Rise and Dine Cafe

93 Lambeth Rd, London SE1 7JJ, United Kingdom
+44 20 7859 4429
$$$ Cafe , Breakfast restaurant , Coffee shop , Takeout restaurant
(50 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Rise and Dine Cafe sits on Lambeth Road, just steps from the Imperial War Museum, serving as a straightforward, unpretentious spot where the day typically begins with strong coffee and hearty breakfast plates. It’s a place that locals seem to rely on for dependable morning fuel, especially those working nearby—police officers getting their takeout orders early in the day is a common scene.

The atmosphere inside carries a familiar, traditional British café vibe; you won’t find flashy interiors here, but rather a comfort in its simplicity. The staff come across as genuinely welcoming and efficient, keeping the flow steady through the busy breakfast hours. It’s a casual spot where you can grab a substantial English breakfast, toast variations, or a sandwich — like their salt beef ciabatta, which balances rich meat with pickles and fresh bread. The food feels like solid, honest café cooking rather than anything overly complicated.

Those looking for something lighter will find healthy options as well, such as fresh smoothies, salads, and made-to-order sandwiches. Pastries make an appearance too, providing something sweeter but not overdone. Portions are generous without overstating, and prices reflect straightforward value rather than upscale dining.

Rise and Dine works best for early risers in the neighborhood—workers, museum visitors, or anyone needing a quick but satisfying breakfast or lunch to go. The spot tends to hum with a community feel, with friendly staff who remember regulars and deliver service with warm familiarity. If you’re exploring South London’s cultural corridor or commuting through, it’s a practical place to recharge without fuss.

Overall, expect a traditional café environment grounded in the rhythms of local life—good coffee, solid breakfast classics, and a no-frills, approachable experience.

Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Parking
Paid street parking
Difficult to find a space

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Tuesday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Thursday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Friday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

50 Reviews
meezan rahman

07 Jan 2026

Well worth the journey. Got there super early to be met by a queue of Police personnel ordering their morning feasts. Lovely welcome, ordered an Omelette & a Builders Cuppa. Magnificent Breakfast Highly recommended

Adam Longworth

28 Dec 2025

A great traditional Cafe, based in tradition but very much operating in the present. I had the salt beef ciabatta and it was perfect. Beautifully marbled not too fatty, not to lean, dill pickles and a smear of piccalilli. Warm crispy slightly chewy bread. So glad I stumbled upon this spot.

Maaria Islam

24 Dec 2025

The smoothies are absolutely refreshing, sweet and healthy! Perfect way to start the day! I have been coming back every single week since they have opened. The customer service is always immaculate, Charlotte, Deano and Nicky never fail to impress. The pastries are also delightful, but there are healthy alternatives such as salads and make your own sandwiches too. 10/10.

Matt Standen

03 Dec 2025

Top food and even better service. The manager was first class - incredibly welcoming and friendly. The food was tasty at a very good price! Would firmly recommend.

Violetta Altamirano Ponce

27 Oct 2025

Delicious chips great toast and classic english brekkie near Imperial War Museum. Great service from friendly staff!

Charize Dayao

21 Oct 2025

Lovely cafe, the lady that served me was very nice and welcoming. I came several mornings for coffee and pastries, still yet to try the hot food. the almond croissant was delicious, not too sweet or dry, it had custard inside I’ve also had the peach pastry which is a great balance of sweet and slight sourness from the peach. The cinnamon bun flavour was on point but slightly dry for me but it may also be due to the fact I ate a few hours after purchasing Alternative milk for drinks are free and service was quite fast They’ve got a point system that you can collect and eventual get free/discounts on item at the store. I got a free coffee of my choice for signing up.

Briam Eduardo Guerrero Batista

18 Sep 2025

Had my first English breakfast here and now I get the hype. Absolutely delicious! The coffee was solid, and the staff were as warm as the bacon. 10/10 would happily break my diet here again.

Javier Gonzalez Galan

17 Sep 2025

Great breakfast place. Love the simple menu. Everything taste really good, good ingredients well executed. Been there on their first Saturday opening and can't be happier. I had a little chat with the owner, simply excellent. I'll definitely will be back to enjoy a great breakfast. Coffee also was great.

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