SweetHoney puts a trendy spin on traditional Cantonese desserts
May 5, 2019
Nestled between Creamistry and an abandoned suite around the outside ring of buildings of Cupertino Village is SweetHoney, a trendy Cantonese dessert cafe. The playlist of the cafe consists of American and Asian pop songs, which create a friendly ambiance.
Geometric patterns, such as pink stripes and beige hexagons, cover the brightly-colored walls. Scattered around the room are polished white tables surrounded by minimalistic white leather chairs.
Contrary to what one may think, SweetHoney is a sit-down cafe. When guests enter, a waiter, decked in a white apron, immediately brings them to a table and sets down some menus. The menus are full of traditional yet modern Cantonese desserts, such as different flavored puddings, ice cream, fruit dishes and glutinous rice balls. Upon being seated, customers are given complimentary cups of fragrant floral tea.
The watermelon sago is refreshingly delicate and costs $5.45. Sago is similar to tiny tapioca pearls, except clear and less chewy. Balls of sago and two slices of fresh watermelon swim in a pool of watermelon juice. Since it is easier to finish without feeling too full, this dessert is considerably lighter than others served at SweetHoney.
On the other hand, the red bean soup with glutinous rice balls is a traditional hot dessert that fills one up for $5.95. The balls in the soup are chewy and gooey from the black sesame filling on the inside. Upon biting into it, the filling gushes out, smothering the taste buds with a slight sweet and aromatic flavor. Although the glutinous rice balls are not too sweet, the red bean soup provides more flavor to the dish.
The mango tofu pudding perfectly exemplifies the medley of classic and modern flavors of SweetHoney. On top of the bowl is a puddle of delightfully tangy mango and pomelo juice. The tart juice pairs well with the silky traditional tofu pudding that sits underneath. At $6.45, this is one of the pricier desserts offered.
Overall, SweetHoney is a haven for lovers of Asian dessert by serving traditional dishes with a trendy flair.