About This Spot

Stepping into The Corner Cafe feels like slipping into a cherished local ritual—a warm, unhurried pause tucked into the heart of Ilkeston’s Market Place. The hum of quiet conversation blends effortlessly with the comforting aroma of freshly brewed milky coffee, inviting you to settle in and soak up a genuine neighborhood spirit. This is a place where time seems to slow just enough to savor simple pleasures and familiar faces.

The pace here is gentle, the kind that allows you to linger over a plate crafted with care and a cup poured just so. Whether it’s the hearty fullness of a traditional English breakfast or the humble delight of a bacon and tomato cob, every bite feels thoughtfully rooted in tradition but made for today’s quiet moments. The kind of spot where you can watch seasons shift through the window while the friendly staff quietly nurture a sense of belonging.

There’s a welcoming, unpretentious charm that echoes through the modest décor and the genuine smiles exchanged between regulars and newcomers alike. It’s more than just a cafe—it’s a corner of the community where warmth extends beyond the food, the atmosphere open enough to feel like a shared secret among those who value good company and honest flavors.

For those seeking a pause amid the everyday rush, The Corner Cafe quietly offers a steady comfort, a space shaped by familiar rituals and heartfelt welcomes. It’s a reminder that sometimes the richest experiences come from the simplest places—where every cup and conversation feels like coming home.

What’s Available Here

  • IconOutdoor seating
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat tea selection
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconLunch
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconCoffee
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconBrunch
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconGroups
  • IconLGBTQ+ friendly
  • IconTourists
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconKids' menu

Location & Hours

Monday 08:45 AM - 02:00 PM
Tuesday 08:45 AM - 02:00 PM
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 08:45 AM - 02:00 PM
Friday 08:45 AM - 02:00 PM
Saturday 08:45 AM - 02:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Guest Reviews

iain walters 09 Jan 2026

A wonderful little cafe, the oldest traditional cafe in ilkeston and I can see why, friendly staff, lovely cosy atmosphere, absolute bargain prices but most of all the food was delicious. This was my first visit but it definitely won't be my last.

Victoria Byrne 03 Jan 2026

Good traditional cafe. Perfect breakfast, lovely friendly staff. First visit and made to feel welcome. Fantastic value for money. Would definitely return

Stan Allison 31 Dec 2025

Great cafe, great food, great value, great service. I go to cafes all over the UK, trust me this is a a GEM!

craig brown 30 Dec 2025

Fantastic local cafe. Eat here often. The big breakfast is to die for. Very friendly staff. Seems to be heart of the community for alot of people.

Ian Chilvers 01 Dec 2025

What a lovely little cafe. I called in here whilst my car was being serviced and was greeted with a warm welcome by all the staff who were great The cafe had a real good feeling to it and sold a multitude of things other than food. The food was cooked well, even the eggs which I am funny about but it was perfect for me, I am a white firm, yellow runny kinda guy. The prices are fair, they will never compare with big pub chains but I am always willing to pay a little extra to keep a local shop in business Probably my only gripe was that it opened a little late for me, but I am an early bird so it is nothing new for me to experience. Would I go again? Definitely, the next time I'm in Ilkeston

Baz (The Lord of Salt) 15 Nov 2025

After a few year's hiatus from visiting the Corner Cafe I was so pleased to return to find it has lost none of its charm or character. Nor the ability to knock out piping hot lovely spoon food at very reasonable prices and all served with friendly smile. Outstanding stuff, a true gem.

Simon Bailey 21 Oct 2025

I recently visited here after walking past many times, this time attending with my daughter. On entering, it was clear to see it was a popular place with the locals. After a short wait we found a table conveniently right next to the fish tank, which entertained my daughter looking at the fish. I decided to go for the large breakfast & separate options for my daughters breakfast, (as seen in the photos). Everything arrived pretty quickly, with it all being presented well. I would personally improve the sausage quality, as they didn’t taste great, but other than this, I have no other complaints. The staff clearly loved working, always talking with the customers, with it having a very homely feel to the place. I’m sure I will visit here again at some point in the future.

Matt Chapman 17 Sep 2025

What an absolute gem of a place. Easily the best food in Ilkeston with a wide varietty menu, wonderful and friendly staff and great orices. Reminds me of Roys Rolls in Coronation Street! Love it here, well done to everybody

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