Queens Comfort

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So, I’d been hearing a lot about this place for a number of months. And, as it usually happens with my schedule, and the intricate  formula that is, “it’ll take me X amount of time to get there + my schedule is Y = damn, I’m not going to make it”, I haven’t been able to go. Until now! Ok, let me clarify, I went, but “Y” informed me that I didn’t have a lot of time, so, I got some treats to-go from Queens Comfort in Astoria, Queens.

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Now, this unassuming restaurant always has a healthy wait during brunch, which, is when my schedule allowed me to make it over. So, you know they’re doing something right. I’ve promised myself that I will make it back for a proper sit-down meal, because the menu looks awesome. But, in the meantime, I got my fix with a couple baked goods from their resident baker, dubbed the Donut Diva. And, the name is very fitting, since, she knows how to make a delicious treat. First, I had the cookie of that day (often a different flavor, or rotating flavors, so, check their social media, or, just be a sport, since, it’s probably going to be awesome no matter what flavor it is), which was Snickerdoodle Rolo. I’d like to consider myself somewhat of a cookie connoisseur, I’ve eaten a ton and know what I like, and, well, what I know I’ll be staying away from. This cookie, was legit. Generously sized, it really has the perfect combination that I love of a slightly crisp outside and edges, and a soft, almost under-baked center, making it soft, chewy, and melts in your mouth. The flavors were great, and you get these awesome bites with gooey caramel from the Rolo candies. Even though it’s a cookie, with candy inside, it’s not too sweet, which, makes it all too easy to house the entire thing. But, what are you saving it for anyway?

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Then, I had to get a donut from the Donut Diva (because, what the hell sense would it make if I didn’t?). Now, the donuts are primarily only available on the weekends, which, even though I knew about the brunch lines, I had to go for the donut. And, just like the cookies, there’s likely to be a different flavor each time. So, you just have to be up for the adventure, or, check Instagram to see what’s on tap before you go. When I went, they had Candy Corn Marshmallow. Now, I’m a candy person, so, I love candy corn, but I realize it’s one of those polarizing candies. Luckily for me, it’s all positive. The cake donut itself is also generous in size, and had the candy corn within the donut’s batter itself. The cake is great, it’s a little crisp on the outside, nice and golden, and tastes just like a griddle cake. Then, there was a marshmallow-esc glaze on the outside, giving it a nice delicate compliment to the donut and candy corn. And, one of the best parts is the waste-free zone. I hate waste, and apparently these guys understand, so each donut is complete with its own donut hole on top. Adorable. And, somewhat of a bonus dessert. Again, like the cookie, while the donut looks intense, it’s not overly sweet, also allowing me to stuff the entire thing in my face and not feeling a gross sugar rush. 

The Shorts:
Name: Queens Comfort
Location: 40-09 30th Avenue, Queens
The Long and The Short: Would I go back? Definitely. I mean, I need to go for a meal there, but, even if that’s not in the cards, the donuts and cookies are worth a trip back.
Would I recommend it? Yes. If you’re lucky enough to carve out some time for brunch, get there early and beat the big wait. If not, they’re open for lunch and dinner during the week as well.

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Abigail’s Bakeshop

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Baked goods and I are pretty much best friends. So, when Abigail’s Bakeshop, a new American Bakery, opened up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, I had to check it out. On a block where things all pretty much look the same, this bright, adorably retro shop stands out, calling you to take a step inside. Did you take a step inside? Good, you made the right decision.
Now a brick and mortar home for Jam Jar Bakery, the original company of deliciously precious jars and cakes baked in the jars, you can find all of the jars there for purchase, along with a variety of freshly baked goods, and other treats from local vendors. It’s extremely difficult to just walk away with one thing, so, of course I got a number of goods to try out.

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Let’s talk about this Pecan Bar. Dear lord, thank you. It’s the size of a baby’s head (ok, not the most pleasant comparison, especially when you’re about to eat it, but, you know, for scale), but I still could have eaten a couple in one sitting. It’s buttery, a little flakey, and gooey all at the same time.

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A signature item here is also the Pink Velvet, which comes in a cake-by-the-slice (or full cake) version, as well as full sized and mini cupcakes. Even if cupcakes aren’t your thing, this one is so delightful to even look at, that it’s hard not to be happy eating it too.

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Who doesn’t love Cheesecake? Do they exist? If you’re lactose-intolerant, I’ll give you a pass. These little guys are so cute and equally delicious. The cheesecake itself is rich and creamy, but still light and velvety. Then, the graham cracker crust compliments it perfectly, adding a bit more of that buttery quality, and sweetness. Zero complaints here.

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And then, back to the jar pies. I got the Gimme S’More, a seasonal pie right now, in collaboration with Squish Marshmallows (wink wink). It’s insanely delicious, and makes you want to retire those ridiculous camp fire store-bought s’mores forever. Just hand me a spoon and I’m good to go with this one.

The Shorts:
Name: Abigail’s Bakeshop
Location: 1413 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NYC
The Long and Short: Would I go back? For sure, there are new, freshly baked treats popping up all the time, so there’s loads for me to catch up on.
Would I recommend it? Definitely. Whether it’s just a little treat, or ordering a cake for an event, they’ve got you covered.