Nudake Sinsa – A Croissant Wonderland in Seoul’s Gangnam

There’s a new player in South Korea, and it’s not just another bakery; it’s a croissant-themed wonderland. Nestled in the heart of Seoul’s bustling Gangnam district, Nudake Sinsa is making waves with its artistic ambiance, innovative pastries, and a queue that seems to stretch endlessly.

Nudake Sinsa, the brainchild of Gentle Monster, a renowned eyewear brand, is more than just a bakery; it’s an experience. From the moment you step into the cafe, the croissant theme is impossible to ignore. Giant croissant sculptures, croissant-shaped door handles, and even a croissant-taped wall outside set the tone for what awaits inside.

Upon stepping inside, you’re greeted by a delightful aroma of freshly baked pastries. The interior is a blend of minimalist chic and playful creativity. Croissant-themed decor adorns every corner, and a massive croissant statue stands proudly, inviting patrons to explore the menu inspired by this flaky delicacy.

You got to try Nudake Sinsa’s signature Oniwassants, the onigiri-shaped croissants come in various flavours. Whether it’s in the spicy Kimchi Oniwassant or the refreshing Basil Lemon variant, the signature crispy croissant gives way to buttery, flaky layers, making these pastries a must-try for any croissant enthusiast.

We arrived just 30 minutes before closing time. Although most items were sold out, we managed to indulge in the spectacular Peak Cake. This ingenious creation, crafted from croissants infused with squid ink for a striking black hue, boasts a luscious matcha cream sauce at its center. Tear off a piece of croissant and dip it into the creamy concoction for a delightful combination of salty and sweet notes.

We also treated ourselves to the Croitteok, a delectable creation inspired by hotteok, a beloved Korean dessert pancake. This innovative croissant boasted a delightful blend of nuts, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, delivering a balance of textures and flavours that paid homage to traditional Korean sweets.

While croissants steal the spotlight, the wide range of beverages here are also worth a mention. Indulge in a Croi Choco Latte, where a croissant adorns a decadent layer of chocolate cream, or try the Nu Latte made with signature Latte and silk caramel cream. For a refreshing choice, the Fruitea Ade strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour notes, making it an ideal companion in your croissant adventure.

Is Nudake Sinsa worth the hype? Absolutely. While the queue might test your patience, the experience inside is interesting. Whether you’re a croissant aficionado or simply a fan of aesthetically-pleasing cafes, Nudake Sinsa offers an unparalleled experience. So, gather your friends, bring your camera, and embark on a croissant-filled adventure in the heart of Seoul. Just remember to arrive early and be prepared to wait!

Maureen

Born into a family of enthusiastic foodies, Maureen has always loved all things culinary, especially the local cuisine here in Singapore. With a life-long fascination with the rapidly evolving food scene in Singapore, she started this website in 2007 to explore and celebrate all types of local Singapore dishes and to share her love of travel and food with the world. With 4 years of experience as a journalist and producer, she has a wealth of experience in food writing, photography and styling.