Maison Bertaux

This bohemian cake shop is just off Old Compton Street, Soho’s main thoroughfare and the heart of the gay scene. All the sweet, tasty delights come with lashings of unpretentious character and charming service. Grab a seat outside and watch local people going to and from work, gay guys strolling—you get all sorts. I’m a big fan of the vanilla slice—one of many wonderful homemade cakes and pastries full of all the lovely dairy and gluten that the faddy types tell us we should be avoiding. Piffle, it never did any of us harm.