Buns From Home

Buns From Home is the Long Acre branch of a London bakery that calls itself the home of the hand-rolled croissant bun. It began in the first lockdown, when founder Barney started baking pastries for neighbours from his mum Mimi's kitchen, and the croissant pastry cinnamon bun he created there became the most loved item on the menu.

Flyers through letterboxes brought more orders than one kitchen could handle, so Barney's younger brother Gabriel joined for deliveries and friends turned up each morning with bikes to help. The first shop opened just off Portobello Road, and the business now runs 25 bakeries across London. The recipes have not changed since those early days, and Barney's mum can still often be found at the Notting Hill counter.

Cinnamon buns in Covent Garden, baked all day

Every bun is laminated by hand with butter from Normandy, left to rise slowly and baked in batches throughout the day, so there is nearly always something warm coming out of the oven. The croissant bun comes in sweet and savoury forms: the classic cinnamon bun, a cardamom bun, and savoury versions such as ham and cheese or caramelised onion and confit garlic, with weekend specials alongside. Coffee is served to go with them.

What to expect on a visit

The bakeries are intentionally simple, with a clear view into the kitchen so you can watch the bakers at work. Long Acre is one of the main routes between the Piazza and Seven Dials, and this branch suits a quick warm bun and coffee rather than a sit-down meal. Delivery runs through Deliveroo, and large custom orders, gift cards and a loyalty scheme are available. For more Covent Garden bakeries, see Chestnut Bakery on Floral Street a few minutes away.