Luca's (CLOSED)

A prime position on Lordship Lane, with sunny pavement tables, a secluded courtyard out back and plenty of space for buggies in between, makes this a popular spot for stay-at-home parents and homeworkers who can pass significant chunks of their day here. Location aside, the other big draw is the cakes. Dedicated to Austrian pâtisserie, the long counter and display cabinet are heaped with fat cinnamon buns; fruit crumble slices; rich moist sachertorte; spiced carrot cake; baked cheesecake… but there’s also room for a few other favourites, such as scones and croissants. The breakfast and light lunch menu is of the eggs benedict/full English/granola/croque monsieur variety, with a few daily specials and soups. These have the bonus of Luca’s own crusty breads, which are also available to buy (many people come in just to pick up their rye loaves and bloomers). Service comes with a smile (apart from the owner). Our advice is to visit in the morning, as by mid-afternoon those post-yoga mums have polished off most of the goodies.