There's a reason the builders get there early. And the tradespeople. And the families. And pretty much everyone who's discovered this unassuming cafe on Cowplain's London Road.
Cowplain Cafe & Restaurant isn't trying to be trendy. No avocado toast, no artisan sourdough, no cold brew coffee served in a jar. What they do instead is simpler: proper breakfasts, generous portions, fair prices, and staff who remember you're a person, not a number.
The Mega Breakfast Lives Up to Its Name
Let's start with what brings most people through the door: the breakfasts.
"Fantastic value breakfast. Service was great. They were attentive but not overbearing. Clean and all-around great experience. The Mega Breakfast was around £10.00." — David F., Google Review
"Ordered the Builders breakfast and the food was quickly supplied and tasted amazing! Very polite and friendly staff. 11/10." — Shaun J., Google Review
When reviewers consistently describe food as "amazing" and rate a cafe 11/10, something special is happening in that kitchen.
Value That's Actually Value
In 2026, when a coffee and croissant can set you back £8 at some places, Cowplain Cafe is a breath of fresh air. The portions are generous — reviewers frequently mention being unable to finish — and the prices remain genuinely reasonable.
"Excellent quality food, very reasonably priced, very charming staff and clean. Can't recommend it highly enough!" — J.D., Google Review
The value equation is simple: you leave full, happy, and with change in your pocket. That's increasingly rare.
More Than Just Food
What elevates Cowplain Cafe beyond just another greasy spoon is the community spirit. This is a business that gives back.
"They have supported the local infants school by donating raffle prizes. Whilst this doesn't affect their food or service, it speaks to their community spirit, which matters!" — Kate M., Google Review
It's the small things that build trust: the friendly staff who remember regulars, the quick service that respects your time, the clean environment that never feels neglected.
Not Just Breakfast
While the breakfasts steal the headlines, Cowplain Cafe serves lunch too — including roast dinners that draw their own devoted following. Whether you're after a full English to start the day or something more substantial at lunch, they've got you covered.
The Details
- ✓Address: 57 London Road, Cowplain, Waterlooville PO8 8UJ
- ✓Phone: 023 9217 0960
- ✓Rating: 4.8 stars (198 reviews)
- ✓Hours: Mon, Wed-Sat 7:30am–4:30pm, Sun 8am–3:30pm (Closed Tuesdays)
- ✓Parking: Available at Farm Foods or the car park behind
The Bottom Line
In the age of chain cafes with corporate menus and disinterested service, Cowplain Cafe & Restaurant proves that independent still works — if you do it right.
Huge portions. Reasonable prices. Charming staff. Nearly 200 five-star reviews. Sometimes the simple formula is the best one.
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