Fortitude Bakehouse

I dropped by Fortitude Bakehouse in Bloomsbury recently and it absolutely lived up to its rave reputation. Tucked down a charming cobbled mews, it has that cosy “hidden gem” vibe—just what you'd hope for in a London bakery.

What struck me first was the queue. Not the usual tourist swarm, but a line of locals patiently waiting for the magic that comes fresh at opening, especially the beignets, which are “luxurious, cream‑filled” little parcels. Inside, the décor is modest yet elegant—exposed brick, wooden counters, low-hung industrial lights—perfectly framing those tempting trays of pastries.

Their black‑forest beignet was also a standout, delivering exactly the indulgent richness you expect.

But the highlight? Their seasonal strawberry danish features local strawberries atop a delicate, flaky pastry. It was exquisite—sweet-tart strawberries, pillowy elderflower cream, and just the right touch of glaze. It’s the kind of creation that announces strawberry season with elegance and flair.

The bakery leans into creative flavour combinations—from merguez and chermoula sausage rolls to orange blossom and almond bear claws—so whether you're after savoury lunch options or something sweet, there's plenty of choice. And everything feels thoughtfully crafted.

Overall, Fortitude Bakehouse is an irresistibly charming spot with exceptional bakes. The strawberry seasonal danish alone makes it worth a visit, but it's just the tip of a beautifully baked iceberg. Highly recommended!