever seasonal salads, all paired with a nicely curated list of low-intervention wines.
A well-oiled all-day operation and a go-to for working breakfasts, Caravan does it all: great coffee, inventive small plates, and an always-buzzy atmosphere. The Clerkenwell outpost has become something of a neighbourhood anchor and has been serving up brilliant brunch and coffee for over a decade.
From the team behind Berber & Q, Shawarma Bar brings smoky, spice-filled Middle Eastern flavours to Exmouth Market. Slow-roasted meats, pillowy flatbreads and addictive sides like amba-laced fries make it a favourite for a quick-but-satisfying bite.
New to Exmouth Market but already drawing loyal queues, Gerry’s specialises in hot, Italian-American-style subs. Expect fillings like mortadella, spicy nduja, or roast chicken with hot honey and crisp iceberg, all tucked into golden, pillow-soft rolls. There’s a tucked-away garden out back if you want to eat in, but these are just as good grabbed to-go and enjoyed in Spa Fields.
A slinky corner spot with low lighting and a full-bodied wine list, Tabac toes the line between bar and bistro. French-ish small plates (steak frites, escargot, anchovy toast) are made to share, and the natural wine list leans heavy on the funky side. Perfect for date night or a glass after work that turns into three.
The original Exmouth Market institution. Moro has been here since 1997, bringing bold Moorish flavours and wood-fired everything to the street long before it was cool. The open kitchen, low lighting and always-inventive menu still make it one of the most coveted tables in town, and nearly twenty years on, it’s still always busy.
Next door to Moro (and run by the same team), Morito is the younger, livelier sibling. Think bright tiles, counter seating, and shareable small plates.
Quality Chop House Technically just a short walk from Exmouth Market, but worth the slight detour. Quality Chop House is a Clerkenwell icon, known for its Victorian booth seating, perfect potato confit, and old-school British cooking with serious polish. Come hungry.
TO DRINK
A classic corner pub with tiled walls, rotating craft beers and consistently good atmosphere. The Exmouth is where work teams spill out after work, and locals swing by for one pint that usually turns into three.
A beloved local institution with mismatched furniture, vintage posters and a row of table football tables that are always in play. Café Kick is lively, a little chaotic (in a good way), and ideal for a first date, post-dinner drinks or spontaneous games night with friends. The cocktails are solid, too. We love their Mojito.
TO GRAB A COFFEE
The first London outpost of the Brooklyn-based brand, Devoción, brings Colombian beans and serious coffee credentials to the street. It’s become a fast favourite with the local creative crowd.
A laid-back, Mediterranean-influenced café serving proper Greek coffee. Their koulouri and feta pastries offer a nice change from your usual croissant.
As the name suggests, Tiny Mammoth is small, but packs a punch. Known for its excellent espresso, warm service and flaky pastries, it’s one of those spots where the staff remember your order.
TO DO
Spa Fields
Just behind Exmouth Market, Spa Fields is a leafy square with a surprisingly turbulent past. Once known for prizefights, bull-baiting and the notorious 1816 Spa Fields riots—where thousands gathered to demand reform—it’s since transformed into a quiet park with playgrounds and grassy corners. It's a favourite with residents and local workers who want a quiet spot for lunch.
This contemporary art gallery marks a subtle milestone for Exmouth Market’s creative credentials: in 2025, Elizabeth Xi Bauer opened its second London space here, expanding from Deptford to showcase emerging and mid-career artists within a crisp, minimalist setting. Keep an eye out for their rotating exhibitions.
If you’ve ever considered getting inked in London, chances are The Family Business has come up in conversation. Founded in 2003 by renowned tattooist Mo Coppoletta, this Exmouth Market institution has become one of the most respected studios in the country. The client list includes Kate Moss, Boy George and Jude Law, and they specialise in creative, old-school designs.
TO SHOP
Letterpress lives on at Marby & Elm, a joyful little stationery shop filled with hand-printed cards, colourful notepads and cheeky typographic gifts. Every design is printed on an antique press in the back of the shop, and the results are beautiful.
A longstanding Clerkenwell favourite, EC One centres around ethical fine jewellery, with a strong focus on sustainability and in-house craftsmanship. Their designs are timeless with just the right amount of creativity, and they offer bespoke services if you’re after something one-of-a-kind.
Part florist, part lifestyle boutique, Botanique Workshop blends seasonal blooms with small-batch candles, homewares and gifts. A lovely spot to pick up a little something for someone (or yourself).
84 Rooms recommends: A Guide to Broadway Market & London Fields, and A Guide To London's Mount Street Neighbourhood.