cafes / ace café
Ace Café
Intro
Nestled just off the North Circular in Northwest London, the Ace Cafe London first opened in 1938 to serve motorists and truck drivers traveling along the newly built road network. Over time, it became far more than just a roadside stop—it evolved into an iconic meeting place for motorcyclists, especially during the 1950s and ’60s. The cafe became the heart of the “ton-up” culture, known for café racers, rock ’n’ roll music, and a rebellious spirit that defined an entire generation of British youth.
Although the Ace closed its doors in 1969 due to changing traffic patterns and social shifts, it was reborn in 1997 on its original site. The reopened Ace Cafe carefully preserves its historic character while welcoming a wide mix of bikers, car lovers, and music fans. Today, it stands as a living symbol of Britain’s motor heritage—a place where the roar of engines, the rhythm of rock music, and a sense of community continue to bring people together.
My Rating (3.8/5)
5=Excellent | 4=Very Good | 3=Average | 2=Below Average | 1=Terrible
Facilities: 3/5
The Ace Cafe has a distinct, retro charm that feels like it hasn’t changed much since the 1960s. While that nostalgic vibe is part of its appeal, there’s definitely room for a little modernization. The space offers plenty of seating, though it’s nothing too fancy. The toilets are available on-site, but again, the facilities could benefit from a more contemporary touch without losing the historic essence.
Ambience: 5/5
The vibe here is fantastic—an eclectic mix of bikers, young and old, all united by their passion for two wheels. It’s got that true community feel, with plenty of camaraderie and excitement in the air. On Friday nights, the place gets a little rowdy, which has led to some noise complaints from local residents, resulting in earlier closures on those nights. But if you're into the lively atmosphere, it's part of the experience!
Food: 3/5
As with most classic greasy spoons, the menu offers all the usual comfort food you’d expect—quick, hearty, and satisfying, but not exactly gourmet. Don’t expect artisanal lattes or fancy pastries here—this is simple, no-frills grub. The food gets the job done, though it won’t win any culinary awards. And unfortunately, there’s no barista-style coffee for those looking for a craft brew.
Service: 3/5
The service is solid and friendly, with staff who seem genuinely happy to serve. Nothing spectacular, but the vibe is casual and welcoming. You’re not going to find five-star service here, but the staff are efficient and do a good job of keeping the place running smoothly.
Parking: 5/5
Parking is a breeze at Ace Cafe, with dedicated off-street spots available on-site. Whether you’re riding in or driving, there’s plenty of room to park and enjoy the scene without worrying about finding a spot.
Location:
Ace Corner, North Circular Road, Stonebridge, London, NW10 7UD
Website:
https://london.acecafe.com