The world of specialty cafés and modern bakeries is being reshaped by a hunger for authenticity and discovery. Today’s diners aren’t just looking for pastries—they’re searching for stories, cultural connections, and comfort foods reimagined with a fresh perspective. As global tastes and local sensibilities merge, bakeries are evolving into creative hubs that celebrate both tradition and innovation. Small Mercies is more than a café—it’s a heartfelt project shaped by the memories and culinary curiosity. Drawing inspiration from the bustling streets of Korea and the comforting rituals of home baking, the duo has made kkwabaegi—the airy, twisted Korean doughnut—the star of their menu. Each batch is made with care, balancing tradition and innovation: classic cinnamon-sugar twists sit alongside inventive creations filled with cream cheese, drizzled with unique glazes, or paired with seasonal flavors. But the experience at Small Mercies extends beyond the doughnuts themselves. The café is designed as a welcoming space where guests are encouraged to linger, share, and connect—whether by using the signature scissors to divide a doughnut among friends or by sampling a rotating lineup of vibrant drinks inspired by Korean street culture.
Built from Memory, Crafted with Intent
Behind the counter is more than just a menu—it’s a shared dream between co-founders Eunsun Jung and Mikey Rush, brought to life through hard work, nostalgia, and an infectious sense of play. Their story began with memories of Korea: of morning cafés, soft yakgwa biscuits, crisp kkwabaegi fresh from the fryer, and the quiet happiness of a good cup of coffee. Inspired by those formative moments, the duo began experimenting, combining the familiarity of Korean traditions with imaginative, local twists. Their process is playful but intentional—testing flavour pairings, inventing fillings, and creating drinks that are just as expressive as their food. Their “selfish” approach—making what they personally love—has led to some of the most joyfully unique offerings in the city. And while the treats are unforgettable, it’s the warm welcome, the sense of community, and the quiet pride in what they do that leaves the most lasting impression.
A Grateful Name for a Gracious Space
The name Small Mercies was chosen during a challenging period, a whispered phrase of hope: “Thank God for small mercies.” It has since become a philosophy, a lens through which the café operates every day. Gratitude is infused into every detail—from the friendly team and the seasonally curated butter bars to the scabbarded scissors that invite people to pause and share. The bright yellow storefront is impossible to miss, not just for its visual charm, but for the energy it radiates. Inside, the space is filled with laughter, soft aromas, and pops of colour that mirror the personality of its owners. For Eunsun and Mikey, Small Mercies is about offering people something better than expected: a surprising flavour, a new favourite comfort food, or even just a better day. More than a business, it’s a celebration of small joys, thoughtful food, and cross-cultural storytelling—all served one beautiful doughnut at a time.
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