Cupcake, 3338 University Ave. SE., Minneapolis

"What is the one thing you think of that always makes you smile?" reads a postcard at University Avenue's Cupcake. By taking a moment looking around this hip bakery/café it is nearly impossible to find anyone without a smile.

Cupcake brings a new edge, in-house bakery to an old brick building--no need to restore, they like the charm. Cupcake attracts the creative artsy type and the working professional after hours. This includes a mother, a daughter, two friends enjoying each other's company, a University of Minnesota student studying for next week's finals and me.

There's an overabundance of seating at Cupcake indoors with a large, warm patio outside springing flowers atop every table to assure local loyals there is always room for more. Vibrant colors and alternative-to-classic music help keep the atmosphere alive.

Uniqueness galore, one of the breakfast specials is called 'Atkins is dead and I love carbs,' with the description 'Crepes, French Toast or Pancakes based on cooks' mood.' 

Cupcake is most commonly known for their baked goods and cupcakes, but they also serve Fair Trade Organic coffee, a full menu of sandwiches, salads and soups, and sell various art and gifts. They offer catering for weddings and list specials regularly as well.

Even though the café has a loaded drink selection and the service is quite friendly, there's a lack for cleanliness. This is most likely due their expectation for customers to buss their own tables.

Today's drinks of choice: Chai Coffee Freeze and Iced Cold Press. The Chai was syrup-based and was the perfect mix of milk and spice; however, Cupcake may need to upgrade their cute but inefficient equipment. After what felt like minutes of blending, my first drink remained chunky with ice.

My dessert of choice was a delectable Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcake. Smooth, fresh, with a Reeses cup atop and bubbling peanut butter cream frosting.

If dust on hanging café t-shirts and crumbs on your table don't irk your cravings, don't hesitate a trip to this sweet retreat. The price is right and nothing is quite like their freshly made cupcakes. If it is a cold day, try the more standard warm drinks.

Review by: Sheena Miller

Posted: Friday, May 09, 2008