Sweet Temptations: Cary’s Bakeshop

This started as a love letter to cheesecake. That light, fluffy slice of glorious souffle cheesecake heaven found at Cary’s Bakeshop — but only when they feel like making it. It’s not a regular menu item, and that rarity makes it special — elusive even — like a unicorn; or an original pressing of that one Prince record with the symbol for a title; or a parking spot in downtown Salem that’s actually within two blocks of your destination.

And, while I’d love to continue on about this particular cheesecake, it seems unfair to use my remaining word count describing something that you can only get by stalking their Instagram. Need a reason to be on Instagram? This is it right here. Way to work that element of mystery, Cary’s, love you.

Instead of cheesecake, I’ll share all the delicious things you CAN get from that tiny red trailer parked outside Office Depot — like flan, pecan tarts, mochi, melon bread, shokupan, cream puffs . . . the list goes on. Or you could get wild and go savory. I highly recommend the hotdog bread. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of these Japanese-style baked goods.

So, here’s to you Cary’s — the bright spot of any Wednesday or Thursday (and as of July 20, 2022, Fridays, too). Thanks for making it impossible for me to ever leave Instagram. Just know, I’m only there for the cheesecake.

Cary’s Bakeshop
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
New Location as of July 20, 2022
The Fussy Duck parking lot
3170 Commercial SE