We spoke with Maria Mayerhofer, a Danish expat who lives in West London with her American expat husband and two young children. Maria is a brilliant baker who runs Bake with Maria, teaching a range of baking classes (from sourdough bread to patisserie to afternoon tea baking) to adults, kids and groups. Let’s meet Maria and find out what she loves about living in West Hampstead…
Please tell us a little about yourself…
I’m Maria, a trained pastry chef and baker and have for the past 8 years taught baking classes in London. I have two kids: Kasper 6 years old and Astrid 3 years old. I bake A LOT, not only is it my profession but I’m always in the kitchen baking for either my family or cookies and cakes for bringing to friends houses.
I started teaching baking classes out of my own kitchen in Belsize Park in 2010. I currently teach a range of baking classes in West Hampstead and Hampstead. I also teach kids seasonal children’s classes, last November I led a Christmas cookie decorating classes in Fortnum & Mason. I’m expanding my kitchen in September and plan to run children’s baking classes during holidays and half terms.
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Which area do you live in, and what do you love about it?
We really like living in West Hampstead. On the high street you have a wide range of shops, cafes and restaurants and we are a short walk or bike ride away from beautiful green spaces such as Golders Hill and Hampstead Heath.
Where do you like to hang out with your kids?
My son’s school is on Golders Hill park, so I often go to the playground in the park with my daughter after drop off.
What is your favourite local family-friendly place to eat?
The Black Lion on West End lane is great for Sunday roast and they are very kid friendly.
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What are your favourite local independent businesses?
Season Cookshop on West End Lane, The Wet Fish Cafe, and Have an Avo on Fortune Green. I like these places because they are individually owned and not part of a big chain. All offer great service.
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We have to ask a baker… Do you have a favourite bakery? And a favourite place to go with the kids for coffee and baked treat?
I like Ole & Steen! They are from Denmark and their breads are just as good as the ones you get back home. Especially the rye sourdough breads.
Fabrique bakery make the most delicious cinnamon twisters and my kids love them, so do I especially with a cup of coffee.
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What local activities do you and your family take part in?
We love going to the Jester Festival in Fortune Green every summer. When the kids were younger we regularly attended Gymboree at the O2 centre. Another favourite is Playball with the lovely Chad in Emmanuel Church.
Where’s your favourite place to escape in your area for a little solo time?
Crystalise – it’s a hair salon and a beauty shop. Great for haircuts and massages.
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Where’s the best place for a night out with friends / date night?
If we’re going out for drinks we head to Heads & Tails or Tannin & Oak; both places are a lot of fun!
What’s the best hidden gem in your area?
Walks on the Hampstead Cemetery. There is a big tree there called tickler which the kids love climbing in. It’s a very overgrown cemetery which makes it great for exploring and adventures for the kids.
To learn more about Maria’s baking classes visit her Website and follow her on Instagram
