Trendy Croissant-Donut Hybrid Now In Hyde Park

Mouth-watering trends are no secret to South Tampa and Hyde Park foodies.

Organic. Gluten-free. Trucks gathering for Saturday afternoon rallies peddling Cuban sandwiches and tacos stuffed to the brim.

In Hyde Park, a new staple is becoming a favorite among locals: a pastry that's half-croissant, half donut. Its debut at Piquant, a French-inspired restaurant that opened in January at 1633 W. Snow Avenue in Hyde Park Village, has caused a culinary stir in Tampa Bay.

"We like to call it a croissant donut, since 'Cronut' is trademarked," said Ricardo Castro, co-owner and chef. "We've been doing this since we opened ... it will look like a donut, but with the layers of a croissant."

Flavors range from cinnamon sugar to vanilla bean cream to Nutella, and cost about $3 each. The trend floated its way from the Big Apple to Tampa Bay, with a cronut delivery service recently launching in Manhattan, according to the  New York Daily News, charging $100 each and hand-delivering orders.

Co-owner Rosana Rivera says Piquant, which means "appetizing to the palate," is known for more than its sugary confections. Piquant also serves banana bread french toast, fresh challah and omelets during the day, with plans to expand to a dinner menu on weekend days in the fall.

"Anyone who walks in here can relate and understand our menu," Rivera said. "Something catchers their eye. It's done correctly with our own flair to it."

Sitting on vintage-inspired furniture in the spacious eatery, Castro's eyes widen when asked how often his croissant donuts have been devoured by sweet treat fans in Tampa Bay.

"We have been selling out in the first two hours of the day," Castro said. "We are very happen about it. It's funny making people happy."

Watch a video of Castro creating the croissant donuts.

What do you think of the pastries? Would you try one? Tell us in the commentes.