Bread, pastries and cake always taste better when you’re on the Continent, right? Why is that, exactly?

Actually, the answer doesn’t matter – because now you can get authentic Swiss baked goodies in Richmond.

Dig out those stretchy pants people, you’re going to need them! The Swiss Bread Bakery and Café opened right by the Thames Path in 2020 – and since then has amassed a dedicated following of fans who’ve developed a love for all things baked and Swiss.

Best friends for more than 20 year, Andre and Tanja – both from Switzerland (Zürich and Bern respectively) have been supplying some of the most exclusive hotels and restaurants in London since 2008 via their company Swiss Bread, so a bakery and café was the obvious next step. Andre is a classically trained chef who has worked in hotels and restaurants around the world.

The chalet style bakery and café has seating both indoors and out which makes it the perfect stopping off spot after a summer visit to the National Trust’s Ham House which is nearby, or for cosying up in the cooler months after a brisk walk or cycle along the Thames Path. Kids, dogs, everyone – you’re all welcome!

Tuck in

On the menu – which changes regularly – you’ll find breakfasts and cooked lunches including Swiss classics like Flammkuchen (similar to a pizza), Swiss potato rostis (make haste these are super popular), pretzels, Swiss toasties, and (OMG!!) Swiss cheese fondue.  Yum!

There’s also a wide range of Swiss bread (no less than 15 varieties), pastries (Lindt chocolate croissant anyone?) and cakes. There are 10 different types of croissants and pretzels, and new cakes on the menu include a creme brulee tarte, a naturally gluten-free almond cake and a classic linzertorte.

Everything is  handmade, organic and baked daily using the traditional methods – plus a selection of Swiss groceries imported directly from Switzerland. You can order online for collection, or delivery.

Handy to know too, there’s free parking on site.