Circo Lounge sits on Poole Road in Westbourne, directly opposite the Grade II-listed Westbourne Arcade, one of dozens of Lounge cafe-bars found in neighbourhoods across the country, each with its own name and local flavour but the same relaxed, all-day format. The name nods to the one-way traffic system that circles this stretch of Westbourne.
The look and feel
Like other branches of the Lounges group, Circo trades on a quirky, vintage-inspired interior, mismatched wooden tables and chairs, old lamps and eclectic wall art give it a lived-in, neighbourhood feel rather than a chain-restaurant one. The shopfront is deceptively small; step inside and the space keeps going, opening out into a hidden terrace at the rear that most passers-by wouldn't guess is there.
The menu
Circo runs an all-day, eclectic menu that shifts from breakfast and brunch, including a Byron Bay Brunch with sweetcorn fritters, avocado and poached eggs, through to burgers, sharing plates and evening dishes, plus a cocktail and coffee list that covers everything from an iced blueberry matcha latte to daily drinks deals. Full vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free menus run alongside the standard one, and there's a dedicated kids' menu with activities for younger visitors.
Good to know
The venue is dog-friendly and wheelchair accessible, which combined with the relaxed pace makes it an easy stop whether you're passing through Westbourne on a dog walk, meeting for brunch, or settling in for something longer on the terrace. Circo is open long hours daily, stretching later on Fridays and Saturdays, though it's worth checking current times before an early or late visit.
Westbourne itself rewards a wander before or after, independent shops and delis line the arcade opposite. For more nearby options, browse our food & drink guide, or see what else is worth doing across town in our things to do guide.