The Coffee Lovers' Guide in Croydon
In Croydon, there are many independent coffee shops where you can get your caffeine fix, enjoy a change of scenery, or just see a familiar friendly face. Even though adulthood has turned out to be more demanding than the TV shows from the 90s suggested, the coffee shop trend from that time is still going strong. This is partly because more people are working flexibly, leading many cafes to become mini workspaces. Our estate agents in Croydon highlighted that there are plenty of independent coffee spots available when you need a caffeine fix, a new environment, or just a friendly face.
Clocktower Cafe
If you’re not keeping an eye on the time, then Clocktower Café is a great spot to pass the hours.
With its vaulted glass ceiling, the café gets plenty of natural light, creating a lovely atmosphere to enjoy the extensive collection of artwork displayed on the walls.
Some corners of the café are perfect for soaking up the sun, allowing you to get a dose of vitamin D along with your coffee.
Located within the arts and museum complex on Katherine Street, the café also offers a small à la carte hot menu daily. So, if you’re looking for a break, head to the Clocktower for a coffee and some relaxation.
9 Katharine St, Croydon CR9 1ET
Crushed Bean
Crushed Bean is a favourite spot for early risers.
Throughout the day, a cheerful Pam greets a variety of local creatives. The café’s subterranean space on the lower ground floor offers a relaxed setting for brainstorming and meeting up.
As you enjoy a Clifton Coffee cappuccino and browse through newspapers, you might overhear (or join in) lively debates between energetic stylists and more reserved marketers discussing style versus budget. You might also see "content creators" updating their Instagram feeds with coffee and croissant photos.
During our last visit, we saw a woman in leggings with a yoga mat under her arm ordering avocado on toast, while a bearded man in a beanie got a flat white. Even though the world has changed significantly, it was reassuring to see that some familiar stereotypes remain.
Earthy Coffee
If you need a change of scenery to get some work done, Earthy Coffee is a great choice.
The café has two levels with different vibes. Upstairs, the high stool seating is perfect for a quick coffee break with your Allpress Espresso. For those in work mode, the downstairs area is more suitable. It’s spacious with various table sizes, and the six-seater at the front is often used for informal meetings.
Although working from cafes has become quite common, and many places now welcome laptop users with plug sockets, Wi-Fi, and free refills, there’s still a bit of guilt that comes with it. However, downstairs at Earthy Coffee, away from the main counter, you won’t feel pressured to buy another coffee the moment your cup is empty.
This independent café provides a calm and down-to-earth workspace, away from the noise of milk frothers.
Mr Tinto
Mr Tinto, also known as Francisco, follows his own unique rhythm, and we’re more than happy to join in.
Starting out by selling coffee from a bike outside East Croydon Station, he aimed to honour the community that raised him and taught him that coffee is more than just a quick pick-me-up.
His commitment to highlighting traditions passed down through generations, supporting farmers who hand-pick beans to support their families, and addressing the negative impacts of mass production—such as pollution, wasteful packaging, rainforest destruction, and human exploitation—drives him to this day. Mr Tinto’s ethos ensures that there’s no bitter aftertaste (both literally and metaphorically) with every purchase.
In addition to his roastery, Mr Tinto now serves coffee at three locations: Caithness Walk by East Croydon Station, West Croydon Interchange, and The Little Coffee Shop in South Croydon.
Caithness Walk, Croydon CR0 9XF
Matthews Yard
Founded in the wake of the 2012 riots to build community, Matthews Yard has become a cherished local spot.
Originally situated on the cobblestoned Matthews Yard off Surrey Street, the business has evolved over the past decade, including a move to and return from West Croydon.
Saif and the team are now back in the heart of "Croydon Old Town" with Matthews Yard 3.0. This new iteration serves as both an affordable co-working space with a soft play area and a café open to everyone.
True to its roots of creativity and innovation, Matthews Yard 3.0 offers a fresh approach, and we hope it succeeds.
