Nonna Bakery, the artisanal Italian bakery brand that has captured hearts globally with its soulful approach to baking, has opened its first UK location in Holborn. Founded in Shanghai’s Former French Concession in 2022, Nonna has grown to multiple bakeries across China, and now begins its international expansion starting in London.
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 tradition.
Matteo first met his future business partner, Dr. Jonathan Hazon, while on holiday in Salina, Sicily. Captivated by the story behind Nonna and its success in Shanghai, Jonathan later visited the brand’s stores in China. Inspired by their shared passion for Sicilian culture and cuisine, the duo joined forces to bring Nonna’s signature blend of authenticity, flavour, and warm hospitality to the UK – right in the heart of Central London.
The Holborn bakery will showcase Nonna’s signature Italian creations:
Cornetti – buttery, golden pastries filled with pistachio cream, chocolate, and seasonal fruit custards
Cannoli – crisp pastry shells piped with velvety ricotta and garnished with candied citrus and pistachio
Brioche col tuppo with gelato – a Sicilian classic, pairing warm brioche buns with scoops of rich, house-made gelato
Cassata Siciliana – a jewel-toned sponge layered with ricotta, candied fruit, and marzipan
Focaccia & regional breads – rustic loaves, ciabatta, and pane di casa, baked fresh daily
To accompany the bakes, guests can enjoy Italian-style espresso and cappuccino, their signature pistachio latte and premium teas. With warm interiors designed to echo the feel of a traditional Italian home kitchen, the bakery will welcome guests for both takeaway and dine-in, offering a space to savour pastries, share breads, or linger over coffee with friends.
“Nonna is a love letter to the kitchen I grew up in,” says Matteo Cicero, Founder of Nonna Bakery. “Every pastry and loaf is inspired by the recipes my grandmother passed down, and it means so much to bring that heritage to London, a city that celebrates food and culture from around the world.”
Dr Jonathan Hazon, UK Partner, adds: “As someone who has long admired the generosity and warmth of Sicilian food culture, I’m proud to help bring Nonna to London. We want Holborn to feel like a home away from home – a place where people can slow down, connect, and enjoy simple, beautiful food.”
Nonna Bakery Holborn is now open at 75 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LS.
