French bakery Copains has already been a big hit in Covent Garden and now they've just arrived on Islington's Upper Street too (opening beside Toast).
The bakery, which originated in Paris, is known for being fully gluten-free but also for its beautiful-looking pastries. They make the most of using non-wheat alternative flours to create everything from focaccia and baguettes to croussants and doughnuts.
We had the chance to take a quick look at the new Islington opening, and it looks just as beautiful as the one in Covent Garden (albeit a little bigger). As with the previous opening, everythings is laid out so carefully it almost looks like a clothing/lifestyle shop as much as a bakery. Essentially, a lot of people will be taking photos and video here.
Their entire offering is available here, so you'll be able to order all kinds of gluten-free bread, as well as pain au chocolats, financiers, eclairs, flans and tarts. They also have a range od sandwiches, filled bakes, croque monsieurs and more. Essentially, if you're gluten-free either by necessity or choice, there's a huge range that you could only dream of here.
They also have coffee, matcha, fresh-pressed juices and there's a small seating area at the back here.
Copains are only getting started, too. More openings are planned in 2026, with the next bakery coming to Marylebone in a matter of months.

More about Copains
Where is it? 133 Upper St, London N1 1QP
When does it open? 19 February 2026, from 3pm
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @copains.paris.
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