Wednesday 21 January 2026 marks the grand opening of Claridge's Bakery, a new culinary venture nestled in the heart of Mayfair, London. This establishment, described as the "bougiest bakery in London," is set to serve a menu brimming with "nostalgic" British classics, offering a delightful departure from the more refined French patisseries that dominate the capital's scene.
A Discreet Location with Star-Studded History
The bakery finds its home in a previously overlooked corner of Claridge's Hotel, specifically at the staff entrance on Brooks Mews. This unassuming doorway has long been a favoured escape route for A-list celebrities seeking privacy, with notable incidents involving Johnny Depp's security team and paparazzi. Historically, this cul-de-sac was rarely frequented by high-net-worth individuals, except for occasional visits to the Perrotin art gallery. However, with the hotel expanding both upwards and downwards to accommodate new rooms and a spa, this space has been thoughtfully repurposed for the bakery's launch.
Helmed by a Passionate British Baker
At the helm of Claridge's Bakery is baker and chef Richard Hart, who brings a wealth of international experience from stints in San Francisco, New Mexico, and Copenhagen. Despite his global background, Hart is deeply committed to celebrating homegrown British baking traditions. He expressed his excitement at the launch event, stating, "I used to look to England and go, why aren't the English bakers bringing back the stuff I love? I want to eat a bloomer, a granary loaf, an iced finger—I feel like it's all dying and disappearing."
Hart's vision is to revive classic British treats that he enjoyed as a child, moving away from the precision-tooled French pastries that often go viral on platforms like TikTok. The bakery is part of The Maybourne Group, which also operates The Berkeley, suggesting a strategic business move to diversify their offerings with a focus on fuss-free nostalgia.
Inside the Bakery: A Celebration of British Flavours
The menu at Claridge's Bakery is a tribute to beloved British baked goods, featuring items such as fondant fancies made with high-percentage dark chocolate, cherry bakewells packed with fruit, and Belgian buns with a pillow-soft Victoria sponge consistency. Other highlights include cheery Jammy Dodger tarts and Walnut Whips, with Hart exclaiming, "Bring back the Walnut Whip!" on opening day. He has even hinted at future additions like Wagon Wheels, showcasing his dedication to reviving these iconic treats.
When comparing British baking to its French counterpart, Hart remarked, "French is typically prettier. British is kind of the opposite. It looks not so great but it tastes, oh my God..." This emphasis on flavour over appearance is central to the bakery's ethos.
Savoury Options and Bread Selection
In addition to sweet treats, the bakery offers a range of savoury items, including Marmite cheese straws with a subtle touch of Marmite, classic Scotch eggs, and sausage rolls. Warm quiches, hot specials, and sandwiches are available at lunchtimes, while house bread such as bloomers, granary loaves, rye bread, and white rolls will be offered throughout the day. Hart is passionate about decentralising the sourdough trend and highlighting the benefits of other bread varieties.
A Takeaway Experience with Theatrical Baking
Claridge's Bakery operates primarily as a takeaway establishment, featuring a tea and coffee counter that doubles as a kiosk and cooking station. Hart admits, "There's not much space for customers because I managed to swallow it all up with the kitchen," but he embraces the idea of visitors watching the "theatre of baking," from mixing dough to shaping various items on the counter.
Prices at the bakery start at £3.50 for takeaway bread and savoury items, and £4 for items like French fancies and iced fingers. This offers an accessible way to indulge in the luxury of Claridge's without the need for formal attire, as noted in a 2023 review that described the hotel as "enigmatic, existing on some magical, mythical level."
The opening of Claridge's Bakery provides a charming new option for Londoners and visitors alike to enjoy nostalgic British baking in a historic Mayfair setting, blending tradition with a touch of modern flair.
