Seven years ago, as my study abroad program in Bath was coming to a close, I ventured into town with one of my classmates to eat lunch at Sally Lunn's, home of the world famous Sally Lunn Bun. I still vividly remember the lunch I had that day (half a bun topped with goat cheese and veggies), and Sally Lunn's is now my favorite eating establishment in Bath. With the history behind it, and the enduring appeal of this wonderful bread, Sally Lunn's is a restaurant not to be missed.

It all started in the late 17th century, when a French immigrant named Sally Lunn started baking very rich buns that tasted good with both sweet and savory toppings. At least, that's one theory. Many people believe that the origins of the bun are French, because it's similar to brioche. But Sally Lunn is not a particularly French name. Others believe her to be the daughter of a Bath pastry chef. Regardless whether she's French or British, she left an undeniable imprint on Bath's history and culture. Imagine doing that with bread!

Of course, there are many recipes that try to duplicate the original Sally Lunn Bun, but it's doubtful that any of them come close. The original recipe, found in a secret cupboard in Sally Lunn's kitchen, is passed down with the deeds of the house. Her buns became so famous around Bath that, during the height of Bath's Georgian splendor (18th century), they were served at public breakfasts and afternoon teas. And despite her house being around long before her, it is known as Sally Lunn's house. This is the legacy that she has left Bath.

Her house is the oldest house in Bath, dating to 1482. This is where the restaurant is located. In addition to the food, you can visit the cellar to see the Roman and medieval foundations of the house, and see the original kitchen used by Sally Lunn (visit the website for free admission to the museum; it's already free for restaurant patrons).

The restaurant is a lovely place to eat. There are three floors for dining, two of which are named after Bath luminaries Beau Nash and Jane Austen. The ground floor (where I sat) is a nice place to watch the people outside. Sally Lunn's is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and in addition to buns with sweet or savory toppings, they serve soups, trenchers (flat pieces of bread used as a plate for the food), desserts, coffees, teas, beers, and wines. You can even buy buns to take home.

It's definitely an original place that's not to be missed. Long after you finish eating there, you will think back on it, and crave another one of Sally Lunn's soft, rich, buttery buns. I'll be visiting Bath again soon, and I'm especially looking forward to eating there again.

Sally Lunn's
4 North Parade Passage
Bath BA1 1NX

Telephone: 01225 461 634

http://www.sallylunns.co.uk/