Filipino food lovers will soon get a taste of one of London’s most celebrated artisan bakeries as Bread Ahead prepares to open its first Philippine location at Glorietta 4 in Ayala Center, Makati City, this November.
The British bakery, which originated at London’s iconic Borough Market in 2013, is bringing its signature sourdough breads, freshly made pizzas and popular filled doughnuts to the Philippine market through a partnership with Good Eats by SSI.
Known for its handcrafted baked goods and long-fermentation techniques, Bread Ahead has built an international following among food enthusiasts, tourists and pastry lovers. Its arrival gives Filipino customers an opportunity to experience products that have made the London bakery a popular destination.
Among its most recognizable creations is the viral Crème Brûlée Doughnut, which has attracted customers willing to line up for its custard filling and caramelized sugar topping.
150-Seat Restaurant to Serve Breakfast, Brunch and Dinner
Bread Ahead’s first Manila location is designed to be more than a traditional bakery.
The flagship establishment will feature a full artisan bakery alongside a 150-seat restaurant serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and light dinner. Customers can also expect table service throughout the day.
Its selection will include slow-fermented sourdough breads and pizzas, artisan loaves, focaccia, cakes, pastries and other freshly prepared treats.
The bakery will follow the same techniques and standards used in its London operations, with local bakers trained in Bread Ahead’s methods.
The concept aims to bring the atmosphere of its original Borough Market location to Manila, combining artisan baking with a full dining experience.
Famous Filled Doughnuts Take Center Stage
Bread Ahead’s filled doughnuts are expected to be among the biggest attractions when the Philippine branch opens.
Aside from its well-known Crème Brûlée Doughnut, the bakery is bringing several popular flavors, including Sea Salted Caramel with Honeycomb, Pistachio, Raspberry and Lemon Curd.
However, Filipino customers will also get something created exclusively for the local market: the Ube Doughnut.
The special creation combines Bread Ahead’s signature baking craftsmanship with ube, one of the Philippines’ most recognizable flavors. Its introduction reflects the brand’s effort to connect its British bakery identity with local tastes.
The combination of internationally recognized doughnut flavors and a distinctly Filipino creation could make the new branch particularly appealing to customers looking for something familiar yet different.
From Borough Market to Manila
Bread Ahead was founded by Matthew Jones in 2013 at Borough Market, one of London’s best-known food destinations.
Over the years, the bakery has developed a loyal following for its artisan breads, pastries and generously filled doughnuts. Its reputation has also made it a popular stop for international visitors, including Filipinos traveling to London.
Jones said bringing the brand to Manila is a special milestone, noting that the bakery has welcomed customers from the Philippines throughout its years of operation in London.
The Philippine expansion is being undertaken with Good Eats by SSI, giving the British bakery a local partner as it enters the country’s competitive food and beverage market.
Bread Ahead Baking School Planned for the Philippines
Beyond opening its first bakery, Bread Ahead is also looking to introduce its baking education concept to the Philippines.
The company plans to establish a dedicated Bread Ahead Baking School in 2027, offering expert-led classes and workshops for aspiring bakers, home cooks and food enthusiasts.
The planned school would give Filipinos an opportunity to learn artisan baking techniques directly from trained instructors, extending the brand’s presence beyond its retail and restaurant operations.
The move could also help build interest in traditional bread-making and professional baking skills among local enthusiasts.
A New International Bakery Destination for Manila
Bread Ahead’s arrival adds another international food brand to Makati’s growing dining scene, with Glorietta 4 set to become its first Philippine home.
Its combination of artisan sourdough, specialty pizzas, signature filled doughnuts and a full-service restaurant gives the brand a broader offering than a conventional pastry shop.
With its November opening approaching, Filipino customers will soon be able to experience the bakery’s London-inspired creations without traveling overseas.
For those who have long wanted to try its famous Crème Brûlée Doughnut, the wait is nearly over.
