Tucked away next to the Co-Op in Thurston, Chamomile Patisserie is one of those places you could easily miss if you didn’t know it was there. While it may be slightly off the beaten path, it’s clearly built a loyal following since opening in September 2025, judging by the steady stream of customers coming and going during our visit.
That loyal base makes even more sense when you learn that Chamomile began life as a market stall – regular Bury St Edmunds market visitors will know Mr Doughnut. Owner Daniel Szmidt now has the opportunity to branch out into a wider range of bakes.
Step inside and you’re immediately met with counters brimming with temptation. While there are a few savoury options (the brisket-filled buns looked incredible), it’s the sweeter side that takes centre stage. There’s no denying that everything looks visually appealing – and choosing felt like an impossible task.
But first, coffee – supplied by Alema in Bury St Edmunds. Robust, full of flavour and holding its own against the richness of the pastries, it was delicious. It’s also lovely that some of Chamomile’s bakes make their way into Alema’s coffee shop in town: a fantastic partnership.
My friend and I opted to try both a savoury and a sweet each. The standout, without question, was the ham and Gruyère pain Suisse. This beautifully laminated pastry had a crisp, golden exterior giving way to rich, buttery layers, all wrapped around a deliciously savoury and indulgent filling. If there’s one thing you NEED to try at Chamomile Patisserie, this is it.
To follow, I chose a small Black Forest tart. Visually, it was stunning, and the pastry itself was excellent. However, the filling seemed a little more style over substance for me personally, lacking the depth of flavour I’d been hoping for.
A similar story followed with a cookie I took home for my son. The freeze-dried fruit on top was a vibrant, delicious touch, adding both colour and a hint of sharpness, but the cookie itself was fairly average in flavour, especially compared to the high bar set by the savoury pastry.
One thing that can’t be praised enough is the warmth of the team behind the counter: friendly, welcoming and clearly passionate about what they do, which always elevates an experience. And with so many glowing recommendations for their doughnuts (which I’ve never actually tried at the Bury St Edmunds market!), it feels like I may have only scratched the surface of what Chamomile Patisserie does best…
With its strong local following, clear talent and extensive range of bakes (plus the promise of homemade gelato), I’ll absolutely be back. A pain Suisse and a doughnut for me next time, I think…