Louis Patisserie

Prepare to step back in time, Doctor Who-style at this venerable Hampstead tearoom, where the wood-panelled interiors wouldn’t look out of place in 1960s Budapest. Perhaps that doesn’t sound terribly appealing, but Louis Patisserie’s ambrosial display of cakes in the front window ensures a steady stream of passing trade. Shrinking portions might characterise the fancy-schmancy patisseries you see popping up all over London these days, but that’s not the case here. The sweetest Hungarian staff bring out great big coffee éclairs, overflowing cream-filled slices & hefty wedges of cake – all accompanied by tea served in pretty floral services. There are a few savoury bites too, for those lacking a sweet tooth.