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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Casual Pastry in California

A pastry that feels like a genuine morning treat instead of a mass-produced sugar rush.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pepino Eatery & Bakeshop image 1
Pepino Eatery & Bakeshop image 2
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Casual, stylish space blends Peruvian-inspired decor with sunny patio and pet-friendly outdoor seating. Warm, welcoming vibe feels homey and family-oriented with easygoing energy. Crowd enjoys unique, flavorful breakfast and lunch offerings alongside curated wine and beer selections.

A casual vibe fills the space with a hip and welcoming feel. Staff act like family, and the interior is beautiful yet relaxed, with a sunny patio outside.

Homemade pastries stand out with intentional flavors and fresh quality. Pastries pair well with coffee and fresh squeezed juice for a solid breakfast choice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and some of the best I've eaten."

"The food here is fresh, thoughtful, and chef-inspired."

"The pastries here are fresh and mouthwatering."

Good to know

1

Pepino stays open from 8am to 4pm, which is rare for a bakery and eatery in San Diego.

2

There was plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

3

Pricing at Pepino is very reasonable for everything they offer.

02
Saint James French Diner image 1

Stylish French-inspired restaurant with a cozy ambiance and classy decor reminiscent of a Montmartre café. Brightly lit bar features a stacked bottle display creating a cool vibe. Rooftop lounge offers a breathtaking city view, enhancing the overall experience.

A classy and casual Parisian bistro vibe blends well with great food and a chic atmosphere. It suits both casual dining and relaxed drinks, making it easy to enjoy a laid-back evening.

Homemade puff pastry tops the French onion soup, adding a unique twist to the classic dish. Desserts feature wonderful pastry work that stands out for its quality and flavor.

People are saying

"I found the Parisienne burger to be the best burger I ever had."

"The homemade puff pastry in the French onion soup is wonderful."

"The Moules Frites and Steak Frites are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Weekday happy hour from 3 to 6 offers burgers at half off, making it an incredible deal.

2

Happy hour runs Wednesday through Sunday from 3-6, with $10 burgers on Thursdays.

3

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

03
Café Telegrama image 1

Spacious cafe with bright, airy design featuring polished concrete floors and exposed steel girders. Outdoor seating includes a large dog-friendly patio with heaters and shade. Atmosphere feels laid back and trendy, attracting a stylish crowd seeking both comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Bright, airy space creates an effortlessly chic vibe like a Hollywood casual cafe. The atmosphere stays tranquil and unrushed, making it feel laid-back yet stylish.

Pastries come from friends and family up the street and include a berry and cream puff that is flaky and not too sweet. The pastry menu is limited but the items are good and cookies are made in-house.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good and tasty."

"I found the pancakes here to be some of the finest."

"The pastry here is good and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

This place is card only.

2

Valet parking is available for $5 with validation.

3

Parking can be difficult; consider street parking or visiting on Sundays when meters are off.

04
Sandcouch Cafe image 1

Cafe offers bright, open space with huge windows and varied seating options, including window seats with outlets. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with smooth background music and a chic, sparse decor. It attracts people for casual meetings and working on laptops but can feel hectic at times.

Cozy and welcoming atmosphere suits casual friendly meetings. Offers quick bites and casual meals with friends.

Endless pastry options include croissants and bagels. Everything looks pretty and tastes incredible.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious, with generous portions and endless pastry options."

"The pastries here are pretty and delicious."

"It's a cozy and welcoming spot for casual meetings."

Good to know

1

The café is not open past 6pm.

2

The restrooms are for customers only.

3

Expect to wait for service during busy hours.

05
Emmi's Restaurant image 1

Bright interior with large storefront windows and vintage hanging lights creates a casual, warm atmosphere. Seating is plentiful inside and outside, supporting a lively, hometown vibe where people know each other. Pay-at-counter setup combines with self-serve water and utensils for a straightforward dining experience.

The setting feels casual with a warm and friendly vibe. It suits a relaxed breakfast atmosphere.

Offers a varied selection of pastries alongside excellent sandwiches. Serves well for coffee and pastries with kids during breakfast or lunch.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast burrito; it was tasty and a good portion."

"The smashburger food here has quality patties and flawless tater tots."

"I love grabbing a coffee and pastry here."

Good to know

1

Emmi's is a pay-at-the-counter type of place where you pay first.

2

Breakfast and lunch are available with a variety of menu items.

3

There are plenty of public parking spaces around the restaurant.

06
Hong Kong Dim Sum House image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Small mom-and-pop dim sum restaurant with about six tables creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Space feels compact and lively, encouraging quick dining and suited for pairs or small groups. Offers self-serve tea and features picture menus with freshly cooked, high-quality dim sum.

Small, family-run spot with a cozy mom & pop vibe. Offers fresh, quality dim sum in a casual setting.

Pastries come in small, tasty portions like the pineapple pastry. Many dimsum pastries sit in the display case, with picture menus on the wall to guide choices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The dim sum pastries here are made in-house and are delicious."

"It's a great casual spot for delicious, fresh, quality dim sum."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is extremely small, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Expect long lines during weekends and holidays, especially around peak hours.

3

Every dim sum dish costs between $6 to $10, perfect for sharing.

07
Nahita Bakery image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Spacious indoor setting blends European and Anatolian styles with a calm, warm atmosphere that stays quiet even when full. Guests enjoy unlimited Turkish tea served in classic tulip glasses alongside authentic Turkish dishes like borek and baklava. Games and a mini library add a relaxed, informal vibe suitable for lingering and chatting.

Cozy atmosphere sets a relaxed tone for casual breakfast. The vibe stays simple and comfortable throughout.

Savory pastries like cheese-filled Bureks and water Burek stand out for their freshness and flavor. Traditional options such as Simit and baklava offer a tasty mix of ethnic and classic treats.

People are saying

"This breakfast spread had a generous variety of pastries and flavorful condiments."

"The pastries here are amazing, super tasty, and fresh."

"The casual breakfast spread had a wide variety of pastries and condiments."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekend mornings due to high popularity.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a table.

3

All meat served is halal, catering to specific dietary needs.

08
esme image 1
Restaurant

Cozy space with minimalist design and intimate atmosphere offers a quiet setting for dining. The vibe blends stylish decor with a sense of community, featuring fresh, organic food and eclectic flavors. Lighting and music create a pleasant mood, making it suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

A mix of casual vibe and fine dining level food makes it a solid spot for a relaxed breakfast or a cozy date night.

Pastries come from a local bakery and pair well with coffee or tea. They offer a variety alongside drinks and food options.

People are saying

"The dinner dishes here are beautiful and delicious."

"The food here is so tasty and prepared with so much care."

"I enjoyed the pastries and interesting drinks here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The café does not offer coffee to go, only dine-in service.

3

Expect larger protein portions than average for the price.

09
JJ Bakery & Cafe - Temple City image 1

Classic Chinese-American bakery layout creates a casual and cozy atmosphere filled with the smell of freshly baked goods. Affordable prices and a wide variety of Taiwanese-style pastries and savory items attract a diverse crowd. Some offerings like egg tarts and mantou stand out for their flavor and texture.

Fast and casual Chinese eatery with a wide variety of menu items. The atmosphere feels relaxed and comfortable.

Extensive selection includes traditional Chinese bakery items and Western-style desserts. Pastries like red bean pastries and egg yolk pastries stand alongside breads and mochi.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup broth is rich and flavorful."

"It's like authentic Taiwanese street style noodle soup."

"I found the baked goods and pastries to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The dining area opens at 11 am, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Takeout is available, but arrive early for the best selection.

3

Prices are reasonable, with many items under $5.

10
Caffè Chiave image 1

Rustic architecture and intimate seating create a cozy, quiet atmosphere that suits both casual chats and focused work. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed vibe with a nice breeze. The cafe stands out from modern minimalist spots with its homey, quaint feel.

Casual atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating suits solo visits and small meetups. It works well for studying and relaxed hangouts at a local Italian cafe.

Offers a variety of fresh pastries and sweets. Breakfast and lunch include great pastries paired well with coffee.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be great and outstanding."

"I enjoyed their great pastries and the nice selection."

"The breakfast specials here are consistently delicious."

Good to know

1

Caffè Chiave has two entrances: one on Piedmont Ave. and a back entrance with patio and parking.

2

The café offers both inside and outside seating options.

3

There was plenty of parking available at Caffè Chiave.

11
Havana Grill image 1
Cuban restaurant

Indoor space features a skylight and authentic Cuban bar decor with tiles that evoke Cuban culture. Live Cuban jazz music plays at a balanced volume, encouraging salsa dancing and casual conversation. The atmosphere feels vibey and lowkey, blending a clean, expansive setting with engaging entertainment.

Luxury casual vibe blends with upbeat music creating a fun, relaxed setting. Fast-casual Cuban food matches the easygoing atmosphere.

Pastries come flaky and filled with luscious exotic creams. The guava cream cheese pastry stands out as a dessert choice.

People are saying

"The Cuban food here is authentic, especially the croquetas and empanadas."

"The empanadas had flaky layers and generous fillings."

"The Cuban sandwiches and mojo sauce here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm on weekdays with empanadas.

2

The kitchen starts to shut down at 8:30 PM, so arrive early.

3

Live music events are scheduled occasionally; check ahead for dates.

12
Galinette image 1
French restaurant

Light, airy space with an open kitchen and large communal table encourages conversation. Bright, harsh lighting contrasts with colorful decor and French mural art, creating a unique vibe. Atmosphere feels relaxed and authentic, reminiscent of a neighborhood bistro in France.

An inviting space with a casual, friendly atmosphere and electric energy suits both relaxed lunches and special dinners. It serves casual French food and wine near the ocean.

Pastries come out deliciously flaky and correctly sized. Puff pastry appears rich and heavy in a good way, often paired with escargot and mushroom sauces.

People are saying

"The French onion soup here is rich and savory."

"The food here is delicious, especially the French onion soup and jambon beurre."

"The puff pastry here is rich and perfectly sized."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a special brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays.

13
First Of All image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Rustic, cozy space offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a charming, low-key vibe and bright, well-decorated interior. The atmosphere suits solo visits or groups, often accompanied by dogs outside. Acoustics can be lively due to hard surfaces, creating a roaring crowd energy inside.

Fast ordering at the cashier suits the fast-casual setup. The vibe stays relaxed and easygoing throughout.

A cabinet of pastries offers a great variety to choose from. Pastries pair well with coffee and matcha, making them a popular choice for sharing at the table.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast here to be delicious and fresh."

"The casual breakfast here, like the churro French toast, is so satisfying."

"The pastries here looked amazing and were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and it's a fast-casual setup for easy ordering.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The menu features a variety of vegan options alongside classic breakfast items.

14
Kei Coffee House image 1
Coffee shop

Space combines Japanese Zen Buddhist decor with modern, minimalist design featuring neutral colors and light wood accents. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and stylish to bustling and loud as crowds fill the many tables, often sharing larger ones. Outdoor seating offers shade and water but includes uncomfortable short chairs.

Trendy, well-designed café with a beautiful interior creates a fun, casual vibe. Offers unique drinks and solid food options ideal for hangouts, studying, and casual meetings.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee here; it's well-balanced and flavorful."

"The pastries here are not overly sweet, with subtle flavors."

"It's a stylish, cozy spot perfect for casual hangouts."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a hassle at Kei Coffee House, especially on weekends.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, particularly on weekends.

3

The cafe does not accept cash; only credit cards are accepted.

15
LEORA image 1
Cafe

Large café with indoor and outdoor seating offers a modern, beautifully designed space that feels like a hidden neighborhood spot. Atmosphere blends vibrant and relaxing vibes, attracting a busy crowd especially at lunch. Pet-friendly setting adds to the casual, welcoming energy.

Owners bring fresh energy to the casual lunch scene with a spot that works well for a quick bite or a business meeting.

Pastries come with great taste and pair well with coffee. The selection includes snacks and beverages that rival grocery stores. Staff sometimes offer pastries to make up for delays.

People are saying

"The tuna melt at this lunch spot is crispy, buttery, and gooey."

"It's a chill place with a vibrant and relaxing atmosphere."

"The pastries here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during lunch.

2

Expect long wait times if you don't reserve in advance, particularly at peak hours.

3

Laptops are not allowed between 12–2pm to maintain a pleasant atmosphere for diners.

16
Eatalian image 1
Italian restaurant

Warehouse-style space with exposed brick walls and an open kitchen creates a rustic, cozy atmosphere that feels like a family gathering. Wide tables encourage a chill, welcoming vibe without pretension. A central bar and walk-up dessert counter add casual, lively touches to the setting.

Casual vibe shows in the informal atmosphere and cozy setting. Food comes with good prices and suits both a quick lunch or a relaxed date.

All pastries come from scratch on-site, with dough made in house visible through a back window. They serve delicious pastries alongside gelato.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and reminiscent of Italy."

"The fresh, homemade pasta here is amazing."

"The pizza and pasta here are incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but ordering and running credit with an open tab is necessary before seating.

2

Parking is limited, and street parking may feel unsafe.

3

Prices are reasonable, with lunch for two costing around $76.

17
Paradise Dynasty image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large space with modern Chinese decor and plenty of seating creates an elegant atmosphere. Background music plays, sometimes loud, contributing to a lively but occasionally noisy environment. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a mix of Northern and Southern Chinese cuisine.

Ambiance feels modern and cozy, blending elegance with comfort. It suits both casual meals and special occasions.

Radish pastry stands out with its crisp, flaky texture and savory flavor. Other pastries like flat bean pastry and dumplings also appear alongside dishes like pork chop and chicken soup.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top quality."

"The soup dumplings here are so juicy and flavorful."

"The colorful xiao long bao here are juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm to 5 pm with 40% off select items.

2

During happy hour, many dishes are 40% off with few menu restrictions.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

18
AMMATOLI image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large Mediterranean restaurant with tasteful decor inspired by family travels and authentic Middle Eastern music creates a fantastic ambiance. Outdoor seating includes a pet-friendly patio and a small market offers olive oil and spreads. Full bar features Lebanese wines and beers that complement the excellent food.

Lunch and dinner offer a casual but elevated vibe with high-quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation. The atmosphere feels like high-end dining but in a relaxed Southern California setting.

Freshly made pastries include fatayer with spinach or cheese, offering a savory, rich taste. Osmalieh Ice Cream features layers of pastry dough, milk pudding, dates, pistachios, and cotton candy for a unique dessert.

People are saying

"The homemade pita bread here is fantastic and the best I've ever had."

"This casual spot has bold Mediterranean flavors and a chic, stylish vibe."

"The cheese fatayer pastry is a decadent, savory delight."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at AMMATOLI is from 3 to 5 pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

There is a 2-hour free parking lot 2 minutes away.

19
Highly Likely Highland Park image 1

Outdoor patio offers ample shaded seating with heaters and blankets for comfort in cooler weather. Atmosphere stays calm and soothing, suitable for working or casual dining. Space blends versatile design that adapts well to both casual and formal occasions.

Layout suits any occasion but leans toward a cool casual coffee spot vibe. Ordering happens at the front, keeping things simple and relaxed.

A fantastic pastry stands out as a solid alternative when other treats are gone. It delivers a great taste that satisfies.

People are saying

"The outdoor patio is beautiful and great for conversation."

"The food here is really good, with great flavors."

"Ryan got my pregnant wife a fantastic pastry."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only option available, and it can be challenging.

2

Laptops are not allowed after 5pm, so plan accordingly.

3

Happy hour features a variety of bites and drinks at discounted prices.

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