The smells of my neighbourhood have changed. Cafes may still be plentiful and welcoming, yet nothing compares to the aromas emanating from the artisan bakeries that are now opening up parade by parade. The breads, pastries and cakes made are temptation themselves, leaving me to remember the words of Oscar Wilde: “The best way to resist temptation is to yield to it.”
The first independent bakery opened up in the area just as the popularity of The Great British Bake-Off began to take off. The abilities of the owner, Patrice Eury, work their charms on both my body and my wallet, into the former and out from the latter. Although I am not a foodie, the offerings are heavenly. The place is always filled with customers who sit at the few tables to enjoy the tastes and scents that are to die for. Despite the limited menu, the creativity with ingredients, flavours and textures seem to know no bounds.
Neither, apparently, do his marketing skills. On a rainy day I walked in and was greeted by a poster that offered so much promise to, paraphrasing Bobby McFerrin, to not worry be healthy:
Come in for one of your five-a day!
Lemon Meringue Pie
Carrot Cake
Apple Cake
Rhubarb Crumble and
Assorted Fruit Danishes
Now I get my five a day requirements of fruit and vegetables that I wash down with multiple cups of black coffee which, according to the latest research, helps prevent various conditions from diabetes to dementia, or, if you will, all diseases from D to D. Meanwhile my well-being and waistline are growing as I savour the best that life has to offer.