Neighborhood eatery changes name, focus

Fans of Four Points' Rise and Shine Bakery were treated to a new look when the local eatery reopened Jan. 2 as Hayley Cakes & Cookies.

Owner Hayley Callaway completed an extensive remodel of the 7-year-old bakery she purchased July 2 from founder Michelle Brull. Along with new display cases, Callaway officially changed the name of the business as well as its primary focus—baked goods and catering.

"It was a little rough [taking over the bakery] at first," she said. "People knew Michelle personally."

Callaway said two new baked goods she introduced proved to be the most popular: Brookies ($2.59), a brownie base topped by Oreos and a layer of chocolate-chip cookies; and Carmelitas ($2.59), oatmeal cookies crusted with melted caramel and chocolate chips. She said she also included more detailed cookies and made-to-order baked items.

On the management side, Callaway said she decided to close the shop on Sundays.

"I knew I needed a day off, and the [staff] needed a little relief, too," Callaway said.

She introduced a new menu in January and plans to continue serving coffee, kolaches, muffins, breads and cinnamon rolls in the mornings, she said.

"[The restaurant has] a different feel, a different vibe [now]," she said.

10601 FM 2222, Austin, 512-346-2253, www.hayleycakesandcookies.com