Local bakery chain Little Tart is expanding to a fourth location, according to a recently filed permit. It is planning to go in at 1643 McLendon Ave NE, taking over a space that has been occupied by bridal shop Kelly’s Closet for nearly 24 years.
Sarah O’Brien, originally from Ohio, launched the concept for Little Tart at farmers markets around Atlanta in 2010. She opened the first Little Tart in 2011 at Grant Park in conjunction with Octane Coffee. Since then, she has grown the brand to a Krog Street Market location, which opened in 2014, and a cafe in Summerhill, which opened in 2019. They also frequent Peachtree Road Farmers Market, Freedom Farmers Market, Morningside Farmers Market and Grant Park Farmers Market on the weekends.
“Today, Little Tart is made up of passionate bakers, baristas and counter staff who work diligently every day to make and serve delicious, thoughtfully-produced pastry and coffee,” the Little Tart website states. “From the beginning we have chosen to work with local farmers, jam makers, beekeepers, cheese makers and butchers because we believe local, quality ingredients are what set our food apart. We are always striving to become even better bakers. We love what we do, and hope that comes through in every buttery, flaky bite.”
Little Tart has varying offerings at each of their locations. While each spot offers a full espresso menu, baked goods and pastries, the Grant Park location also offers brunch on the weekends, featuring items like croissant french toast and chicken sausage on homemade biscuits.
As of now, it is unclear if an extended menu will be offered at the new bakeshop. Though an exact opening timeline remains unknown, it appears that Kelly’s Closet plans to leave the space in the fall, according to an Instagram post.
O’Brien also owns soft-serve ice cream shop Big Softie, which has locations in Summerhill and Poncey-Highland.
