One should be picky when it comes to treating yourself. If you’re going to do it, do it right. Los Angeles is filled with thousands of bakeries, cafés, patisseries and restaurants but there are only a few places I go when I want to seriously satisfy my sweet tooth. I’m a west-sider, so I admit my choices are much more biased towards that part of town but there are still a few that made the cut, despite the longer commute & a couple more that have multiple locations throughout L.A.
If you’re in Los Angeles, take your tongue on a culinary adventure and knock these off your to-do list.
Parq at Montage Hotel | Beverly Hills
Known for their scrumptious afternoon tea, champagne (if you’re feeling frisky) and a gorgeous tri-level tower of sweet and savory treats created by Executive Pastry Chef Julie Jangali. Perfect for a fancy girls day on the town. Just be prepared to spend a pretty penny on this afternoon outing.
This new LA sweet spot had me sold at blueberry bourbon basil glazed donut. I don’t think I need say much more.
Gjusta has a mouthwatering menu and a chill Venice vibe. Just don’t be surprised if you’re not the only one venturing to Gjusta on a casual afternoon.
Flake, the unsuspecting hot spot for breakfast, brunch and a bit of that homemade happiness. Come enjoy a brimming bowl of Açai and fresh fruit or some of their freshly baked desserts. A great place for casual brunching and catching up with friends.
Yes, they have sweet teas and yummy desserts but nothing compares to their macaroon ice cream sandwiches. To-Die-For!
Because no one said you can’t eat a jar of cookie butter with a spoon in your car. What?
Chaumont Bakery & Cafe | Beverly Hills
More than just food, Chaumont creates a work of art with each hand crafted dessert. You’re in for a treat here…literally.
Nespresso Boutique Bar | Beverly Hills
A busy cafe in the heart of Beverly Hills serving the best in everything. Great for meeting friends, clients or people watching.
This is one of the best spots in L.A. for dining, desserts and libations. Watch the chefs at work with an open-air concept kitchen and chic, New York dining hall style design. Take my advice, you’ll be sorry if you don’t treat yourself to the patisserie before you go.
True Foods Kitchen | Santa Monica
I’m a big fan of True Foods Kitchen. The bison burger, the sides, desserts and the fresh juice concoctions- they all have me constantly fantasizing about going back again. A place like this reminds you how delicious real food is. **This is a very gluten-free/vegan friendly restaurant without compromising taste or quality.
French provence based cuisine for those that prefer some savory with your sweet.
Intelligentsia Coffee | Venice
Your typical Venice coffee spot hangout. A trendier vibe with a more limited menu than other cafes listed here.
La Pain Quotidien | Los Angeles
Whether you’ve got a hankering for breakfast, lunch or dessert, they’ve got you covered. When I’m not giving into the temptations of freshly baked snickerdoodles or strawberry chocolate galettes, I opt for a healthier version of an afternoon dessert by ordering their fruit and nut oatmeal with a drizzle of honey and a pot of tea.
Sometimes a girls’ just gotta get her buzz on and we’d rather drink up our calories than chomp ’em down. You don’t have to feel the least bit ashamed to enjoy a 4pm apéritif in this moodly vodka lounge and restaurant.
Enjoy a cold brew on the patio and soak up the sun. It’s a chill spot to meet with friends and catch up or bring a laptop and lounge.