Surprise as famed boutique Hutt St pastry shop The Sugar Man shuts its doors

A beloved city patisserie has stunned customers with an unexpected announcement. However, management has teased a “new chapter”.

A beloved city patisserie has stunned customers with a shock announcement it will shut and cease selling pasty items.

The Sugar Man, a famed patisserie on Hutt St – celebrated for its croissants, chocolate and ice cream – announced it would cease selling its croissants and pastry items from the end of this weekend, July 27.

However, management has teased a rebirth, promising a “new chapter” for the business.

In a statement on social media, The Sugar Man shocked followers with the announcement it would close the doors and end its run as a beloved pastry destination.

Line up for Sugar Man on Hutt St in June, 2024. Picture: Brett Hartwig

“We’re taking a break – we’ll be back, but not as you know us,” the post said.

“We are aware that this decision may come as a surprise to some, but please know it was not made lightly nor quickly.

“There were many factors that led to this outcome, but the loudest motivator is the prevailing need to take Sugar Man in a new direction.

The post said it meant leaving the patisserie behind.

“Our team is taking some time to gain new skills, conduct research and development, and undertake site renovations for a new venture.”

The Sugar Man creator Alex Crawford. Picture: Ben Clark

In a shock twist, The Sugar Man will reopen in September but as something new.

“What we will be doing is (for now) a surprise. But I can promise it will be something that reignites my culinary passion, and aligns with the original ethos we started with at The Sugar Man: handmade with love, using premium local produce,” the post said.

“Thank you to everyone who has walked through our doors seeking sweet refuge in our patisserie, chocolate and ice cream products. We look forward to welcoming you through the doors again.

“This will be the last weekend to try a Sugar Man croissant. As always – first come, first serve; no holds, no reservations, no regrets.”

The news was met with sadness from social media followers but also anticipation of what was to come.

“This is devastating. Nowhere else has pastries that are on your level. We are super sad but wishing you all the best for the future. We look forward to supporting when you’re back in September,” one follower wrote.

“Looking forward to seeing what you guys have got planned, but the pastries are a big loss! No one comes close to yours!”, another added.

The Sugar Man, opened by self-taught baker Alex Crawford in Hutt St in March 2022, enjoyed fanfare and long line-ups and people began to queue from before 9am for the 10am opening.

Pastries would often sell out within two hours.

Speaking to The Advertiser in 2023, Mr Crawford said he aimed to be as creative and intricate as possible with The Sugar Man.

“I’m just doing something I love and just trying to show what produce we have from farmers around South Australia and Australia. I’m humbled by the fact people are lining up to try those – it’s amazing,” he said.