There’s something magical about starting the day in New York City, especially when it begins with an indulgent breakfast at renowned Dominique Ansel’s Workshop in Nomad. This morning, I had the pleasure of visiting this location with my good friend Mario, a NYC resident who knows all the best spots. After a night of enjoying copious amounts of wine, the idea of delicious French pastries and a quiet morning seemed like the perfect cure.
A Delightful Breakfast in the Heart of Nomad
Located in the trendy Nomad neighbourhood, Dominique Ansel’s Workshop exudes charm and sophistication. The moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the sight of bakers working diligently in the open kitchen, creating fresh pastries that looked like edible works of art. The smell of buttery croissants and sweet confections filled the air, instantly whetting my appetite.
Having indulged the night before, I decided to start my day with something lighter: the olive oil croissant. This unique pastry was nothing short of perfection—flaky on the outside with a subtle richness from the olive oil that made it feel indulgent without being overly heavy. My friend Mario, opted for something decadent, a Honeycrisp Apple & Vanilla Riz au Lait Strudel. It is made of caramelized fresh Honeycrisp apple compote, vanilla riz au lait (rice pudding), and golden sultanas in a flaky laminated brioche crust the and Mario savoured every bite.
To accompany our pastries, I ordered a calming chamomile tea and Mario had a Café Mocha. After collecting our selections, we decided to take advantage of the beautiful morning by walking over to nearby Madison Square Park Conservancy. As we strolled to the park, the bustling energy of the city started to wake up around us. Families, locals heading to work, and tourists enjoying the pedestrian area created the perfect New York backdrop for a leisurely breakfast.
Enjoying Pastries in Madison Square Park
Sitting on a park bench, we unwrapped our pastries and took in the calm atmosphere of the park. It was the perfect way to catch up with Mario while soaking in the sights of Manhattan starting its day in such a quintessentially New York setting.
The Man Behind the Magic: Dominique Ansel
For anyone unfamiliar with Dominique Ansel, he’s not just any pastry chef—he’s a revolutionary in the world of baking. Originally from France, Ansel moved to New York City and quickly became known for his innovative approach to classic pastries. His creations are more than just food; they’re experiences that inspire awe and delight.
Of all his creations, none is more famous than the Cronut®. This croissant-doughnut hybrid took the world by storm when it was first introduced at Ansel’s Soho location in May 2013. Almost instantly, it became a viral sensation, with fans lining up for hours just to get a taste. The Cronut® has since become a globally recognized pastry, with its influence stretching from Berlin to Singapore. Its combination of a flaky croissant-like texture and the sugary goodness of a doughnut made it a dessert sensation like no other.
However, what truly sets the Cronut® apart is Ansel’s dedication to constant creativity and innovation. Every month, a new flavor of the Cronut® is introduced, ensuring that fans always have something fresh to look forward to. What started as a local NYC phenomenon has now become an international sensation, with the Cronut® trademarked worldwide and synonymous with Ansel’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the culinary world.
A Morning to Remember
Our morning at Dominique Ansel’s Workshop in Nomad was more than just breakfast—it was a chance to savour the innovation and craftsmanship that has made Ansel a world-renowned name in the pastry world.
For those looking to visit, I highly recommend starting your day at Dominique Ansel’s Workshop in Nomad. Whether you’re a fan of classic French pastries or eager to try something new and innovative, this bakery offers something for everyone. And if you’re in Soho, don’t forget to stop by the original location—the birthplace of the legendary Cronut®.
Location: Dominique Ansel’s Workshop in Nomad – 17 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!