broadway market

A walk through London Fields en route to Broadway Market

I'm not sure how I didn't know about Broadway Market until a few weeks ago, but I am very grateful to my friend, a Hackney local, for informing me of its existence. I went for my first visit on Saturday after brunch and it was everything I hoped it would be: lots of yummy food, pretty jewellery and clothes, lovely artwork, and vintage treasures. It was busy, but without the throngs of tourists that flock to markets like Portobello Road or Borough Market.

Amazing custard square (front and centre)

I was very much focused on the food on this visit (when am I not?), and my friend and I tasted every brownie sample we could get our hands on. Quite far down, past the main food stalls, we found a wee Irish man from Cork (or "Cark") selling the best custard square I have ever tasted. That might be a slight exaggeration. We have pretty amazing custard squares in New Zealand (Denheath Desserts anyone?), but it's been so long since I've had one I can't remember what they taste like. Let's just say it's the best custard square I've found in London. The custard was very thick (S thought it was more like a custard sponge than a custard square) and it was covered in lots of icing sugar and delicious sweetened almonds. My friend and I shared one piece and promptly went back for a second.

Salted caramel cupcake via Violet

Further down the market is Violet's cake stand. Try a salted caramel cupcake if it's the last thing you do. I was too full so I had a mini spiced pumpkin whoopie pie instead, but once I tried a bite of my friend's cupcake I realised my mistake. There is always room for salted caramel cupcakes.

I've heard the savoury food on offer at the market, such as Vietnamese pho and veggie burgers, is also pretty incredible. I guess I'll have to go back.