Cake Culture brings 20-layer crepe cakes to Ponce City Market

The pop-up aims to take people on a journey across the world

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Strawberry crepe cake

Courtesy of Jamestown

First came the 100-layer doughnuts; now, 20-layer cakes are the new Instagram-ready treat at Ponce City Market. Made from mille crepes in flavors like strawberry, matcha green tea, and signature classic (with almond and cherry notes), Cake Culture’s delicate pastries combine baking techniques from Japan, Singapore, and South Korea, with ingredients from around the world. Created by pâtissier Sujith Ratnayake, Cake Culture is now selling slices and 6-to-9-inch cakes online and in the Central Food Hall at Ponce City Market.

“I lived in different countries and have experienced different cultures,” says Ratnayake, who was born in Sri Lanka, trained in Japan and Singapore, and worked in South Korea. “Over time, I began to think about how to fuse these styles in a way that’s enjoyable and takes people on a little journey across the world.”

The result is a light cake with fluffy cream inside and a caramelized crust top, handmade on a stovetop by Ratnayake. Those interested in trying his elaborate creations can pre-order online or using the QR code at the Cake Culture stall, located between King of Pops and Honeysuckle.

Matcha green tea crepe cake

Courtesy of Jamestown

Strawberry crepe cake

Photo by Lia Picard

“It’s something that is relatable but unique,” Ratnayake says. “The cakes are not extremely sweet—just the right amount of sweetness—but still takes you on that journey. You can get special messages written on them, too.”

“In Asia, full cakes are often purchased to share with family, not necessarily just for a special occasion,” adds his wife, Schanita Simmons-Ramos, who assists with the business.

Although the Cake Culture stall is considered a pop-up, no end date has been set. In fact, additional items, such as warm coffee drinks and cold, sweet drinks are in the works, as well as vegan crepe cakes and new flavors like Chai, peach, and tres leches.

The signature classic crepe cake is made with almond and cherry liqueur.

Courtesy of Jamestown

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