FABRIQUE BAKERY IN NOTTING HILL

In hopes of visiting more coffee shops, I am starting with a bakery I went to recently. It's not just any bakery. It is located in Notting Hill and was one of the first stops on my first trip back to London in over five years. So, needless to say, I am happy to report back. First of all, the location is everything, and while this is only one of several locations in London (Shoreditch, Covent Garden, Fitzrovia and Holborn being the others), Notting Hill is a beloved part of the city and one of my personal favourites.

Fabrique Bakery originated in Stockholm. The Scandinavian roots are evident in the bakery's simplistic yet cozy design. We can't ignore that Sweden also coined the term Fika, which essentially means coffee break. But this location was very London, located in the heart of Portobello Road. Because I was traveling in March and visited on a Tuesday morning, the streets were quiet and I was able to secure a seat for myself. The atmosphere was warm with the perfect balance of locals and visitors dropping by, even a few pets. The decor was a little rustic but also modern with checkered floors, tiled walls and lamps. It was the perfect place to stay a while.

Now, let's talk about the menu. As soon as you arrive you are met with a display of delicious breads and pastries that included cakes, brownies, croissants, cinnamon buns and of course, cardamom buns, a sweet and soft Swedish delicacy. The bread is baked in a stone oven and looked incredibly fresh. I chose a croissant since that is by far, my favourite pastry. I had been craving a golden, flaky croissant for quite some time and this one did not disappoint. I also ordered a beautiful latte that was smooth and delicious, not to mention extremely photogenic. Even though the food was the main attraction, and rightfully so, it is always nice to find a bakery that sells great coffee as well. 

There is something so satisfying about researching and visiting a new place on your travels. Although Fabrique Bakery is technically a chain, it feels rather like a hidden gem. Find one on your next trip with locations in Stockholm, London and New York.