Big Jo

Came here for brunch with a friend to catch up as we hadn't seen each other for a long time. It was during the heatwave week in London and so it's the perfect weather to have something light with an iced coffee. We both went for the cinnamon bun and I also got myself an iced Americano. The bun was great, so soft and fluffy and not too cinnamon-y which was my preference. I also liked that it's not too sweet so it was easy to eat and finish. We then got the carrot, orange and ginger juice which was so refreshing. Do note that it's not for those who don't like a kick in their drink as the ginger taste really came through but it was perfect for a hot and sunny day! Just when we left I also got the sausage roll and chocolate bun to takeaway and ate at home. When I had the sausage roll later that day it was still very fresh and the puff pastry was flaky and buttery. The chocolate bun was average for me. Nothing special about it and so I won't recommend it. I had already previously tried another branch of Jolene and it's easily become one of my top 5 bakeries in London and so this time I was very happy to see that the standards and quality are well-kept. Staff were all really approachable and smiley too. Would definitely come back regularly for pastries!

Went for brunch at Jolene and must say that everything was delicious. The fried polenta was a nice surprise on the menu, and also really enjoyed the peppers + aubergine dish. Had croissant infused soft-serve to finish it all off which was heavenly. Only complaint is that it is just too expensive, the plates aren’t big enough to account for the price.

Finally made it to the Big Jo! Overall, a really cozy space and friendly staff. A classic small plate dinner with a great selection of wines. I would recommend trying orange wines from the cellar. Food was tasty, we tried to have a few veggie options, there were not many, but we ordered most of them. Really enjoyed the quality of ingredients. The flavours were really nice and fresh. Was negatively surprised to see a rus**an salad on the menu….. I am sure there are more options out there to include.

overall: cozy local spot serving scrumptious small plates (& delicious pastries/ cakes). great place for families and small groups of friends. would highly recommend trying the pizzetta! (tho the menu is constantly changing) vermut 🍷: as much as i love this drink, i think it’s a bit too diluted. bread & butter 🍞: simple good sourdough tomato nduja pizzetta 🍕: really impressed by the dough: giving light airy borders w/ a crunchy base. there’s an equal balance of sweetness from tomatoes & spiciness of nduja. pink firs 🥔: would’ve like the potatoes to be slightly softer. courgette 🥒: love the smokiness from the grilled veggies. n the creamy refreshing yogurt. literally cleaned the plate with the bread. ray wing 🐠: surprisingly the wing was a rather meaty part of the fish. it had a slightly firm texture. the capers lightens the oiliness from the fish.

Heard amazing things about this bakery/restaurant for a long time and finally managed to try it: really super food, the daily menu is curated and everything is super top notch level. Really recommend the ox tongue and the pizzetta. And of course both cakes and coffee were amazing. Even the decor was outstanding.