Castiglione
Castiglione is a small specialty coffee bar on Whitcomb Street, a few steps from both Leicester Square and the National Gallery. Its founder named it after Via Castiglione in Italy, and it pours coffee from Origin, the specialty roaster, making it a useful stop for a proper espresso in the busiest part of the West End.
Photos
Haider KADHIM
Italian roots, specialty coffee
The story starts in Italy: founder Roberto named the bar after Via Castiglione, a street that holds memories for him. That Italian sense of what a coffee break should be is matched with specialty beans from Origin Coffee, which has been named the best specialty coffee roaster in Europe. The result is a coffee bar that feels personal rather than corporate, which stands out in this part of town.
What to order
Three Origin blends are on rotation. Resolute and Beija Flor suit milk drinks and filter-style tastes, while Stronghold is a darker, more traditional roast built around Brazilian coffee, ideal for anyone after a classic Italian-style espresso.
Where it fits
Whitcomb Street is a quiet cut-through between Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, so Castiglione is handy before the National Gallery opens or between matinee and evening plans. Take your cup down to Trafalgar Square, or meet friends before dinner at Fallow nearby. It is a small space built around the coffee, so expect a quick, focused stop rather than a long lunch. If you prefer a gentler cup, ask which of the three blends suits your drink; the staff can steer you between the lighter and darker roasts.
Highlights
- Coffee from Origin Coffee
- Three blends, including the darker Stronghold
- Italian-inspired coffee bar
- Steps from Leicester Square and the National Gallery
Good to know
- The café's site lists two different sets of hours, so check before making a special trip.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: castiglione.london