Stevie Jewel

Short and Sweet

I discovered Short and Sweet Bakeshop on instagram because of their highly photographed treats, so naturally while I was in Toronto last weekend, I hunted the location down to sample some sweets for myself.

First off, the little shop on Yonge is adorable, and secondly the staff was super friendly.  The treats in the display case looked good, but I was there for the mammoth milkshakes I had been insta-dreaming of since our first digital encounter.  I initially ordered the “hot wet canadian summer” milkshake and the “Dr. Strange” ice cream sandwich, and what I think is called a “monster bar”.

Somehow my order got mixed up and I ended up with the milkshake and the bar, but it turned out for the best because that in itself was enough sugar for an entire weekend.  I did witness the “Dr. Strange” make an appearance, and I kid you not, it was the size of my face, so I didn’t feel bad about the mix up given the gargantuan size of that ice cream sandwich and that I would have been responsible for eating it.

The milkshake is like a liquid smores; absolutely delicious, and the monster bar is a combination of over 10 different cookies, so for a cookie lover it was heavenly.  All in all, I can’t wait to go back for another round of sweet treats!

Montreal’s Best Bakeries

If you know me, you know my love of baked goods is nearing infatuation.  I love a good cupcake, cake, muffin, and a nice crunchy bread!  So when in Montreal it felt essential to sample a couple croissants and baked treats! I have to say, I was not disappointed!  Now I don’t think I’ll be able to eat another croissant outside of France and Montreal that could possibly be as good! (Although I welcome the challenge!)  I did a little research while lying in bed on the morning of our first and only day in Montreal and discovered some cult favorites were Boulangerie Mr Pinchot,   Boulangerie Les Co’Pains D’abord, and Boulangerie Guillaume!  We tried a few treats and I think the almond croissant was my absolute favorite!  Do you have a favorite baked treat?

Boulangerie Mr Pinchot

Boulangerie Les Co’Pains D’abord

Boulangerie Guillaume

Best Spots in LA

Atmosphere is so much a part of what makes a space in LA, and I have two favorite lunch spots from this trip that I have to share.  One has been a long time favorite of mine, and the other is brand new to me, but has risen right to the top of my LA must do list for whenever I”m in town. Two of my favorites are:

The Alcove

As soon as we walked up, I already loved this place.  It had shading provided by umbrellas, trees, and greenery.  The setting was intimate but casual, and the food and drinks are delectable.  I’ll definitely be making this place a staple on my visits to LA, it was a tranquil space great for chatting with friends in the California sunshine.

Portos

This is my place when I go to LA.  I fell in love with it years ago, before I ever lived in Los Angeles and it’s the kind of goodness I dream about from Nashville.  The cuisine is cuban inspired and the delights from the bakery are the perfect blend of airy croissant and delicious filling.

LA’s Best Bakeries

I lived in LA a few years ago and so I am familiar with LA, but there were still so many places I wanted to see while I was there!  I am a huge sweets person, and while I don’t discriminate I really love bakeries!  Even though I lived in LA there were some bakeries I hadn’t tried, and I was really looking forward to spending some time with my best friend and trying the best bakeries!  Here are a couple bakeries I loved:

Joan’s on Third

I went here per Cupcakes and Cashmere’s cookie recommendation.  While I found the cookie delicious it was really the environment of the bakery that I loved!

Bo Nuage

Stumbled upon this gem while strolling down Melrose.  Most of the treats a gluten free and low in calories because it’s a combination of fruit purees and meringue!

Follow Stevie on Instagram