‘I make ze croissants, ze people make ze show,’ explains Frenchman Andres, founder of iconic Ibiza institution Croissant Show. However as he twists his distinctly Dali-esque moustache with a twinkle in his eye, it’s obvious he is the star of this long-running production, which has reached the 20-year milestone, has three franchises, distributes to the island’s major hotels and restaurants and serves a staggering 3500 visitors per day in peak season.
With the dramatic backdrop of Dalt Vila’s drawbridge and cathedral, plus the bustling Mercado Viejo (Old Market) opposite, the scene at Croissant Show is more movie-set than busy cafe. A multi-cultural cast basks in all-day sunshine, from clubbers, backpackers and the international jet set to superstar DJs and locals alike.
Sip café con leche, cocktails, fresh juice or locally produced Hierbas Ibicencas – open 22 hours a day (with first coffees served at around 5am), whether it’s post-clubbing refreshments, a breakfast meeting, pre-party cocktails or a nightcap, the choice is yours.
Inside, for your viewing (and eating!) pleasure, a mouth-watering glass cabinet presents freshly made buttery croissants, pain au chocolat, quiches and savoury pastries, plus desserts including fluffy whipped lemon meringue pies, raspberry tarts and rich chocolate brownies. Freshly baked baguettes become bocadillos and tostadas topped with tomato, cheese and Serrano ham and for the socially conscious, ecological bread, eggs, yoghurt, muesli and homemade marmalade are also available.
From the a la carte menu, we love the imperial breakfast, complete with champagne (strictly Canard-Duchene), fresh strawberries and foie gras. Got simpler tastes? Try boiled eggs with bread and butter, fresh salads, chilled Gazpacho or the daily French-themed specials.
Open all-year round, the best seats in the house can’t be reserved, however turnover is high so you never need wait. Thankfully, the show can always go on…
Published on April 29, 2009.