London Welcomes Its First Dedicated Welsh Bakery in Peckham
Bara Café, London's inaugural Welsh-inspired bakery and sandwich shop, has officially opened its doors at 44–46 Choumert Road in Peckham, marking a significant culinary addition to the capital's vibrant food scene. The establishment launched on 12th February 2026, founded through a partnership between Cecily Dalladay, a quarter-finalist from MasterChef: The Professionals, and accomplished chef Zoë Heimann.
Authentic Welsh Flavors Take Center Stage
The bakery proudly showcases premium ingredients sourced directly from Wales, creating an authentic taste experience. The menu highlights include:
- Caerphilly cheese from its namesake region
- Fresh Pembrokeshire shellfish
- Specialty Coaltown Coffee from Ammanford
Signature sandwiches feature innovative combinations like the Caerphilly Cheesesteak with 8-hour smoked Welsh beef brisket, melted Caerphilly cheese, onions, and Blas Y Tir leeks. The Swansea Breakfast offers smoked bacon, buttered leeks, Câr-y-Môr cockles, and traditional laverbread served on homemade focaccia.
Baked Goods That Steal the Show
While the sandwiches impress, the bakery's baked goods have generated particular excitement. The traditional Bara Brith – a Welsh fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruits and spices – has received rave reviews. Additionally, the café offers its unique Bara Bun interpretation of cinnamon rolls and contemporary Miso Brown Butter Cookies available at the counter.
Weekend specials elevate the offering further with items like the Pembrokeshire Lobster Roll featuring poached lobster with lobster bisque mayonnaise and Crab Rarebit combining brown crab with Caerphilly cheese on focaccia.
Food Reviewers Deliver Glowing Verdict
Popular London food reviewers Gerry and Paul, known online as @bitetwicefoodreviews, visited during the soft launch period. Paul documented their experience, noting that items were selling out quickly, with only two remaining baked goods available during their visit.
Gerry sampled the Bara Brith, describing it as "absolutely saturated in sultanas and various other bits of dried fruit." He delivered an enthusiastic verdict: "I really like that, it's so moist. Unbelievably moist and not too sweet. You can really taste the fruit opposed to the sugar. It's gorgeous."
Paul tried the Miso Brown Butter Cookie, praising its "perfect texture" and noting it was "very good... not too squidgy... really nice and sweet." Although they refrained from issuing a formal rating due to the soft launch status, both reviewers stated they "wholeheartedly recommend it."
More Than Just a Bakery: A Social Mission
Beyond its culinary offerings, Bara Café incorporates a meaningful social mission into its operations. The founders plan to introduce an entry-to-work programme designed to support marginalised communities in securing employment and training within the hospitality industry. Additionally, the establishment demonstrates community commitment by donating any leftover food to local food banks and community fridges.
Visitor Information
Bara Café operates with the following schedule:
- Wednesday through Friday: 07:30 – 16:30
- Saturday: 08:30 – 17:00
- Sunday: 08:30 – 16:00
- Monday and Tuesday: Closed
The bakery's arrival brings authentic Welsh flavors to London while combining culinary excellence with social responsibility, creating a destination that satisfies both the palate and the conscience.
