Classic neighborhood donut shop on a sunny Echo Park corner, operating as a cash-only institution for decades. The apple fritters and maple bars are the main draw; the owners’ kids’ toys are often stacked in a corner.
Mar Vista bakery turning out naturally fermented sourdough and fresh pastries from an open kitchen. Brightly marbled turmeric and butterfly pea flower loaves line the counter alongside pour-over coffee and communal seating.
Sun-washed Culver City bakery serving rustic pies and thick cookies from pastry chef Nicole Rucker. Smooth counters hold a daily rotation of key lime pie, bourbon pecan chocolate chip cookies, and Basque pistachio cheesecake.
Pre-order-only bagel spot selling hot dozens for scheduled pickup times. The model is simple: rip-and-dip bagels paired with a rotating weekly menu of inventive cream cheese schmears.
Thai Town institution packing a massive volume of sweets into a tight storefront. Fresh coconut pudding cakes and crispy crepes line the counter, while shelves overflow with imported chips and colorful mung bean candies.
East Hollywood bakery and daytime cafe serving seasonal breakfast plates and heirloom grain pastries. The front counter handles a steady line for Sonora wheat croissants, while the dining room fills up for short rib hash.
Compact Atwater Village scoop shop serving globally inspired ice cream late into the night. The menu leans on Filipino and Asian ingredients, with scoops of ube malted crunch and sticky rice mango heading out to the shared patio.
Highland Park patisserie focused on meticulously laminated doughs, from classic croissants to kouign-amann. Long lines form well before the 9 am opening – the daily batch regularly sells out before noon.
Small-batch panadería turning out modern Mexican pastries like churro croissants and conchas with toasted vanilla filling. The snug shop is mostly for takeaway; the signature LA Churro is always made to order.
Industrial-chic bakery offering artisanal bread, pastries, and sandwiches in Downtown LA.
Inventive scoop shop where lines move slowly because tasting is half the point. Staff hand over endless samples of Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons or Arbequina Olive Oil before packing generous waffle cones.
Silver Lake bakery making classic American layer cakes and chilled cupcakes from scratch. Glass cases stay stocked with ready-made six- and eight-inch cakes for last-minute birthdays and quick sugar fixes.
Long-standing bakery turning out last-minute tres leches trays and custom birthday cakes. The case stays stocked with cheese rolls and fruit tarts, while the kitchen replicates specific designs from customer photos.
