Here is a review I did on the Sweet Pea Bakery and Catering for the State Press Magazine:

   Watch out Downtowners, cause there’s an alluring bakery in town ready to tempt the tastebuds and sweet tooth that cannot be missed.

   Although not brand-spankin’ new, The Sweet Pea Bakery and Catering has only been been around for a few years in the Downtown Phoenix area, located on 2^nd Avenue and Jackson Street.

   Its owners, Danielle Librera and husband Brian Coonce, have one of the most highly decorous, unique and tasty bakeries in town.

   Pretty pink paint near the kitchen and paintings liven up the walls, as well as the green and pink paint in the cherry blossom bathroom. Wicker and wooden chairs and flowers in vases on every table promote its beauty.

   Upon entering the bakery, Danielle immediately helps customers decide which goodies should be tried first for newcomers. It is a difficult task selecting only a few of the many delectable treats, but some of the most convincing and popular treats are the PB&J Sandwich Cookies, the French Almond Macaroon, Danielle’s Tart and the Rosemary Shortbread.

   The French Almond Macaroon is said to be coveted by Governor Janet Napolitano, according to governor’s assistants that have come to the bakery, Librera says. It’s no wonder. The flaky, yet put-together cookie is filled with a rich chocolate center that will satisfy any chocolate craving instantly.

   An all-time favorite is Danielle’s tart, which is a lemon lover’s dream tart. It consists of lemon curd covering a pine nut crust, with fresh raspberries as a topper.

   Cookies and tarts are not the only food items available on the menu. Specialty or traditional cakes and cupcakes are offered, as well as lunch items like salads and veggie dishes.

   All food products are served on pretty porcelain plates, with a special sprinkling of powdered sugar for sweet treats to finish off the look.

   Prices are reasonable for bakery and lunch products, costing from 75 cents to $4 for single bakery items, and from $6 to $8 for lunch items. Cakes cost from $25 to $45 depending on the size and style. Custom cakes can be arranged as well.

   The bakery is known for its specialty cakes, and has an album of past creations on display. The bakery’s Web site also shows pictures, reviews and menu items at www.sweetpeaaz.com. The bakery also offers catering at homes and parties, and hosts parties at the bakery upon request and appointment.

   In addition, artsy types won’t want to miss out on its featured local artists, which generally change monthly, according to Librera. The bakery also tries to switch the types of art every month, including ceramics, photography, and acrylic paintings.

   The art hangs on every wall around the bakery, creating the look of a gallery. This is a must-stop destination for First Fridays, during which the shop is open for extended hours.

   Although the bakery is located in a rough area, there are many new classy shops popping up close by, including the Royal Coffee Bar next door. Don’t be turned off by the neighborhood — this is certainly a rose in a bunch of weeds that will hopefully be pulled soon.

                                                                                                                                       — reweaver@asu.edu

IF YOU GO

What: The Sweet Pea Bakery and Catering

Where: 209 West Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ

When: September-April hours are Tues.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

            First Fridays: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

http://www.sweetpeaaz.com/

Contacts: Danielle Librera: (602) 296-4042, danielle@sweetpeaaz.com

Brian Coonce: brian@sweetpeaaz.com

Pictures: http://www.sweetpeaaz.com/