Get a taste of Portugal at this delightful neighbourhood bakery
Portuguese custard tarts, apricot Danish pastries, sourdough loaves, bloomers and an assortment of sausage rolls are just some of the golden goodies that might catch your eye as you step through the doors of the much-loved Norfolk Street Bakery. The business in its current guise was established in 2012, when owner Adilia Frazao bought and refurbished the old Norfolk Street Bakery – and the local community quickly rallied together to support the revival of this neighbourhood staple. Combining Adilia’s professional chef training with traditional recipes learnt from her grandmother whilst growing up in Portugal, the bakery stands out for its offering of artisan breads and flaky pastries alongside Portuguese specialities such as the iconic pastel de nata – made in their thousands each week – and pastéis de bacalhau (cod fishcakes).
As word got out about the Norfolk Street Bakery and its popularity grew, the only thing missing was space for people to sit and eat together. When the opportunity to expand the business to a sister site on Station Road presented itself in 2017, Adilia and business partner Natalina Marques leapt at the chance to create a more sociable, sit-down eating experience. Customers are transported to sunnier climes in a Lisbon tram-yellow room, soaking up the aroma of freshly baked goods over lunch. Why not try the lamb and harissa sausage roll for an original twist on a lunchtime classic, or get a taste of Portugal in the shape of a chunky sandwich paired with a bowl of homemade soup?
Now, in the run up to Christmas, visitors to either branch can look forward to a feast of seasonal bakes, including Christmas puddings laden with fruit, chocolate-smothered yule logs, cinnamon-spiced pumpkin fritters and mince pies. Watch out for festive twists on those classic custard tarts, too! The bakery even offers vegan and gluten-free treats – don’t miss the chocolate fudge cake and orange roll. Next time you’re near Norfolk Street or Station Road, why not pop in for a tasty treat?
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