In Valencia, the October 9th holiday has a dual significance: the entry of James I into the city and Saint Dionysius, the patron saint of lovers. To celebrate the former, there’s a full program of events, and for the latter, we have the tradition of the “mocadorà,” in which couples exchange a silk handkerchief wrapped around marzipan sweets shaped like fruits, vegetables, and rockets.
But not just any candy or handkerchief will do… and to make sure you don’t mess up this year when giving it to that special someone (or eating them yourself), here’s a list of five bakeries where you can buy your mocadorà.
David Esteve Pastry Shop
David Esteve Pastisseria is one of the classics for fine sweets in Valencia: awarded a Repsol “Solete” and recognized locally and nationally for its excellence in pastry-making. This year, it won the award for best mocadorà from the Valencia Bakers’ and Pastry Chefs’ Guild for the fifth consecutive time and took second place in the award from the Guild of Master Confectioners of the Valencian Community.
A masterpiece that has won over the whole world with the perfection and realism of its marzipan fruits and vegetables, as well as a balanced flavor that isn’t cloying. Although this product can’t be purchased online, you can find this pastry shop at 17 Burriana Street in Valencia.
Pepina Pastel
Pepina Pastel never fails to impress. This year, one of Valencia’s most popular bakeries has decided to reinterpret the concept of the mocadorà and pair the six marzipan figures with six Pepiboms—little balls made from artisanal sponge cake and coated in chocolate.
Plus, they come with a limited-edition handkerchief that captures the essence of the city of Valencia, created by illustrator Meresga. You can purchase it online or at any of their stores.
Aixa Bakery
The first prize for the best “mocadorà” and best storefront in the competition held by the Guild of Master Confectioners of the Valencian Community goes to a classic of Valencian pastry: Pastelería Aixa. This bakery specializes in the most traditional Valencian sweets and has won this title countless times.
Although it’s true that the version in the photo was made solely for the contest, the version available for purchase is a true delight that can be bought both online and at their store in Puçol.
Pastisseria Soler
In Catarroja, you’ll find one of the most artisanal and authentic options in the Valencian Community. It has been awarded by the Guild of Master Confectioners of the Valencian Community as the best commercial product—that is, the best mocadorà sold to the public. It stands out for its flavor, texture, and visual presentation. They don’t have a website, but you can try their sweets at Calle Charco, 11, in Catarroja.
Horno San Antonio
Second prize for best mocadorà , from the Valencia Bakers’ and Pastry Makers’ Guild, Horno San Antonio is a classic among Valencia’s finest bakeries and restaurants. Anyone who hasn’t yet tried its sweets and traditional dishes has some catching up to do. You can buy its mocadorà ( and many other products) on its website or at any of its locations.
