Girona’s most delicious legend is golden, sugar-dusted, and filled with creamy perfection. Xuixo is a pastry in Spain pronounced “shoo-sho.” This bite-sized story of culinary invention and Catalan pride can be found in bakeries across Catalonia, but nowhere do they taste quite like in Girona, where they were born. Xuixos are perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. The pastry is a symbol of local identity and everyday joy, pairing perfectly with a café amb llet (coffee with milk). One of Catalonia’s most beloved traditions can be enjoyed while wandering Girona’s medieval streets or sipping coffee by the Onyar River.
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The Sweet Origins of the Xuixo: Girona’s Pastry with a Legendary Past
Like many of Spain’s best-loved dishes, the xuixo was born from a mix of romance, creativity, and a little mischief. According to Girona legend, the pastry’s name comes from an acrobat nicknamed El Xuixo. The lad fell in love with the local baker’s daughter. When her father discovered them together, the quick-witted performer offered peace by inventing a new pastry filled with rich crema catalana and fried to golden perfection. The baker was so delighted that he named it after the suitor. The xuixo de Girona was born. Whether the story is true or myth, locals still share it with pride. Over a century later, it remains Girona’s sweetest tale.
From Girona to the World: How Xuixo Became a Catalan Icon
What began as a local Girona secret soon became a beloved symbol of Catalan pastry-making. In the early 20th century, the xuixo spread beyond the city walls. It began to appear in bakeries across Catalonia and even beyond. Each town gave the pastry its own personality. Some filled it with thicker crema catalana, while others added a hint of cinnamon or lemon zest. However, the essentials never changed: crispy dough, creamy heart, and a generous dusting of sugar. Over time, the xuixo became so integral to Girona’s identity that it earned Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, safeguarding its authenticity and local pride. Today, this humble pastry represents heritage, craftsmanship, and Catalan spirit.
Where to Eat the Best Xuixo in Girona
Xuixos are part of Girona’s gastronomic heritage. While the pastries can be found across the city, a few bakeries stand out as must-visit destinations:
1. Pastisseria Pons – Often called the “home of the xuixo,” Pastisseria Pons has been perfecting this delicacy for decades. The secret? A rich, velvety custard that is poured generously into the delicate pastry shell, which is then fried to perfection and dusted with just the right amount of sugar. Locals swear that a morning xuixo paired with a café con leche here is unbeatable.
2. Forn Sarrià – This traditional bakery has mastered a signature technique: a thin, caramelized sugar layer that adds a subtle crunch atop the soft, sweet pastry. Forn Sarrià’s xuixos are slightly smaller than Pons’, making them perfect for sampling multiple flavors in one visit.
More Spots to Try For the Best Xuixo in Girona
3. La Xocolateria – For those who love a modern twist, La Xocolateria offers xuixos infused with chocolate, seasonal fruit, or even local liqueurs. These visually stunning pastries are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds, perfect for foodie photography!
4. Pastisseria Sant Daniel – Nestled near the city’s charming Onyar River, this bakery is celebrated for its perfectly balanced xuixos, where the crispness of the pastry complements the creamy custard filling flawlessly.
5. Forn del Passeig – A favorite among locals for afternoon treats, Forn del Passeig specializes in traditional xuixos served alongside coffee or hot chocolate. Its cozy ambiance makes it a perfect stop for a relaxed break during a day of sightseeing.
THN Tips for the Perfect Xuixo Experience
Timing matters: The freshest xuixos are always eaten straight out of the fryer. Arrive in the morning to catch them at their peak.
Pair wisely: A café con leche, espresso, or hot chocolate elevates the experience, balancing the sweetness with a warm, comforting sip.
Walk and savor: Take your xuixo for a stroll along the Onyar River or through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. It’s a multisensory Girona experience.
From traditional bakeries to modern twists, Girona’s xuixos are more than pastries. They’re pieces of the city’s history. Exploring them is a delicious way to connect with local culture and satisfy your sweet tooth.
