A pastry born in Girona
The xuixo is believed to have originated in Girona at the beginning of the 20th century. According to local tradition, a French pastry chef visiting the city shared laminated-dough techniques with a Girona baker. The result was a pastry combining French influence with Catalan creativity.
The dough is rolled, filled with crema catalana–style custard, fried until golden and finally coated in sugar. The result is richer than a croissant and lighter than many other fried pastries.
Over time, the xuixo became closely associated with Girona’s bakeries and pastry shops, where it is still made fresh every morning.
A symbol of Girona’s sweet culture
Today, the xuixo is considered one of the most emblematic pastries of Girona. Locals often debate where to find the best one, with each bakery having its loyal followers.
To celebrate this tradition, Girona hosts the World Xuixo Contest, an annual event where pastry chefs compete to create the finest version of this classic sweet. Tastings, demonstrations and workshops turn the city centre into a small festival dedicated entirely to the pastry.
Where to try a xuixo
The best place to taste a xuixo is still a traditional pastisseria in Girona. Many bakeries make them early in the morning, when the pastry is at its lightest and crispiest. Served fresh and still slightly warm, it remains one of the simplest pleasures of the city.
Pastisseria Tornés
Recently awarded the best xuixo of 2026, this Girona bakery has regained attention for its unique take on the city’s most iconic pastry.
Pastisseria Puig
Among Girona’s longstanding pastry shops, Puig is renowned for traditional Catalan pastries and carefully made, light, and crispy xuigos.
Pastisseria Can Castelló
Here, xuixos are often still warm in the morning, prepared according to traditional Girona recipes.
Pastisseria Trias (Santa Coloma de Farners)
With strong ties to the region’s pastry tradition, this historic pastry shop has won numerous awards for its xuixos. A modest establishment, but one that reveals a surprisingly rich story about Girona’s food culture.
You’ll find xuixos in bakeries across Girona and beyond, but tasting one here, close to where it all began, makes it just that bit more special.