While reports of the collapse of the cupcakery market may be greatly exaggerated, we can confirm that Magnolia Bakery has pushed back the opening date for its 3rd Street/Orlando Avenue bakery. It'll likely launch in the first quarter of 2010. As you can see from the photo, there's no sign of any action inside the former dry cleaner's premises.

However, reps are blaming the delay not on the economy but on “general problems associated with opening a new store.” (Read: Permits and paperwork.) And who are we to argue? OK, a competitor, Joan's on Third–purveyor of justly renowned cupcakes–is mere steps away, and Kiss My Bundt is further east, but Magnolia has snapped up a prime spot (unlike the nearby gone-but-not-forgotten Boule, which, frankly, was never going to work on that stretch of La Cienega).

But I disagree with the author of this article in Slate: I think there's room for more growth in the cupcakery market, especially when it comes to one that's featured in one of the most popular TV shows of all time. (If we were cynical we'd say the owners were stretching out the Los Angeles opening to coincide with the Sex and the City sequel, due to be released in spring next year).

After all, isn't comfort food the one thing that's kept us going during these bleak economic times? If I need a pick-me-up, I'm reaching for a $3.50 quick fix, not a $3,500 handbag. And unlike froyo–which surely has reached its expiration date–don't we crave cupcakes year-round, rain or shine?

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.