El Ganso Cafe

El Ganso Cafe, tucked away on Broadway Market in London, is the kind of spot you stumble upon once and immediately add to your mental list of “must-return” places. This Spanish-Mediterranean inspired cafe doesn’t just serve food-it delivers a full-on vibe, from the rustic décor to the steady stream of jazz playing softly in the background. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or planning a drawn-out brunch, this place knows how to turn a meal into a moment.

From the first glance at the menu, it’s clear that El Ganso Cafe takes its food seriously. If you're a fan of tapas culture, you’re in for a treat. Dishes like Croquetas de Jamón, Patatas Bravas, and Chorizo a la Sidra are bursting with bold, savory Spanish flavors. For seafood lovers, the Octopus and Gambas al Ajillo (garlic prawns) are standouts-perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection. It’s the kind of small plates setup that encourages ordering five dishes “just to share” and somehow ends with ten on the table.

And then there’s the brunch game. On weekends, expect to see locals queuing up for favorites like Poached Eggs on Sourdough, Huevos Rotos with Potatoes and Chorizo, or Eggs Royale. Each plate comes out looking Instagram-worthy without trying too hard-think vibrant, rustic plating and portions that hit the sweet spot between indulgent and satisfying. For those looking for something sweet, the Churros Con Chocolate is a must. Lightly crispy outside, warm and fluffy inside, served with a rich chocolate dip that feels downright indulgent.

Coffee here is another reason people linger. Whether you’re into a classic Latte, a strong Espresso, or just need a solid caffeine fix to power through the day, El Ganso doesn’t disappoint. They also offer organic options and a solid lineup of teas if you’re skipping the beans. And if you're visiting in the evening, they’ve got a decent wine list, plus Estrella on tap and cocktails that don’t shy away from flavor. It’s not unusual to see diners sipping a cold beer while diving into Pork Belly or nibbling on Croquettes under the string lights of the outdoor seating area.

The atmosphere hits that sweet spot between casual and stylish. Inside, the setting feels cozy with exposed brick walls, mismatched wooden furniture, and dim lighting that’s easy on the eyes. The outdoor seating area spills out onto the lively Broadway Market, making it ideal for people-watching over a lazy brunch or a late-night bite. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready with a wine pairing recommendation or an off-menu dessert surprise-especially if you’re celebrating something special. Don’t be shocked if they bring out a complimentary birthday cake, it’s just how they roll.

El Ganso Cafe is also surprisingly inclusive for dietary needs. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are clearly marked, and the kitchen is flexible when it comes to customizing plates. From Mushrooms Croquetas to vibrant salads and Turkish Eggs, plant-based eaters have plenty to choose from. Add in the fact that they serve late-night food and healthy options, and it becomes a go-to for more than just one type of diner.

The location on Broadway Market makes it a natural magnet for the Hackney crowd-solo diners with laptops, groups of friends grabbing Pancakes and English Breakfast, or couples enjoying a quiet meal and a glass of Spanish wine. The accessibility features (wheelchair-friendly entrance and seating) make it an even more welcoming spot, although parking nearby can be a challenge.

In a city filled with great food, El Ganso Cafe stands out not because it tries too hard, but because it doesn’t have to. It’s authentic, flavorful, and confident in what it does best: delivering a cozy, European-inspired dining experience that makes you want to order just one more plate. Or maybe two.