Good athmosphere. Recently expanded and new modern decor. Lots of outside tables. Varied interesting menu from snacks to meals. All of high quality by professional owner. Location is perfect; by Hampstead Heath (Parliament Hill), close to upscale Highgate Village and Historic Cemetery. Good for people watching. Lots of newspapers here. See also Forks and Corks nearby.

I arrived in London back in May 2009 for a working holiday. I was recommended to go to Kalendar by an Aussie that we were staying with (he had relocated to London 8 years previous). The food was amazing and the atmosphere beats anywhere else in London. Before arriving in London, I wanted to work in a cafe. After eating here for breakfast on a Sunday morning, soaking up the sun and watching people walk their dogs and stop in for a coffee with their pets. My boyfriend noticed a Position advertisement in the window and said I should apply. I was lucky enough to go in and meet Alex, the owner, and one thing led to another and I started working there.I have never met a more amazing bunch of people. The chef was so lovely and never got angry, even though I must have been annoying at the start - but the staff always took extra care of kids, giving them free cookies and the staff just know their customers. They know how they like their coffees, and they make amazing coffees - and Alex was a great boss.

I have worked in many industries, including the food industry in Australia, but that cafe has THE best food, best atmosphere and best staff (all the way from waiters and waitresses, right through to kitchen staff, chef and owner). I have never had a better culinary experience, both prior to working there, and even after leaving, I still wish I could spend some time there, and miss working there. It was one of the most memorable parts of my trip. All food, from the burgers, to the hand cut chips, soups, and even the baker out the back preparing cakes - all are made on site, and are all amazing. I am still impressed by the range. Keep up the good work Alex and staff. You know you are doing the right thing, as you attrack customers from opposite ends of London, and many celebrities that just keep coming back weekly.

What a better way to spend your day, wining and dining alongside Hamstead Heath Park, soaking up the atmosphere and eating amazing food, prep

The previous reviewer is somewhat harsh, I think. I've eaten here five times and every time have been enormously impressed by the menu, prices, staff and service. The problem, possibly, is that with such an extensive, reasonably-priced menu, the super-popular cafe gets very busy at times, especially at the weekends, so you're liable to have to wait for a table, and hence speed of service may be compromised. I've been there twice on such occasions and each time the staff did their best to get to us as quickly as possible: I cannot fault them, only regret my choosing to come at such a busy time. Frankly though in a place as pleasant and buzzing as this I don't mind waiting a bit longer for my food: more time for the weekend papers.

About the joint: It's a straightforward bistro near the heath with outdoor seating, with a fabulous breakfast menu including American pancakes with berry compote, build-your-own all-day full English (v generous), perfect Eggs Benedict/Florentine, and porridge with maple syrup. It's also got a really superb range of small dishes and soups/salads/sandwiches and lunch staples priced at just over a fiver. The menu takes its inspiration from all around the globe so there are flavours to suit every taste. Very reliable and big helpings. They also do good coffee, and cakes by Kanditor & Cook (divine but a bit too posh for everyday munchies).

And a word on the staff: they are professional, friendly and very obliging. I ate there this morning with my husband and 15-month old child, for example, and was met with cheery helpfulness when I asked for the following: a highchair; a mini-version of their standard smoothie; a top-up of hot milk on my latte; a pair of scissors, and extra butter. They were very accommodating of the toddler's extreme inquisitiveness, too, and not only allowed her to wander behind the counter, but one waitress even led her by the hand on a guided tour of the kitchens too, letting her explore and make a mess. I'll be back

We've been to Kalendar twice but after terrible service both times we won't be giving it a third chance. We waited 40 minutes for our food yesterday and when we politely checked as to when it might arrive, we were given short shrift by the staff. When the food arrived it was okay but items on the menu were missing.


When we asked for the bill it arrived quickly but it took us another 20 minutes to pay and our £5.00 change was taken as a tip automatically without giving us any choice. When we asked for it back it was practically thrown at us without a word and made up nearly entirely of coppers. The food at Kalendar is okay and if you get rid of the rude, sullen staff it might be a decent place.