Patisserie Sainte-Anne

Hardly known for its pretty fancies, Hammersmith is moving into the fast lane with this on-trend French patisserie-café. It’s hard not to be taken by the cochineal pink frontage, retro-patterned wallpaper and walls the colour of lime curd.

After running a bakery of the same name in Paris for 20 years, the owners have upped sticks and now make their couture collection of beautifully presented pâtisserie and breads on site in west London.

Top-rate crusty baguettes and soft milk breads host life-affirming fillings. Besides meaty choices, the vegetarian options include herby pesto that contrasts with the crunch of green beans and creamy mozzarella; or there’s garlicky houmous partnered with grilled and golden-hued halloumi.

After several visits we reckon their tart aux pommes is the best we’ve tasted in London. Nothing beats its crisp puff pastry base, slathered with smooth Bramley purée and precision-sliced apple topping. Other highlights include éclairs crammed with seriously chocolatey crème pâtissière, and a moreish autumnal fig and pistachio sponge tartlet. Sainte Anne isn’t just for inbetween-times either: their baguette or croissant breakfasts – a bargain at £3 a pop – include own-made jam and a coffee.

Pitching their prices well below central London offerings, their light-bite meal deals give the sandwich chains a run for their money, so your wallet won’t feel much slimmer after a quality sandwich, posh cake and soft drink. Shame the same can’t be said for your waistline.