View Full Version : Sara Sara Cupcakes



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metro
12-08-2008, 11:42 AM
Okay as you all know, they opened the day of or after Thanksgiving. I made a stop by there last week. Looks like they are still putting some finishing touches on both the interior and exterior. They have artificial turf for a lawn (kind of cool, keeps down on the maintenance and looks good all year long, and conserves water).

Anyhow, the cupcakes are $3.25 each. I tried the bacon, egg and cheese (comes with sour cream and chive frosting) and I also got a classic vanilla with chocolate frosting.

I must say I was wanting to like the bacon egg and cheese one, but it is still missing something, it was too sweet tasting, like it had sugar in it or something. The frosting was pretty good, but they need to work on the flavor of the actual cupcake.

The vanilla with chocolate frosting, was very good after growing on me. The frosting they have nailed down perfectly (could use just a touch more), however the actual cupcake itself was a little dry. After eating it though, it left me wanting more.

They are still a far cry from the other gourmet cupcake places I've had outside the state, but they are the closest thing I've had so far in OKC. I'd give the place about a 7.5 with room for improvement. Hopefully since they are new they will work the kinks out and continue perfecting flavors. I'll definitely be back soon to try some more!!

Sara Sara Cupcakes, gourmet cupcakes in Oklahoma City (http://www.sarasaracupcakes.com/index.html)

kevinpate
12-08-2008, 11:54 AM
3.25 ... for a breakfast cupcake. And one that's apparently lacking from its description.

What is it about a cupcake shape that makes this shot at breakfast more interesting than another all in one offering such as the McGriddle?

mecarr
12-08-2008, 12:27 PM
Anyone try the cupcake shop on 23rd street? I think it's between 23rd and walker and 23rd and classen on the north side. They are very good.

amaesquire
12-08-2008, 01:02 PM
Anyone try the cupcake shop on 23rd street? I think it's between 23rd and walker and 23rd and classen on the north side. They are very good.

Cuppies and Joe I think... Haven't been in there yet. Need to, though. I believe I went to college with the owner(s).

BailJumper
12-08-2008, 04:31 PM
I hope it's better than Hey Cupcake! in Texas. They are the pits.

bravofriendly
12-08-2008, 08:19 PM
I heard today that Cuppies and Joe is supposed to be opening their doors for business (they already do catering) in just a couple weeks. I've had a couple of their cuppies and I'm a big fan...

Cuppies and Joe (http://www.cuppiesandjoe.com/pics)

mecarr
12-08-2008, 09:10 PM
Cuppies and Joe I think... Haven't been in there yet. Need to, though. I believe I went to college with the owner(s).

Yea that's the name. My wife brought home two of their cupcakes and they were quite tastey. However, they need a better sign for their business. I've driven by there every day for a year and just noticed it the other day when someone pointed it out to me.

bluedogok
12-08-2008, 09:57 PM
I hope it's better than Hey Cupcake! in Texas. They are the pits.
What I have had from there has been pretty good. Reps drop off food quite often and it is one of the places that they use. Although, Tiff's Treats (http://www.cookiedelivery.com/austin/) is where most of that stuff comes from especially since they have opened up a North Austin location the delivery fee is much less.

tuck
12-09-2008, 07:52 AM
bluedog, is the Airstream Cupcake Trailer still on South Congress? I have got to get me an Airstream.

metro
12-09-2008, 09:52 AM
Never heard of cuppies and Joe, will have to try it out too. I hope SaraSara makes it. I just hope they continue to improve or our market gets another gourmet shop, similar to ones I've found in San Francisco. mmmmmmmm. Anyhow I snapped this pic when I ate at Sara Sara last week.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3112/3094981775_67bd65e132.jpg?v=0

Platemaker
12-09-2008, 11:27 AM
I've have the Bacon, Egg, and Cheese several times... I'm in love with it. Of course it has sugar in it metro... it's a cupcake not a muffin.

Anyway, I was there the day after they opened and guess who showed up... none other than Candace Nelson... of Sprinkles... I think she nearly gave Toni a heart attack.

Tex
12-09-2008, 11:42 AM
How do you all feel about Sara Sara's price points? They are the exact same price per cupcake and dozen as Sprinkles but Sprinkles is nationally reknown if not world reknown and they have a good reputation. I can't personally speak for the quality of Sara Sara cupcakes and they might as well be worth the Beverly Hills prices but I would have liked to see them priced below $3.25. I would also like to see an 'about' section on the website.

metro
12-09-2008, 12:10 PM
Price point is okay, I wish the cupcakes were "topped" with a crown and not shaved flat even with the cupcake paper, the quality is pretty good, but not as good as some of the chains that I've had. I definitely hope this place makes it though.

OkieHornet
12-09-2008, 12:11 PM
bluedog, is the Airstream Cupcake Trailer still on South Congress? I have got to get me an Airstream.

Taste no Evil Muffins? next to Maria's? it was still there in late september... unreal muffintop ice cream sandwiches... my stomach gets happy just thinking about those!

bluedogok
12-09-2008, 02:19 PM
bluedog, is the Airstream Cupcake Trailer still on South Congress? I have got to get me an Airstream.
I think so, I don't get over on South Congress up that way too much.


Taste no Evil Muffins? next to Maria's? it was still there in late september... unreal muffintop ice cream sandwiches... my stomach gets happy just thinking about those!
Maria's Taco Xpress? That is on South Lamar.

OkieHornet
12-09-2008, 03:49 PM
i think we've had this discussion before about my confusing Congress/Lamar in Austin! i can never keep those straight! but i can keep straight about how great Taste no Evil Muffins are...

tuck
12-09-2008, 03:50 PM
Maria's Taco Xpress? That is on South Lamar.[/QUOTE]

I could eat Maria's every mornng if I had the chance...love that place!!!

metro
12-10-2008, 11:46 AM
GRAND OPENING PARTY

SATURDAY, DEC. 13th from 5-9pm
Live Music
Free Champagne
Free Mini Cupcakes
Milk Moustaches...Etc.

taylor83
12-15-2008, 08:52 AM
I went to Sara Sara this past Sunday. I was really impressed with how the place turned out. Everything, the exterior, the floors, walls, ceiling, and furniture, is all white. And I loved the fake grass out front! They did an amazing job transforming that old, dilapidated house into what it is today. I hope someone has similar plans for the remaining two houses to the east.

I had the "Crimson and Cream" and my friend had the "Count Chocula". Also, I had a frosted glass of super cold milk (~35 degrees) and he had a glass of eggnog. The cupcakes were great! I believe I got the last Crimson & Cream (which is their version of red velvet) and although it was a bit dry, it was still great. I had to give them a pass on this one, since it was the last cupcake and it was just about an hour before they closed. My friend's cupcake was excellent as well. The little roasted marshmallows and bits of cereal on top were a nice touch. Also, I parked on the street out front, but they do have a parking lot behind the store.

Overall, it was a really great experience. The woman at the counter was very nice. I asked her about their recent Grand Opening Party and she said it was a huge success, with about 800 people in attendance.

Lastly, I emailed Cuppies and Joe. They're looking at opening up for business sometime this week, or as soon as the last two inspectors give their stamp of approval.

metro
12-15-2008, 11:00 AM
Taylor, as in my first couple of reviews of the place, been there 2-3 times now at different parts of the day. There cupcakes are on the dry side and crumbly, but still very good. I called the owner of Cuppies and Joe and she said they are hoping before Christmas but will immediately post on their website when they are going to open as soon as they know if that helps you any.

eataroundokc.com
12-15-2008, 01:01 PM
Regarding Cuppies and Joe (http://www.cuppiesandjoe.com). I am friends with the owners. Just got over there today to take a little walk through of the restaurant. The interior is really intriguing. Lots of small rooms, nooks, and areas all warmly and uniquely decorated and painted. Local artwork on the walls (and for sale). They will have free wifi available as well.

Not open yet, but as a few of you have mentioned, it's just a matter of days as they are just waiting on the inspectors.

I'm not a big dessert eater, but I have sampled their cupcakes and they are always very moist and very good. I'm not a coffee drinker either, but they are a full coffee shop and the brand new, beautiful espresso machine is all installed and ready to go. Man, I am truly the worst person to review this place, so I'm looking forward to hearing what you guys think of it once they are open.

I can tell you this -- the family that runs it is over-the-top delightful and I know they are very open to constructive feedback so they would love to hear what you think.

Oh, and also, I think the cuppies are going to be around the $2 price point.

jbrown84
12-15-2008, 04:40 PM
What are their regular hours?

sarakate
12-17-2008, 02:13 AM
i haven't been to sara sara, but i have had cuppies and they are absolutely amazing! not only are they cute but they are so tasty! the owners are so incredibly friendly, and their space is so cozy! the old bungalow, located on 23rd, is so intimate and has such a warm atmosphere; my personal favorite is the "book nook". they do have wi-fi, which as a college student, is music to my ears. they should be opening in the next week or so, and would recommend that everyone go and visit, and be prepared to be impressed :) i know i sure was.

Platemaker
12-17-2008, 10:31 AM
I'm sure they are really great people... just something about the name 'Cuppies and Joe' that bothers me.... 'CUPPIES' c'mon really.... it's like baby talk... "I'd like a cuppie please."

Nope... can't do it LOL

metro
12-17-2008, 10:48 AM
I agree Platemaker, not the best of names IMO either for the same "baby talk" reason.

mecarr
12-17-2008, 11:08 AM
I'm sure they are really great people... just something about the name 'Cuppies and Joe' that bothers me.... 'CUPPIES' c'mon really.... it's like baby talk... "I'd like a cuppie please."

Nope... can't do it LOL

I don't think "cuppie" is baby talk. What about when people refer to Chicago Cubs as the cubbies? Is that baby talk too?

Platemaker
12-17-2008, 11:20 AM
Yes

jbrown84
12-17-2008, 02:15 PM
I had my first Sara Sara Cupcake the other day. Went in around 6 or 6:30 and the place was empty. I really like what they did with the place, with the all white interior, and even the astroturf is fun.

I tried the pumpkin cupcake and it was not dry in the least. It was quite good, although the icing was made with cream cheese which I don't care for. Would have prefered a powdered sugar-based icing. But other than that, it was great. I would go back on occasion, but it's too expensive to be a regular stop.

ISayGoPokes
12-19-2008, 09:14 AM
Cuppies and Joe is opening today, Dec. 19. They will be open today from 2pm-11pm. Their normal hours are Tues-Thurs 11a-8p, Friday-Sat 11a-11p.

metro
12-19-2008, 09:17 AM
Seems like a late opening for a coffee type shop. You'd think they might want to try and pick up some morning business.

BailJumper
12-19-2008, 09:42 AM
I agree, really bad hours for such a place.

waitinonjoe
12-19-2008, 11:17 PM
went to Cuppies and Joe tonight. A+ all the way around, great "cuppie", great "joe" all in a great atmosphere. Owners are so nice, will go back for sure...

John
12-21-2008, 03:24 AM
Biggest avatar EVER!

sweetdaisy
12-21-2008, 06:57 AM
Holy moley! That's an avatar? I kept trying to figure out how the pic related to cuppies. WOW!

AB'smama
12-24-2008, 10:16 AM
I think if you went in and just asked for a cupcake they would understand what you want. I don't think they expect you to order in "baby talk."

AB'smama
12-24-2008, 05:07 PM
I'm sure they are really great people... just something about the name 'Cuppies and Joe' that bothers me.... 'CUPPIES' c'mon really.... it's like baby talk... "I'd like a cuppie please."

Nope... can't do it LOL


Don't use "baby talk" when you go into their shop. Just say, "I would like a cupcake." Does it bother you to call the Chicago Cubs the Cubbies? Didn't keep me from going to one of their games while in Chicago. So don't know why the word CUPPIE would keep you from going into a cupcake shop.

AB'smama
12-25-2008, 03:01 PM
Seems like a late opening for a coffee type shop. You'd think they might want to try and pick up some morning business.

Cuppies and Joe is a dessert cafe that also sells coffee. They are not trying to tap into the AM crowd, assuming most people will not want a cupcake for breakfast.

smacketyanne
12-28-2008, 01:23 PM
I agree. I went to "Cuppies" yesterday and had a cupcake and coffee. Cute place, really liked it, everyone was great. Loved the coffee, not big on cupcakes but it was good. I think their hours will draw the crowd they are looking for.

metro
12-29-2008, 09:20 AM
can we keep the "cuppies" reviews in the actual cuppies thread? I think there is more in this thread than the actual c&j thread.

warreng88
01-20-2009, 08:46 AM
I went by this morning and picked up a cupcake for breakfast. I was not exactly sure of their hours but they were open (they open at 7:30am on weekdays.) I spoke with Lindsey and told her I had never been there before. She asked if I liked Key Lime Pie, I said of course so she got me one. I asked if they take debit cards and she said they do but they are currently having issues with it. She offered me the cupcake without cost because of the problems (which was really nice), but I told her I had some extra cash in the car so I went and got it and paid her.

I then asked her about the homes next door and if they were going to improved as well. She said she heard the one right next door, which is approximately the same size, will be turned into some sort of retail. She said the one next to that and next to the train tracks is supposed to be some kind of bar. She also told be that the areas above Sarasara and the home next door are to become apartments for rent.

JakeZula
01-22-2009, 10:27 AM
My coworkers and I decided to give Sara Sara a try yesterday. The building is very nice and attractive, but we were all thoroughly unimpressed with the cupcakes. In fact, we think the cappuccino cupcake was responsible for giving one of my coworkers some digestive trouble. They were pretty dense and a bit on the dry side. The frosting was heavy and oily; not at all what I had in mind. For the price, I expected them to be much better; I would have preferred a sickeningly sweet cupcake to the bland cupcakes we got. I agree with the above poster who said they should have a "crown" of toppings... they weren't even all that attractive.

We will give Cuppies and Joe a try soon. Even if they're just as mediocre, the difference in price will make up for a lot (even though I think "cuppie" sounds ridiculous).

Stinger
01-22-2009, 10:51 AM
They were pretty dense and a bit on the dry side. The frosting was heavy and oily; not at all what I had in mind.

My thoughts exactly. You can definitely find better cupcakes at places like Saturn Grill.

SavageDigital
01-28-2009, 06:03 PM
My thoughts exactly. You can definitely find better cupcakes at places like Saturn Grill.

I felt that their cupcakes (and modern decor) were more "refined" than some other offerings; but they're also much more rich, expensive, and not very inviting. I personally enjoyed the rich buttercream frosting with my "cappuccino" cupcake, but found the actual cake to be a tad crumbly. The one thing that made me stop by Sara Sara was their savory breakfast cupcake. It was very pleasant the cake was sweet and provided a unique balance for the other ingredients (but still a little dry).

My criticism of their take on the emerging cupcake market is two fold:

It's a sterile environment - I didn't feel "comfy" eating there (I would drink a martini if offered though).
The brewed coffee is nearly twice the price of similar establishments and not of the same refined quality they're reaching for in other products (didn't finish my cup).


...if I really wanted to impress someone, a client perhaps, with a cupcake - I'd buy from Sara Sara. But for my own satisfaction, I'll likely look elsewhere for my fix (and a better cup of coffee).

metro
01-29-2009, 11:33 AM
SavageDigital, just curious, but have you been to other upscale gourmet cupcake places in California, NY or elsewhere? Most are the minimalist "sterile" environment you speak of. They are meant to be more high end boutique and minimalist works of art. If you want coffee, go to a coffee house, not a cupcake shop. Personally I love it. Cuppies & Joe was meant to feel more like a coffeehouse and the cupcakes aspect seem to be more of an afterthought. Try going to Kara's in San Fran! "Sterile" environment and the cupcakes will blow you away! Far better than anything I've tried locally.

http://www.karascupcakes.com/

Anyhow I stopped by again last night with a buddy. It's probably my 4-5th time now. I tried the judge joe cannon. it was okay, but in all fairness, I don't really like bananas very well and was too banana tasting for my taste. I took a key lime pie one home to the wife and she loved it. My favorite is still chocolate with chocolate frosting or vanilla with chocolate frosting. The Count Rockula comes in close second. The cherry is not bad either and is nice and moister than most of their flavors. I tried the milk bar for the first time last night. It was very nice. You get your own frosted glass out of their freezer and then pick your choice of milk from the super ice cold milk bar. I also noticed last night they have a new product, candles that are scented like the flavors of some of their cupcakes.

andimthomas
01-30-2009, 09:44 PM
Wow, Kara's Cupcakes has a pretty interesting setup. Hopefully I'm going to San Francisco next year. I'd like to try a cupcake that's worth four dollars.

danielf1935
02-01-2009, 02:00 PM
Just my opinion, I would rather not pay 4 dollars for a 2 dollar cupcake!!!!!

metro
02-02-2009, 09:56 AM
Just my opinion, I would rather not pay 4 dollars for a 2 dollar cupcake!!!!!

You would if you ever visit Kara's, it's definitely worth the $4. Now Cuppies & Joe is a $1 or $2 cupcake and tastes like something I could make myself.

bravofriendly
02-06-2009, 01:15 AM
I had the same trouble with dry and crumbly cupcakes here - both the capuccino & savory breakfast. The Roman Holiday cupcake at Cuppies blows this one out of the water.

BUT I was there on a Tuesday and their strawberry cupcake is AMAZING and I don't generally like strawberry-flavored cake at all. The cake was moist and delicious and the frosting is a perfect combination of sweet with a hint of tartness. I ordered milk and didn't realize how expensive the "milk bar" was. It was the frostiest glass of cold milk goodness that I've ever had. I'm glad I ordered before I knew the price since I did enjoy it that much but would never pay that again for a glass of milk.

I enjoyed the "sterile" atmostphere as something unique in this area. It definitely feels clean. I wasn't terribly impressed with the friendliness of the staff. The cashier clerk was nice enough but someone who seemed to be manager/owner type status was nearly rude in his refusal to return a smile.

Bottom line for me:
strawberry cupcakes to-go at Sara-Sara
any cupcakes, coffee and a sit-down at Cuppies (that's for all you who love the baby-talk :-)

danielf1935
02-06-2009, 09:09 AM
Metro, I went to Sara-Sara on their opening day, cupcake was good, but not worth the $$$$. Of course, that's my opinion, and everyone has one.

DarrellM
02-12-2009, 09:33 PM
i think these guys have it figured out. i have been 2 or 3 time and it gets better every time. last week we tried the pineapple upside down and the destin. very good. i found them to be very tasty and super moist. i took a dozen to work and they were gone in 10 minutes. people loved them!

taylor83
02-13-2009, 12:44 PM
Bottom line for me:
strawberry cupcakes to-go at Sara-Sara
any cupcakes, coffee and a sit-down at Cuppies (that's for all you who love the baby-talk :-)

I have to second this. My second time to SaraSara I had the Strawberry Shortcake cupcake and it was phenomenal. But for similar reasons to those stated above, I would rather go to C & J.

MrBojangles
02-18-2009, 11:35 PM
Sara's cupcake was awesome, but frosting was so so. C&J frosting was really good.

SavageDigital
02-20-2009, 04:45 PM
I have to second this. My second time to SaraSara I had the Strawberry Shortcake cupcake and it was phenomenal. But for similar reasons to those stated above, I would rather go to C & J.

Based on your good review of the Strawberry Shortcake cupcake, I went by and had one. For some reason, the frosting was very "gummy" and not at all appealing. But the blueberry I picked up at the same time was moist and delicious - very rich (the texture of their breakfast cupcake was still crummy).

rbayless
02-22-2009, 07:04 AM
My wife bought me a few cupcakes from SaraSara's Cupcakes for V-Day. She got me the coconut cream, key lime, peanut butter, and the Crimson and Cream. My favorite was the coconut cream by far as it was very tasty, moist and had a perfect amount of frosting. The others had good taste, but were not as near as moist. I have seen/heard a few others talk about the dryness level of their cupcakes so I am wondering what is going on..

BailJumper
05-06-2009, 07:47 AM
Drove past yesterday and saw a sign out front that said "Sno Cones" - Snow Cones? What next, concession stand nachos and candy bars? Not a good sign.

metro
05-06-2009, 09:21 AM
Yeah, confirmed. I saw the snowcones when I was in there the other day and asked what's up with that. She said here they are, did you want to get one? I agree, totally weird combination. If anything, I'd like to see them offer some brunch type food.

ImTheDude
05-06-2009, 01:05 PM
What about cotton candy?

How much does a snow cone cost there?

metro
05-06-2009, 01:39 PM
Don't know, I only go for the cupcakes.

betts
09-15-2009, 08:58 PM
The cupcakes at Sara Sara have improved tremendously. I thought it would be tacky to ask the owner if she'd gotten any negative feedback, but I recently bought about 5 different varieties and they were all superb. They were all far more moist and flavorful than I remember them being when the store opened. So, if someone had a less than stellar experience early on, I would encourage you to try again.

MadMonk
09-15-2009, 11:31 PM
I've tried them on three separate occasions within the last two months and although I like the creativity of their cupcakes, I have to give them mixed reviews. I've had the coconut, chocolate/chocolate icing, the count chocula, the one with the snickers pieces on it, pineapple, and strawberry.

Best (all were moist and delicious):
Coconut - my wife's favorite
Pineapple - my favorite
Strawberry


Not so good:
"Snickers" cupcake
Chocolate/chocolate icing
Count Chocula

I found all of these to be way too dense and not that tasty. I don't know why, but maybe these were not as fresh as the others. My wife and I typically split them and we didn't finish either half on these selections. Even my kids didn't care for them and that's saying something - especially on the chocolate ones.