Our guide on where to buy the most tempting bread and pastries in town

There’s something irresistible about a bakery: the smell of freshly-baked bread wafting through the door and a patisserie chef hard at work behind the counter. From the cosy corners of artisanal independents to the bustling counters of patisserie masters, the city offers baked goods and pastries that cater to every palate.    

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite bakeries in London, boasting the best breads, cakes and croissants. Whether you’re after a tangy sourdough or a flavourful bun, our list has you covered. 

Philippe Conticini

For a true taste of Parisian patisserie, look no further than Philippe Conticini – a bakery combining creativity with classic finesse. Each creation comes infused with avant-garde flair, from their iconic XXL croissants to carefully crafted sweet and savoury selections. Think éclairs with rich vanilla crème and intricately layered mille-feuilles. Every bite is a testament to the head chef’s mastery. Stop by one of their stores in Camden, Islington or South Kensington. 

philippeconticini.co.uk

@philippe_conticini_uk

Moi Et Toi

On All Saints Road, Moi et Toi takes over the Empire Empire restaurant each morning, when the neon light signals its transformation into a neighbourhood bakery. Inside, find counters filled with freshly baked goods and a station serving coffee and house-made chai. At the back of the bakery, catch a glimpse of chefs at work.

@moiettoi_london

Arôme 

There’s no shortage of sweet treats in Covent Garden, but bakeries such as Arôme have garnered a cult following and shining reputation – for good reason. A fusion of French patisserie methodologies with Asian ingredients, their pastries are all baked onsite. Best known for their Honey Butter Toast, this square block of Japanese shokupan bread comes toasted with a crunchy honey crust. For a savoury sensation, their Miso Bacon Escargot is a must-try. Make sure to get there early, the queues speak for themselves.

aromebakery.co.uk 

@aromebakerylondon

Buns From Home

Starting life as a lockdown hobby, Buns From Home began in the kitchen of founder Barney who first took up baking for his neighbours, friends and family. Now with 16 stores across London, they’ve carved a niche in the capital's bakery scene with a range of buns. Alongside seasonal selections (honourable mention to the Matcha Colada bun) favourites include their signature cinnamon rolls and a savoury spinach and feta bun – perfect if you’re stopping by on your lunch break. 

bunsfromhome.co.uk

@bunsfromhome

Layla Bakery 

A firm favourite since it arrived in the Notting Hill neighbourhood in 2021, Layla is a bakery led by seasonal ingredients. As well as the go-to spot for a freshly baked sourdough, it’s the perfect place to escape the bustle of Portobello market with a slice of banana loaf and a cup of coffee. Specialising in traditional methods and minimising waste, expect sausage rolls and cinnamon buns made from leftover croissant dough as well as weekend specials. Occasionally moonlighting as a supper club, they often open their kitchen doors to the area’s fellow independents.

laylabakery.com 

@layla_w10

Lisboa Patisserie

Since the 1990s, this hidden gem has brought authentic Portuguese cuisine to the community around Golborne Road. Though a humble setting, it’s a hub of social life that has garnered a loyal following among locals and tourists alike. Chef and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi even cited it as one of his favourite eateries in London. Just make sure to arrive before mid-afternoon to try one of their infamous pastéis de nata – a renowned favourite that quickly sells out.