The oldest existing French patisserie in London is said to be Maison Bertaux, based in Greek Street in Soho.
The premises, where you can still indulge in delights including eclairs, croissants and delectable fruit tarts, was founded in 1871 by one Monsieur Bertaux, apparently a French communard from Paris.
It lies at the heart of what was then the city’s French community and located at number 28, stands next door to another Soho landmark, the Coach and Horses pub.
Bertaux apparently ran the business until 1909 and it’s since passed through a number of hands with current owners, sisters Michele and Tania Wade, reported as having taken over in 1988.
Famous patrons have reportedly included writers Virginia Woolf and Karl Marx, actors Steve McQueen and Nicole Kidman, artist Grayson Perry and musician Bob Geldof. The patisserie also famously made Lily Allen’s wedding cake and hosted the late fashion designer Alexander McQueen’s 25th birthday party.
Bastille Day celebrations are, of course, a highlight of the year.
For more, see www.maisonbertaux.com.
PICTURE: Google Maps.
Exploring London 
Bertaux must have known what he was doing because the more modern owners maintained the same name for 110 years. And I like the fact that the location of the patisserie is Greek St, suggesting there have been all sorts of European influences in the area. (Shame on you, Brexiters).
Why do you need to bring in Brexit into this?? Totally unnecessary and uncalled for.