Lola’s Bakery in West Hampstead - Review

West Hampstead's vibrant and bustling atmosphere, is the perfect location for the first Lola’s Bakery. Just a stone’s throw from their flagship bakery in NW10. Housed in a stunning 100-year-old building, the bakery boasts high ceilings and original architectural features that create an inviting and spacious environment. With a focus on wholesome dishes that cater to a variety of palates. On a recent visit, we had the pleasure of indulging in some of their standout dishes, each of which left us extremely satisfied.

The Roast Vegetable Tart is a delightful composition of yellow and red peppers, courgette, and onion, all perfectly baked into a crisp tart. The filling, a blend of free-range eggs, mature cheddar, and aromatic herbs, creates a rich and savoury profile.

Each bite offers a burst of flavour, with the roasted vegetables providing a subtle sweetness that complements the creamy, cheesy base. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of fresh, quality ingredients. In contrast, the Roast Chicken Salad offers a refreshing and hearty option for those seeking a lighter meal. The cold grilled chicken is tender and juicy, providing a delicious protein base that is beautifully balanced by the assortment of fresh vegetables. The shredded carrots and cabbage add a crunchy texture, while the cherry tomatoes brings a burst of juiciness. The tenderstem broccoli and edamame beans enhance the salad with their earthy notes, and the almond flakes add a delightful crunch. The sweetcorn and sesame dressing ties everything together, creating a harmonious blend of flavours that are both nutritious and delicious.

For the mains, we opted for the Quinoa Burger and Halloumi Cheese. The quinoa burger, with its nutty and slightly chewy texture, paired wonderfully with the salty and firm halloumi cheese. This side dish was a wonderful addition, offering a unique and satisfying alternative to traditional sides. The combination of quinoa and halloumi is both innovative and delicious, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Lola's Bakery.

To round off our meal, we indulged in two decadent desserts alongside a refreshing iced latte. The Salted Caramel Cupcake is a perfect balance of sweet and salty, with a moist and fluffy cake base topped with a generous swirl of rich caramel frosting. The hint of salt elevates the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible.

For those seeking a vegan option, the Vegan Chocolate Cupcake does not disappoint. This cupcake is a chocolate lover’s dream, with a rich and dense cake base that is both moist and flavourful. The vegan chocolate frosting is smooth and creamy, providing a luxurious finish.

Lola's Bakery excels in creating dishes that are not only delicious but also thoughtfully prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty main course, a unique side, or a decadent dessert, Lola's Bakery has something to offer.

Address: 168 West End Lane, London, NW6 1SD

Website: www.lolasbakery.co.uk/

Words by Stephanie Sowaha

Photography by Stephanie Sowaha