Islington Without the Overpriced Brunch: Where to Eat Well Without Spending £20 on Eggs

Islington is packed with trendy cafés and Instagrammable brunch spots, but let’s be real—does anyone actually enjoy paying £20 for smashed avocado on toast? If you want a great meal without the ridiculous price tag, you just need to know where to look. Here’s where locals eat well in Islington without getting ripped off.

1. Sunday – The Brunch Spot That’s Actually Worth It

📍 169 Hemingford Rd, N1 1DA
Sunday is one of the best brunch spots in Islington, but unlike some of its competitors, it actually delivers on quality and portions. Their French toast is legendary, and you can get a proper, satisfying brunch without needing to take out a loan.

💡 Why locals love it: ✔ Big portions and fair prices (nothing over £15)
✔ Cosy, welcoming atmosphere
✔ A short walk from Upper Street but without the crazy queues

2. The Breakfast Club – A Classic That Still Delivers

📍 31 Camden Passage, N1 8EA
Yes, it’s well-known, but The Breakfast Club still serves one of the best-value brunches in the area. You can get a full English for under £14, and the portions are huge. If you don’t fancy queuing, go midweek for a more relaxed experience.

💡 Why locals love it: ✔ A proper, filling breakfast for a reasonable price
✔ Fun, retro vibes
✔ One of the best fry-ups in Islington

3. Kipferl – Austrian Brunch Without the Hype Tax

📍 20 Camden Passage, N1 8ED
Tired of the same old eggs benedict? Kipferl offers an Austrian twist on brunch, serving delicious Viennese breakfasts, schnitzels, and proper coffee. Best of all, you won’t be overcharged for the privilege.

💡 Why locals love it: ✔ Unique menu with hearty, well-priced dishes
✔ Authentic Viennese coffeehouse vibes
✔ Less busy than trendier brunch spots nearby

4. Borough 22 – The Secret for Affordable Vegan & Gluten-Free Treats

📍 57 Camden Passage, N1 8EA
If you’re after something sweet but reasonably priced, Borough 22 does some of the best gluten-free and vegan doughnuts in London—without the insane markups.

💡 Why locals love it: ✔ Great alternative for those avoiding eggs & dairy
✔ Doughnuts are around £4 each, far cheaper than some cafés’ desserts
✔ Perfect for a quick bite instead of a full (overpriced) brunch

5. Café Route – Middle Eastern Brunch Done Right

📍 322 St John St, EC1V 4NT
A bit outside the main Islington area, but absolutely worth the visit. Café Route serves big, flavour-packed Middle Eastern dishes, with generous portions and fair prices. Think shakshuka, flatbreads, and grilled halloumi—without the ‘trendy’ markup.

💡 Why locals love it: ✔ Affordable and delicious
✔ Something different from the usual avocado toast spots
✔ Good coffee, without the £5 price tag

Final Thoughts: Brunching in Islington Without the Overpriced Nonsense

Yes, Islington is full of trendy cafés, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune to eat well. Whether you want a classic full English, a European twist, or something sweet, these local-approved brunch spots prove that you don’t have to overpay to eat well.

📍 Find more local food and drink guides at FindInLondon.