By Emily Beggerow

Every Richmond local has at least heard of the iconic bakery Shyndigz. Located at 1912 West Cary Street in the heart of the Fan, this Richmond-famous bakery has built its legacy by consistently delivering decadent desserts and unforgettable experiences.

A spin on your typical coffee bar. Photo credit: Emily Beggerow.

After many years away, I finally visited again, choosing a sunny Sunday afternoon. A bubble machine greeted me at the doorway with a lively touch that elevated the scene. Just inside, a small coffee bar tucked into a restored van immediately caught my eye: a charming, unexpected touch. The shop’s atmosphere felt instantly warm and homey, with vines and twinkling lights draped overhead. As I wandered deeper inside, I was met with a long glass display case filled to the brim with more treats than I could have imagined.

Choosing what desserts to try was no easy task; the menu ranged from countless cake and cookie flavors to s’mores bars and rice krispies. While it is tempting to want to order the entire menu, I’d recommend bringing a loaded wallet, since many of the treats start around $7.99 per slice. In the end, I settled on slices of Short Fresh Fruit Cake and Short Spotted Cow Cake; a chocolate chip cookie, a peanut butter cookie, and, of course, a swamp bar. The variety was impressive, with options ranging from sweet to savory, and there are even several gluten-free choices for those with dietary restrictions.

Beautifully packaged treats. Photo credit: Emily Beggerow.

I called a few friends to taste test these large desserts. We began our tasting with the classic chocolate chip cookie. According to Taylor Mosby (‘26), the cookie “tastes slightly undercooked, but it’s still good.” The chocolate chip cookie is highly recommended for those who appreciate a more chewy consistency, as it almost resembled the texture of cookie dough. Each cookie is generously filled with chocolate chips and finished with a light sprinkling of salt, which enhances the overall flavor profile. The chocolate chip cookie is a dependable favorite that always delivers.  

Our tasting was followed by the sampling of the peanut butter cookie. Prior to tasting, the group expressed limited enthusiasm for peanut butter as a flavor, resulting in modest expectations for this treat. After the first bite, Mosby noted that the cookie was “way too dry” and added, “I just don’t like things that are flavored peanut butter, though,” indicating that her feedback was influenced by her personal preference rather than the quality of the cookie. This cookie may appeal to those who appreciate bold, pronounced flavors, while individuals seeking a more conventional option may prefer a selection that is widely trusted, like the chocolate chip cookie. 

The entire group approached the Rice Krispy treat with high expectations. The substantial size, about the size of my hand, added to the anticipation and excitement. However spirits were crushed after an underwhelming first bite: “It is underly average, and it’s kind of soggy.” reflected future Dartmouth men’s swimming prodigy JD Chen (‘26). 

Regarding the swamp bar, Sam McGrath (‘26) shared, “you get the gooeyness, you get the smoothness, and you get the crunchiness,” highlighting the dessert’s multi-layered texture. According to the menu, the swamp bar is described as “a peanut butter chip brownie topped with a layer of marshmallow and finished with a layer of peanut butter chocolate Rice Krispy.” Its balanced profile encouraged multiple tasters to return for additional servings; however, those that do not prefer a nutty flavor may wish to keep their distance. 

Endless dessert possibilities right before your eyes. Photo credit: Shyndigz Bakery.

Shyndigz is perhaps best known for their decadent and delicious cakes. The first cake sampled was the Short Fresh Fruit Cake, a light vanilla cake paired with simple cream cheese icing and filled with fresh fruit. While many adults I know rave about this cake, the reception among younger tasters was more varied. Despite a preference for vanilla cakes, I found the combination of flavors, particularly the kiwi and pineapple, to be overly advanced for my taste buds. Chen remarked, “I think the fruit tastes good, but the cake doesn’t.” This cake exemplifies a polarizing flavor profile; it tends to be adored by some while leaving others unconvinced. Mosby and McGrath agreed: “I think it balances well.” It is a type of cake that you’ll either love or hate, depending on your personal palate. 

The final piece of cake evaluated was the Short Spotted Cow Cake, a moist chocolate cake paired with the same cream cheese icing used in the Short Fresh Fruit Cake. Despite my usual preference for vanilla, I found Shyndigz’s chocolate cake more tasty, though I was less fond of the cream cheese icing. Chen valued this combo, however: “The balance of chocolate and buttercream makes it the perfect treat.” Similarly, McGrath emphasized its excellence, stating, “While it is a basic, it never misses.” 

Shyndigz offers a variety of other beloved treats. Mosby noted, “I like the key lime pie the best,” highlighting another population option. Another recommendation from McGrath, who had visited Shyndigz the day prior: “You should have gotten the chocolate sea salt; that’s like the best one.”

A thrilling and enchanting gift shop. Photo credit: Emily Beggerow.

The store itself offers an experience that can easily occupy visitors for hours. A gift shop sells a variety of items, including trinkets, cups, toys, and even clothing. Seating is available both inside and outside, allowing a comfortable visit regardless of preference. The atmosphere is lively yet not overwhelming; during my visit at approximately 3:00 pm, other customers were present, but the space remained calm and welcoming. The store is open every day except Monday, with regular hours from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and extended hours on the weekends, closing at 11 p.m. Shyndigzs is an ideal destination for friends or family seeking a midday pick-me-up or an evening treat. The ambiance is vibrant, and the offerings are consistently enjoyable. They regularly feature specials and a “Pie of The Week” on their instagram as well. 

The local brand, owned by Byron and Nicole Jessee, has expanded into three locations since opening in June 2010. At 1912 West Cary, their baked goods are sold alongside a specialty grocery. Directly across the street, at 1903 West Cary, the products are prepared in house, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to homemade quality. Their restaurant, The Fancy Biscuit, is located at 1831 West Cary Street. In addition to these locations, the company has recently opened two highly regarded Airbnb properties, Suite 1 and Suite 2, further expanding their presence within the city.