The Greasy Spoon Appreciation Society

☕

Regency Cafe – Westminster
by @vonlehmann

🥄 Spoonometer Score: 3.8/5

Vibe – 4/5

Despite its fame and steady stream of tourists, the atmosphere remains unchanged. The space is shared comfortably by locals, workers, and visitors – exactly how a proper cafeteria should feel.

Formica Flair – 5/5

Opened in 1946, its Art Deco interior is like a time machine. The décor feels delightfully meta, with numerous references to the café’s appearances in films, TV shows, and photo shoots.

Heritage Factor – 3/5

Everything looks and operates much as it always has – from the wall-mounted price board to the well-worn coffee machine. New ownership is now in place, though the previous couple were unmistakably part of the charm: firm, efficient, and deeply respectful.

Bargain-o-Meter – 4/5

Very reasonable prices, with many dishes around the ten-pound mark. Even with waves of tourists, it’s never felt like a sell-out, and value remains central to its identity.

Yum Factor – 3/5

A reasonable Full English, good chips, tasty bacon and plenty of choice. Classic puddings appear depending on the day – bread and butter pudding, spotted dick, and others.

Honourable Mention

A personal lifetime-achievement nod to former owners Marco Schiavetta and Claudia Perotti, who ran the café for 39 years.

Watching them take orders and orchestrate the room was part of the Regency’s magic – service delivered with the confidence of people who had seen behind the Matrix. Some scores are currently under review, as I’m eager to see how the new management carries on. I hope they fill those shoes nicely.

Location: 17-19 Regency St, London SW1P 4BY