Over the past few weeks, a contender for the hottest new bakery in London has opened its doors. But you won't find this one in Notting Hill or Soho; you'll have to travel out to Leyton for it.
Farha's key claim to fame is the chef in the kitchen, chef Vanessa Campanelli, who was a co-founder of the area's much-missed Morny bakery. She's also worked in a roster of impressive London bakeries including Toklas, Fortitude and Cedric Grolet at The Berkeley. Vanessa is supported by head chef Laura who's an award-winning barista.
Owners Nargis Shaikh and Umar Raza are locals who wanted to open a lovely place to sit in and enjoy coffee and cakes in their own neighbourhood. They took over an old garage opposite the Drapers Field recreation ground to build their dream cafe. Farha (the word means joy in Arabic) is a lovely looking spot with handmade tiles all the way from Fez, limewashed walls, furniture from a local Leyton carpenter and ceramics from London ceramicist Kimberley Chan.
As for the much-vaunted cakes, options on the launch menus have included a house chai & orange bun, matcha shortbread and roast aubergine Danish.
Having opened intermittently over the Christmas and New Year period, the bakery reopens properly today. Keep an eye on their Insta feed for specific days and hours.
Thanks to Stephen Emms of the fabulous Leytonstoner substack for his help with this feature.
More about Farha
Where is it? 42 Leyton High Road, London E15 2BP
When does it open? Opening 16 January 2026
Find out more: Follow them on Instagram @farha.london
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