ON THE MARC

The Japanese patron saint of chocolate croissants

On your last trip to Tokyo, remember that one guilty-pleasure commercial croissant cafe that seemed to be everywhere? And those chocolate croissants that nearly every customer seemed to be eating? This need not be a distant vacation memory, because St. Marc Cafe has extended its franchises to Thailand. You obviously can’t ignore the Choco Cro (B48/ piece), the symbol of the cafe, on your first visit. St. Marc’s signature croissant is mildly buttery and slightly denser than the croissants you’re used to. But before you get on your high horse of excessive time spent at pricey French maisons, Marc’s Choco Cro was never out to claim likeness to fancy European pastries. Just look at the non-crescent shape and chunk of a chocolate bar wedged into the pastry folds. This is an invention based on the Japanese market that unintentionally captivated Thai tourists enough to merit bringing the chain home. So enjoy it for the inexpensive, filling and satisfying snack that it is. Choco Cro is best had with either a hot coffee or the smoothest Matcha latte (B145) among all chain cafes here so far.

Beside the croissant and its seasonal variations, the cafe also offers danishes, savory rolls and pies, freshly baked daily. But if you’re craving something cold, St. Marc’s impressive array of parfaits and other soft cream-based desserts are also what the cafe is known for. The Chocoberry Celebration (B195), for instance, is a photogenic parfait featuring fresh — and only fresh — strawberries, vanilla ice cream, soft cream and original St. Marc cake bits and pudding. For those with a taste for traditional Japanese flavours, the Classic Fuji (B225) with soft serve and sweet red bean is highly recommended.

With the menu kept largely the same and 90% of ingredients imported from Japan, fans of the original St. Marc shouldn’t be disappointed. Get your Choco Cro now at CentralWorld, Central EastVille and Central Bangna.