Crush, Kill, Cafe!

Crushcakes has quickly become synonymous with cupcakes in Santa Barbara since its recent opening at the forefront of the frosted treat craze. It didn’t take long for owner Shannon Feld, who formerly operated Bitterman’s Deli, to capitalize on her success and expand her brand to include Crushcafe (1315 Anacapa St., 963-3752).

The new breakfast and lunch spot opened in mid October and is connected by a short corridor to the bakery. Its symbol, a quickly sketched crossed fork and knife motif, mimics the whimsical cupcake stamp that represents Crushcakes. The cozy dining area provides a relaxing venue with a tiny fireplace and free Wi-Fi access to enjoy the fresh baked treats just out of the oven. Scratch made muffins, vanilla cinnamon waffles, warm bread pudding, and whole grain bread are served immediately out of the kitchen. A light and fluffy breakfast burrito wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla is served with tiny waffled grill marks from a perfectly timed press and a fresh fruit salad. Warm bread pudding, spice-infused maple syrup, and the “first quiche” (quiche of the day) are among the selection of breakfast items that can be ordered to accompany a cinnamon honey latte or organic hot tea.

Lunch items include grilled paninis, cold sandwiches, warming soup of the day, and oozing whole wheat quesadillas.