Hummingbird Bakery

I regularly read A Cup of Jo by New York writer Joanna Goddard although the focus is more puppies and clothes than food. However, I thought it was particularly prescient this week as I was feeling susceptible to the winter blues and Joanna posted about the best things to do when you are feeling a little down in the dumps. It got me thinking about the things that cheer me up:

1. A cup of tea.
2. A jog in the park.
3. A new book.
4. Painting my toenails red.
5. A cup cake.

There is something about these tiny little cakes that instantly enlivens you. I think it must be the childhood birthday party memories that they evoke combined with the sugar hit. I've tried a few places but my favourite is Hummingbird bakery. Their cupcakes are light and fluffy and topped with thick, rich icing in the style of the famous Magnolia bakery in New York. Hummingbird's Red Velvet cupcakes are to die for, but when I went down there on Sunday to treat myself to a pick me up I was unable to resist the daily special of carrot cake cupcake (pictured). There is room to eat in at their tiny shop front but they are also happy for you to takeaway and this is often the better option given how packed the shop is with people queuing for cupcakes. My cup cake was a little dry but delivered just the mood booster that I was after. So much for the winter blues when you have cupcakes.

Details: 133 Portobello Road, Notting Hill W11 2DY (Ph 020 7229 6446)

Damage: Varies but about £2 for a cupcake