The Ichigo Sando, Japan’s celebrated sweet sandwich, has made its way to Mallorca, now available at Ciccii, a specialist Japanese bakery in central Palma. Located on Baró de Santa Maria del Sepulcre, just steps away from Jaime III, the bakery opened several months ago, catching attention for its faithful approach to Japanese dessert culture and its prominent presence on digital platforms.

Previously only seen online, the Ichigo Sando combines crustless milk bread, cream, and fresh fruit. Cicci, the Japanese pastry chef behind the bakery, has garnered a following for bringing this viral treat directly to the Balearic market. “The Ichigo Sando is attracting local customers keen to try authentic Japanese treats without travelling abroad.”

Wider Range of Traditional Sweets

Ciccii’s menu also presents Taiyakia fish-shaped cake traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste. Highly recognisable and unique in both appearance and taste, this pastry remains relatively undiscovered in Palma, yet continues to surprise first-time visitors. Mochis, available in various flavours, have emerged as bestsellers among Mallorcans. They’re noted for their generous filling and size, distinguishing them from standard offerings. Other highlights include matcha, sesame, and red bean ice creams, which attract both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Japan.

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The drinks menu features more than ten varieties based on tea or natural fruit juices, with popular options like mango and strawberry. Of particular note, the Japanese-style plum tea has become a customer favourite. Ciccii also offers a healthy smoothie containing yoghurt, avocado, kale, chia, and oats, appealing to those seeking nutritious alternatives.

Design and Atmosphere Inspired by Japan

Ciccii is designed to echo the ambience of Japanese patisseries, incorporating themed decorations and an authentic musical backdrop. For many, the experience is as much about the setting as the food. Alongside the sweet sandwich, beverages such as matcha lattes — including one with strawberry syrup — have proved especially popular.

Japanese Gastronomy Trends in Mallorca

Japanese cuisine has experienced sustained growth across Mallorca over the last decade. Sushi remains especially popular, particularly with younger generations, but interest has expanded to encompass other signature dishes. These include ramen, tempura, onigiri, miso soup, yakisoba, and udon.

This year, however, patisserie items have set the pace for culinary trends. Among those gaining traction are fluffy pancakes — light, egg-based cakes, mochi, and dorayaki — small pancake sandwiches with a sweet bean paste filling. Matcha continues to be a sought-after flavour, used not just in beverages but also in cookies, cakes, brownies, tiramisu, and tarts, now widely available at specialty cafés across the island.