Trade

Trade-Made Coffee and All-Day Breakfast in Islington

Trade’s Islington branch is their second location after the one in Commercial Street, but boasts a smokery and bakery, producing freshly-baked cakes and smoked meat daily.

The cafe is tucked in a quieter and more residential part of Essex Road.

Upon entering the cafe, you are immediately hit with the smell of baked goods and coffee, and you slink to find a cozy seat in the welcoming rustic interior.

Whether intentional or not, the exposed brick, blackboard menus, and hanging light fixtures bring trendy Australian cafes to mind.

This seems favourable to the cafe, as the laid-back atmosphere attracts many young professionals working from home.

Don’t worry if you slept in — Trade’s got an all-day breakfast menu!

Although the cafe was known for its hefty sandwiches, we wanted to try something a bit different, so we ordered potato latkes and Turkish eggs. Surprisingly, they made a great combination!

The crispy and moreish latkes contrasted nicely with the sweet and sour smoothness of the eggs. However, we won’t blame you for sticking to the tried and actual classic hot sandwiches, including the crowd-pleasing smoked pastrami and Cuban club sandwiches!

Their baked goods are varied and delicious. Our favorites are the carrot cake, peanut butter, and chocolate chip cookies, although the small slices mean you lose a bit of bang for your buck.

Of course (and it goes without saying), Trade’s coffee is good. Hand-roasted in their local roastery, you can’t go wrong with your coffee order.

Currently, they are serving a single-origin Brazilian blend with bright flavor notes of apple, peach, and milk chocolate, although this may change.

Location: Trade: 330 Essex Rd, London N1 3PB, United Kingdom

Trade has other branches located in:

Commercial Street

Essex Road

Old Street

Written by Mika Sudjarwo