We have to admit to feeling a tad bit, shall we say, complicit, in the fortunes of local coffee spot/restaurant/bakery franchise ‘Louis’. We very much enjoyed their acclaimed restaurant in Walworth Road which shortly after our glowing review in 2023 retired to restaurant heaven. We equally enjoyed their café at Jamyang Buddhist centre as it was a quiet refuge which featured ice lollies for pets. Sadly the Buddhists elevated it to their celestial plane shortly after our visit. And after expressing our love for their café in Elephant Park they were turfed out but have now found an even better home.

Little Louis now occupies the space formerly held by Observer fave 400 Rabbitts in Elephant Park. Louis has incorporated the swanky antiques they sell while also maintaining the Ikea (I told you the Järvfjälet chairs are on aisle 6!) pine aesthetic of its previous occupant, and they’ve added the curious twist of not taking down the old sign. On offer are the usual suspects of espressos, flat whites, and various teas accompanied by cakes and pastries, and the venue transforms into more of a cocktail bar in the evening. Our tea was £3.50 which is egregious but mitigated by the justified satisfaction it gives you to hang out there all day on their WIFI. And many do.

The reality of the food industry in London is ruthless and unjust, and independents such as Little Louis need our patronage more than ever. Louis, we promise to no longer be a poison chalice and are firm believers that venues can be third time (ok, fourth) time lucky. Taking down the old sign is a good first step. And if money it tight, Louis, you can save ££ by just removing one letter of the old name, and then be known as ‘Four Hundred Rabbis’. We’re here to help.

Little Louis is also very baby friendly and on our visit saw a number of mums and their brood enjoying a brew.