French bakery Copains has already been a big hit since opening their first UK bakery in Covent Garden. Now they've just arrived on Islington's Upper Street (opening beside Toast).
The bakery, which originated in Paris, is known for being fully gluten-free but also for its beautiful-looking pastries. They make the most of using non-wheat alternative flours to create everything from focaccia and baguettes to croissants and doughnuts.
We had a sneak preview of the new Islington opening, and it looks just as beautiful as the one in Covent Garden (albeit a little bigger). As with the previous opening, everything is laid out so carefully it almost looks like a clothing/lifestyle shop as much as a bakery. Essentially, a lot of people will be taking photos and video here.
Their entire offering is available, so you'll be able to order all kinds of gluten-free bread, as well as pain au chocolats, financiers, eclairs, flans and tarts. They also have a range of sandwiches, filled bakes, croque monsieurs and more. If you're gluten-free either by necessity or choice, there's a huge range that you could previously have only dreamed of on offer.
They also have coffee, matcha, fresh-pressed juices, and there's a small seating area at the back.
Copains are only getting started, too. More openings are planned in 2026, with the next bakery coming to Marylebone in a matter of months.
More about Copains
Where is it? 133 Upper St, London N1 1QP
When does it open? 19 February 2026, from 3pm
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @copains.paris.
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