Let's all have some figgy pudding...

Figgy pudding

and get some in here.  The here being the wonderful Algerian Coffee Stores in Old Compton Street, conveniently located a block or two down from the amazing Gerry's Wine and Spirits.  The panficato was a pre-birthday present from the lovely Dalston [see what I mean about my birthday having a season - shorter than the Grouse season unfortunately, but commencing at pretty much the same time].

You can see all the good things that have gone into it: dried figs, almonds, chocolate, honey, cinnamon and so on.  As with its cousin, the panforte, it was dense but moist and chewy.  Far, far from those panfortes which can be dry, this was a fine example of the Algerian Coffee Stores' sourcing, which is really exemplary.  And like John Lewis, they are never knowingly undersold.  Their pricing is keen and commensurate with the price at the original.  I know this because they stock, for example, products from the utterly delicious Rococo, and their prices are exactly the same as in Rococo stores and online.

A distinct slice of coffee heaven, if you are in London and in the area, I would urge you to go in.  They also do marvellous tea, and you can buy a shot or two of espresso.  To be honest, whatever you do, it's worth going in for a sniff (if they could bottle the smell, it could be the launch of a whole new sideline in room fragrance).  However, I do think it highly likely that you will be unable to walk out empty-handed, and if you do succumb rest assured that your money will have been very well spent.  There is a reason Algerian Coffee Stores have been a going concern since 1887 and it shines through.

Back to the panficato, we polished it off, with some delicious tea (herbal, with hints of orange and giner) which suited it perfectly, rich, warming, fruity.  What a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.