I stopped in for breakfast one morning (after Patti's great review) and found the baker/owner just pulling a tray of muffins out of the oven. She poured me a great cup of coffee and I sat on the front porch watching avenue residents walk to school and work. The warm muffin just melted in my mouth with nuts, coconut, shredded carrot and other surprises throughout (not just on top). A great way to start my day!

the location is great in a walking friendly neighborhood. However, the chocolate mousse was way too sweet while the granny smith apple tart lacked flavor. I was wanting it to be great so badly.

I was lucky enough to get a sneak-preview taste of this new Hampden sweet spot. Un-lucky for Anisha the chef, I cleared her out of at least one of every single pastry - I couldn't help myself, each one was better than the last! Two in particular will demand a visit in all my future trips to Hampden: a savory duxelle danish, and a dark-chocolate brownie for dessert. The duxelle is a flavorful mixture of garlicky wild mushrooms and goat cheese, nestled in a puff-pasty purse. And the brownie? Rich, chewy, and oh so cocoa-y!

With ingredients on the menu like green tea, earl grey, and bourbon, I can't wait to go try these unique cakes and pastries. If you need me, I'll be memorizing the menu on the website in pastry-withdrawal anticipation.

UPDATE: The slice of Earl Grey cake was every bit as good as I imagined. In fact, the ripe strawberries and custard sandwiched in between the moist cake made it even better than I imagined. Not too sweet either. Perfect!