River Cafe. is a cafe on Station Approach in London SW6. Early doors six mornings a week, with a welcome that regulars know well.

River

White-clothed tables set in front of a full-height window with a pink sunset over the trees outside
Open from 6am, Monday to Saturday

A proper local cafe

Plain cafe interior looking towards the front window, with wooden tables, bentwood chairs and a tiled floor

The room is old school and easy to settle into. Seating runs along a long table, so you may end up sharing, and most people find that is half the pleasure. Staff greet the regulars by name, and first timers get the same warmth.

A glass of white wine and an amber cocktail on the counter in front of a lit back bar of bottles

Early starts, six days a week

We open at 6am from Monday to Saturday, so you can eat before the day begins. Monday to Friday we serve until 3:30pm, and on Saturday until 3pm. We are closed on Sunday.

020 7736 6296

Rated 4.7 by our customers

414 Google reviews from the people who eat here.

Sean C.★★★★★

“The staff were all super polite and friendly. The décor of this place is a blast from the past, and it reminded me of going to cafés as a kid with my grandparents.”

James M.★★★★★

“Nice café with friendly staff the all important crispy hash browns and came with a hot beverage and orange juice included. Seating is on a long table with so you might end up sharing, but this is not a problem.”

Bebeliana C★★★★★

“Super friendly and funny owner (Father and son) with warm service. … Food is freshly made and hot. Wonderful coffee. This cafe just located opposite to the station.”

Nicola P.★★★★★

“Such a great spot for an English breakfast and cup of tea. A great selection on offer. The staff were very friendly and greet their regulars by name.”

AlexC★★★★★

“Super friendly family run traditional caff doing all the usual plus the modern stuff (avo, poached eggs, flat whites) so suits traditionalists as well as the new breed. … These guys know what they're doing. You can tell they've perfected their art over many years.”

Ray A.★★★★★

“Tasty food . Quick service . Good vibe .”