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Arôme Bakery - Mercer StreetB+Worth Trying
9 Mercer St, London WC2H 9QJ
· Bakery
· 4.6/5 Google (2414 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
A destination bakery in Covent Garden serving inventive French-Asian pastries at premium prices—worth it for pastry lovers, but expect crowds and limited seating.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Arôme Bakery delivers exceptional pastry quality with creative Asian-French fusion that justifies its destination appeal across London. However, inconsistent staff product knowledge and notably cramped seating prevent a higher grade—the experience excels for quick pastry runs but struggles during peak hours when queues and limited space create friction.
Restaurant Summary
Arôme Bakery - Mercer Street is a destination-worthy bakery in the heart of Covent Garden, drawing pastry lovers from across London and beyond. The star attraction is the Honey Butter Toast, a thick, caramelized, and buttery creation that has become a must-try for locals and tourists alike. Expect a bustling, lively atmosphere with queues out the door during peak hours, but most agree the wait is worth it for the inventive pastries and the aroma of fresh baking that greets you at the door. The culinary approach here is creative contemporary, blending classic French techniques with Japanese and Asian flavors. Menu highlights include the pistachio chocolate escargot, miso bacon escargot, and savory croissants with Japanese BBQ sauce. This is a spot for adventurous eaters and pastry aficionados who appreciate unique flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients. If you crave traditional comfort food, be aware: the menu leans toward fusion and innovation, so conservative palates may find some offerings a bit bold. For families, Arôme offers some kid-friendly options—several reviewers mention their children enjoying the croissants and sweet pastries. However, the space is tight and not ideal for buggies or large groups, and the menu does not cater to vegan or gluten-free diets. If your kids are open to trying new flavors, they'll likely find something to enjoy, but picky eaters may have fewer choices. Overall, it's a great spot for a special treat or a quick pastry stop, but not the best fit for a leisurely family brunch.
At a Glance
- Outstanding honey butter toast and creative pastries with Asian influences.
- Lively Covent Garden location—perfect for a morning treat or afternoon snack.
- Expect queues and limited seating, especially during peak hours.
- Premium pricing—most pastries are £5-6 each.
- Creative/fusion menu—not traditional comfort food; limited options for vegan, gluten-free, or conservative eaters.
What Sets It Apart
- honey_butter_toast
- creative_french_asian_pastries
- open_kitchen
What People Love
- The honey butter toast—described as 'addictive' and 'pure perfection'
- Inventive pastries that blend French and Asian flavors
- The aroma and freshness of baked goods straight from the oven
- Friendly, efficient staff (when not overwhelmed by crowds)
- The sense of discovery with new and seasonal pastry options
Points of Concern
- Seating is very limited and space can feel cramped, especially for families or groups.
- Service can be brusque or rushed during busy times; some negative experiences reported.
- Premium pricing—pastries are more expensive than average London bakeries.
- Limited options for vegan, gluten-free, or highly restricted diets.
- Creative/fusion menu—some flavors may be too adventurous for conservative eaters.
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£12-18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Try the honey butter toast and pistachio chocolate escargot for the full Arôme experience.
- If you prefer savory, the sausage & cheese croissant with Japanese BBQ sauce is a standout.
- Note: All pastries contain gluten, milk, and eggs; not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.
Perfect For
- Pastry lovers seeking inventive flavors and high-quality baking
- Tourists exploring Covent Garden who want a memorable treat
- Locals looking for a special morning or afternoon pick-me-up
- Solo diners or small groups who don't mind a queue
Location Insights
Area: Bustling, trendy, and tourist-friendly Covent Garden area with a mix of locals, office workers, and visitors.
Safety: Well-lit, high foot traffic, generally very safe at all hours.
Nearby: Surrounded by shops, theatres, and other cafés; close to Covent Garden Market and major attractions.
Covent GardenA bustling and eclectic neighborhood with a mix of high-end restaurants, trendy cafes, historic pubs, and street food venues. The area offers a dynamic dining environment with international cuisine and a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Seven DialsA charming sub-area with boutique restaurants, independent eateries, and a sophisticated urban dining scene characterized by intimate spaces and innovative culinary offerings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday08:00–17:00
Wednesday08:00–17:00
Thursday08:00–17:00
Friday08:00–17:00
Saturday08:00–17:00
Sunday09:00–16:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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