Some time ago channel 4 produced a program called 24 hours in Soho - presented by Blur member Alex James, it followed the really quite diverse lives of Soho residents from strip joints to family life. One particular business I found fascinating was one of London‘s oldest patisserie ‘Maison Bertaux’ a French patisserie that was founded in 1871 and still going - now in the hands of Michelle Wade a former actress.Having never been there we thought we should experience this quirky venue for breakfast. We were greeted by Michelle who was absolutely charming and made us very welcome. The décor is definitely very retro but in an authentic way - slightly shabby but this has a special charm all of its own - completely out of step with brash modern interiors. The ground floor retail area comprises of a few tables & chairs a piano plus pavement seating which is perfect for people watching.
The array of pastries & cakes on display is an absolute feast for your yes - they all look divine - you just want them all. We settled for croissant d'amande which was the best I have ever eaten - being a creature of habit this is what I have every time I visit.Up a flight of stairs is another seating area - a pure 1950’s time warp of Formica tables & leatherette chairs. In this area Michelle’s sister Tania Wade uses the wall space as an art gallery for work by slightly off the wall artists; presently there is an exhibition by Noel Fielding of Mighty Boosh fame.
Being now totally hooked we return often, it is just so different from anywhere else in London, there is no comparison to other establishments as it is unique in this world of café chains with pseudo contrived décor. Do visit - you too will agree that Maison Bertaux is a Soho gem.
