If you’re arguing with a friend over where to meet for brunch, search for Common Ground.
It’s a brilliant little neighbourhood café in Finsbury Park, five minutes from the station (and about a 20 minute walk from West Reservoir, if you wanted to refuel post-swim).
When we say people flock to this place, we really mean it – there’s usually a small crowd outside the windows cooing over the rows of freshly baked pastel de nata; cinnamon buns and chocolate babka. There’s plenty here you could grab to go, alongside a cup of Dark Arts coffee or Good & Proper Tea.
But really, it would be a shame not to linger a while.
Head through Common Ground’s cosy, industrial-chic interior and you’ll find a surprisingly spacious back garden decked out with shady parasols; an abundance of flowers and foliage… and a metal crocodile.
The ethos here is all about sustainability, and as such, the menu’s entirely vegetarian (with plenty of vegan options too). The brunch dishes here are a creative cut above your average – try a ‘Gangnam style’ croissant with kimchi, fudgy egg and citrus courgette; or the crispy potato latke, served with charred baby leeks, pitch-perfect Cacklebean eggs, and a sinfully indulgent brown butter hollandaise.
And six days a week, you can wash it all down with brunch cocktails like the Garibaldi or a Grapefruit Spritz; or a craft beer brewed locally at Barnsbury’s Hammerton. It’s all served up with warmth and a big heart, and it’s the kind of place you could find yourself returning to again and again…
…which makes choosing a brunch place next time easy, too.
NOTE: Common Ground is open daily for breakfast, brunch and lunch. They don’t take reservations, so just walk in. You can find out more HERE.
Common Ground | 49 Stroud Green Road, Finsbury Park, London N4 3EF
Love mid-morning meals? Check out our Ultimate London Brunch Guide