One of my fave cake shop/cafes in London (and trust me, there are hundreds to choose from) is the Amato Pasticceria in Soho.
For all its cultural institutions, historical sites and massive shops, sometimes the one thing I look forward to most on my London visits is a nice slice of cake and a hot drink!
Amato delivers on all points. You can sit in the back for a hot savoury snack (omelettes, toasties, quiches, etc) but my favourite indulgence to do is request one of their gorgeous desserts to take away for the train home to Manchester. Lovingly wrapped in a box topped off with a bow, it's like receiving a present, but one that won't last till Christmas - or even Watford Junction!
Divine cakes, sweet rolls, chocolate confections and treats galore stand attentively in regimental lines in the tempting shop window all begging to be sampled. The choice could make you dizzy (wait, maybe that's the sugar rush), but the staff are charming.
They will proudly describe their creations and are happy to make suggestions. They never seem too busy to go out of their way to be helpful, which makes them an endangered species in this rush-rush, push-push town.
Take the tip and treat your lips!
INFO You will find Amato at 14 Old Compton Street, which is at the top end near the junction with Charing Cross Road. It is about halfway between either Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern lines) and Leicester Square (Piccadilly and Northern lines) tube stations. Maison Bertaux is a few steps away if you prefer French pastries.
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