El Marsem
Bakery · Bermondsey ·

El Marsem

Bakery · Bermondsey ·

Algerian bakery offering pastries, bread, sandwiches

El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null
El Marsem by null

Information

223 Old Kent Rd, London SE1 5LU, United Kingdom Get directions

£1–10

Information

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223 Old Kent Rd, London SE1 5LU, United Kingdom Get directions

£1–10

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Last updated

Nov 19, 2025

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@eater
390,870 Postcards · 10,988 Cities

The Best Restaurants in London Parks for Summer 2022 | Eater London

"Algerian pastry from El Marsem or explosive salteñas from Bolivian near neighbour Jenechuru are two of the best things to take into Burgess Park apart from oneself. And there’s plenty more to eat along the Old Kent Road. At the opposite of the park, find Ethiopian excellence to take away from Zeret Kitchen." - Adam Coghlan

https://london.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-london-parks-hyde-park-regents-park-clapham-common
El Marsem
@eater
390,870 Postcards · 10,988 Cities

Coronavirus Lockdown: London Restaurants Closing, in Pictures | Eater London

"A sandwich bar that opened in spring last year on Old Kent Road and forms part of the local takeaway and street-food scene during lockdown." - Adam Coghlan

https://london.eater.com/22217106/coronavirus-lockdown-england-latest-restaurants-closed-takeaway-in-pictures
El Marsem
@eater
390,870 Postcards · 10,988 Cities

London Restaurants Reopen After National Coronavirus Lockdown | Eater London

"An Algerian cafe-restaurant that launched on Old Kent Road during the first lockdown and stayed open for takeaway throughout the pandemic, now permitting guests back inside after months of only off-premise service." - Adam Coghlan

https://london.eater.com/22149871/london-restaurants-reopening-photos-coronavirus-rules
El Marsem
@eater
390,870 Postcards · 10,988 Cities

Old Kent Road Doesn’t Need a London Restaurant Industry Bailout | Eater London

"A North African bakery that pivoted from an intended coffee-and-patisserie format into a traditional Algerian bakehouse during the pandemic, producing glossy baguettes aromatic with nigella and large boureks—oily semolina parcels stuffed with minced meat, mashed potato, salty cheese, olives and harissa. The owner deliberately shifted to bread to meet local needs (especially during Ramadan), and the place now operates as a dependable takeaway bakery rather than a sit-down coffee shop." - Jonathan Nunn

https://london.eater.com/2020/6/15/21291325/old-kent-road-restaurant-community-reopen-coronavirus-bailout
El Marsem

Fatiha Harkat

Google
was a bit disappointed with my visit to this restaurant, especially compared to the photos and comments on their website. Staff & Service: The staff’s welcome felt a bit cold and uninviting. However, the service itself was quick and efficient, which was appreciated. Atmosphere & Cleanliness: The seating area was not well maintained — the tables were dirty and the floor was messy. It gave off a neglected feel that made it hard to enjoy the meal. Customers & Environment: The environment felt uncomfortable. The other customers gave off a strange vibe, and as a woman, I didn’t feel welcome — it seemed like a place primarily for men. This made the experience even more unpleasant. Food: Unfortunately, the food was very disappointing. I’d rate it a 2 out of 10. It didn’t live up to expectations in taste or presentation. Overall: Not a place I would recommend based on my experience. The website gave a much better impression than what I actually encountered.

Jane Spadigam

Google
Incredible eatery ! Funny and friendly staff, delicious and well priced food, and in a fab location ! I grabbed some food for lunch and had to immediately write this review because of how welcoming the staff were ! The cafe is also ridiculously crowded which definitely proves that it is worth trying. Can recommend the Barek - which is stuffed bread. And the freshly made sandwich - with egg and fries ! LOVED IT ! WILL BE BACK FOR MORE

Soumaia Soumy

Google
Algerian bakery with wide variety of Algerian street food, definitely recommend paying a visit.

Maria Kepa

Google
I think calling this place a sandwich bar is a serious understatement. This is a bakery proper with a variety of products ranging from baklava, pastries, tarts, quiches to various forms of Arabic bread. I come here each weekend now for the most amazing flaky flarbread. No idea what it is called, but who cares when it disappears of my family's plates as warp speed. I have not tried any of the more substantial dishes (yet) but the baked goods are a super treat.

Marat Batkaev

Google
Very satisfied with the food and it's affordable. The staff is very friendly and there's a great variety of different things you can have, definitely coming back soon!

Junaid Choudhry

Google
Brilliant cafe selling authentic Algerian food. Would recommend to anyone nearby. They have one pastry I particularly love. I’m not sure of the name but it has prawns inside and is to die for. Staff are very friendly. Most importantly, the price is not something you’ll find elsewhere in the Zone 1 area. I got a breakfast for 2 for £7.50 including hot drinks!

Nikko

Google
Oh my god!!! Amazing pastries from Algeria. Made fresh every day. There's a huge selection of them. Unfortunately I don't know the name of each of them but I'll be back to try more of them and learn about the food. Do not miss the pistachio ones that look like an Italian canoli

Priyanka Dass Saharia

Google
One is so lucky to live at the intersection of Old Kent Road and Bermondsey Street to see both worlds at their door - Old Kent Road - hundred years immigrant communities and the true restaurant stories that upper/middle class mostly White (or those who share their signifiers) PR industry don’t share. El Marsem is one of those gems. Not just for the historical and cultural significance but the breads, coffee, meats! Aah! The smell of eggs and breads sizzling in the hot pans, dozens playing cards or conversations in North African, Arabic and various related dialects - Farouk Izouaouene himself is cooking and greeting you, a good £8-9 for a nice sandwich and cold drink!