New bakery shops in iconic London addresses have been unveiled by a trio of enterprising businesses.
These include the likes of an American-style sweet bakery chain, a renowned restaurant group, and a street market café brand.
Adding to the three new outlets highlighted in our most recent ‘Opening Doors’ round-up, we find out more about the latest arrival to the capital’s craft bakery scene:
Chai Guys Bakehouse, Notting Hill
Global flavours are to be showcased in the sweet and savoury artisanal products of this new bakery concept, opening on 23 November along the dynamic Portobello Road. It forms the latest expansion from the guys behind two Indian chai cafes at street markets in Covent Garden and Shoreditch.
Menu items draw inspiration from culinary traditions in France, Scandinavia, Japan, and India, with signature bakes including Cardamom-Infused Chai Spice Milk Bread, Chocolate Chai Cookies (pictured), Miso Mushroom Garlic Swirls, and Dhokla – a savoury sponge cake served with green chilli coriander chutney.
According to the company, items will be crafted using the freshest British seasonal ingredients including carbon negative flour, along with the highest quality imported spices.
“Our journey began with a simple cup of chai in India, which ignited our passion for authentic flavours,” commented Chai Guys co-founders Abhilash Jobanputra and Gabriel Unger in a joint statement. “Chai Guys Bakehouse is our way of sharing the love we have for these genuine tastes with the Notting Hill community and beyond.”
The Hummingbird Bakery, Soho
Marking its sixth location in London, Hummingbird’s new 800 sq ft space opened last week on Wardour Street in Soho to serve its range of signature cupcakes, American pies, birthday cakes, cookies and more. The first 100 customers were treated with the chance to try the new Black Bottom Frosted Cookies and customisable Cupcake Cups, all the while being serenaded by The Hummingbird Bakershop Quartet.
The shop showcases the company’s American roots – its sleek and modern design features neutral colours with accents of gold, marbled worktops, wooden floors, curved walls and flashes of Hummingbird’s signature pink. A Create Your Own Station has bakers at hand to handcraft bespoke items such as celebration cakes (pictured above).
Le Deli Robuchon, Chelsea
Founded by the late Joël Robuchon, who was once named “Chef of the Century”, the international restaurant group is looking to continue the success of its original deli location on Mayfair’s Picadilly with a new site at the King’s Road in Chelsea.
The smart but relaxed open-plan spot is set to serve a selection of breads and pastries for breakfast, French deli-style dining all day, and then wine, cheese and charcuterie in the evening. The business noted that King’s Road customers would be the first to try a brand new savoury iteration of its popular cube croissant (to be revealed on opening day in early November), with popular sweet variations including flavours of pistachio, vanilla, and chocolate.
Diners will also be able to watch the pastry chefs adding finishing touches to their creations in the kitchen. For an indulgent treat, they can order the Champagne Afternoon Tea featuring mini sandwiches – Foie Gras Toast with Spiced Pear Compote, Cucumber Finger Sandwiches, and Zucchini Aubergine Burgers – along with Le Deli’s famous pastries like Tarte au Citron and Éclair au Chocolat, and classic scones with strawberry jam and Devonshire cream.
Meanwhile, the patisserie counter sells French favourites to takeaway such as Tarte aux Framboises, Gâteau à la pistache and their much-loved Chocolat et Noisette, as well as daily changing Choux of the Day and Mille-Feuille of the Day.
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