Sugar Fix: Sift Bake Shop

On my most recent trip to Mystic, CT I was dining with one of my best friends at MBAR, the new wine bar owned by the team that runs Saltwater Farm Vineyard in Stonington, CT. Two women sat down at the table next to us and asked how we were enjoying our meal. They both lived locally and had become huge fans of MBAR since its opening over the summer. They strongly encouraged us to return for breakfast and mentioned all of MBAR's breads and pastries come from Sift Bake Shop, a local bakery in downtown Mystic. Since the friend I was dining with is a pastry chef, there was no question we'd make time to find Sift and pop in. 

Sift Bake Shop is located on Water Street, right next to one of my favorite Mystic restaurants, the Oyster Club. Though it was gray and rainy the day we visited, Sift has ample outdoor seating. 

The bakery has floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding the space with natural light. I was mesmerized by the macaron trees decorating the counter. 

Sift's display case is very simple, making the treats the star of the show. 

Behind the counter are windows that allow visitors to see into the bakery's kitchen. Everything is made on site and you can watch the team as they roll, cut, sprinkle and sift. 

When you step into line you can view the daily specials on a blackboard right up front. The board lists the breakfast sandwich of the day, the types of quiche available and the special ingredients in the yogurt parfait. 

At the far left end of the display case is the bread. The roasted garlic and herb focaccia looked gorgeous and I was particularly intrigued by the pumpkin challah. I really wanted to get a loaf and once we drove away I immediately regretted not taking home the pumpkin challah. 

Sift also offers muffins. Their take on the classic blueberry muffin looked extra tasty. 

I am a total sticky bun snob after having them at Flour Bakery, but Sift's version looked like it could be a valiant contender. 

I felt my eyes bug forward when I saw the chocolate croissants. How beautiful are those buttery, flaky, marble beauties? 

Sift has a surprising amount of savory options, including veggie-stuffed croissants.

They also offered sandwiches. Pictured below are the roasted turkey and the chive omelet. 

The prosciutto sandwich looked amazing. I kept thinking I should grab a few sandwiches and invite all our friends to have lunch on my boat. Oh wait. I don't have a boat. 

In the center of the display case are the more elegant, individual desserts. Look at that flame-kissed lemon tart! 

These desserts would be perfect to bring to a friend's house if they are hosting you for dinner. Select a few and then cut them up to share. 

Sift had a few fall-inspired treats, including a pumpkin whoopie pie. It took all of my will power not to order this. 

I also really wanted the reverse chocolate chip cookie. And maybe a giant glass of cold milk to dunk it in. 

Once you've selected your confections, Sift has indoor seating area as well if it's not a day where you can sit outside. You can watch the whole town go by from this perch. 

Since both my friend and I have many pals in our lives who have young children or are expecting, we both seriously considered picking up Sift's adorable onesie which says "Bakers have cute buns." 

If you are visiting Mystic, definitely stop by Sift Bake Shop. You can grab a coffee and a pastry to enjoy outside or pick up a few sandwiches and cookies to have a picnic lunch on the waterfront.