W. T. Gibbons, Baker Etc.

Yesterday we finally had a warm summer day here in Britain. I took the opportunity to dust off an old classic: the marinated caprese. (You can also get some vine ripe tomatoes now at the grocery or farmers' market that aren't tasteless, mealy orange balls.) But when the caprese is gone and there's oil and vinegar in the bottom of the bowl, nothing mops it up like a good piece of crusty bread. I didn't have any on hand yesterday, but it reminded me of one of my favourite gems: W. T. Gibbons, Baker Etc. It's down Cowley Rd. (16 Hertford St.) and with obscure opening hours (M–F 8h15–13h00, 15h00–16h00; Sat. 8h15–14h00), but well worth the trip. They usually have several different kinds of bread on offer from Cotswold Crunch to your basic white. They also sell rolls, eggs, and raw pizza dough (which we've also tried--it's great; you just have to use it the day you buy it.)

I don't have a price list, but the other great thing about it--it's dirt cheap. We walked out one day with a large loaf of bread, six rolls, and some pizza dough for under £2. There's clearly a local following; the lady who runs the bakery seems to know every one that comes in the door. As you might expect with a place like this, they do run out of items--so get there early to have your pick.