miss b loves........Great Cake Places London 2012

As someone who is always on the look-out for amazing tea shops, pâtisseries and cafés, I knew that that 'Great Cake Places London 2012' was a book I had to have on my shelf! Complete with mouth-watering pictures of the most wonderful cakes, this very pretty book introduces a huge selection of London's best and exceptional cake shops and cafés. 

miss b loves ......Shakespeare and Co Café, Dubai Marina

I love sleek, minimalist cafés ( Chocolat Chic and Hey Sugar, formerly Sugar Daddy's are two of my favourites) but when Shakespeare and Co opened a new branch in Dubai Marina Mall with panoramic views of the Marina I couldn't wait to pay them a visit. The Victorian-inspired décor and vibrant colours create an Alice in Wonderland feel with quirky chandeliers and ornaments.

A cute cupid chandelier

miss b loves.......Paul bakery and pâtisserie

Tartelette citron

I first discovered Paul in Lille, Northern France which is where it all began way back in 1889 (well, the very first bakery was actually in Croix, near Lille). I have now visited quite a few on my travels (the branch at The Walk, JBR Dubai is a favourite) Now there are about 300 branches worldwide and several in London including Covent Garden, King's Road and of course there just had to be one in Baker Street!! Although Paul is a large chain, the bread is baked on the premises of each shop and it really feels like an independent neighbourhood bakery.

miss b loves...... Chocolat Chic

I just love stylish coffee shops/pâtisseries and here's another one in Dubai again!
It's at the far end of Dubai Marina on The Boardwalk not far fron the Sheraton Hotel on the ground floor of Dorra Bay appartments. There's an overall French theme with a huge Eiffel Tower picture across one wall and glossy, bright purple and white décor.