Dining out as often as I do, I’ve developed a keen sense of willpower. Often that means foregoing dessert, but the Noshery, a sweet little bakery that opened last summer in Berkeley, has put my determination to the test. Truth is, I can’t resist anything on the menu of sandwiches, soups, salads, and—of course—treats.

Andrea Knight, the owner and pastry chef is the culprit. Honing her expertise at D Bar, Wooden Spoon, the Berkshire, and most recently Whole Foods, the Johnson & Wales grad crafts goodies that entice from the pastry case. As I waited for my flank steak sandwich, I ogled the s’mores-style brownies (pictured) and the lemon meringue and chocolate-caramel-sea salt tarts.

I devoured the sandwich of chimichurri-marinated flank steak tucked into house-made brioche along with roasted peppers, julienned yellow squash, and fresh mozzarella. It was so satisfying, I ate every bite—even with dessert on its way.

I tried each of the tarts and the brownie and although all three were balanced and not overly sweet, I horded every crumb of the chocolate. Its crisp chocolate base was topped with rich caramel, a layer of chocolate ganache, and a sprinkling of sea salt. I did my waistline no favors that lunch but the meal in its entirety was worth every last calorie.

4994 Lowell Blvd., 720-524-3893