A metal staircase leads down to timber ledges and log stools at LIFT Coffee's Kensington original. Exposed pipes cross the basement ceiling, with coffee and cakes at the counter upstairs. On Kensington Church Street in west London, south of Notting Hill Gate station, the café has space to stay over a hand brew.
Coffee
LIFT began by serving other roasters and now roasts its own coffee, favouring washed and naturally processed lots that retain the character of their origin. The retail range names producers, varieties and processing methods, so ask which of the available coffees best matches what you like to drink. V60 gives you a brewed-to-order choice alongside batch brew, espresso and milk drinks. Start with the house blend in a flat white, or take more time over a single-origin filter; allow for a wait when the bar is busy. Matcha is also on the menu.
Food
Banana bread, croissants and cakes suit a second cup. Filled focaccia and toasted sandwiches cover a light lunch, depending on the day’s selection.
Service & Room
Look downstairs before assuming there is nowhere to sit. The long wooden surfaces give you space for a cup and a laptop, though the log stools offer little back support. LIFT also has a café at 73 Rivington Street in Shoreditch, east London; the map includes both addresses, with Kensington as the reviewed stop.