Every Saturday, in the heart of Croydon, Surrey Street Market is filled with joy as customers eagerly purchase handmade bread and pastries from Julian’s Artisan Bread & Patisserie.
Surrey Street Market is one of the oldest markets in Britain trading since 1276. It attracts many traders to sell a range of products including fresh fruit, vegetables and bread. These stalls are enjoyed by numerous customers who take advantage of not only the delicious products on offer but also the diverse community.
Julian’s Artisan Bread & Patisserie began two and a half years ago when Julian Page was an illustrator. He decided he wanted to try something new and therefore, he ‘taught himself and did lots of courses’ to master the art of bread baking.
At Surrey Street Market, Julian’s Artisan Bread & Patisserie sell a range of artisan bread including sourdough. Sourdough is a type of bread with a mildly sour taste made by a long fermentation of the dough. All bread is homemade and baked in their summer house in their back garden which they converted into a bakery. Julian’s wife described that throughout the week, the production of bread is a fairly long process. First, they begin with the starter dough which they ‘feed throughout the week making up your first dough’ with the ferment. Afterwards, the dough is left to rise for a few days and then baked in the oven.
Every Saturday, Julian’s Artisan Bread & Patisserie sell around 100 loaves to customers who always come back for more. In addition, Julian’s Artisan bread is also enjoyed by many others as he ‘supplies to local coffee shops’ as well.
