Old men swap stories over pastizzi as young professionals stop by for ħobż biż-żejt – a daily scene at London’s first Maltese pasticceria, which opened in late September.
Parparellu in Hammersmith has attracted Maltese expatriates from across London since opening its doors on Fulham Palace Road, according to owner Joseph Pace.
“We get all the different generations in here,” said the amiable 45-year-old, who especially enjoys hearing the stories of the Maltese who moved to London in the 1950s and 1960s.
“Word has spread and at weekends it gets full. Tables and chairs are quickly pushed together as people recognise each other,” Mr Pace added.
Even well-known personalities such as snooker player Tony Drago and Winter Moods frontman Ivan Grech have found their way to Parparellu. Last week no less than President George Abela stopped by with High Commissioner Joseph Zammit Tabona.
There has also been lots of curiosity from Maltese tourists, but non-Maltese too have begun to appreciate his sweet and savoury treats, as well as his Italian coffee.
“Gradually more workers from offices and the nearby hospital are stopping by to try our food. And the Italians come because they love the coffee,” Mr Pace said.
Parparellu’s prices may be more expensive than prices in Malta, but they are not prohibitive by London standards. Pastizzi cost 95p each, qassata costs £2 and a hearty slice of timpana goes for £4.50.
These are just some of the many Maltese and Sicilian sweet and savoury delights prepared in-house by chef Alex Vella and his assistants.
Mr Pace has lived in London for 23 years working various jobs in the hospitality industry.
Raised in Ħamrun, Mr Pace took the name of his cafe from the nickname of his late father, who hailed from Qormi.
Mr Pace used to pack his suitcase full of Maltese food when returning to London from trips home, but it was his desire to taste the food freshly prepared and to share it with others that inspired him to open Parparellu.
“You have always been able to find food from all over the world in London. Now you can find our delicious Maltese food too,” he said.