While exploring Holborn, I popped into Fred Bakery on Northington Street for lunch. Its charming exterior, with an adorable logo and a hint of Parisian flair, caught my eye. Inside, it felt peaceful and inviting, with a counter laden with freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and creamy gelato. Fred Bakery specialises in artisan breads, pastries, coffee, and seasonal bakes, all prepared in-house. It’s an ideal place for breakfast, a light lunch, or an afternoon treat. If you’re looking for the best bakeries in Holborn or a cosy café for coffee in WC1, give Fred Bakery a try.
“Warm, welcoming and effortlessly charming, Fred Bakery is the kind of café you’ll want to return to again and again,” Homegirl London.
Fred Bakery Menu
The savoury menu is straightforward but packed with fresh Mediterranean-style flavours. I enjoyed a mozzarella, tomato, and rocket focaccia, which was soft with slightly crisp edges, layered with ripe tomato and peppery greens. It had a lovely freshness, and the drizzle of olive oil added depth. Other options include a Parma ham ciabatta, a salmon bun with cucumber, and a savoury brioche filled with feta cheese. There were also small round focaccia topped with combinations like ham and cheese, olive and mozzarella, or tomato and mozzarella, all baked fresh each morning.
The tempting sweet selection features everything baked in-house and beautifully presented. There are soft brioche, glossy fruit tarts, and signature creations like the Pistachio Frangipane Brioche, Lemon and Lime Bun, and the indulgent Tiramisu Bun topped with mascarpone cream. You’ll also find seasonal specials such as apple and cinnamon layers or plum tarts with Chantilly cream. There’s also the gelato in fabulous flavours, ranging from pistachio to hazelnut, coconut, stracciatella, peanut, strawberry, and dolce vita.
The coffee here is excellent, rich and smooth, and there’s a selection of artisanal Japanese teas by Sayuri, including organic matcha. You can enjoy your drink hot or iced, depending on your mood. It’s a charming place to sip a coffee alone, enjoy a cake, and watch the world go by.
Helpful Information About Fred Bakery
Inside, the space is cosy but well thought out. The counter displays the day’s pastries, sandwiches, and gelato, while a ledge with stools looks out over the quiet street. Outside, there are pavement tables with heaters and a canopy, making it a comfortable spot even on cooler days. The staff were friendly and welcoming, which added to the relaxed neighbourhood feel. It’s perfect for a solo coffee stop, a quick lunch, or a weekend treat.
Fred Bakery is located at 1 Northington Street, London WC1N 2JE. The nearest stations are Holborn and Chancery Lane. It’s perfect for anyone who loves freshly baked goods, excellent coffee, and charming, cosy cafés in central London. Open Monday to Thursday, 7.30 am until 5 pm, Friday from 7.30 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 8.30 am until 5 pm and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. Follow Fred Bakery on Instagram for daily specials and seasonal treats.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Holborn London WC1 Helpful Area Guide
Ten Best Things To Do In Holborn London
Sir John Soane’s Museum Holborn
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about coffee shops or eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend that you conduct further research, as standards and opinions are subject to fluctuation. Please verify that the establishment is still in operation and confirm its opening hours before visiting.