A new bakery called The Sleeping Cat, offering “homey comfort desserts,” is headed for the heart of Chelsea.
While this is the first bakery owner DongJu Song has opened, he has a passion for baking and hopes to bring a new cozy and comfortable spot for a respite to the neighborhood. He believes that the “need for comfort, coziness and community is greater than ever” and wants to fill the gap. He will offer an array of classic desserts from tender and moist scones to fruity-filled pastries. However, he will have to compete with Peter McManus Café, Elmo’s Restaurant and Merci Gourmet Deli, all of whom also offer pastries on the block.
“Make new friends over a glass of barolo chinato,” he advertises on the bakery’s website. “Tuck yourself into a corner to get in some solid work fueled by pie and coffee.”
Its proposed menu includes seasonal pies, as well as classics like pecan and chocolate cream, treats like strawberry shortcake, cookies from chocolate chip to brown-edge butter, caramel custard, gingerbread and savory sandwiches like ham and turkey.
The bakery is slated to be open from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. daily and will offer 15 tables with 40 seats. It will be housed in the space formerly occupied by La Singe Vert.
He adds, “Baking has always been my respite. I love the magic of transforming weird bland powders into deliciousness, the dorkiness of systematic experimentation, the tension of waiting to see if the bake melded in the oven. And best of all, the joy of people I love as they eat. We hope to bring this oasis of joy and respite to our neighborhood.”
