Common Ground Cafe in Islington

Lovely little place, only thing is there is a no laptops rule throughout the entire day. The blonde lady who explained this to me was quite rude, as if me asking if I could do a bit of work in their cafe was preposterous. And they had the audacity to charge me service charge on buying a pastry, which made my pistachio bun £5.06. I was in there for about 45 mins with a friend.

Great place for breakfast or early lunch Recommended avocado toast

EDIT: Since my return, this place has massively moved up in the world. My corn bread was crispy and moist, the avocado seasoned to perfection, the chipolte sour cream was just on the right side of spicy and the eggs were exactly right to the point the almost exploded all over me after a little prod. Absolute banger. Still trendy AF mind!

Good atmosphere and that's about it. Pretentious dishes that are overpriced and taste bland and boring.

Lovely place with very friendly staff. We sat outside which was very cute and cosy. Our coffees and food were also delicious!

Delicious dirty chai latte, chill atmosphere on a weekday afternoon and very nice staff and customer service. I didn’t like my pastry because it was too dry, told the staff and was kindly proposed another pastry but kind of felt awkward to get another one. Really appreciated it not to have to pay for it and get a way more delicious pastry to take away instead! Defo try their pistachio bun. It’s really good that they have so many vegan options as well. Will 100% come back and very pleased to see such good and client-driven dedicated service in that kind of coffee shops, does not happen often for sure!

Has fallen behind the better brunch options, and is priced the same. It’s nice enough, but for the same money I’d rather go elsewhere. I found the current menu a little disappointing.

Really nice space and food, just a bit annoying you can’t get your laptop out. I understand people sit in cafe’s for hours on laptops but I only ever use mine whilst waiting for my food.

Great coffee. Ice coffee very good. Fantantic customer service.

Refuses to accept cash. This is discriminatory. There are no signs telling customers this, the waiters do not mention this. So how are customers supposed to know? When they try to pay? Not ideal.

Great cafe! Delicious veggie food and a covered garden as well :) service is lovely too

I love this place - the food is amazing, staff are so friendly and there’s such a lovely buzz. Great coffee too!

Such a crazy delicious brunch and all the staff were so kind and fun :)

Why have a takeaway serving hatch, if you ignore anyone who stands there? After waiting 5 minutes and watching the serving staff have a good chat amongst themselves, I came inside to order a takeaway coffee at the counter instead. And was asked to head back outside.… where no one took my order. If it were busy, I would have been more understanding. But it wasn’t. I’ve tried to give this place a chance but this is the second time this has happened here. In the end I went up the road to Hokka instead.

This neighbourhood coffee shop is worth a trip if you’re outside Finsbury Park/Stroud Green. The team create a great brew BUT the breakfast and brunch is sensational. We had the Latke Bennie (a house favourite) and the eggs and avocado. Cooked to perfection but the team are super friendly and make for a wonderfully warm atmosphere, especially in the rear garden.

Such a lovely vibe! Service was great and very friendly. Lots of gluten free options too! Latte was also perfect (not too strong!). The garden was so lovely out the back as well.

We went on sunday to have a nice coffee and pastry. The kitchen was already closed around 3pm but stillstom pastries. They have a pretty huge set up with a little patio in the back which was perfect with the nice weather. It was a table service so they told us to go there and order there. The waiters are friendly but they were quite overwhelmed ans they forgot us and had to go see them few times to order and chase our food. It was quite slow service and was a bit risky to run out of pastries with people taking away at the counter. Actually a table next to me was very disappointed that they didn't have their pastry as they took so much time and it was gone by then when they wanted to take it right away at th counter. The coffee was good but the banana bread was somehow very plain and not so tasty. Prices are quite high as well. But the outside and the sun set up was really enjoyable

I visited the cafe recently and was disappointed with my experience. The waitress was rude when enforcing the ‘no laptop policy,’ which I was unaware of prior to my visit. I was kicked out before I could try the food. There is a nice outside garden area.

I always go to Common Ground when I’m in the area. Beautiful coffee, lovely menu, staff who seem passionate about what they do and that perfect cafe ambience. Especially if you can get a spot in the sizeable courtyard out at the back. Best coffee in the area for sure

Good food and great vibes! Liked their coffee. Staff were kind

Love this place. Really beautiful back terrace with plants, the staff are super friendly, the coffee excellent and the eclectic brunch options are delicious. I recommend the Latke Bennie. I'll be back!

Amazing brunch spot! Couldn’t recommend more. The garden is the most magical sun trap! The food is excellent and the coffee is really good. Thanks to all the team who were on today, amazing customer service. We’ll definitely be coming back.

Lovely place, great food and warm staff

This is hands done the best brunch and coffee place I've been to in North London. The coffee is amazing and the food is always delicious and interesting! The staff are welcoming and friendly, I will always come past when near the area!

Updated: Google reviews are public for a reason. We all need help with something, but customers don't need a tutorial on "How to give feedback." Your business, on the other hand, could really benefit from a refresher course on "Feedback: It's Not a Personal Attack." You're welcome for today's free seminar. ___________________________________ Updated: Your response to my feedback on feedback only proves my point. You can't handle criticism. You just can't sit down and reflect. You absolutely have to go on the defensive and offer only a half-hearted apology. 1- Did reposting some of our cruelest reviews make you feel better?" The screenshots I posted were meant to show your responses to customer feedback. My intention was to hopefully help you see how unproductive your handling of feedback is. But you just can't because there's too much emotion involved. 2- You seem to hold the old-fashioned notion that the customer is always right, no matter how misinformed, rude, or insulting their reviews are." My review (both the original one and updated one) is neither rude nor insulting. You're just very emotional. 3- "Wow. This is a big reaction to being asked not to use your laptop." No, my reaction was to the "how." You can judge it as "big" - fine by me. Again, it just proves my point even further. I understand that you care about your business and that it's hard. But I can't understand how you don't see how damaging your handling of feedback actually is. Many businesses were once grand and died because they simply don't listen. You don't have to do exactly what your customers are asking for, like "putting up a sign," but you can think of it as a problem to solve. It's up to you to find a solution if you want to, obviously. Here's some unsolicited advice if you care enough to listen: going on the defensive just makes you look bad. Get a coach to help you deal with criticism better or hand over this task (reviewing reviews) to someone who can look at feedback objectively. Reviewing feedback and responding gracefully is a skill on its own. Best of luck ------------ Original feedback: I had brunch and then went to the coffee area to take out my laptop and plan my vacation. However, I was told that I couldn't use it. When I asked why, they said it was because it "ruins the vibes". I was surprised that planning my vacation on my laptop would ruin the vibes. When I pointed out that there was no sign on the door, the person replied with a smirk on their face, "it's on the menu". It's frustrating to be treated in a disrespectful way. You don't have to change your policies, but surely you can make sure they are visible to customers so they can make an informed decision on whether or not they want to enter the place. Regarding how this place handles feedback: I saw similar reviews about policies not being visible to customers and the response is always the same "We don't do big signs", "It's on the menu", "it's on our website", "it's on Instagram". Why so defensive? If different customers are providing similar feedback, perhaps it's an opportunity to reconsider? I also read reviews where customers were complaining about staff being rude, and again, instead of simply apologising, the half apology always comes with a "but" disguised in what they like to call "providing context" ("we were busy that day", "we had temporary staff from the agency"). Feedback is a gift. You can take what you think is helpful and leave the rest. Reviews are an opportunity to improve. The responses to the reviews comes across as unprofessional and simply showcases that you can't take criticism. I feel like it might be one of the owners who responds which sometimes means there's too much emotion involved and the person responding is taking things personally and not taking a step back to look at the bigger picture. You ruined my morning to be honest. I hope you can find it in yourself to "listen" to understand and find opportunities to grow rather than reading the reviews just to "hit back at your customers".

Visited here first time as was in area, really nicely presented cafe with lovely garden. Staff friendly and hard working. The food, smoothies and coffees we had were really nice. Recommended.

First time there and definetly will come Back! The food is delicious and the service very friendly

Madly overpriced and overrated food. Waiter was so rude and passive aggressive- made the whole experience awful. Environment was grubby and shabby- didn’t smell fresh at all. Edit - No this isn’t fake The guy who served us was just as rude and passive aggressive as described - the place was grubby and shabby. Rather than discount my opinion why not train your abysmal waiter that he needs to become better at his job and perhaps your cleaners need to clean not drag a dirty mop around. And yes your prices are extortionate- probably to the fake Londoners that you appeal to think that it’s normal but it isn’t . So why not just be nicer and serve better priced food- not average slop at inflated prices

Great menu, lovely accommodating team. A favourite for meeting friends

Gentrification at its most mediocre.

Love this place for some Coffee in the garden on a sunny day !!

The place looks extremely nice and is very busy. The food menu sounded amazing, but seems very expensive for what they offer. For example if you want extra halloumi with your meal it's a shocking £3.70. My plate of cornbread looked super nice, but had nearly no seasoning. Very little taste to it in general. My friend said the same about her potatoe dish. All in all a very nice place to hang out and the staff is super nice, but I wasn't impressed with the cooking. Maybe their sweet options are better.

Wish they had more respect for the their residential neighbours!! We used to look forward to summer mornings and afternoons in the garden, now we’re drowned out by a gentrified kitchen with its ridiculously loud customers with no acknowledgment from the cafe itself.

Atmosphere and food were excellent, but the notable aspect for me by far was the wonderful service we got from Molly. I watched Molly bring a bowl of water for a customer’s pooch as well as taking care of mothers with newborns, all the time rushing around with a smile and a lovely bright energy. Really lovely to see a person so happy and capable at what they do.

Avocado wasn't ripe, so didn't really eat. Mentioned it to a staff member when I paid. They couldn't have cared less. I usually love this place so quite dissappointed.

Very busy cafe, with nonstop revolving service. The downside to this venue, is the lack of restroom facilities. There's only one restroom for either gender in a place where over 600-800 numbers visit on a good day.

Super fun menu for veggies. Great cakes and lovely service.

Friendly and fast service. The food was excellent. Great atmosphere with a beautiful garden. Highly recommend and will definitely return.

Beautifully presented dishes but not tasty...

Fun place with a nice garden, however the female staff member allocating table was incredibly rude. Victims of their own success as there was a half hour wait at 10.30 on Saturday morning. Maybe school your hosts in basic politeness!

Really nice cafe. Great food and staff.

Lovely café visited for brunch, good menu variety for food and drinks. Gluten free options available. Bonus: back yard that is a proper sun trap in good weather! The mango lassi and Latka dish (in the photo) are perfect!

Best breakfast/ brunch place in the area. Latke is a classic, new cornbread dish also a winner. Great cakes. Garden is lovely for summer

They only have vegetarian options ☹️ Edit:if you are a vegetarian only cafe, you should indicate that somehow.

Great food, friendly staff, and a lovely garden at the back. A tad expensive, but a perfect place to eat on a sunny day.

Great urban back garden for brunch

Beautiful cafe and restaurant! Pastries were delightful, and they have a great selection of allergen friendly options including gluten free and vegan. I had the gluten free savoury latke breakfast and it was a large portion and very filling. Espresso was also very delicious and well prepared.

Amazing latke / poached egg / Sourdough bread experience

Doesn’t allow laptops. Food and coffee relatively expensive comparing to others in the area.

Great food, ridiculously attractive and friendly staff. Could not recommend more highly.

One of the waiters made my day: such a friendly and welcoming person! The food is top notch, and the vibe is very relaxing and lively

Very friendly stuff and tasty breakfast ✨

a bit fatty, well at least it’s not McDuck

Went for brunch and managed to get a table after less than 10 mins waiting despite being very busy. The menu is quite limited. Both myself and my wife ordered the latkes with eggs and mushrooms. The idea of the dish is good but unfortunately the latkes were very oily and didn't taste great. Also because the oil they used was quite old. Mushrooms and eggs (on the small side) were ok. Pastries are very nice looking but a bit on the stodgy side. Good choice of healthy drinks. I don't think I will be back.

I’m local, went many times but have realised CG represents so much of what is bad with gentrification. Made to feel v unwelcome as solo diner/drinker, covers / money is very much the focus, as evidenced by the garden and pods etc. Also lots of rules, no laptops, no smoking in what is left of the garden, no personalisation of dishes, I was often asked to love and share a table, plus for a long time the only sign of diversity I saw was behind the scenes in the kitchen, none whatsoever front of house. The food is nice.

Had Sunday lunch in this lovely cafe/restaurant with great atmosphere, welcoming staff and fine menu. Enjoyed delicious vegan dishes... noodles and tagine... well presented and cooked to perfection... and at a keen price... so definitely recommend you give it a try!

Great coffee, lovely staff, delicious food. Just wish they’d bring back their amazing pasteis de nata :)

The latkes was quite good though the espresso was OK but not great. Unfortunately placed on a bad table in the middle of thoroughfare, with staff kicking my chair on the way through. Exxy for what it is

Potato latke was delicious. Good atmosphere and clean. Decent coffee

Great lunch and the coffee is absolutely perfect. Dog friendly and People friendly too 😁 The chilli cheese toastie is knockout.

Seriously good food, atmosphere and service! Had a delicious vegan lunch, so tasty and filling...thank you! Fresh cakes and good coffee served by attentive and friendly staff. Sat outside in a heated garden, so beautiful and cosy. Totally recommend here ☺️

Great place for vegans, if you want to spend sometime in calm yet friendly environment. They have some interesting pastry and main dish options.

Wonderful cafe, great service and great food but not a laptop friendly place. Therefore you cannot work here which is a massive waste as the place is beautiful and the food amazing but Wednesday morning and it’s pretty empty.. Saturday and Sunday mornings are packed as you would imagine.

Meh… lovely staff but had to ask for some colour to be added to the toast, my wife just ate hers (never complains). Overall, two coffees and two toast, one with mushrooms and one with poached egg… they were happy to meet my requests, £25.45 but i guess that's London prices. To be fair, previous visits have been very good.

Every so often when I’m treating myself I come here for a coffee before work or on the weekends. Whenever I visit theres always a great vibe and the staff and super lovely. Last time I was picking up a coffee before work (slightly dawdling) I had a great chat with a lovely guy & girl working there, next thing I know they’ve given me this cup (see photo) I went to pay and they said no it’s on the house! It really made my day and I was so happy, love the guys there. Sorry to be extra but the coffee I’ve had there is the near the best in London ! Cake selection also great!!

Great for brunch and breakfast. Would recommend the smashed peas sourdough bread, chocolate babka and filter coffee.

Doesn't take cash but there are no signs telling you this, the waiting staff don't tell you, and it's not on the menu. Management need to address this issue. PUT A BIG SIGN ON THE DOOR AND ON THE COUNTER. It's very simple.

Great food - love the menu! Great staff. I’ll be back.

Fantastic vegetarian brunch spot. Had the latkes and crispy miso hispi cabbage. Will be back!

Excellent coffee and amazing pastries and options for brunch. Expect to queue for a table at peak times though!

Delicious food with something for everyone. Great coffee too. And helpful kind staff!

Can your staff see me?? Can your staff actually see me - that's the question. It's bad enough that you don't take cash which I overlooked because you sell products that I love that I can't get anywhere else round here, the pistachio muffin & Vegan Pain au Chocolat, but this has happened a few times now when I have stood just inside the entrance waiting.... your staff behind the counter have just carried on making the coffee. You need to get an extra person to serve. The most recent experience was, I entered, the guy behind the counter was making coffee, the other member of staff approached the counter to say something to him then walked off, he (the guy behind the counter) then just turned back to face the coffee machine to continue with making the coffee...and I continued to stand there like I was invisible...he hadn't even noticed I was standing there, so I walked out. I felt insignificant & invisible. I thought well they obviously don't need my custom, so I won't be bothering. It's fine that they have coffee to make but HELLO....observe the entrance as well...! Acknowledge me at least! At least say something to me that you will be ready in just a moment OR ask what would I like because I only pop in to get something to take away.

Great coffee and very friendly staff. I'll definitely be back!

I have gone here a few times and the food is quite expensive and a bit dear but tasty and it does take a while for your food to come and a few mishaps have happened because of the service staff such as leaving us with the wrong order then insisting that it was what we ordered and the atmosphere is fun

Delicious food, beautiful place, lovely service :-))

A cute coffee shop with a great ambience and back seating area. Pastries and coffee are excellent!

Good place, with kind staff and nice style.

Friendly staff, good food, and they were kind enough to make a side dish baby friendly without being asked (they read my mind basically!)

Great brunch. Lovely outdoor space.

Amazing code, brunch and pastries. Quite busy on weekend mornings but well worth the wait, lots of outside seating too

Amazing all round. The potato latke was unbelievable and the staff were all super lovely

Lovely place for a coffee and a bite. Staff were nice, great decor, coffee and snack was very tasty and I enjoyed the music too. Has a lovely garden at the back :-). One point deducted because my server didn't wipe by table after clearing and before I sat :(.

They have a law prohibiting the use of laptop.. I explained that I needed my laptop to help a young person I'm mentoring (and ofc paying for the service) and they refused to let us use it. Luckily we found another place 3min away with no issues using the laptop. they still use COVID as an excuse. Too bad :)

Love the place, super friendly service and some original cakes!

Lovely café, garden, food and service. But unfortunately laptops are not welcome during the week :( It's also hard to park a bike nearby.

Upon payment they refused to take cash, when I mentioned that there are no signs informing customers this (no signs at the door, or on the counter) and it is not mentioned on the menu either...the "barista" was surly and rude. Very poor customer service.

Delicious brunch in a very cozy and relaxed atmosphere, especially in the backyard garden. The Turkish eggs are a must to try alongside the banana bread!

Good espresso is an understatement for this place! If only I could bring my laptop, sometimes, I would certainly come more and more, and more often. Thank you guys.

Kimchee muffin is especially delicious

OMG we love this place! Sensational buns and kimchi muffins. We'll be back to try all the other bun flavours. The matcha latte was not so sweet, just how I like it. Dog-friendly with a gorgeous garden to chill 😌

Have been to this cafe a couple of times, it's so conveniently close to the station and a great spot to meet friends. Wanted to leave a review today because a lovely, wonderful staff played with my toddler and just made his day (possibly his whole week!) Delicious coffee and food!

Very nice garden, a kimchi muffin that was unreal and a miso pecan bread and butter slice that I think was the best pastry I have ever had.

Great food. Recommend the Turkish eggs. But bad service from the barista. No laptop.

Amazing food! Best French toast I’ve had and lovely service by the Irish lad :) would come back!

I really want to like this place but every time I visit, the serving staff are rude, slow and disinterested and it spoils the experience. Service charge is added to bills as standard which should be changed. Food and drinks are quiet expensive for the very average standard. The garden area is nice but you could also go an sit in the park.

Magnificent food, great service, perfect matcha latte ✨✨

Bad customer service when we went to grab coffee. You are better off going to the crisis cafe down the street, they are a lot more respectful. Coffee is ok, but not great, just average at best

Best homemade granola I’ve ever had

Updating my previous review as I think Common Ground has improved a lot in terms of service and the coffee is better than ever! Really recommend sitting in the gorgeous garden for coffee and banana bread!

Really nice breakfast or brunch spot with a garden. Food is delicious, but service was a little slow, but probably because it was busy. Would go again, I got the Turkish eggs, which were good but a little too yoghurty for me, but the focaccia was 10/10.