CHOW HOUND: Something sweet 

While Yuting "Tina" Yuan was studying for a Master's degree in Statistics at Rutgers University, she often found herself distracted when hitting the books. "When I was studying, I was always thinking about baking — it's my true passion," Yuan says. Enter Dragon Sweetie, the bakery Yuan opened in September at 389 Gregory Street in the South Wedge neighborhood.

Yuan came to the United States from China four years ago and has been in Rochester for two. Yuan's vision for Dragon Sweetie is to blend Asian ingredients with traditional French baking. Items like the red bean croissant ($2.50) and a green tea-infused chiffon reflect the melding of cultures. Yuan says the French baguette ($2) is her favorite to make among the more traditional French items available on her menu, including chocolate and almond croissants ($2-$2.50).

Dragon Sweetie serves coffee and tea in the morning — Yuan says she hopes to soon find a local coffee roaster and brew their coffee in her bakery. There is also a small lunch menu consisting of various soups and quiches that rotate on a daily basis (check Dragon Sweetie's website for daily soup and quiche specials). Soups like coconut vegetable, vegetarian hot and sour, and butternut squash are currently in rotation ($2.50-$3.50). Some varieties of quiche available include Quiche Lorraine, spinach and mushroom, meatloaf, and seafood ($4-$4.50 per slice).

Yuan said Dragon Sweetie will soon serve Asian spicy sandwiches like teriyaki chicken, roasted pork with cumin, and tofu.

Dragon Sweetie is located at 389 Gregory Street, and is open Tuesday through Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 489-3016. You can find more online at dragonsweetie.com.

Quick Bites

Three Heads Brewing (3HB), has released Wendigo Winter Ale, its final beer of 2014. The latest offering "honors the English tradition of creating a strong, malty ale for the winter months." The winter ale is now available in 22-ounce bottles and on draft.

Rohrbach Brewing Company has released a limited edition beer to benefit Foodlink. "Givin' Bach" is an American Pale Ale made with New Zealand Hops, and is now available at Rohrbach's, Good Luck, Johnny's Irish Pub, Tap and Mallet, Hogan's Hideaway, and Matthew's East End Grill.

Hot Shots Volleyball (1046 University Avenue) will host a Corona Cares First Friday Beach Party at its indoor beach on December 5. The event includes complimentary light fare, drink specials, door prizes and music. A $5 donation to the Ronald McDonald House is suggested. RSVP at rochesteralist.com.

Openings

ButaPub has opened in the Historic German House (315 Gregory Street) in the South Wedge neighborhood — the restaurant replaced Zeppa Bistro. Chef Asa Mott will serve American interpretations of Asian cuisine favorites, including pork buns and ramen. Visit butapub.com for more information.

Closings

Both of Sugar Mountain Bake Shoppe's locations (Alexander Street and Monroe Avenue) have closed.

Chow Hound is a food and restaurant news column. Do you have a tip? Send it to [email protected].