I still can’t believe how long it took me to get to SweetArt. This adorable little bakery/cafe is nestled on a quiet stretch of S. 39th St. and is arguably the city’s best source of vegan baked goods and treats. Considering that, it seems rather ridiculous that I only just visited for the first time this past weekend!

Unfortunately, part of that is due to SweetArt’s limited hours. Since they close throughout the week (W-F) at six, our only option really is Saturday, when they’re now open from 9-5. We decided to stop in for lunch last weekend, and apparently, so did everyone else! Because they make everything to-order, it seems there is some significant lag time between placing orders and receiving your food. If you stop in during a particularly busy time, say lunch on a Saturday, that could mean you’ll be spending a little more time than your tummy would like waiting in line.

The good news is, it’s worth the wait! While everything at SweetArt is vegetarian, not all items are vegan. There are still plenty of outright vegan choices on the menu though, and there is a prominent note that mentions how anything on offer can be made vegan upon request. Cha-ching!

Andy ordered their classic Sweet Burger, which is the only constant on their ever-changing lineup. I myself had a vegan BLT, sans “magic,” which is some kind of vegan mayo concoction.  Sandwiches can be ordered in half or full portions and most entrees come with a choice of fruit or Billy Goat Chips on the side. I ordered a half size sandwich (because there were treats to be had!) and it was still plenty big.

Both of our meals were yummy, though Andy was slightly disappointed that the Sweet Burger is more of a faux-meat burger rather than a “not trying to be beef” veggie burger. That’s just his personal tastes though. I like both styles. Really just depends on what I’m in the mood for.

We took our desserts to-go…but they didn’t last long! You know I didn’t miss the opportunity to sample at least two cupcake flavors, ordering a vegan red-velvet and vegan “harmony” (yellow-ish cake w/chocolate icing). Andy ordered himself a non-veg “hummingbird” cupcake which is an old-fashioned layer cake loaded with bananas, pineapples and toasted pecans with a cream cheese frosting.

I ate the harmony cupcake as soon as we got home and enjoyed it thoroughly. I had the red-velvet on Sunday (shortly after breakfast!) and it too was good. One thing to note: both cupcakes tasted quite a bit alike. Considering how different those two flavors are supposed to be, that’s a little weird – no complaints though!

Maybe the best thing about SweetArt is the atmosphere. It sort of doubles as an art studio for the couple who owns it (she’s the cook, he’s the artist). It’s clear that the entire place has been thoughtfully decorated by the two of them and all the small, personal touches are nice. It makes for a very casual and comfortable place to enjoy a meal. Or a treat. Or both!

Oh, one more thing!  As you would expect from any bakery, SweetArt accepts custom orders for cakes, cookies and other goodies. So the next time you’ve got a celebration planned with a vegan guest of honor, this is the place to order up something delish for dessert! This is probably also your best bet for a lovely vegan wedding cake in St. Louis. Stop in or call for more info.