There's a new Ukrainian bakery and cafe in town! Specializing in European delicacies, Sweet & Tasty, has recently opened on E. Market Street, downtown.
This delightful cafe is family owned and operated by Nataliia Kyryliuk along with her son, daughter and cousin. In the midst of the war with Russia, Nataliia and her family made the move from their home to Harrisonburg. After relocating, Nataliia began working at an international food store where the opportunity to start her own business became a reality; and after receiving a $10,000 grant from the city of Harrisonburg this authentic European cafe made its downtown debut!
In the short time they have been open, Sweet & Tasty has already become well-loved in our community and if you haven't been into the cafe yet, this is your sign to go! We recently had the pleasure of talking with Nataliia and her daughter about their new venture and enjoyed some (indeed!) sweet & tasty treats.
Read on for our Q&A with Nataliia and a look at this beautiful and inviting cafe!
Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself and when/how Sweet & Tasty came to be?
A: We came from Ukraine almost 2 years ago, and the very idea of creating our own business appeared a year ago, but we still needed to raise funds for the purchase of everything necessary. We don't speak English well, but we try to learn and speak a little bit; because of this we constantly had difficulties with the execution of various documents and with the passage of commissions. Therefore, we are very grateful to all our friends, relatives and loved ones for their help.
Q: It’s so cool that the cafe is a family venture! How is it getting to work with your son, daughter and cousin? Do you all have different responsibilities or just help each other wherever it’s needed?
A: Sweet & Tasty is a family business, so we have no problems, we share responsibilities and replace each other when necessary.
Q: What are your favorite and/or best selling items?
A: Our menu has a lot of sweets, but we also have (savory cooked-to-order menu items) that we prepare ourselves. We wanted to share these flavors with everyone, and we're very happy that people like it. Therefore, it is very difficult to single out something, it all depends on preferences and favorite tastes.
Q: It’s so wonderful that you were given a grant to make this dream possible! Can you tell us a little bit about how that happened?
A: We found out about the grant at the stage of searching for rented premises, and we were very glad that in our place there are such wonderful organizations that help and support small businesses in their dreams of starting their own business. So we are very grateful for this opportunity.
Q: What is your hope for the cafe’s impact on our community?
A: We hope that people will continue to come to us and taste new flavors, and we, in turn, constantly add something new, improve and are happy when we see satisfied customers.
Whether you're looking for an assortment of pastries, a delicious latte pick-me-up or an authentic and savory European lunch, there's always a reason to enjoy a Sweet & Tasty.
Address: 66 E Market St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone: 540-607-6417
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00am-8:00pm | Sunday 2:00pm-7:00pm
Stay connected with Sweet & Tasty online >>> Facebook | Instagram
Stop in to see Nataliia and her family, and try their delicious assortment of authentic European pastries and cakes, or hot menu items, along with a variety of drinks—including coffee, tea, specialty drinks and milkshakes!
