Comptoir Gascon is probably more famed for its ultra-lux lunch menu and provisions. But the home of the £14 “Signature” duck burger (which - with pan fried foie gras - makes a bacon double cheeseburger seem like diet food for paupers), provides the right setting for a delicious, and reasonably priced, cup of coffee. And the pastries? Ooh la la!
As much as we love the thought of wining-and-dining bistro-style at Le Comptoir, in actuality we prefer the late morning, pre-lunch vibe at Le Comptoir. It's a brilliant spot to enjoy a more than decent cup of coffee coupled with contemplative peering out the window at all the Smithfield Market activities across the street (not to mention that at such a time we usually have the place all but to ourselves). Their pastries are yummy too. Just try walking by the croissants without asking for one! An espresso costs £1.20 here (with most other coffee drinks priced around £2.50). A croissant will set you back £1.20; pain au chocolate, £1.30.
Straddling the bustling City of London and the rather more village-y Clerkenwell. Comptoir Gascon is located at 63 Charterhouse Street (EC1M 6HJ) and is open Tuesday to Saturday 9am-11pm.
Photograph by Kake Pugh