If you’re wandering around London and suddenly crave something that tastes just like home, well, there’s no shortage of Chinese bakeries around here. In the heart of Chinatown and even beyond, you’ll find places that’ll have you munching on a warm pork bun or savoring a soft custard tart faster than you can say “delicious.” From pastries to buns, these Chinese bakeries offer plenty of treats to satisfy that craving without breaking the bank.
Chinatown Bakery
Right smack in the middle of Chinatown, Chinatown Bakery stands like an old friend you can’t miss. They’ve got shelves lined up with all kinds of goodies. The egg tarts? Oh, those little golden cups of creamy goodness are as fresh as they come. They also do red bean buns, pineapple buns—classic stuff that tastes like it’s come straight from a bakery back home. If you stop by, make sure to grab a few extra pastries; they go quickly.
Golden Gate Cake Shop
Just a stone’s throw away, Golden Gate Cake Shop is another must-visit. Their mooncakes are popular, especially when the Mid-Autumn Festival rolls around. They’re also known for soft, fluffy sponge cakes and delicate pastries filled with everything from sweet red bean to savory minced pork. Folks say it’s one of the best spots in London if you’re looking to get a taste of traditional Chinese flavors without any fuss.
Kowloon Bakery
Now, this place—Kowloon Bakery—is something special. You can find it along the lively streets of Chinatown, where you can practically smell the sweet treats baking from down the block. They’ve got more than just the usual buns; they do custard-filled pastries, sesame balls, and, during certain times of the year, some seasonal specials like lotus seed pastries. Great for picking up something unique and tasty.
Wonderful Patisserie
Wonderful Patisserie doesn’t just do pastries; they add a bit of a modern twist to the classics. From soft buns filled with creamy custard to unique matcha-flavored rolls, they have something for everyone. And the quality? It’s top-notch, the kind that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself without actually spending too much. Many folks love stopping by Wonderful Patisserie for a quick treat to-go or to linger over with a coffee.
Arome Bakery
Arome is not just a regular Chinese bakery; it’s got that mix of traditional and modern down to a tee. They’re big on making things just right, so their pastries are always fresh. Their coconut buns? So soft, they melt right in your mouth. And don’t get me started on the egg tarts; a perfect blend of flakiness and creamy filling. If you’re in London and want to see what a modern take on Chinese pastries looks like, this is your place.
Sweet Joy
If you have a sweet tooth, Sweet Joy might be calling your name. Located just outside Chinatown, this little bakery has a charm of its own. They do everything from cakes to little pastries, and their mango cakes are often the talk of the town. Light, creamy, and with just the right amount of sweetness, they’re a real treat. Not to mention their pineapple buns, which are crispy on the outside and oh-so-soft on the inside.
What to Expect at a Chinese Bakery in London
Now, you might be wondering what you’ll find if you walk into one of these places. Here’s a little list for you:
- Egg Tarts: A creamy, smooth filling in a flaky crust, usually served warm.
- Pineapple Buns: Sweet, fluffy buns with a crispy topping, sometimes filled with custard or red bean.
- Red Bean Buns: Soft buns with a slightly sweet red bean paste inside.
- Coconut Buns: Light and fluffy with a subtle coconut flavor, perfect with tea.
- Mooncakes: Rich, dense cakes often filled with lotus seed paste, popular during festivals.
Each of these bakeries brings its own touch to these traditional treats, keeping Londoners and visitors coming back for more. So, next time you’re in the city and craving something familiar, just head to one of these spots. You’ll leave with your hands (and probably your stomach) full!
Tags：[Chinese bakery, London, Chinatown, pastries, egg tarts]