Review of Boxcar Bread & Wine in Connaught Village

New kid on the block Boxcar Bread & Wine in Connaught Village is certainly causing a stir on Instagram and in the local neighbourhood and I can certainly see why! The interior of the café is cosy, sleek and stylish with blonde wood tables, brass fittings and dreamy wall tiles. There is a good mix of shared tables and intimate corners, as well an al fresco option, ideal for when the weather permits. But it's not only the interiors that you will swoon at, it's the pastries!

Viewing the array of savoury and sweet delicacies under the glass screen counter, I felt visually transported to a French boulangerie, which is always a good start; the only problem was narrowing down which to try.

As a lover of all things green – the matcha croissant and matcha financier made the final cut, along with their version of an almond croissant. Boxcar has modernised the traditional recipe, and although described as a croissant, they are more of a light pastry bun with a soft centre. I’m not a fan of overly sweet cakes, but these are the perfect balance of sweet/savoury, filling enough to have as a small meal for breakfast or brunch or as a pudding.

The matcha financier is slightly sweeter than the croissants, more a soft biscuit with a rich chocolatey centre, definitely on the side of being a sweet treat, and the perfect accompaniment to their rich and elegantly roasted coffees.

Our visit was for lunch, so alongside the pastries, we sampled the main menu, ordering the eggs and smoked salmon with beetroot and the hot smoked salmon salad with mixed leaves and tangy kimchi. Both delicious and fresh, perfectly balanced meals with clean, healthy flavours. Boxcar sources high-quality local produce for all their dishes, and the freshness is spot on.

Aside from delicious pastries and healthy brunch/lunches, Boxcar has an enticing drinks menu, from creamy hand-roasted coffees to a good selection of teas. We sampled the oat turmeric latte, which was incredibly creamy, and the lavender and rose tea, which lived up to its fragrant expectation and, once poured, revealed itself as a delightful blue colour liquid. They also serve craft beers and biodynamic wines for those who want an alcoholic tipple. On our visit we were told they would be opening for dinner very soon, so look out for their new evening menu, no doubt it will be a treat!

They have three other locations around the West End, which are open for both lunch and dinner; these are certainly worth seeking out if you enjoy fresh food served with a friendly neighbourhood vibe.

I’ll be heading back there when I’m next in the area. The food is fresh, and the unique pastries and high-quality produce are certainly memorable, Boxcar Bread & Wine is worth making an effort to experience.

Address: 30 Kendal Street, London, W2 2AW

Website: https://boxcar.co.uk

Written by Claire Bloom

Photography by Nyla Sammons