a blackfriars BRUNCH

from the outside, Café Pronto is as unassuming as they come, but inside it is a different story. The amount of different items on offer is staggering, but none look as though the quantity has come at the cost of quality, with all ingredients tasting fresh and delicious. Still, I’ve come for a particular item – one that the owner Maddie tells me isn’t available anywhere else in Borough, their salf beef sandwich.

It is presented in a way that shouts homely and comforting: freshly-cut brisket beef, piled high in between two slices of rye bread with a juicy gherkin for company. Simple and substantial. I take a bite and realise why this cafe’s queue is out of the door: the food at Café Pronto is delicious, fulfilling and affordable too.

“delicious, fulfilling and affordable

Toasted ciabattas, focaccias, baps and Panini aren’t the only thing on offer; breakfasts of anything from seasonal fruit or crumpets, to the notorious ‘Hangover Cure’ are also served, and at lunchtime there is also a choice of light tapas and Mediterranean salads, whilst the hot food counter is ever-popular (I am told the Thursday Lasagne is a local favourite). Still, the sandwiches remain the main attraction: from the Fish Finger to the Hoi Sin Duck, and of course, the delicious Salt Beef, the whole range is fast, freshly made and satisfying – and surely must be the reason why this friendly local cafe remains so busy.

Cafe Pronto
109-115 Blackfriars Road
SE1 8HW
t: 020 7928 9933

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