Andover, New Hampshire has turned a corner with the opening of Tarte Café and Bakery. The cafe brings the town to the edge of trendy and I have to say we were not disappointed to give it a try when visiting my family this summer.
Being in town for a month meant that I got many opportunities to try various pastries and the coffees as well, I was sad I didn’t make it there for lunch but if the pastries are anything to go on they’ll be a treat.
During my time there I tried the following: Boston Cream Doughnut, Chocolate Salted Caramel Cupcake, Spinach and Feta Croissant, Blueberry Muffin and the famous Kouign. They have such a variety I didn’t even get close to trying everything.
The Boston Cream really impressed me, they used real vanilla bean in the custard which you can taste and see. The chocolate on top is a semi-sweet which is a great contrast to the overall sweetness of the doughnut.
The Mocha’s didn’t even need sugar, which is the best compliment I can give to a coffee.
And there aren’t even words to describe the Kouign, you microwave them for 20 seconds and they are one of the most amazing things I’ve ever eaten. They have a slightly crunchy top and gooey bottom with sweet doughiness all in between. Since we won’t be back for a few years I am actively trying to recreate these at home for myself.
They even went out of their way to open a few minutes early one morning when much of the town had lost power the day before and it still wasn’t restored by morning, there were a few of us in line for coffee and other goodies to make it through the morning.
If you’re near Andover, NH I would highly recommend you make Tarte a stop on your list, and if you need Kouign’s for a gathering be sure to order them 2 days ahead as they only make a certain amount each day and they go quickly.
Restaurant: Tarte Cafe and Bakery, 46 Main Street, Andover, NH
Atmosphere: fresh and relaxed
Staff: friendly
Food: So so delicious!
Would we return: Over and over again whenever we can
