
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Tucked on a quiet corner in Bermondsey, Crol & Co is a rare breed: a café that doubles as a vintage antiques shop. Owners Nico and Vanessa bring their online business into the physical space, so you might sip a Grind espresso in a mid-century armchair while eyeing a 1960s Belgian orchard print. The vibe is effortlessly cool—mismatched furniture, local art, and a menu that doesn't overpromise. Skip the rush for a relaxed afternoon; the avocado toast with DIY chili and seasoning is a standout, and if you're lucky, you'll snag a rosemary-infused millionaires' shortbread before it sells out.
A Vintage Café with Soul
Crol & Co feels like a secret the locals are keeping to themselves. It's not flashy, but that's part of its charm. The space is a delightful mix of café and antique showroom—think mismatched chairs from different eras, framed prints on the walls, and a counter that doubles as a display case. You'll find yourself lingering longer than planned, just browsing the curiosities while your coffee cools down. The Grind espresso is solid, smooth without being pretentious, and the avocado toast is generous enough to actually satisfy. If you catch them on a good day, there might even be a slice of their rosemary-infused millionaires' shortbread left—trust me, it's worth hunting for.