I knew there was a reason for my growing coffee shop obsession and the constant need for Flat White induced caffeination. It’s this review. 

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Without it, I never would have stumbled through the doors of  Luminary Bakery into tones of neutrals and pale greens to accommodate the storefront window, and let me tell you, the window into this bakery’s soul is a really good looking (and smelling) one. 

What makes this place so special? Firstly, it’s abundantly clear that staff enjoy being here. Friendly and welcoming, it is almost surprising to hear the philanthropy of their employer, and how openly the workers share their roles.

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Secondly, the two outposts, Shoreditch and Camden, have turned social enterprise into the modern age. Luminary works with disadvantaged women of all backgrounds and offers a series of programmes, including employability and independence based training, for those who often lack CVs and opportunities. Many of these women, attracted to the baking and the all-women environment, go on to higher education, employment, or even the study of patisserie at advanced levels. 

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One employee told me, “You feel the ripples left behind [by the women who came before]. There is so much hope, and coming into the program, you know that everyone is just as intimidated as you.”

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This love and community shine through in the quality of treats they serve. Based on the experience of one of the best Victoria Sponge cakes I’ve ever had (added plus- it’s vegan), this place is a must-try. The classic, beautifully decorated Queen Victoria namesake was the perfect partner in crime to the very necessary Flat White. Although, with nine other cake flavours available by the slice, it was nearly impossible to make the choice, and thus, I caved and took another slice home. 

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Just when it seemed impossible to beat the Victoria Sponge, along came the hotter older sister, Carrot Cake. Light, fluffy, and decadent, carrots around the world long to end up in this cake. Beautifully paired with a hint of ginger, this is definitely a top carrot cake in London, and I’ve tried a few. 

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To be honest, I found it extremely difficult to find something negative to say about Luminary Bakery. There is something uplifting about witnessing the progress these women have made. What the lives impacted by Luminary looked like before, we may never know, but one thing is easy to tell. These women make carrying the weight of trauma on your shoulders look easy, and for a place to witness another reason to continue on in your own journey, Luminary Bakery is the place to look.