Where to get breakfast in South Bank

Start the day as you mean to go on with a delicious big breakfast!

Whether you favour light and healthy options or are in search of a giant fry-up to set yourself to rights after a big night out, South Bank has plenty of choices.

And even better yet many of these breakfasts are served up super early, leaving you with plenty of time to relax while you enjoy your morning feast.

Comptoir Libanais

At the colourful Comptoir Libanais restaurant at Southbank Centre the menu boasts a delicious choice of flavoursome Lebanese favourites like shakshouka, homemade hummus and freshly baked manoush flatbreads slathered in zaatar and olive oil. For a zingy morning pick me up order a glass of the Sunrise Spice Blend fresh juice made with carrot, ginger, lemon and turmeric.

Must-try dishes: Shakshuka egg and feta, rose figs and halloumi man’ousha, Lebanese full breakfast

How early does it open? Breakfast daily from 9am.

The Black Penny

Famous for its outstanding breakfasts (served all day long), this bustling café between the Waterloo tube station and the London Eye is a treat. Signature items include the excellent potato hashes, and the generously portioned scrambled eggs. There’s plenty of space inside, including a small mezzanine area that’s ideal for breakfast meetings, plus tables on the pavement outside.

Must-try dishes: salt beef hash with spinach, green tomato chutney and poached egg, brioche French toast with whipped lemon ricotta and blueberry compote, bubble n squeak with fried egg

How early does it open? Breakfast from 8am Mon-Fri, from 9am on Sat and Sun.

The Victory

Standing high above the hustle and bustle of Waterloo Station this contemporary pub opens from 8am for breakfast. Ideally located for catching up on breakfast after an early arrival in the city, or to fill up before embarking on a journey, the breakfast menu has lots of filling options, including, of course, a big classic fry up with all the favourites.

Must-try dishes: bacon sandwich, Cumberland sausage sandwich, Victory breakfast (sausage, bacon, eggs, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, hash browns, chips and sourdough toast)

How early does it open? Breakfast daily from 8am-11:45am.

Grind

Famous for their speciality coffee, the Grind is the ideal place to start your day if mornings for you are all about getting the best caffeine hit. Situated at The Sidings, you can get there directly through Waterloo Station (follow signs for The Sidings), or from the street (look for The Sidings centre next to Leake Street). In addition to big breakfast plates, there’s also a choice of fresh pastries by the coffee counter.

Must-try dishes: smashed avocado on sourdough, sweet potato harissa cakes with yoghurt and poached egg, pancakes with candied banana, roast pecans, Nutella and whipped cream

How early does it open? Breakfast from 7:30am Mon–Fri, 9am Sat and Sun until midday.

Gail’s

London’s favourite posh bakery chain has two branches in South Bank, one just behind the London Eye, and a second on Stamford Street near Blackfriars Station. Every day of the week Gail’s opens bright and early to serve the freshest baked goods. For a quick but satisfying breakfast before the city has barely opened its eyes, you can’t go wrong.

Must-try dishes: croissant, pain au chocolat, cinnamon bun, chocolate muffin

How early does it open? Breakfast from 6:30am Mon–Fri, from 7am on Sat and Sun.

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