Via Rutkowski 
Sweet (and savory) treat lovers should prepare for some of the boldest, most creative pastries in town. While you may have already experienced Panaderya Salvaje’s flavors in pop-up form at Lackawanna Coffee, Narra Collective, or Next Door Provisions, to name a few, the husband and wife duo behind the Filipino-inspired tastes, Nicu Dalman and Mikee Uychiat, will open doors of their own at 9 Erie Street in Downtown Jersey City. The couple’s highly sought-after pastries are quick to sell out (yes, because they are THAT good), and it’s clear to see that residents are excited for a larger supply of some of the most inspired flavors around, made with love, creativity, and nostalgic memories from growing up in the Philippines. Keep reading to learn more about Panaderya Salvaje’s new permanent home, opening on August 17th in Jersey City, New Jersey.
How it Started
Panaderya Salvaje was started by husband and wife pair Nicu Dalman and Mikee Uychiat, who were both born and raised in the Philippines and now reside in Middlesex County. The two have drawn inspiration from the traditions and flavors of their childhood and found the best way to infuse them not only into the pastries but into the spirit of the bakery.
The talent behind each handmade pastry, which quite literally resembles edible art, is Nicu. Nicu spent years working as a chef in the culinary industry, working his way up as a line cook in the highly competitive New York City restaurant scene. He even spent time working as Chef de Cuisine in Houston, Texas, before moving back to New Jersey, where he started picking up the art of pastry making, specifically laminated pastries.
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Nicu is a self-taught baker who, funny enough, had specialized in savory dishes over the years. What started as just baking bread quickly transitioned into pastries because, as a dedicated culinary master, Nicu loves a challenge. Nicu gave team HG a taste of what’s to come, and with creations like ube piaya, matcha chocolate croissants, and savory quiches, we’re still thinking about the insanely captivating flavors. Nicu has perfected the balance of delicate sweetness and savory zings.
Now, Nicu and Mikee, who had previously dedicated their careers to helping others as nurse, have teamed up to bring their vision to life and honor the flavors of their culture. Behind the scenes, Mikee handles Panaderya Salvaje’s social platforms and works her barista skills behind the counter, serving up espresso drinks and pour-over brews from Lackawanna Coffee, delivering warmth for all who walk through its doors.
All About Panaderya Salvaje
Panaderya Salvaje’s specialty is incorporating Filipino flavors with an added focus on more specific regional flavors. Nicu shared with HG that “the Philippines is an archipelago composed of 7,000+ islands and the food is different all throughout, with different variations on certain dishes. We try to give a spotlight on the different food and flavors, leaning more towards where we both grew up. We try to incorporate both traditional and use croissants as a vessel to carry both sweet and savory options.” Everything at Panaderya Salvaje is made in-house with care and intention.
Next to stand-out flavors at Panaderya Salvaje is an emphasis on Filipino hospitality, giving every customer a memorable experience. Nicu and Mikee have spent the last several months dialing in on perfecting their pastries, learning the art of Japanese slow pour coffee, and exploring additional single-origin coffee beans from the Philippines. Nicu shared, “With pastries, expect a fun, rotating menu that changes monthly.” The counter service, grab-and-go bakery is decked out with merch, treats, syrups, and more.
Now, you may be wondering what the name Panaderya Salvaje means, and like the pastries, it has the best back story. Nicu told team HG his elders, specifically his mom, would often refer to him as “salvaje” which means “wild child”. This always stuck with him, and now this was his chance to flip the nickname on its head with a positive twist. With “panaderya” being a Filipino term for bakery, Panaderya Salvaje’s iconic name was born.
Visiting Panaderya Salvaje
Panaderya Salvaje will officially open its doors at 9 Erie Street in Downtown Jersey City on Sunday, August 17th at 9AM. Nicu and Mikee shared that they are excited to show everyone what they have accomplished at their small (but mighty) sunlit, 480 square foot bakery.
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The two shared that they fell in love with Downtown Jersey City because of its undeniable charm and, of course, the people. Noting that the community has been nothing but supportive, and when this cozy Downtown property became available, it felt like it was meant to be.
The bakery will be open on Thursdays and Fridays from 7AM-3PM and on Saturdays and Sundays from 8AM-3PM (or until sold out). For more info or a sneak peek at Panaderya Salvaje’s creations, be sure to follow along on Instagram or HotPlate for its latest small batch drops.
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