This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at zero cost to you). Please see my full disclosure policy for details.
What is better than a visit with friends over a cup of tea and a sweet morsel?
This afternoon, I joined classmates Jing and Natasha for just that at Patisserie Valerie (Paddington Station). This was a first visit to the chain cafe for me but both girls spoke highly of the delicious food at other locations and the reasonable prices were enough for me to say yes.
If you are coming by way of the Underground, you will want to make the 5-10 minute journey into Paddington Train Station‘s main terminal and take the escalator (next to the Paddington Bear statue) up to the mezzanine level where there are three cafes/bars spread out in an open floor plan. The Patisserie Valerie cafe is immediately to your right when coming up the escalator (cannot miss it!) and despite it’s location in the middle of a train station there is a certain charm to the layout with ample natural lighting and big comfy red chairs dotted along the wall with ample space between tables and a great view from the windows on a sunny day like today.
 |
| Patisserie Valerie @ Paddington Station |
Unlike other Patisserie Valerie locations this one has two cases of treats on hand to tempt their customers and according to Natasha there is a lacking of the usual selection of salads and sandwiches. We did find two quiche options though (one vegetarian with spinach, that I had, and one with ham, that Natasha had) and both were quite delicious after being heated at the counter.
 |
| Spinach Quiche & Tea |
They offer a takeaway deal of four slices of dessert for £10 but since we were eating in we all chose a scrumptious looking tart (berry for Natasha and apple for me). Unfortunately my tart was better looking than it tasted with stale apple slices on top but Natasha said hers was delicious.
 |
| Belgium Apple Tart |
The reasonable priced food and central location definitely made this cafe a great meet-up spot for an hour or two of conversation. We did not feel rushed as would be the case in a more crowded venue, were able to enjoy the sunshine albeit from within the station itself, and could do some serious people watching from the mezzanine level looking down on several other restaurants and shops below. I would definitely recommend anyone who is looking for a convenient meet-up location to consider Patisserie Valerie and hopefully my tart was the exception. They also have a number of locations throughout London so do check for the most convenient!
Of course a trip to Paddington Train Station and Patisserie Valerie would not be complete without visiting Paddiington Bear who is literally just down the escalator from the cafe!
Do you have a favourite place to meet your friends for drinks? Do share!
And for those fashionistas amongst you, my fun dress is from Sweet Liberty purchased at TK Maxx.
And for those fashionistas amongst you, my fun dress is from Sweet Liberty purchased at TK Maxx.