Chamomile Cafe in England’s Lane put a sign in the window this week saying “sadly we had to close.”
Owner Alex Sadjik told the Ham&High: “We really want to carry on the business – we don’t want to walk away. We are looking for funding or investors who might help us keep it going and fulfil our dream.
“My partner Sylvie has done such a great job with customer service and building this community cafe, and we don’t want to give up on that.
“We hope it’s just a temporary hiccup.”
Chamomile Cafe has been a fixture of England’s Lane since the 1990s, keeping the name through management changes.
It shut in 2024 when the previous owners went into liquidation, blaming ill health and difficult trading conditions.
Alex and Sylvie reopened it in April 2025 with a fresh blue paint job and a pretty mural of leaves, foxes, and plants.
They have been serving up Sunday roasts, pastries, cakes, matcha teas and coffee alongside all day breakfasts and lunches – from jacket potatoes to shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash.
They also ran extra events including evening meals with roast chicken and chips, children’s cooking classes, a mother and baby group, and a Halloween party for locals.
Commenting on the Belsize Park Community Facebook group, one wrote: “I am so sad to see Chamomile Cafe closed again – I was only there on Sunday and it was bustling inside. Was really optimistic about this new version!”
Another responded: “Absolutely heartbreaking. The owner had busted a gut and some to get the place to be a success and more community orientated.
“It was fabulous to see the place get busier in recent weeks, and like its old self again, but it was indicated it may be too little too late.”
While another posted: “So sorry to hear this. Sylvie put so much love and care into the cafe.”
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A post on Instagram last July described Chamomile Cafe as: “A true local gem. With its relaxed, boho-chic vibe and warm, welcoming energy, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger — whether you’re catching up with friends, diving into a good book, or just soaking up the atmosphere.”
