Bankside in London is known for its world-class modern art scene, with the Tate Modern museum at the heart of it all. The area is filled with masterpieces from famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Yayoi Kusama, and Henri Matisse, making it a cultural hotspot along the banks of the river Thames.
One hidden gem in this vibrant neighbourhood is the Uncommon Cafe, opened by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Mina and Neb, in May 2024. Situated just outside the Tate Modern, this delicatessen offers a unique dining experience with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating options. The menu features a variety of dishes to enjoy on-site or to take away, alongside a selection of wines, gourmet snacks, and freshly baked goods.
During my visit to the Uncommon Cafe, I was greeted by Djordje, a friendly and knowledgeable staff member who added a personal touch to the dining experience. The cafe attracted a diverse crowd, from office workers grabbing lunch to tourists exploring the area and locals enjoying a coffee catch-up.
The culinary offerings at Uncommon Cafe truly impressed me and my companion, a coffee aficionado. We started our meal with a perfectly brewed flat white and savoured the signature focaccia sandwich, the Chicken Milanese. The combination of flavours and textures in the sandwich was delightful, with each bite being a satisfying experience.
We also sampled the lasagna, a classic dish that surpassed our expectations with its rich flavours and fresh ingredients. The accompanying salad added a light and refreshing touch to the meal, complementing the hearty flavours of the main dish.
One standout dish that we tried was the Burek, a Turkish delicacy recommended by Djordje. The light and flaky pastry filled with minced beef was a revelation, outshining traditional favourites like the Cornish pasty.
To accompany our meal, we enjoyed a glass of Grillo white wine, which was crisp and refreshing. The dessert selection at Uncommon Cafe was equally impressive, with options like Tiramisu cake and chocolate fudge that satisfied our sweet cravings without being overly indulgent.
Overall, the Uncommon Cafe at Tate Modern is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of quality food, reasonable prices, and excellent service. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a unique culinary adventure in the bustling neighbourhood of Bankside. I am already looking forward to my next visit to this charming cafe.
Uncommon London, Tate Modern
Triptych Building, 185D Park St, London SE1 9RW
Open Daily
Monday to Friday: 07:30-20:00
Saturday: 08:30 till late
Sunday: 09:00 till late
