London is famously fuelled by coffee - but not everyone’s on board with the buzz. Whether you're cutting back on caffeine, prefer a gentler brew, or simply want to explore something new, you're not alone. A growing number of people are seeking out coffee alternatives, from plant-powered lattes to antioxidant-rich teas and warming spiced blends.
The good news? Central London’s café scene is evolving. More and more coffee shops in central London are expanding their menus to include drinks that deliver flavour, comfort and even health benefits - without the espresso.
And at Rathbone Square, tucked just behind Oxford Street in Fitzrovia, you’ll find a trio of forward-thinking spots that know how to do hot drinks differently. From earthy Matcha to vibrant beetroot blends, there’s plenty to sip (and no caffeine jitters in sight).
Joe & The Juice – The Choice is Yours
You might know Joe & The Juice for its smoothies and paninis, but it also delivers a surprising line-up of hot drinks that go way beyond coffee. Whether you're after something warming, invigorating or a little bit of both, the drinks menu here has you covered.
Fancy an oat-based drink? Try the Oat Matcha Latte, or the vanilla version made with vanilla syrup, all of which give you the option to choose your milk of preference as well as a variety of add-ons, like lavender or blueberry concentrate, honey, ginger, turmeric or raw cacao.
There are also all sorts of teas on offer if you’re keeping things classic. From White Temple Tea and Vanilla Rooibos to Green Mandarin and English Breakfast – again all with options to customise with the likes of honey, ginger and your choice of milk – there is plenty to tick the coffee alternative box.
Joe’s range of protein shakes and cold-pressed juices also offer a chilled, nutritious alternative. Chocolate Flex hits the sweet-tooth notes, while Beets & Berries does it for the health-kick, and there’s Big Matcha Energy if you need a boost.
Whether you're sitting in for a chat or grabbing something-to-go, Joe & The Juice at Rathbone Square makes it easy to find a drink that feels both satisfying and good for you.
White Pine: Scandi Calm - With an Added Health Kick
If you’re looking for a coffee alternative that still feels like a treat, White Pine is well worth a visit. This stylish, plant-based café blends Scandi-inspired design with a focus on wellness, making it one of the most serene coffee shops in central London - whether you drink coffee or not.
Their drinks menu is a haven for the coffee-averse. Choose from antioxidant-rich Matcha Lattes, or the gently spiced Chai Latte. Each is available with plant-based milks, including oat, almond and coconut. The Hot Chocolate is another favourite - velvety, rich, organic - and totally caffeine-free.
More of a tea lover? Then you’re in for a treat at White Pine, where the organic tea menu is bubbling over with choice. From fresh ginger and lemon, to mint and green tea, through to more unusual infusions like Illumination (fennel and anise), Harmony (lavender and linden flower), Euphoria (green tea with mango) and Passion (white hibiscus and sweet orange), you’ve got plenty to keep your taste buds satisfied.
Beyond the drinks, you can browse a beautifully curated range of Nordic homewares and lifestyle products at White Pine, from minimalist ceramics to soothing skincare. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, sit for a while, and enjoy a mindful moment away from the city rush.
In a world obsessed with coffee, White Pine offers a gentler, calmer alternative - and a refreshing reminder that not all comfort needs caffeine.
Omotesando Koffee – Japanese Precision, Not Just Coffee
Famous for its beautifully crafted espresso, Omotesando Koffee might seem like a destination just for caffeine devotees - but there’s more to discover beyond the bean.
Tucked into a minimalist space at Rathbone Square, this Japanese coffee shop brings the same level of care and precision to its coffee alternatives.
Their Matcha Latte is a popular choice. Prepared with finely ground green tea powder and whisked to a smooth froth, it delivers an earthy, creamy flavour and a gentle caffeine lift - perfect if you want something different but still energising.
For something richer, try the try the Mörk Hot Chocolate. Made with artisanal chocolate from Melbourne, Australia, it’s velvety, indulgent and subtly complex - ideal for those cooler days when only something warm and luxurious will do.
With its clean design and calming atmosphere, Omotesando Koffee is one of the more contemplative coffee shops in central London - an ideal place to sit, sip slowly, and enjoy a drink that’s anything but ordinary.
The Cool Coffee Alternative - Refreshing Sips for Warmer Days
Even in the chillier months, not everyone’s in the mood for a steaming cup. Whether you’ve just finished a workout, or prefer your beverages cold year-round, Rathbone Square still has you covered.
At Joe & The Juice, the menu is packed with freshly pressed juices and vibrant smoothies, each one designed to give you a nutrient boost without the need for caffeine. Try the Green Tonic with celery and cucumber for a refreshing cleanse, or opt for the Pick Me Up with apple, strawberries and banana if you’re in the mood for something fruity and uplifting.
Meanwhile, White Pine serves up a beautifully curated selection of cold-pressed juices, iced Matcha and herbal teas, plus a colourful array of protein shakes and plant-based smoothies. It’s the perfect stop if you’re after something nourishing and cold, no matter the weather.
Looking ahead to warmer days? We rounded up our favourite ways to stay cool at Rathbone Square in our Hydration Stations blog. You might just find your next go-to iced drink before the sun even comes out.
Find Your New Favourite Coffee Alternative at Rathbone Square
Whether you’re taking a break from caffeine, exploring healthier options, or just fancy a change, there’s never been a better time to try something different. From spiced lattes to chocolate blends and plant-based creations, the cafés at Rathbone Square offer some of the most interesting coffee alternatives in central London.
With its calm, tucked-away setting just moments from Oxford Street, Rathbone Square is a welcome contrast to the city’s usual hustle. Here, you’ll find three standout coffee shops in central London - each one offering a new way to warm up, wind down or recharge.
So next time you’re in the area, why not skip your usual order and sip something different? Rathbone Square looks forward to welcoming you!
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