I headed to 26 Grains for lunch in the picturesque Neal’s Yard, known for its bohemian vibe. This charming eatery serves a small but delightful all-day menu. I had previously tried their Borough Market branch and written an article, but sadly it closed down. If you’re looking for healthy places for lunch in Covent Garden, cafes in Neal’s Yard or breakfast in WC2, 26 Grains is gorgeous, especially for vegan and vegetarian options.
“26 Grains is an adorable breakfast come brunch and lunch spot enveloped in the sanctuary of Neal’s Yard serving porridge and toast with delicious toppings,” Homegirl London.
26 Grains All Day Menu
Be aware that the menu online is just a sample, so it will be different. If you’re in the mood for something wholesome, consider a bowl of porridge crafted from 26 different grains, which inspires the café’s name. During my visit, one of their porridges was banana and tahini with honey, cinnamon, sesame seeds and cacao nibs. Another was loquat and lemon porridge, served with coconut yoghurt, lemon curd, almonds and multi-seed granola. If you’re unfamiliar with loquat (as I was), it’s a Japanese plum that tastes somewhat like an apricot. Those who prefer yoghurt can expect something delicious like the pineapple yoghurt bowl with coconut crumb, passion fruit and lime zest. Sweet dishes range from £9 to £11.
If you prefer savoury options, try the fried eggs in chilli butter with spiced almond and onion crumb, sweet red peppers, labneh, and herbs on sourdough. Other choices included cheesy leeks on sourdough, a tuna melt that sold out quickly, and a hot honey pepper toastie. I enjoyed the courgettes on focaccia with za’atar, green olives, white bean purée and lemon, a simple yet flavourful dish. I appreciated the dill garnish, one of my favourite herbs. These cost £12 to £13.
I fancied a dessert, and the strawberry brioche with chocolate and cream cheese ganache felt more like a pudding than the other items under the sweet section. Although the two dishes were a bit much for me, I managed to cram it all in. It was so delicious that I murmured at every mouthful.
Beverage options include Assembly coffee, which pairs nicely with a Bread Pedlar plain croissant or pain au chocolat. Good and Proper Tea is also available, as are their house specialities, including hot chocolate chai, iced chai and hibiscus lemonade. Also offered was a glass of orange juice or a banana and berry smoothie.
Watch My 26 Grains Video
Helpful Information About 26 Grains Neal’s Yard
Inspired by her frequent travels to Copenhagen, Alex Hely-Hutchinson, founder of 26 Grains, fell in love with the Danish way of life, particularly their emphasis on seasonal eating and their fondness for porridge during the colder months. At 24, after returning to London, she launched her first pop-up, selling porridge pots to commuters, marking the beginning of 26 Grains.
To learn more, visit the 26 Grains website. You can find them at 1 Neal’s Yard, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9DP, a short walk from Covent Garden station. The café has limited indoor seating with additional space in the pedestrianised courtyard of Neal’s Yard. With an open kitchen, you can watch your food being prepared. If it’s busy, you’ll need to join a queue as there are no reservations. Online, it says they are open from 9 am until 4 pm although the menu is served until 3 pm. Enjoy!
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Ten Best Things To Do In Covent Garden
Ten Reasons To Visit The Yards Covent Garden
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend you do further research as standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please check if the establishment is still in business and the opening times before you go. If you discover this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.
