When you are greeted by Mendoza and Jessica you immediately feel like they've known you forever. The wine menu is a fantastic selection from Italy and they will happily let you sample before you commit. The menu is simple with perfectly crafted dishes with a Milanese touch, all leaving you wanting to come back for more. We were lucky enough to pop in early without a reservation and had the most amazing dinner, go on vacation to Scotland for 2 weeks, return for dinner and Mendoza remembered all of our favorites. When in London, it's a must do. We know we always will. read more

What a delightful dinner! The wine, the most exquisite veal milanese, a delicious pasta bolognese and a salad. Simple but perfect. Jessica was a most affable hostess. Will return when we next are in London. read more

I read Elliot A's review about this place and it made me come here the very next day. Truth be told, I've been walking by this place everyday for the past 1.5 years on my way to work, but I didn't feel drawn to it for some reason. Which is strange, as I'd seen it written up in Independent London and elsewhere as one of the local spots in London. I guess what didn't really attract me was the rather non-inspiring display of food in the counter; they use it more as a storage place than as a selling counter. So I went here and what I found is that this place is all about substance over style - and not the reverse. While the counter may not hold attractive stuff, what comes out of the kitchen is spot on and makes both my belly and my mind very happy. I can, at this point, only vouch for the breakfasts, but I will soon try their pizza - must be a winner as this place is run by true Italians! But Blandford's Café really had won me over when I walked by it in the evening of the very same day that I had breakfast there. As I walked by, the owner's daughter waved at me. This was the call to action and the action would be to come back here as they want me to come back. It felt like family! I have since been back a couple times and every time I'm impressed at the great hospitality. It really seems that the majority of the people coming here is regulars as the staff greets them like this: "The usual?" or "Are you sure you don't want the Spanish Eggs today?" or "I haven't seen you in a while." read more

Il Blandford's - Spanish Eggs...a big hit amongst the regulars - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

See all

To be honest, the bright red illy sign was what initially drew me into this petite Italian café; my craving for caffeine simply wouldn't let me skate on past. Once inside, it was apparent that this is a shop that locals frequent. Workmen in uniforms were mowing through hearty breakfast dishes whilst gents in suits popped in for takeaway coffee. The staff jabbered to one another in Italian and more than one visitor tossed a recognisable 'buon giorno' to the servers. Your chances of dining in may be curtailed by the limited seating; there's likely room for only about twenty. And as far as my coffee went, I have no complaints. A simple americano to take away was a mere £1.80 - more affordable than most competitors in Marylebone. Lunch offerings look to be quite traditional Italian fare and certainly worth a followup visit to compare against my visits to Italy! read more

Il Blandford's - Mixed veg omelette and chips. Because breakfast is served all day here, and chips really do go with everything. - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

Great restaurant with an authentic Italian atmosphere. We ordered bruschetta, salad and a pizza. The bruschetta was crispy and tasty. Salad was great. Pizza was a little soft in the middle but tasted great. Overall great food. read more

Not sure why I love this place so much, but it really feels cosy, family oriented, relaxed and 'authentic'...oh wait a minute, yup, I remembered why I like this place so much, it's because it feels cosy, family oriented, relaxed and 'authentic'. I used the word 'authentic', but I suppose the fact that really Italian Italians run this place and they serve food (talking mainly about breakfasts here) that is quintessentially British, is a bit misleading. But it feels right, it feels good and it feels welcoming. Bon Giorno! Usual greeting on entering, and you'll see that the British grub does, somehow, manage to have a bit of an Italian touch too. The coffee is freshly milled and tastes great, so much better than the chains on Baker Street, why didn't I come here sooner?! The seating area is a little limited, but if you can get a seat, cherish it, you'll be fed well, given great service and it won;t cost you the earth. read more

See all

Perfect little Italian restaurant. Terrific thin pizzas. I tried the Spaghetti Bolognese and had the lasagna. Both as good as you will get anywhere. Owner is lovely and took time to say hello and tell us about the place, her food. Really top notch. read more

Il Blandford's - Margarita Pizza - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

See all

Blandfords is a shining beacon of good taste amidst the banality of Baker Street. Here are all the things I love about it: - The Italian owners greet you with a friendly Bongiorno! when you walk in - A grandfatherly figure sits in the corner, sipping cappuccino and correcting the people (maybe his younger family members?) as they make coffee - Booths beside big windows with tons of natural light - The food! Their focaccia breakfast is a fantastic Italian take on the great British/American breakfast tradition: poached eggs on foccacia toast smothered in olive oil so fresh you can taste the olives... served with slices of remarkably-fresh tasting tomatoes and avocado and bacon for some salty goodness. It's poetry, my friends. Seriously, you should drop what you're doing and go have breakfast here now. read more

Il Blandford's - What a breakfast treat: the foccacia with a flat white - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

This was a pleasant surprise! I work just around the corner and have passed by Blandfords numerous times before finally stopping in with some colleagues the other afternoon. There are only a few tables and chairs, and the decor isn't anything to write home about, but damn if they don't bring it with the service and food! We had a table, menus, and a waiter taking drink orders in less than two minutes. Water all around, and an appetizer to share a few minutes later. They serve the "made with love by someone's nana" Italian. Very simple, no fuss, straight up delicious Italian. I had a gnocchi with a spicy tomato sauce, veggies and just the right amount of parmesan. Everyone in our group ordered something different and we ate in silence aside from the "man....mmmm....this is gooooood"s coming from around the table. Can't believe people head to Strada on Baker Street when this is right around the corner. I'll be back! read more

Il Blandford's - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

Very nice Italian home food , authentic family business .. Cosy they ofer fresh squeezed juices , they serve illy coffee which is one of the best.they where welling to do my scaloppine lemoni which is not in the menu Really love the place Will defiantly come again read more

Perfect coffee and breakfast in an Italian way! Nice staff and cosy place. Very nice breakfast! sit by the window and people by drinking your coffee. Try the mixed juice! read more

Il Blandford's - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

See all

Amazing, authentic, fresh, homemade Italian food! So good we are back again today!!! The lasagna is amazing, but the pizza is too...nothing beats the genuinely welcoming staff as well! This cute cozy cafe is very popular and for good reasons...come for breakfast or for an early or late lunch! It's worth it :) read more

See all

I think I'd give this 3.5 stars if I had that option. It's small and cosy and fairly simple inside but pleasant. It was really quiet when we went on a Saturday night but it was also eurovision night! We shared a burrata salad with cherry tomatoes and rocket to start. Burrata was super fresh and the tomatoes were tasty but it was lacking a little bit of flavour. Needed some salt or balsamic vinegar. We then shared a pizza and a gnocchi dish. Both were good but nothing amazing. I enjoyed them but my local Italian is better. However to be fair it is really cheap. Starter was 10 and each main was 10 so great value. Would go back if I was in the area but wouldn't make a special trip. read more

See all

I've walked by Il Blandfords Cafe many times living in the neighborhood and I finally decided to give it a try for lunch - and I'm glad I did! Food: They have great menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I've been craving a good pizza and was happy to see that they had a few on the menu. I ordered the Diavola pizza and was told it was proper size for one person. It came out and was much bigger than I expected but that didn't stop me from eating ALL. OF. IT because it was sooooo delicious. Drinks: I ordered a soft drink. Price: 9.70 GBP for one person for lunch. Ambiance: I sat outside because I had my dog with me. The inside looks very cozy. Service: The service was friendly and attentive. Would I go back? Yes! I can't wait to try their breakfast. This is a strong contender of being on my go to list in the neighborhood. Note: They don't take credit cards, only cash. There are two banks down the block from the restaurant. read more

Il Blandford's - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

After a hectic morning of shopping, I was in desperate need of some hearty brunch fare and a strong coffee. A quick search on yelp brought me to Il Blandfords- and my goodness was I pleased! Fantastic customer service from the mostly, if not all, Italian team who made us feel right at home. The breakfast menu which is served all day had several tantalising options, but I was drawn to the Spanish Eggs, baked eggs in tomato sauce with piquillo peppers, olives, chorizo, jamon Iberico and cheese (well I added the cheese because why not?). Oh...em...gee! My dish arrived hot and bubbly, with still runny yolks dancing in a sea of perfectly seasoned sauce. The chorizo and jamon have the dish a salty kick, while the buttered white toast provided the perfect vessel for sopping up every last bite. Honestly- it tasted like a well made classic pizza- but for breakfast, and with eggs. Just, wow. Perfect americano as well. I'll be back, especially as the dinner menu is packed with classic pasta dishes- and you can bring a bottle of wine?! I'm all in! read more

Il Blandford's - Spanish eggs - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

See all

Lovely Italian restaurant and café. A small and friendly restaurant, on a quiet street in Marylebone, with excellent dishes. read more

If you are in the Marylebone and Baker Street area, and if you fancy a quick and tasty meal (breakfast or lunch). You can't go far wrong with this place, I have been here a few times and I was never disappointed with either the service nor the food. read more

Il Blandford's - Pizza - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

This is like going home to Mama for an great home cooked meal done with love and care. The warmth of the staff makes you think you have gone to the corner spot in the village where you are always welcomed and the toils of the daily life will be part of the conversation. Now the food!!! I have to say I am still looking for what I did not like and failing every time. The pizza is sublime like what you get in Napoli. The Burrata is not to be missed. But if ever they have the calamari on the menu, grab and have it any which way your heart desire. It is sure to delight. The vegetarian choices also abound. And this is not limited to pizza and pasta. The carnivores mains are amazing. I am walking my way down the list but somehow I am always distracted by the specials. I also keep spying other people's dishes and I want even when I am so satisfied that not a morsel could pass my lips. Of course they have deserts and if like me not another bite could be had, there is affogado. For the unfamiliar that is ice cream in coffee and man that hits the spot. The Barista will cure you of any further satisfying trips to Starbucks and the likes. Now one warning the place is small so make sure you either send an email to book or go early. And please do not ever waste the table! But bonus, they serve breakfast. And for those like me who tire of a good old English Breakfast, imagine stuffed Italian croissant with cream with a great double expresso. Brings me back to Milan. So if you can work your way past the throngs of tourists on Bakker Street and go see the team at Il Blandford's and you will be transported to a little place in heaven for a few hours. read more

A small cosy place, there are many options there, we ordered pizza with rucola for sharing It was very delicious. Lasagna, pasta with white creamy sauce Breaded veal and chicken with mushroom sauce The foods portion is Generously enough Perfectly cooked, in general the food was amazing With reasonable price, we really enjoyed! read more

Il Blandford's - Amazing lasagna - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

See all

Grabbed brunch here one day. Wife liked her food and I remember thinking mine was pretty solid. It's definitely a small place but seems like a great little local area. read more

First visit was a chance, second my hands down choice. Love this small, intimate place that I have only been for lunch and dinner. The agnolotti with truffle and cream made me return, the linguini with clams will make me return again. They owner is a fab, contagious Italian that believes food is life. Hate to even share, always want a seat when I get to London. read more

Il Blandford's - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

See all

And old-school diner run by friendly Italians? With breakfast all day? GOOD BREAKFAST? And a strong Americano under 2pounds? SIGN ME UP. I've bopped past Blandford's several times as its located quite conveniently to my temporary apartment. It's always got at least a few parties perched about eating tasty looking food, and a line at the counter for to-go items...so today I made it the day that Blandford's and I become friends. The name must be a carryover from days of yore, as there is very little chance any of these Italians go by the name "Blandford." However, cheers to them for keeping the history! It also appears many other elements were preserved. The furniture, decor, etc. It's definitely got a retro vibe, in a good way. It's clean as a whistle, though. I was seated promptly, equipped with aforementioned Americano and side of milk and then decided on a veggie omelette (3 eggs!) and one side sausage for good measure and protein. At just 5pounds plus a bit extra on the sausage, I think a deal. All in I was out the door with a VERY filling breakfast for just about 7pounds. The service was friendly, the food hot and freshly prepared...it's got all the basics, and definitely tends toward a more traditional breakfast (think eggs, meats, beans, toasts, and the like), but Italian-influenced lunch specials. They even allow you to bring in your own beer and wine (assuming that's a dinner thing, but hey..perhaps you like a nip with your morning meal?). I'll be a regular. read more

I now find myself detouring and stopping in this place whenever I'm in the area. What I like the most is that it looks like an old-fashioned "caff", but you find a level of service and quality here that is way beyond anything you'll find in a greasy spoon. All the people that work here are very responsive and in tune with your needs. It's a place full of life as well, with family members coming in and out, conversation in the dining area drifting back towards the other staff. It feels very lived in, cosy and homey, and the best part is you're included, in a very appropriate way. If you want to eat your food and read the paper, no one will bother you. But if you glance up perhaps because you'd like something else, someone will immediately come over to help you. It reminds me of being in Italy and that's understandable, because the staff, as far as I can tell, are all Italian. I recently stopped by and wanted to get something quick and light to eat, and didn't have much time. I explained this to them, and they immediately suggested some options, and they "got on it." I ordered a bowl of wonderful vegetable soup, and an avocado-based salad. At one point the owner saw me adding some salt to the soup, and he asked if I'd prefer to have a bit of grated parmesan cheese, which I did. After I settled my bill, and as I left, everyone said goodbye. It's a place you want to come back to. read more

This place is just flipping awesome! We came here as a group for a late lunch today and they had room for us. We basically all got their special: gnocchi with tomato, bacon and chili. It was DELICIOUS! As my colleague said 'I could sit there all day with a glass of wine and watch the world go by'. This place is a hidden gem and I love it. Want to go back immediately to try everything else! read more

What can I say about Blandford except I have raved about it to everyone I know. They are a small Italian, family run cafe, they have amazing breakfast and are super friendly and nice. I go to Blandford once a month on average for brunch, and that is quite a compliment given the abundance of brunch options in central London. While I can't speak for their non-brunch items, which I am sure are fantastic (pizza, pasta, lasagna etc.), I can tell you that they make some of the best eggs I've ever had. Turkish eggs, Eggs Florentine, Spanish Eggs, all amazing!!! And oh the Orange juice there is phenomenal. It is worth just going for that. Real freshly squeezed, sweet orange juice. Yum!! read more

The story goes like this: I finished work earlier than usual one day and found myself waiting on the little lady to finish work in the Baker Street area. I have been eyeing up Blandfords Cafe for a while (not physically, mind you, that would be creepy, because cyber stalking is so much more acceptable). I headed straight over and walked in tentatively, and was suprised that even at the odd timing, a few of the tables were occupied, a gentleman facing the street had just received his fragrant pizza, whilst the majority were enjoying their coffees. I was a man on a mission, so my first question was whether or not they would serve their spanish eggs on their breakfast menu despite it being mid-afternoon. After a quick check with the kitchen, they were happy to oblige. I ordered that and a latte. The latte was suprisingly good, the ground coffee was at the bottom of the glass, but all in all, it was a very decent coffee, it would beat your starbucks or costa anyday of the week. The spanish eggs came first (the toast was to follow), but I couldn't wait to dig in, so I broke into one of the runny eggs, and worked the yolk into the tomato sauce, peppers, onions, ham and salami/chorizo(?). It worked, the ingredients were simple and the meat was good, but not top-notch. But damn, it worked. The flavours were bright and more-ish, even without the bread to soak it all up, I happily ate a few spoonfuls, when the toast came, it only topped off the experience in style. I lapped up everything onto the toast and it was absolutely delightful. I want to come here for breakfast everyday. It is a tad steep, but I enjoyed myself thoroughly. read more

Really lovely service here. I think the other elite reviews are spot on - this feels like a solid neighbourhood haunt - good value and excellent food! Love that they do all-day breakfast on weekends and also serve a regular Italian menu. The cosy tables encourage conversation with those around you and you can take a peek at what they all order to help you pick. The poached eggs in yoghurt and paprika sauce were sublime! read more

Very friendly, local, and tasty cafe' serving Italian food and desserts - operated and managed by Italians. If you speak a bit (or a lot) of Italian you can use it here. The food is fresh, tasty and not expensive. Staff are really pleasant. If you are in the neighborhood it's an ideal place to have brunch. My favorite breakfast dish is the Spanish (baked) eggs, but everything we have had so far has been very good. The clientele seems to be a good mix of locals, including construction workers in for coffee and eggs, as well as local businesspeople and families. A nice, local place that makes you feel welcome and serves fresh, tasty food. A+ read more

Terrible terrible terrible service and average food. That's all I can say about this place. Not coming back for sure. They are obviously understaffed with only 2 women waiting on 25 customers which honestly ruined our entire experience. read more

Memorandum to self: next time you want to: start a business in the black market, or plan the theft of crown jewels, come here, sit at one of the wooden booths on the wall, and share your thoughts in strict italian while drinking coffee. This is the kind of places you would see in the godfather goodfellas, just pure italian magic directly in the hearth of London. Me and my lady had breakfast here, and we were truly satisfied by it: generous portions, nice and hearty flavors (maybe a little bit too spicy, but it really depends on what you order!). Coffee is illy, and that's guarantee of quality, and try the croissant, buttery and mouth watering. Put away your phone, come here and just enjoy this place, coming straight from the past. This is just how an italian caffe' should be. Thanks Blandfords for being what you are! read more

Outstanding. I was traveling for business and I try to hit both the hip places and more local places. This place has atmosphere and GREAT food. I ordered an American (so good) and the Eggs Florentine (baked eggs over spinach with what must be cream and fresh parmesean). AMAZING. Owned by an Italian family. The family members talk lively to each other as well as to the familiar patrons. At one point the waitress was finger pointing and yelling at a patron in Italian. A minute later they were hugging and laughing. I was welcomed as I walked in with a Bon Journo! By the end of the meal the daughter who works there (happened to be my waitress) introduced me to her father and brother. She asked how I liked the food and told me to come back tomorrow. That we'd be like old friends and she'd confess all of her sins to me. Not sure I'm ready for that, but I am ready to try another dish there. This will definately become a regular place for me to visit for bfst when I'm over for work. read more

This is the kind of quaint, authentic Italian diner you see in movies. The brunch dishes are spectacular, with friendly service to boot. While I was eating, another patron complimented the hostess on the food, and she in turn invited him to look into the kitchen and see the grittle -- as that is the key to all the delicious meals. It's the perfect little place to pop into with friends or on your own for a quality Italian brunch experience against the soundtrack of Italian being rapidly spoken and the delicious smells from both the coffee (illy) and the dishes. If I lived in the area, I would definitely become a regular. The only reason I give 4/5 stars is because there is a pretty high minimum for card payments. read more

Il Blandford's - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

I came with a voucher given by the restaurant for the local school auction. The Lady behind the counter , I assume Jessica's mother refused to redeemed the voucher because she doesn't do this kind of stuff anymore. I was surprised so my son was because she was very rude. Not only she refused but she did it witjout any manners. We felt pity for her. When I told my story to other parents at school they were not surprised since she refused to another family their coupon as well. I am local and I used to coming to this place weekly, voucher was £20, I think this is a xmas story, we found our Mr Scrooge: amazing. read more

Eating at Il Blandfords is like eating at the home of a Sicilian nonna. Madonna mio, it's good! Like getting a big warm embrace of unconditional love from someone whose sole desire is to nourish your heart and soul. The pizza is to die for, crispy yet chewy. Pastas are all cooked to perfection, al dente with just the right amount of sauce (as in not too much). The meat is prime quality and prepared with the utmost care. Finally, there are the deserts, which are sublime and not too sweet which is the Sicilian way. Finish it al off with an Illy Caffe, Italy's finest coffee and I guarantee you'll go to sleep dreaming of your next meal at Il Blanfords and wake up planning your next visit. Authentic Sicilian/Italian cuisine and service at incredibly reasonable prices. It's great value given the fine quality. read more

This little Italian café is a real gem. In Marylebone, there are few decent budget options, and what few there are are mostly chains. This place is a diamond in the rough for the budget-conscious of this pricey central London neighbourhood! Il Blandford (there is some confusion about the name, it shows up as The Blandford, Blandford's, Il Blandford, and various others in different sources) serves up English breakfasts and Italian fare (including pizzas, pasta and the like). I've been twice for breakfast, and both times were excellent. All the servers are really fun, interesting, and personable -- without the service feeling invasive. The space is small and cozy, without feeling cramped. And the food is tasty and satisfying, but light enough to enjoy fairly regularly. The English breakfast (which you might not expect to find in such an overtly Italian themed spot) is really fantastic. A special spot in Marylebone and if you're there, there's a good chance you'll spot me! read more

After reading some reviews I just had to stop by and try this place. I went for breakfast with a friend and we both decided to go with the eggs - I ordered the Spanish eggs, while my friend went with the Turkish option. Both of our meals were delicious and while I can vouch for that by my own belly, my friend's expression on her face while she was eating obviously shared my opinion. We had some coffee and went on with our day. The place was buzzing at the time of our visit and that may have affected the swiftness of the service but it is all forgiven if they keep up cooking such heavenly eggs. read more

I basically stumbled into this place during a family vacation in London. It was far and away the best meal we had on our trip. Fantastic pasta bolognese with fresh noodles that were perfectly cooked, and utterly perfect minestrone soup exploding with vegetables and subtle flavors. Jessica, the young Italian emigre owner, managed to exude a combination of efficiency and warmth that was great! She actually harangued me to finish my pasta because they don't like wasting food and they're serving it with love, goddamit! I also had a very nice chat with her father, an emigre from Sicily by way of New York. This was a great refuge on a cold, rainy afternoon. We will definitely be back on our next trip to London, and probably for more than just one meal next time. read more

I found this little authentic Italian restaurant while searching for a nice place to eat lunch while catching up with an old friend. It has really good reviews on numerous web sites, and we weren't disappointed. The quality and taste of the dishes we ordered were right up there with other 4 & 5-star places. It is a smaller restaurant, however, and the seating inside was a little cramped, but we really enjoyed our meal and wine and visit with good friends. read more

Il Blandford's - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

I went to Blandford's for a nice full English breakfast, and I had a lovely morning at the cafe. It seems to be family owned, which I love. Independent restaurants and cafes just seem to be more charming than chains. Or at least I like to think so. When I walked in, one of the sons greeted me and I saw the mother and father chatting away in Italian at a small table in the corner. It was really cute to see the father overseeing his son and I think nephew and kind of guiding/teaching them. I ordered a pot of English breakfast and their full English breakfast, which consisted of toast, ham, two sausage links, a sunny side up egg, mushrooms, and tomatoes. No beans or black pudding though. Service was quick. There were only 4 other people in the restaurant and they only ordered drinks. It's a small establishment, but a good breakfast nonetheless. A little on the pricey side (£10.60 for the tea and breakfast) as there are many more places in London that are cheaper, but I do like to support family businesses. read more

Blandfords café - or, as their business card puts it - IL Blandford is a small traditional-looking place in right off Baker St. As you will appreciate on the menu and from the overall quality of coffee, one can tell this place is really Italian. More precisely, Sicilian. Service is as you would expect it from an Italian-managed place: highly personalized, fairly loud and straight-forward. The lunch menu is the real deal. The manager here puts lots of attention on food freshness and appearance, so this is the place to come if you want a real meal with an eye to detail, or a quiet late breakfast on weekdays. They also serve great pizzas. Down sides: dishes are pretty pricey for their size, it gets packed at lunch time, they don't accept credit cards (yet). read more