Barcelona is a city that wakes up to the scent of butter and puff pastry, and this past weekend that aroma was concentrated with unusual intensity on Montjuïc Hill. And no wonder, since Poble Espanyol has once again been the setting for one of those events that mark the calendar for those with a sweet tooth. Croiss&Fest has drawn the curtain on its second edition, establishing itself as the go-to event for lovers of this pastry which, although of French origin, is now a cherished part of the breakfast tradition for any self-respecting Barcelonian.
After three days of frenetic activity, featuring DJ sets, high-end pastry workshops, and an atmosphere reminiscent of the best neighborhood parties but with a refined touch, the organizers have confirmed what was already evident from the lines at the counters. Some 22,000 people passed through the venue, devouring nearly 35,000 croissants. The figure is staggering and proves that the craze for artisanal croissants is not a passing fad, but a passion that this year shared the spotlight with the architectural setting of Poble Espanyol, particularly relevant now that the city holds the title of World Capital of Architecture.
The big winners of the weekend
Although the caliber of the participants was exceptionally high, featuring names like Brunells (who already knows what it’s like to win national competitions) and Mervier Canal, this year’s winners were two very different yet equally fascinating entries. The expert jury, which included figures such as Edu González (famous for his “bravas” tours) and specialists from the Barcelona Guild Pastry School (EPGB), has ruled that the best croissant of this edition is Takashi Ochiai’s Berry Bliss. This bakery, which has been blending Japanese techniques with local tradition on Comte d’Urgell Street since 1983, won over the jury with a croissant filled with mascarpone cream, strawberry and mint compote, and topped with a crunchy streusel.
Meanwhile, the street food scene has taken a different turn, seeking nostalgia and visual surprises. The People’s Choice Award went to Terrassa, courtesy of El Secreto de Ciscu. Their creation, dubbed the Dracula Croissant, was the festival’s viral sensation. Inspired by the legendary ice cream of the 1980s, this croissant features a cola glaze, a vanilla filling, and a tart strawberry syrup that won over the thousands of attendees who cast their votes after indulging in the treat.
A product that conquers savory cuisine
Beyond the awards, the festival served to confirm that the croissant has definitively crossed over from breakfast.During the event, attendees could sample versions that incorporate it into main dishes, such as burgers or “bikinis” made with croissant dough—a trend we’ve already seen grow in the city’s eateries and which found its ultimate expression here. Accompanied by specialty coffee from local producers and Joncake’s cheesecakes, the culinary offerings made it clear that Barcelona’s artisan sector is going through a sweet moment—and never has that been more apt.
This victory of artisanal pastry-making over industrial production is not just a matter of taste, but also of supporting local businesses. Seeing family-run bakeries compete and win in front of a massive audience is the best news for a city that cherishes its culinary tradition while preparing for the year’s major cultural challenges. If you’re still craving more, you can always visit the Eixample to try Ochiai’s gem or take a trip to Vallès to discover what other secrets Ciscu has in store.
