LA Café, located just opposite Sutton station, is a multi-award-winning bistro renowned for its menu, which breaks away from the typical ‘greasy spoon’ café.
The bistro has qualified for the voting stage of the Charles Gordon Trust London Community Excellence Awards, a national programme recognising businesses and individuals across the UK who make outstanding contributions to their communities.
The café is owned and run by Ankur Baria, who opened LA Café in 2021.
This year alone, he has added to the café’s growing Wall of Fame with the #Lovesuttonbiz award and a Highly Commended accolade for Best Coffee/Tea House.
It has also been shortlisted for the Small Business Awards, with the winners announced in November.
Ankur said: “This café means everything to me.
“I get up every day at 4.35am to be here by 5.30am.
“This place is built on everything that I’ve learned in this industry.”
Since opening, LA Café has become a local favourite, winning multiple awards and earning a rare 5-star Google rating from nearly 1,500 reviews.
The bistro has recently launched a new menu, including the new steak and blue cheese baguette.
The specials change daily, ensuring no two visits are the same.
Ankur said: “We haven’t repeated the soups for four years, and that’s an achievement in itself.
“People often order the specials without even asking what they are, because they trust what we do.”
The café operates on a “no-hierarchy” approach, with staff treated as family members and a strong focus on teamwork and positivity.
Despite a challenging start, including financial losses during the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, LA Café has flourished.
It has built a loyal customer base, with some visiting daily.
Public voting for the Charles Gordon Trust London Community Excellence Awards is now open, giving locals and supporters the chance to help LA Café claim yet another accolade.
LA Café is open from 7am to 4pm on weekdays and 8am to 4pm on Saturdays, with plans underway for a second branch, LA Café Bistro, which will offer evening service.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on October 11.
