Bread-aholics listen up: you can now pair that passion for dough with a charitable purpose at Village 127 French Bakery.
Tucked behind the hustle and bustle of Nanjing Lu, Village 127 is a charity bakery with exceptional quality - because what could be better than buying bread for a good cause? Here’s a closer look at what makes it worth a visit.
Support a Charity
Working in association with Shanghai Young Bakers (SYB), the bakers and patissiers at Village 127 are graduates of the SYB's training program. Both organizations are backed by the Hong Kong-based charity foundation Chi Heng, and together they foster a system of education and employment for children from rural China.
Delicious pastries on display. Image by Mandy Tie/Urban Family
Assorted cakes. Image by Mandy Tie/Urban Family
In monetary terms, a third of your purchase from Village 127 is donated to Chi Heng Foundation. They, in turn, will sponsor underprivileged children by providing essential education and practical skills, to assist them in developing careers in first-tier Chinese cities.
Another third of the purchase goes to training prospective chefs at SYB. After an intensive one-year training program, SYB graduates are given the opportunity to apply for work at social enterprises such as Village 127 along with luxury hotels around the city.
Indulge in Delicious Flavors
Those who have tasted SYB’s products know they mean business. At Village 127, a dozen types of buns, pastries and cakes are made fresh daily, to satiate your craving for authentic European flavors throughout the day.
The prices are competitive, too. For breakfast, a set of croissant sandwich and coffee amounts to RMB28. A continental afternoon tea set is priced at RMB68 for one, RMB98 for two, and includes a sumptuous fare of mini sandwiches, cakes and macarons.
A classic croissant sandwich, which can be paired with coffee for breakfast at RMB26. Image by Mandy Tie/Urban Family
When it comes to bread, Village 127 prides itself on the humble-yet-scrumptious baguette sticks and the slightly fancier walnut fig bread, both at approximately RMB18 per loaf.
Enjoy the Neighborhood Vibe
Despite being a five-minute walk from the commercial clusters on Nanjing Lu, Village 127 is particularly commendable for its relaxed ambiance. Sturdy lightwood furniture and minimalist decor characterize the interior, while the patio outside also offers generous seating.
In a nutshell, Village 127 is a place to embrace your love for French baking while helping children in need. Whether you are planning a private work session, an overdue catch up with friends, or a weekend family gathering, this is a place worth penning down.
[Cover image by Mandy Tie/Urban Family]
Scan the QR code to follow Village 127 French Bakery on WeChat. See a listing here.
