This is one of London’s most characterful coffee spots, and it’s been doing things its own way since 1887 right in the heart of Soho. Credit: cktravels.com, Shutterstock Tucked away on Old Compton Street, this tiny, timeworn shop feels more like a living piece of London history than a modern café and that’s exactly what makes it so special. Step inside and you’ll find shelves stacked with beans, teas and tins, a traditional wooden counter, and an atmosphere that feels wonderfully unchanged. A Soho coffee shop with 130+ years of history Photo: Vaishnavi Pandey, Secret London Algerian Coffee Stores in Soho is one of London’s most characterful coffee spots, and it’s been doing things its own way since 1887. Algerian Coffee Stores has earned a loyal following not by chasing trends, but by sticking to what it does best: selling excellent coffee at remarkably low prices for central London. One of its biggest draws is the value. Recent write-ups note that espresso can cost as little as £1.50, with cappuccinos around £2, making it one of the best-value coffee stops in the city. Why Algerian Coffee Stores is still a London favourite Credit: Algerian Coffee Stores The shop was originally opened by an Algerian merchant known as Mr Hassan, and over the decades it has survived war, financial upheaval and Soho’s constant reinvention. Today, it remains a beloved independent business and a reminder that not every London institution needs to be polished to be popular. Its appeal is partly nostalgic, but it’s not just about the past. The store still pulls in coffee lovers, tourists and locals looking for a quick takeaway, rare beans or simply a break from Soho’s pace. Reviews and features consistently praise it as a must-visit for anyone interested in London’s coffee culture. What to order If you’re visiting for the first time, a takeaway espresso is the obvious starting point — both for the price and for the experience. The shop also sells a wide range of beans and teas, so it’s a strong stop if you want to take something home rather than linger over a sit-down coffee. Algerian Coffee Stores is located at 52 Old Compton Street, Soho, London W1D 4QE. Opening times listed in coverage vary slightly, but one source notes Monday to Wednesday from 10am to 6pm, Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 7pm, and Sunday closed.
