Sugar & Sage Bakery — Restaurant in University Park

They advertise groups of all sizes welcome, but that's simply not the case in this space. Limited seating, made for groups of 4 or less, even in the back patio area.

The parking is rough, as you're competing with all of the other Inwood businesses for a spot, but that's not the fault of S&S.

It is indeed aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but the taste is just not there... especially for the price point. I did not want coffee, so I tried their matcha and added a flavor shot of strawberry as I read other reviews saying their regular matcha tasted like water. Even with the overly sweet shot it was still disappointing. The pasties looked nice, but they were also lackluster and underwhelming.

The staff looked annoyed and bothered to take our orders. As someone who has worked in the service industry a long time, I know it's not easy and some customers don't make it any easier; however, we were cordial and smiley and tried asking about their day/apologized for adding to the bustling crowd, but that didn't change their disposition. On top of that, I didn't realize they were card only, so when I attempted to pay with cash I was met with condescension. I don't blame them, I'm not looking for much, but damn... for as much as we spent, being treated like that just added to the bland and sour taste in my mouth.

As much as I love small shops like these, I would not recommend this place when there are so many other ones nearby that are so...

I’ve heard rumors about this area but was hoping that wasn’t the case, but apparently the rumors are true. I came into Sugar and Sage today with my partner, both Black, and we were literally ignored. It wasn’t busy, there was one party in front of us in line, and after they ordered, the cashier left the register to do another task but she was still visible to us as we were to her. We stood there and waited for several minutes. Multiple employees walked past us without acknowledging us, no one even said “I’ll be right with you”. Waiting wasn’t the issue, it was evident we were being ignored. I work in the service industry in an high volume environment as a barista, and I know a simple acknowledgment goes a long way. After waiting several minutes with no greeting, no service, no acknowledgment, we decided to leave. Be mindful before spending your money here or in this area in general.

Edit: just want to let anyone who saw the reply below from the owner, I did reach out on March 4th via email and today is the 22nd. Not looking for any handouts whatsoever, as I will never go back. But just making ppl aware that I was...

A most delightful place, indeed! My first visit was as pleasant as a gentle summer’s day, and I can scarce wait to return, perchance with some merry company. Sugar & Sage Bakery is the very ideal of refinement, perfect for romantic rendezvous, small gatherings, the scholar with quill in hand, or the soul who seeks solace with a book. ‘Tis a sanctuary of peace and aesthetic harmony.

The space itself is gorgeous, and the coffee? Exceptional. I enjoyed both an espresso and a brown sugar sage latte, each a joy in its own right. I sat outside on their hidden yet beautiful patio, where I could savor my drink while their carefully chosen playlist set the perfect mood.

Though I didn’t speak much with the staff, as I was ready to order, I found them to be kind and welcoming. I managed a quick glance at the back where the pastries are made, and it looked pristine. The interactions among the staff felt warm and genuine, like people who truly enjoy and take pride in their work.

Next time I visit, I’ll be sure to try one of their pastries, and I’m sure it’ll only add...