Glenelg just got a little sweeter. The much-loved Sydney-born bakery, Shadow Baking, has officially opened its doors on Jetty Road, and if the queues are anything to go by, locals are already hooked.

Founded by former Gelato Messina chefs Tom Mitchell, Florian Fritsch, and Remi Talbot, Shadow Baking is known for pushing pastry boundaries. Think gooey cookie pies, glossy bavarians, creative croissants, and left-of-centre bakes like a Vegemite, avocado and chilli scroll.

The team first launched in Sydney’s inner east in October 2023 after years spent whipping up pop-ups and gelato add-ins behind the scenes at Messina. Fast forward to April 12, and their third store and first in Adelaide opened its doors in Glenelg.

The move was inspired by one of their own. “Remi, our chef in Adelaide, went on a holiday to Adelaide with his wife and loved it,” says co-founder Tom Mitchell. “He immediately made plans to move, so we really had no choice but to follow him!” After visiting a few times, Tom and Florian found themselves drawn to Glenelg. “We really liked it... the beach is beautiful, there are always people about, and the weekend vibes are great. On a sunny day, I don’t think there’s a better place to be.”

The menu is a mix of tried-and-true favourites and new ideas that rotate on a whim. “There’s really not a lot of planning behind it,” Tom admits. “We kind of just chop and change the menu when we feel like it.” Still, there are a few staples you can always expect to find, such as the custard tart danish, pandan and coconut brioche, and the savoury Vegemite scroll that have become signature items.

If you're visiting for the first time, Tom suggests the custard tart danish or one of their focaccias. “My favourite at the moment is the Mexican street corn, roasted corn, spring onions, chilli, lime zest and a generous piping of mayo, all sitting in a soft focaccia slice. So good!”

While the team is still settling into their Glenelg store, they’ve already got eyes on what’s next. “We’re opening another brand-new store in North Adelaide later in the year,” Tom reveals. “This one came about by chance. We weren’t really looking, but the area is great, a beautiful location on the corner with heaps of natural lighting and much more seating.”

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Shadow Baking is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth and an appetite for something new. Get in early and don’t be surprised if your favourites sell out before midday.

You’ll find Shadow Baking at 8/1 Colley Terrace, Glenelg. Follow them on Instagram