Shades of red and pink swirl through the crispy meringues in the shop window of this bakery. They are as big as medicine balls and they are all piled atop each other in a slightly chaotic way like they have fallen freely from a kind of Charlie's Chocolate Factory in the sky. There is a surreal touch as the table they are sat on looks like it is close to buckling with the weight of these light and airy fancies.
Some two dozen traditional English, Mediterranean and artisan breads are baked at the simply named Bread Collection. There is also a delicatessen counter with pickles, chutneys, and a good selection of continental cheeses, including Comte, a kissing cousin of Gruyere. I eat this strong and slightly sweet cheese on its own, a cracker seemingly superfluous, and unnecessary. The foodies dream is made complete with a sit-down coffee shop selling sandwiches, hot drinks, light lunches, and those psychedelic meringues from earlier. In addition to monging fine foods to eat in and eat at home, Bread Collection is a delightful place in which to spend time. read more