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Books for Cooks

World-famous cookbook shop with test kitchen lunches

Why it's in the guide

The world's most celebrated cookbook shop, open since 1983. Over 8,000 titles in a changing selection, plus a test kitchen at the back where recipes from the books are cooked and served for lunch. You can literally taste the books. An absolute pilgrimage for anyone who cares about food. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and the last three weeks of August.

Lunch in the tiny back café is recipes from a different cookbook each day. Walk-in only, served from noon, gone soon after.
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Quick answers about Books for Cooks

What is Books for Cooks?
Books for Cooks is a place in Notting Hill, London. World-famous cookbook shop with test kitchen lunches.
Where is Books for Cooks?
Books for Cooks is at 4 Blenheim Crescent, London W11 1NN, in the ladbroke-grove area of Notting Hill.
When is Books for Cooks open?
Typical hours: Tuesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Wednesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (and other days — see the full schedule on the place page).
Why is Books for Cooks a hidden gem?
Books for Cooks is a hidden gem because it's quietly excellent without the queues, hype, or PR push. Locals know about it; tourists usually don't.
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