As someone with a penchant for sweets, I find immense pleasure in indulging in chocolate-dipped, baked, or cream-filled delicacies. Residing in London, I am continuously spoiled for choice. Exciting new culinary experiences are available daily in various areas of London. This makes the pursuit of the finest bakeries in the city a delightful adventure, allowing you to discover unique gems that resonate with your taste.
Notably, bakeries in London offer far more than just the occasional doughnut or pastry. The city boasts an extensive history of immigration, showcasing an array of delectable influences from northern England, Celtic nations, European neighbors, and beyond—spanning Asia, Africa, and South America. This diversity is evident in London’s bakeries! 🍰
Explore some of the premier bakeries in London that are definitely worth your visit (remember to don elasticated trousers). 🤣
1.) Oree
Oree represents a heartfelt endeavor by Laurent d’Orey, aiming to bring a touch of the French countryside to the heart of London.
This French patisserie, located in Chelsea, is among my favorites; I highly recommend visiting and savoring your preferred pastry, accompanied by a delightful baker’s breakfast. The address is Oree, 275-277 Fulham Road, Chelsea, London.
Additionally, be sure to try their Eclair au Chocolat— it’s exceptionally delectable!
2.) Dominique Ansel Bakery
Renowned for its unique creations, specifically tailored for London, Dominique Ansel has introduced several delightful specialties you must experience, such as the famed Cronut, a delicious fusion of a doughnut and a croissant.
Don’t overlook their Welsh rarebit croissant, an excellent option for lunch that evokes fond childhood memories of having rarebit in Wales. Furthermore, their pain au chocolat is exceptional, featuring an extra piece of chocolate, creating a dream for chocolate enthusiasts.
Visit Dominique Ansel Bakery located at 17-21 Elizabeth St. Victoria, London.
3.) Café Royal Hotel
Pastry chef Sarah Barber has established an exceptional reputation in London’s dessert scene.
Sarah crafts some of the finest French pastries at the Café Royal, where the high tea they offer is unparalleled in the city. If you cannot secure a reservation (it is advisable to plan ahead), you can also take away delicious gateaux, cheesecakes, or pecan bombes. The establishment is situated in Central London at 68 Regent Street.
4.) Honey & Spice
Originating from a small 12-table Middle Eastern eatery, Honey & Co (by Sarit Packer and Itamar Srulovich) qualifies as one of the top bakeries in London, particularly if you find yourself in Kings Cross.
Recently relocated, their new establishment, Honey & Spice, features a delightful selection of desserts, including spiced cookies, a moist apple-cinnamon cake, chocolate tortes, tarts, and baklava (which is my personal favorite). The location is 52 Warren Street in Kings Cross, make sure to visit soon!
5.) Kova Patisseries
Kova Patisseries is an innovative Japanese bakery situated in the heart of London. Its most renowned creation is the mille-crepe cake, a multi-layered delight filled with cream—this treat is a must-try at one of London’s finest bakeries. Be sure to sample their Earl Grey version; it is irresistibly delicious!
If the mille-crepe does not entice you, consider their scrumptious Japanese-style cheesecake, a delectable option worth your attention. Visit them at 9-12 St Anne’s Court, Soho, London.
6.) Princi
Princi is a delicious Italian bakery chain with a singular location in London at 135 Wardour Street (in Soho).
It has gained a reputation for serving exceptional cakes, breakfast pastries, and fruit tarts that I am particularly fond of. Their signature torte lemon tart is a sublime white chocolate indulgence atop a layer of lemon filling that promises a delightful experience.
7.) Bread Ahead
Matt Jones and Justin Gellatly are accomplished bakers who synergized their creativity and passion for baked goods to establish this bakery (also functioning as a baking school).
The menu includes a variety of breads, traditional mince pies, and delightful jelly-filled doughnuts, perfectly paired with coffee to alleviate that afternoon fatigue. Stop by Bread Ahead, located at 1a Monmouth Street in central London.
8.) Brick House
If you have a preference for savory baked treats, Brick House is the ideal destination! While situated in southeast London, they prepare some of the finest San Francisco-style sourdoughs in the entire city. This family-run establishment offers both closed and open sandwiches, demonstrating a genuine concern for the quality of their food, rendering it one of the top bakeries in London to explore.
Brick House can be found at 1 Zenoria St, Dulwich, London, or at the Peckham branch located at 12-16 Blenheim Grove (which is my particular favorite).
9.) St John Bakery
Fergus Henderson has attained legendary status within the London bakery arena, operating one of the finest bakeries you should experience. His bakery is celebrated for its delectable doughnuts (which often sell out ahead of schedule, so an early arrival is recommended). Their mince pies are lavishly infused with fruit and alcohol, making a visit to Druid Street in Bermondsey essential if you have yet to sample these delicious offerings.
The St John Bakery is located at 72 Druid Street, London.
10.) Fabrique Bakery
Fabrique Bakery represents one of the top bakeries in London, especially if you are in search of a touch of Scandinavian cuisine, notably their cardamom buns, which are now available in the city.
These buns, akin to cinnamon buns, are incredibly delicious; you will likely succumb to temptation and desire several! The bakers here generously incorporate butter, cardamom, and sugar to create a delightful gooey surprise at the center of each bun.
There are four locations of Fabrique Bakery, with my favorite being at 8 Earlham Street in Covent Garden.
11.) The Violet Bakery
Since its inception in 2010, the Violet Bakery has rapidly distinguished itself as one of London’s finest establishments, excelling in pastries and bread. Although the competition in the bakery scene is fierce, Claire Ptak’s delicious buns stand out prominently.
While visiting, you can sample some rather delightful cupcakes, pound cakes, or scones graciously served with traditional clotted cream and homemade jam.
The Violet Bakery is located at 47 Wilton Way in Hackney, London.
12.) The E5 Bakehouse
The E5 Bakehouse functions as a school, bakery, cake shop, and café—all integrated into a single setting. The artisanal bread produced here is exceptional, making it a worthwhile visit for any savory baked goods aficionado.
In case bread does not pique your interest, you can also indulge in their glazed chocolate croissants and multi-layered sticky buns. You truly should visit Arch 395 Mentmore Terrace in London to savor their impressive menu firsthand.