In hannam-dong there’s a building with a glassy obsidian sheen that draws the gaze of everyone who comes near. Though, possibly, its their noses that are being drawn since this looming tower of black steel and glass houses the gossamer delicate baking goods of Passion Five.
From the outset you know its not going to be like the Paris Baguette on every other corner. And once those sliding doors swoosh open and you’ve adjusted to the chill blast of welcoming air con the candy land delights of Passion Five confirms everything you hoped it would be.
The gelato greets you first. Here you can sample a menagerie of flavors like salt, mango and pistachio. Further inside you come across bakery shelves loaded with the most tasty mouth watering breaded goodness. An assortment of tarts, brioche, croissants, cookies, pies, cakes, and loaves of bread await. I swear the aroma alone could bring a starving man satisfaction. Even better the delights of Passion Five continue with feats of magic conjuring sweet bites of chocolate using basil, rose, ginger and other unusual ingredients.
Though the picture I’m painting isn’t completely rosy. You see Passion Five also has a restaurant on the second floor, which I have yet to experience, but have had ample warning to avoid from Roboseyo. The folks at Passion Five would be remiss to ignore the chink in their otherwise flawless armor.
Hanganjin Station on Subway Line 6, Exit 3. Walk until you see the huge black building.
Call (02) 2071-9505
Hannam-dong, 729-74
