Clothing, Art... and Empanadas

There are fruits and vegetables, sweets and breads at the farmer's market in Nyack. But what to do if you're searching for something different, something savory?

Marika's Sweet and Savory is new to the market, and likely has you covered. You can find fresh baked empanadas, puff pastries, quiches and more. And although it is recommended to heat the empanadas, you can eat them as is while wandering around the rest of the market.

If you want something sweet, Marika's has scones, cupcakes, pastries and muffins. Behind the name of each item is a list of the ingredients—and not a single one is an additive or preservative. Everything is made with all natural, high-quality materials.

The history

About four years ago, Marika and Lewis Hahn decided they wanted to try something new. They already had an online children's clothing store, but being high-end during the economic turmoil meant declining sales.

"My husband and I both love cooking," Marika Hahn explained. "Friends would always marvel at the delicate pastries I would make." And so Marika's was born.

Before selling at farmers' markets, Hahn made cupcake trees for weddings and other events. From there, she moved on to the , close to where she lives. The Hahns quickly obtained licensing and got everything in order to get things started.

They decided to join the community at Nyack's farmers' market this year.

"Markets usually have sweets—we thought we could bring something else with our empanadas and puff pastries," Hahn said. "The empanadas sell the best. When people ask which do I recommend, I say try a different one each week. It's too hard to choose."

By 1 p.m. on a recent Thursday, the empanada cases were nearing empty. Only one bean and cheese empanada remained (until I bought it). The filling had a bit of a kick, with a satisfying taste. The beef empanada had a soft texture consisting of peppers, onions, and perfectly minced beef. The glazed crust was flaky and buttery, and it's flavor complimented the filling.

The different sweets looked spectacular and carefully crafted. The cranberry scone melts in your mouth. It is sweet but not too sweet with real cranberry splotched throughout. The outside is slightly crisp while the inside is soft and delicate, an excellent combination.

Marika Hahn isn't only a clothing designer and baker, but also an artist. She has illustrated many books and done work for publications like Cosmopolitan and the New York Times.

"[Making pastries] is perfect. I can do it during the day and my art in the evenings. It balances well. I get to do a little of everything," Hahn said.

Next time you are preparing for a party, think of Marika's Sweet and Savory. They cater regular size and miniature empanadas, along with many other savor dishes. The red velvet, white velvet, chocolate ganache and boston creme cupcakes are enough to keep your guests drooling until dessert.