Tucked away in a charming alley in Barcelona’s El Born district, Jon Cake has become a bucket-list stop for dessert lovers around the world. Despite its hidden location, a line forms daily outside the small shop — and when I visited, I was amazed by the variety of languages spoken around me. It felt like a modern-day Noah’s Ark of cheesecake fans.
So, why is Jon Cake Barcelona so popular? Let’s dive into its story, what makes it special, and how you can make the most of your visit.
The Story Behind Jon Cake
Jon García, founder of Jon Cake, made an unconventional switch from aeronautical engineering to baking. After training in prestigious Michelin-starred kitchens like El Celler de Can Roca and La Tasquería, Jon launched his shop in 2020 during the pandemic — choosing to focus on one thing and one thing only: Basque-style cheesecakes.
His bold decision to specialize exclusively in artisan cheesecakes quickly turned into a runaway success, creating daily queues and a loyal following that now spans the globe.
What Makes Jon Cake So Unique?
Cheesecake Sold by Weight
One of the most distinctive things about Jon Cake is how the cakes are sold by weight, not by slice. Instead of pre-cut pieces, the clerk will cut your desired amount from a freshly baked whole cheesecake right in front of you. If you’re unsure of how much to order, they have standard portion suggestions to help first-timers decide.
This allows a personalized experience — whether you’re craving a tiny bite or planning to indulge.
Jon Cake Regular Menu – Flavor Guide
Each cake is made with top-quality ingredients and baked fresh daily. Here are some of the signature flavors you can expect:
- Classic Four Cheese Cheesecake
A creamy, rich blend of four cheeses with a perfectly caramelized top — the signature Jon Cake and crowd favorite. This is my most favorite one among all other menu. - Goat Cheese Cheesecake
Slightly tangy with a complex depth, perfect for those who enjoy a sophisticated twist on the classic. - Blue Cheese Cheesecake
A bold and savory option — surprisingly balanced and a favorite among adventurous eaters. - Chocolate Cheesecake
Dense and luscious, with a deep cocoa richness — a must-try for chocolate lovers. - Seasonal & Rotating Flavors
Weekly specials have included pistachio, matcha, and even collaborations with Swiss cheese producers like Emmentaler AOP and Le Gruyère AOP Reserva.
Viral Success Without Formal Awards
Jon Cake has not received any formal culinary awards, but its reputation was built through word of mouth and viral social media buzz. The bakery became a global sensation organically — shared by food lovers, influencers, and travel blogs alike.
Thanks to its broad digital reach, Jon Cake attracts customers all day long from all over the world. In fact, when I went there, I loved it so much that I ended up visiting every single day during my stay in Barcelona. The shop was just a 10-minute walk from my hotel near the famous Mercat de la Boqueria, making it an irresistible daily ritual.
In the photo, you can see the long line outside the store — it took about 20 minutes to get in. While waiting, I noticed two women relaxing on the patio above the shop. I couldn’t help but think, if I ever move to Barcelona, I’d rent that apartment just to satisfy my Jon Cake cravings anytime I want.
Visiting Jon Cake
Address: Carrer dels Assaonadors, 29, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 12:30 PM – 8:00 PM (Closed Mondays) or till sold out
Neighborhood: Located in El Born, close to Parc de la Ciutadella and the Picasso Museum
Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the queue, especially on weekends.
A Global Dessert Destination
Despite being a small shop, Jon Cake’s influence has spread across borders thanks to its social media buzz, culinary word-of-mouth, and devoted fans. New locations, like a recently opened shop in Girona, signal that this is only the beginning for the Jon Cake brand.
Although part of me wants to keep this hidden gem all to myself, Jon Cake is simply too good to stay tucked away in a quiet alley in Barcelona. It deserves to be discovered, savored, and shared. This cheesecake isn’t just dessert—it’s the kind of experience that makes you want to tell everyone about it and share a bite with someone you love. Jon Cake should be a new landmark for visitors—a must-try that lingers in your memory with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and mellow, unforgettable flavor.
