Gift certificate for $15 PLUS a plate of one dozen gluten-free freshly baked adorable cookies from The Happy Tart.  (See second image of some cookies.) Located "On the Avenue" in Del Ray, Alexandria, The Happy Tart is adjacent to the farmer's market and public parking lot.

About The Happy Tart!

We have all heard the phrase "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade".  I took this pithy wisdom to heart when I discovered I was gluten intolerant while attending the Professional Pastry Arts program at L'Academie de Cuisine.  Like most people who discover they are gluten intolerant, my first thoughts were for all the pastry treats I would no longer be able to eat. This was doubly difficult while attending culinary school and preparing delectable French Pastries day in and day out.  After a day or two of self pity, I became determined to convert the French Pastries I made at school into gluten free versions.  I have spent the past year researching and baking and tasting and researching again, to come up with gluten free French Pastries.  My dream upon entering culinary school was to open a French Bakery.  I am delighted therefore, to be the owner of The Happy Tart - A gluten free Patisserie.

Emma Cech