This place is more than just a London institution;...

This place is more than just a London institution; it has a many useful source of high quality food. For my opinion, the food is loose leaf tea, for which there are unexpectedly few suppliers in London, definitely for infusions like my favorite, (Rose Pouchong (strong rose aromatic flavored black tea with dried rose buds mixed in with leaves). Just one aroma of the paraphernalia and you know you're buying quality, not too stout, simply peppermint leaves with very little if anything added. Don't like peppermint tea? Try one of their others, of which they appear to have close to 100, or their coffees which I've heard good things about too.
It's a fun spending experience, with good knowledge, beams and favors. With confidence I'll go back more often besides the tea and bread. Great!!