With its range of “not too sweet” treats and an interior design that draws inspiration from Studio Ghibli, Sydney’s new addition Kiki Dessert is already carving out a name for itself.

Most notable, however, is its opening hours, which see Kiki Dessert’s doors remain open until 6pm – long after many Australian cafes have closed for the day.

The reason for this, owner Jenna Choo said, was that in her home country of Korea cafes represent a true third space for people to hang out in long into the night. But when Jenna relocated to Melbourne she found herself missing these cafes. So she sought to fill the gap herself.

“I had trained to be an actor for a long time, but I was obsessed with dessert,” Jenna told Broadsheet.

“When I left Korea I was like, ‘oh you know what, I’m just going to make dessert’.”

After training in Canberra Jenna went on to work in kitchens across New South Wales and ACT, including at famed Black Star Pastry.

Eventually Jenna decided it was time to go out on her own.

“I always had a dream of opening a small dessert cafe, because that’s where I love to go,” she said.

“It feel like you’re stepping into somebody’s kitchen. I love Australian coffee culture and having brunch, but I miss the dessert cafes in Korea and Japan.”

Kiki Dessert opened its doors just before Christmas, with a menu full of sweet treats like layered cream cakes covered with fruit, Russian-inspired honey cakes, classic cheescakes, and ultra-light genoise chocolate sponges, each of which are available by the slice or as a whole cake. Then there are canelés, financiers, lemon madeleines and Dubai chocolate.

Jenna said the name Kiki Dessert – and overall vibe – had been inspired by the Studio Ghibli film Kik’s Delivery Service.

“The movie is about her struggle to become independent as an immigrant and a woman. I sometimes have felt very lonely [in Australia] and when I watched that movie, I related to it and got comfort from it,” she said.

“I wanted to give that same comfort to people who come in and have dessert.”