a decent conversation with Bunhead Bakery.

Bunhead Bakery are about more than just buns. They’ve built an incredible community, bringing people together to embrace the joy of eating and learn about culture through food. Led by Sara (a.k.a Bunhead), founder and head baker, and Georgia, Head Barista and Sara’s right-hand woman - they’re a true powerhouse.

With rotating bun flavours weekly and sandwiches that are here to stay (during the week at least!), the Bunhead team has a lot on their hands. Sara and Georgia were lovely enough to take time out of their crazy busy days to speak with us about their famous buns, and their special community that “really makes the 14 hour days worth it.” 

 
Hey! I guess it’s in the name, but what’s Bunhead Bakery all about, and what inspired you to start? 

Bunhead is a (primarily) bun bakery inspired by the flavours of Palestine, incorporating Palestinian flavours and culture into the business.

We started in the 2020 lockdown - having always baked and cooked, what inspired us more than anything was just trying to find something to do!

And the name ‘Bunhead’ ? Because Sara’s hair is always in a bun!


You moved into your own first bricks & mortar store earlier this year. How have you found this transition from supplying cafes, to having your own site? 

We were previously only selling wholesale, through home deliveries and at markets. Having our own site has been super exciting - a lot more people, and a lot more customers. It’s definitely not all easy though - we’re dealing with things breaking all the time, there’s a lot more to do! 


We love that you use decent packaging! Why did you choose us?

We’re obsessed! 

I was in between jobs and my friend Millie from Paper Stories was using decent packaging. I just copied her great taste!

What does sustainability mean to you?

We have a responsibility to our planet so wherever we can make good choices, we will. Especially running a food business, it’s not always easy - there’s a lot of waste with food and packaging so we really try to save where we can. 

In terms of the business, it was important for us to use packaging that’s compostable/recyclable - there’s just no point in having single-use plastics. We use Wildfarmed flour who use organic regenerative farming processes and Natoora for produce. We choose good quality local produce, to have as little impact as possible.`

You’ve built a beautiful thing by bringing the South London community together over delicious buns. What’s been key for Bunhead Bakery in building this community and why do you think people are so drawn to it? 

One thing we do is honesty and transparency. On social media we’re super honest i.e. when we couldn't open the shop because of issues with our dough, we just put up a post explaining exactly this. People appreciate the transparency and it helps build that community. 

With the space itself, we want it to feel like people are coming into our home. The shaping table where we do the rolling and making of buns is in the middle, open area so everyone feels a part of it. 

In both a personal and professional sense, we move with integrity, and won’t make allowances or choices that come from a place of greed. Integrity is paramount.


Top 3 favourite buns you make? 

For a savoury bun, our Salty Bun with chilli and feta (it’s been here from day one). For a sweet bun, our one with coconut & orange flavours. Rolled in a coconut and orange zest frangipane and topped with a really nice cream & bits of coconut. Another customer favourite is our Baklava Bun - it’s in the name! 

What’s next for Bunhead? 

There’s so much we want to do, but at the moment we’re still finding our rhythm and settling into the space. We’re just two girls trying to figure it out, and really taking it day by day.


Anything else you’d like to share? 

[Sara] I’m Palestinian and I’m British. So this isn’t a traditional Palestinian bakery, but a combination of both. Bunhead Bakery is a celebration of this duality - that you can be both and be proud of both. The bun is an expression of being a person of the world.