5 Fun & Independent Bakeries Near Shoreditch

Craving freshly baked treats but prefer to stay in this weekend? Let Butter & Crust deliver the finest local bread and pastries straight to your doorstep.

But if you're feeling adventurous and want to explore Shoreditch's thriving bakery scene, we've got you covered. Here are five independent bakeries near Shoreditch that are well worth a visit:

1. The Lily Vanilli Bakery

Tucked away in a quiet courtyard off Columbia Road, The Lily Vanilli Bakery is a hidden gem that's earned a cult following among East London's foodies.

Founded by self-taught baker Lily Jones, this pink-hued bakery is known for its inventive flavour combinations and picture-perfect creations.

The bakery's seasonal menu changes weekly, but you can always expect a tempting array of cakes, pastries, and savoury treats. Their sausage rolls have achieved legendary status, while their vegan options, like the deep-filled caramel cookies, prove that plant-based baking can be just as indulgent.

What sets Lily Vanilli apart is its commitment to using high-quality, seasonal ingredients and its flair for the dramatic. Each creation is not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making it a favourite among Instagram enthusiasts.

Address: The Courtyard, 18 Ezra Street, London E2 7RH

Website: Lily Vanilli Bakery

Review: "The cakes here are works of art - beautiful to look at and even better to eat. The flavours are always interesting and perfectly balanced. A must-visit for any cake lover in London." - Time Out London

2. Fabrique Bakery

Nestled under the railway arches near Hoxton Overground station, Fabrique Bakery brings a taste of Stockholm to Shoreditch. This Swedish bakery has gained a loyal following for its sourdough bread and Scandinavian pastries, all baked in stone ovens.

Fabrique's star attraction is undoubtedly their kanelbullar - Swedish cinnamon buns. These fragrant, cardamom-spiced treats are a far cry from the overly sweet versions found elsewhere. Their sourdough bread, made with organic flour and a 24-hour fermentation process, is equally impressive.

What makes Fabrique special is its dedication to traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients. The result is pastries and bread with depth of flavour and perfect texture that keep customers coming back for more.

Address: Arch 385, Geffrye Street, London E2 8HZ

Website: Fabrique Bakery

Review: "The cinnamon buns here are the best I've had outside of Sweden. Perfectly spiced, not too sweet, and with a texture that's just right. Their sourdough is also excellent - it's become my go-to bread." - The Guardian

3. Jolene

While technically just outside Shoreditch in Newington Green, Jolene is worth the short trip. This bakery-restaurant hybrid has quickly become one of the most talked-about spots in East London, thanks to its focus on ancient grains and regenerative farming practices.

Jolene mills its own flour daily, resulting in bread and pastries with exceptional flavour and nutritional value. Their sourdough loaves are a must-try, but don't overlook their pastries. The morning buns, filled with seasonal fruits, are particularly delightful.

What sets Jolene apart is its commitment to sustainability and its farm-to-table ethos. By working directly with farmers who use regenerative practices, they're not just producing great bread - they're also supporting a more sustainable food system.

Address: 21 Newington Green, London N16 9PU

Website: Jolene

Review: "Jolene is more than just a bakery - it's a celebration of good food and sustainable farming. The bread is exceptional, with a depth of flavour you just don't get from mass-produced loaves. A true gem in London's food scene." - Eater London

4. Dusty Knuckle Bakery

Hidden away in a former car garage in Dalston, Dusty Knuckle Bakery has become a local institution. Known for their excellent sourdough and mouthwatering sandwiches, this social enterprise bakery also provides training and employment opportunities for young people facing barriers to work.

Their potato sourdough has achieved cult status, but don't miss out on their pastries. The morning buns, generously filled with cinnamon and orange, are a perfect way to start the day. For lunch, their sandwiches, made with their own bread and filled with seasonal ingredients, are hard to beat.

What makes Dusty Knuckle special is not just their fantastic bakes, but also their commitment to social good. By choosing Dusty Knuckle, you're not just getting great bread - you're also supporting a business that's making a real difference in the community.

Address: Abbot Street Car Park, London E8 3DP

Website: Dusty Knuckle Bakery

Review: "Dusty Knuckle isn't just about great bread - although their sourdough is truly exceptional. It's about community, sustainability, and giving back. The fact that their sandwiches are some of the best in London is just the icing on the cake." - London Evening Standard

5. E5 Bakehouse

Housed in a railway arch near London Fields, E5 Bakehouse is a pioneer of the artisan baking movement in East London. This organic bakery and café is committed to using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients and traditional baking methods.

Their Hackney Wild sourdough is legendary, but their pastries are equally impressive. The almond croissants, generously filled and perfectly flaky, are a particular highlight. Don't miss their seasonal specials, which showcase the best of British produce.

What sets E5 Bakehouse apart is their commitment to education. They offer baking classes and workshops, allowing customers to learn the art of sourdough baking. This focus on sharing knowledge has helped create a community of bread enthusiasts around the bakery.

Address: 395 Mentmore Terrace, London E8 3PH

Website: E5 Bakehouse

Review: "E5 Bakehouse is more than just a bakery - it's a celebration of good bread and the community that forms around it. Their sourdough is some of the best in London, and their commitment to education means you can learn to make it yourself too." - The Independent

Whether you choose to have these delectable treats delivered by Butter & Crust or venture out to explore these bakeries yourself, you're in for a treat. Each of these local gems offers a unique taste of Shoreditch's thriving food scene, showcasing the passion and skill of East London's talented bakers.

So why not make your next weekend morning special with some freshly baked goodness? Your taste buds will thank you!