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Daisy Green: The rise of fine Antipodean café culture
In 2012, Prue Freeman, an Australian lawyer working in London, found herself daydreaming of something different – a side hustle that could bring a touch of Australian charm to the busy streets of the UK capital. That dream took shape in the most unexpected of places: eBay. For £3,000 cash, she became the proud owner of a quirky 1985 Ford Transit van, covered in Smurfs. After a quick remodel, the van – lovingly nicknamed “Pinky” Green – with gourmet frozen yoghurt, topped with unexpected delights. With that was the start of The Daisy Green Collection.
From the beginning, Prue wasn’t afraid to experiment, introducing Londoners to frozen yogurt toppings like candied bacon, banana bread, and rocky road—flavours that spoke to her Aussie roots. Soon, she added another vintage vehicle to her growing fleet: a 1972 Bedford classic. By then, the Daisy Green brand was taking shape, and with the addition of three tricycles, affectionately dubbed “Baby” Greens, Prue’s colorful, mobile creations were popping up at some of the most prestigious events in the country—Chelsea Flower Show, Royal Ascot, and even F1.
But Prue’s vision extended beyond frozen treats. Her next move was coffee. Serving rich brews paired with her now-famous banana bread, she introduced “Beany” Green, an Australian coffee that quickly garnered attention. The dream was evolving, and by the end of 2012, Prue took the bold step of leaving her legal career behind to focus entirely on building the Daisy Green brand.
The transition from mobile vans and tricycles to permanent café sites wasn’t as smooth as it appeared from the outside. Desperately needing a base to prepare the food that would define the brand, Prue and her team searched for a permanent location. When they finally found it, it was more than just a café; it was a slice of Australia transplanted into London, filled with fresh, bold flavours reminiscent of home.
As Daisy Green flourished, the brand embarked on several rounds of crowdfunding, smashing investment targets and drawing the attention of enthusiastic supporters. What started as a quirky mobile business grew into a café empire with 11 uniquely designed locations, each space embodying the vibrant and laid-back spirit of Australia.
Daisy Green didn’t just build cafés—they created experiences – bringing them to the Luxury Restaurant Guide’s attention. From secret underground gardens and canal boats to shipping container cafés, each venue tells its own story, designed with its unique audience in mind. Together, these elements sparked what can only be described as the rise of Antipodean café culture in London, making Daisy Green a beloved part of the city’s food scene.
At its core, Daisy Green is more than an entrepreneurial success story. It’s a love letter to Australia, a reminder that extraordinary journeys often begin with something as simple as a quirky van covered in Smurfs.
Entry to Luxury Restaurant Club
Luxury Restaurant Guide is proud to partner with Daisy Green, offering an exclusive set of privileges at three of their locations below. Member and their guests enjoy a complimentary cocktail when dining for lunch and dinner throughout the week (valued at avg. £13 per glass, and subject to opening times), and this offer extends to those booking Daisy Green’s unique private dining experiences as well.
Not a member? Enjoy Luxury Restaurant Club’s joyous discoveries from just £8 per month. Read more.
Larry’s
National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE
Larry’s, located in the historic vaults of the National Portrait Gallery, revives the golden age of speakeasys, doused in glitz and glamour. Indulge in classic cocktails and exceptional bar snacks, all whilst surrounded by over 100 captivating portraits of London’s West End stars. See menus. Luxury Restaurant Club saving avg. £26 per visit.
Ziggy Green
4 Heddon Street, Soho, London W1B 4BS
Eye-catching artwork, themed cocktails, and an elevated dining experience, all paying homage to David Bowies iconic life and legacy. Set in an intimate space, feast on Bowies most loved dishes such as the decadent Shepherd’s pie. Take a seat at the art deco inspired bar and sip on cocktails crafted in his honour. See menus. Luxury Restaurant Club saving avg. £26 per visit.
Paradise Green
100 Bishopsgate, City of London, London EC2M 1GT
Daisy Greens most ambitious venture to date, Paradise Green, is their largest and most dynamic restaurant yet. They playfully meld art, design and food and draw inspiration from Surfer Paradise on Queensland’s Gold Coast. The result leads to a vibrant, versatile spot for leisurely brunches, long dinners with friends or late-night celebrations. See menus. Luxury Restaurant Club saving avg. £26 per visit.
Private Dining with Daisy Green
If there is one thing Daisy Green has mastered, its the art of throwing a party. With their multifaceted collection of venues, they have hosted everything from elegant dinners to grand wedding receptions, from bottomless boozy brunches to wholesome breakfasts and smoothies. The troupe of beautiful spaces offer individual charm, paired with expansive menus along with superior cocktail and wine lists. Each event, big or small, will be truly unforgettable.
Larry’s in National Portrait Gallery: Standing space fro entire venue for up to 150 guests.
Ziggy Green: Private dining spaces: One, for 30 guests; or entire venue for up to 40 seated and 80 standing.
Paradise Green: Private dining available spaces: Three, with largest holding up to 70 seated and 200 standing; or exclusive hire of entire venue with 200 seated or 400 standing.
