If there’s one thing Londoners are obsessed with in the winter months, it’s a festive treat to go with a cup of something hot after a chilly wander around the Christmas lights. That’s why you’ll want to swing by Covent Garden and get yourself a piece of the city’s latest edible masterpiece.
The maritozzo is an Italian dish, essentially a sweet, soft, brioche-style bun often enriched with olive oil, honey, and orange zest, then sliced and generously stuffed with whipped cream. It’s a Roman classic that’s been around since the Middle Ages and was once a traditional gift from a man to his fiancée (‘Husband’ means ‘husband’ in Italian). Dolce VyTA has brought this traditional dish to the capital, and now they’ve given it a fantastic Christmas spin that’s gone viral across the city.
A festive treat in Covent Garden
The brilliant bakers at Dolce VyTA take a fluffy red brioche bun and slice it before stuffing it full with a light, airy Chantilly cream that has a subtle citrusy flavour. The entire thing is then dressed up to look exactly like Rudolphcomplete with a bright red raspberry for the nose and little chocolate antlers on top.
If you fancy being extra indulgent, you can even get your maritozzo dipped into a cup of molten hot chocolate. But if that’s not for you, you can still grab the classic, non-Christmasy version and choose your own toppings. The shop also offers other traditional Italian flavours like pistachio or dark chocolate cream.
While you’re here, you can also check out the magnificent decorations that take over the entire Covent Garden Piazza during the holiday season. The area is decked out with a massive 55ft Christmas Tree and a huge display of 40 gigantic bells and 12 giant baubles across the Market Building. It’s a truly iconic London experience and the perfect backdrop for a winter photo or a cheeky little selfie with your festive bun.
Practical information
📍 Dolce VyTA is located at 46 The Market Building, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 8RD.
💸 The Reindeer Maritozzo is priced at £7.
⏰ The shop’s opening hours are generally 12:00 PM to 7:00 PMfrom Monday to Sunday.
