Eric's Bakery: East Dulwich's Artisanal Bread Haven

Tucked away on Upland Road in East Dulwich, Eric's Bakery has quickly established itself as one of London's most sought-after bakeries, with queues forming well before opening hours. Founded by Helen Evans, former head baker at the acclaimed Flor, this neighborhood gem showcases the exceptional quality that comes from passionate craftsmanship and carefully sourced ingredients.

A Celebration of British Grain

At the heart of Eric's philosophy is a commitment to UK-grown, organic wheat. This focus on quality local ingredients creates baked goods with remarkable depth of flavor and texture. The bakery's sourdough loaves—available in varieties including white sourdough, porridge bread, and seeded rolls—demonstrate how flour can be the star rather than merely a canvas for other flavors.

Signature Offerings

While the bread alone is worth the visit, Eric's pastries have earned particular acclaim. The pain au chocolat is frequently described as "the best in London," with a perfect balance of flakiness, butter, and high-quality dark chocolate. The cinnamon rolls with their mascarpone icing strike an ideal balance of sweetness, while the morning buns and sausage rolls showcase the bakery's versatility.

Worth the Wait

Open only Thursday through Saturday (and closing once sold out), Eric's operates on a limited schedule that creates high demand. Thursday offers pre-ordered bread collection, while Friday and Saturday feature the full range of pastries and baked goods. The small, bright space with sunshine-colored tiles and ash wood fittings creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that complements the exceptional quality of the food.

For those serious about artisanal baking, Eric's also offers workshops where Helen shares her expertise in techniques like lamination and pie-making—a perfect opportunity to learn from one of London's most skilled bakers.