Alexandria Cupcake

Review: Alexandria Cupcake 1022 King Street, Old Town Alexandria

Flavors:  Pumpkin & Red Velvet

Cost: Single $3.00-$3.50,  Mini $1.50/each (when available)

Score: 4

Reviewed by: Ariana Graham of Shopaholic Undercover

Situated in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, in a historic boutique style townhouse, is Alexandria Cupcake. Looking at the architecture, I immediately felt at home. The inside was warm; the walls were covered in chocolate colored paint and there was a bricked fire place. The best part was this huge white lantern hanging from the ceiling overlooking a cute modern style bar table and chairs near this picturesque window. Upon walking in I expected to have a warmer welcome but sadly I did not. The staff seemed unhappy to be there, which was surprising.  

The displays of cupcakes were overwhelming; too amazing to choose just one. I counted about seven different flavors: two types of dark chocolate and vanilla bean, coconut, strawberry and red velvet. They even have specials like rosewater; Alexandria Cupcake’s signature cupcake. It’s made with a rose water glaze topped with fresh raspberry.  Other specials include PB&J, gluten-free and vegan chocolate. When asked, the staff member recommended the pumpkin cupcake; I also tried the red velvet.

While sitting at the table, I was treated to delicious cupcakes and an amazing view of Old Town. Each cupcake was moist and the icing was creamy with just the right amount of sweetness. I gave both cupcakes two thumbs up for taste! 

Overall, I was impressed with Alexandria Cupcake! The inside is charming and they play jazz music in the background.  I give it a four; I would have given it a five if the staff were more inviting.  Also, they only have one table and two chairs which is not ideal for groups. It’s a short ride from King Street Metro on the King Street Trolley (which is free by the way!). I highly recommend Alexandria Cupcake on your next trip to Old Town! 

About Ariana: Ariana is the founder and editor of Shopaholic Undercover; a blog for the budget fashionista! She has a passion for fashion and absolutely loves shopping. Her blog is an outlet where she discusses personal shopping experiences to help others who want to look great but not overspend. Her goal is to show readers how to get the great looks seen in the magazines while getting a great wardrobe on a budgets. Follow her on Facebook  or Twitter @Arishopaholic. 

Review: Bittersweet Cafe

Red Velvet Cupcakes from Bittersweet Cafe

Review: Bittersweet Cafe, 823 King Street Alexandria, VA

Flavors: Red Velvet

Cost:  $1.50 (mini), $2.75 (Regular), $29.50 (Giant- serves 12 people) 

Score: 5

Review by Kristy Samone 

In my experience as a cupcake connoisseur, no matter how fancy the cupcake might look, you can't beat exceptional taste. That's what I've found at Bittersweet. They make a "basic" cupcake taste not-so-basic. With every bite of my moist red velvet cupcake, I tasted high quality ingredients like real butter and the icing...beyond yum...not too sweet but sweet enough. 

Pistachio Cupcakes & Carrot Cake Cupcakes 

Besides the chocolate and vanilla, Bittersweet has a long list of specialty cupcakes from Boston Cream Pie, Black Forest Brownie, Pistachio and PB&J. Plus, the customer service is a-mazing! It feels like that show Cheers where everybody knows your name. The owner, Jody Manor, told me part of Bittersweet's success is due to consistency like its retention of the same staff. Their philosophy is: Happy staff = Happy customers. 

Bittersweet is walking distance from the King St Metro and there is plenty of on-street parking. Another plus: Wifi-a must for bloggers like myself

                                                         

Bakeocracy

Review: Bakeocracy

Location: Alexandria, VA (pick-up or delivery only)

Flavors: Coconut, Lemon and Red Velvet

Price: $20 /dozen

Score: 3.9

As the cupcake craze moves forward and the tummies of Americans grow larger, even professionals are getting in on the action. Enter Bakeocracy, the baking democracy and its owner, Fern Simmons. Fern is a very spirited woman who practices law during the day and bakes yummy cupcakes by night.

(Photo Courtesy of Bakeocracy)

I first heard about Bakeocracy when they reached out to me on Twitter (@DCCupcakeCritic). After several tweets from avid Bakeocracy followers, I too wanted in on the action. According to their website they offer 12 flavors ranging from vanilla to key-lime pie and cinnamon swirl. At $20 per dozen, pick-up is available from their Alexandria location with limited delivery in the DC area (for a small fee).

Bakeocracy Red Velvet (Photo Courtesy of The Cupcake Critic)

On this Saturday afternoon, I would be treated to their coconut, lemon and red velvet flavors. Per usual, it didn’t take long for me to bite into all the cupcake goodness. Due to technical difficulties I tasted the red velvet one first. Let me tell you, it doesn’t get any better than this! The cake was good and the cream cheese frosting was perfect. I almost shed a tear when I got to the last bite.

it flipped over in the box,

Bakeocracy flavors: lemon, coconut & red velvet. (Photo Courtesy of The Cupcake Critic)

Next up were the coconut and lemon. Both cupcakes were smooth with great texture and flavor. My only complaint would be that the frosting had a cream cheese base which gave it a custard-like texture and flavor (think coconut custard or a lemon cream pie). This is simply a matter of personal opinion and in no way would I kick this cupcake off my plate.

Overall I enjoyed these cupcakes and felt my voice was heard- it is good! Cast your ballad and tell me what you think about them.

*Originally published on 12/29/2011