Overview
The Jamaica Wine House, nestled in St. Michael’s Alley near Cornhill, is a true City of London treasure. Housed in a narrow, timber-clad building and dating back to the 17th century, it sits on the site of London’s very first coffee house, opened in 1652 by a man named Pasqua Rosee. Though now a traditional pub, the venue still proudly displays its historic roots and holds onto a rich sense of the past.
Inside, the pub is made up of a series of intimate, wood-panelled rooms, including the cosy basement bar and a more formal saloon area upstairs. You’ll find low ceilings, ornate wooden features, and plenty of old-world atmosphere. It’s not flashy — just quietly atmospheric, with the feel of a classic drinking den long favoured by City workers, historians, and those in the know.
Operated by Fuller’s, the pub serves a well-kept range of cask ales, rotating guest beers, lagers, and wines, along with hearty British fare like pies, sausage rolls, and daily specials. Its compact size and warm lighting make it ideal for cold-weather pints or a quiet midday drink away from the crowds.
Despite being surrounded by skyscrapers and financial institutions, the Jamaica Wine House remains one of the City’s most authentic and beloved pubs — full of heritage, character, and a little mystery. It’s the perfect place to pause, reflect, and raise a glass where coffee once changed London forever.
Last update April 2024
