Honey Pecan Tart from Sweet Thang

Item Purchased: Honey Pecan Tart
Location Purchased: Sweet Thang / 1921 W. North Ave. / Chicago, IL
Price: $3.75 + tax

Review: I work at a restaurant on the weekends and sometimes I am able to sample a slice of our pecan pie. I love pecan pie.

I blame the baker at Sweet Thang for making it impossible for me to ever enjoy a slice of my restaurant's pecan pie ever again. The Sweet Thang crew might even be responsible for making it impossible for me to ever enjoy any dessert that did not originate from Sweet Thang ever again.

This North Avenue bakery/cafe has been in existence nearly five years. It's a good thing I have waited this long to try any of their offerings. If I had tried them any sooner, I fear I would be both broke and fat by now.

Not too sweet or soggy like many pecan desserts are prone to be, this small tort packs the flavor of an entire pecan pie from any other establishment. The honey forms a thin layer atop the pecan chunks that glistens and calls to you well before you approach the glass case that cradles Sweet Thang's colorful selection. Long before the sweet-as-her-desserts woman behind the counter charms you with her French accent and enthusiasm. The pecans inside taste fresh and are sugared just right. Finally, the crust of the tart is crisp and buttery. Even alone, the crust would be better than most of the run-of-the-mil desserts you are used to.

I will be back for more, happily blaming Sweet Thang for the pounds I pack on to keep me warm this winter.

Rating: 4.75 / 5