Nonna Bakery Brings the Sicilian Kitchen to Holborn

Nonna Bakery, the artisanal Italian bakery brand that has captured hearts across Asia with its soulful approach to baking, has opened its first UK location in Holborn, London. Founded in Shanghai’s Former French Concession in 2022, Nonna has since expanded to multiple bakeries across China and now begins its international journey in the UK capital.

Inspired by founder Matteo Cicero’s Sicilian roots and the traditions of his grandmother’s kitchen, Nonna is built on the belief that food is more than fuel, it’s comfort, connection, and heritage.

Matteo first met future business partner Dr Jonathan Hazon while holidaying in Salina, Sicily. Captivated by the story and success of Nonna in Shanghai, Jonathan later visited the brand’s bakeries in China. United by a shared passion for Sicilian food culture and craftsmanship, the pair have brought Nonna’s signature blend of authenticity, flavour, and hospitality to the heart of London.

The Holborn bakery showcased Nonna’s signature Italian creations, including:

• Cornetti: a buttery pastry filled with pistachio cream, chocolate, and seasonal fruit custards

• Cannoli: a crisp pastry shell filled with ricotta and topped with candied citrus and pistachio

• Brioche col tuppo with gelato: a Sicilian classic pairing warm brioche buns with scoops of house-made gelato

• Cassata Siciliana: layers of sponge, ricotta, candied fruit, and marzipan

• Focaccia and regional breads: rustic loaves, ciabatta, and pane di casa baked fresh daily

Alongside these bakes, guests enjoyed Italian-style espresso, cappuccino, the bakery’s signature pistachio latte, and a curated selection of premium teas. With interiors designed to echo a traditional Italian home kitchen, the space offered a warm, communal atmosphere, a place to savour pastries, share breads, and linger over coffee.

“Nonna is a love letter to the kitchen I grew up in, it means so much to bring that heritage to London” said Matteo Cicero, Founder of Nonna Bakery.

 “We wanted Holborn to feel like a home away from home, a place to slow down and enjoy simple, beautiful food.”

Follow @nonnabakeryuk for more updates.