Downtown Los Angeles offers a vibrant culinary scene, and its dessert options are no exception. From classic comfort foods to innovative creations, there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth. This guide explores 18 of the best desserts Downtown LA has to offer, categorized for easy navigation. This list includes classic options and hidden gems, ensuring a delightful experience for dessert lovers. Remember to check websites for hours and availability before your visit!
Classic Cakes & Pies
1. Grand Central Market's Variety: A Downtown LA Dessert Institution
Grand Central Market is a foodie paradise, and its dessert offerings are legendary. Several vendors offer incredible cakes and pies. You'll find everything from classic apple pie to rich chocolate cakes and seasonal fruit tarts. The variety ensures there’s something for everyone in your group. It's a great place to sample different desserts and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
2. Philippe The Original's French Dip Sandwich (with a sweet twist): An Unexpected Delight
While primarily known for its French Dip sandwiches, Philippe The Original also offers a surprisingly delicious selection of pastries and cakes. Their selection changes daily, so it’s an adventure for your taste buds. Pair your sandwich with a decadent dessert for the full experience.
3. Bottega Louie's Stunning Patisserie: Downtown LA's Cake Showcase
Bottega Louie is renowned for its stunning patisserie. Their cakes are works of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Expect a wide array of choices, from delicate macarons to rich chocolate creations. The ambiance alone is worth the visit. Consider making a reservation, especially during peak hours.
Cookies & Brownies: Downtown LA's Indulgent Treats
4. Sprinkles Cupcakes: The Cupcake Destination
Sprinkles Cupcakes needs no introduction. Their classic cupcakes are a beloved treat, available in a rotating selection of flavors. Their location in Downtown LA is a convenient stop for a sweet pick-me-up. Be prepared for potential lines, especially on weekends.
5. Milk Bar: Modern Comfort Food Desserts
Milk Bar offers unique and inventive cookies and brownies that are both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated. Their Compost Cookie is a legendary mixture of various sweet and savory ingredients. The unconventional flavor combinations are a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Ice Cream & Frozen Treats: Cooling Down in Downtown LA
6. Salt & Straw: Artisanal Ice Cream
Salt & Straw is known for its unique and seasonal ice cream flavors. They frequently feature unexpected ingredient combinations and locally sourced ingredients, resulting in exceptionally creative ice cream. Be adventurous and try a flavor you've never encountered before.
7. Sweet Rose Creamery: Classic Ice Cream Parlor
Sweet Rose Creamery offers a more classic ice cream experience, with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional flavors. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a familiar and satisfying ice cream treat. Their sundaes are also a must-try.
Unique & Creative Desserts: Beyond the Expected
8. Guerrilla Tacos: Unexpected Dessert Gems
While known for its tacos, Guerrilla Tacos frequently features unique and creative desserts that complement their savory menu. Their dessert offerings often change, so it's an exciting element of dining there.
9. Wurstküche: Sausage and Sweet Surprises
Wurstküche, famous for its gourmet sausages, surprisingly also boasts unique desserts. The combination of savory and sweet elements is a bold choice, but often yields delicious results.
10. Bestia: Italian-Inspired Indulgence
Bestia is a highly acclaimed Italian restaurant, and their dessert menu reflects this sophistication. Their desserts are beautifully plated and feature high-quality, carefully selected ingredients. This is an elevated dessert experience.
Coffee & Dessert Pairings: Downtown LA's Caffeine Kick
11. Blue Bottle Coffee: Coffee and Pastry Perfection
Blue Bottle Coffee complements its excellent coffee with a selection of pastries and cakes. This is an ideal spot for a coffee break, and their baked goods are the perfect accompaniment.
12. Verve Coffee Roasters: Another Coffee & Dessert Haven
Verve Coffee Roasters also offers a cozy setting for enjoying coffee with a dessert. Similar to Blue Bottle, they provide a selection of pastries and cakes to enhance your coffee experience.
International Flavors: A Global Dessert Tour
13. Republique: Upscale French Patisserie
Republique offers a sophisticated French patisserie experience. Their desserts are exquisitely crafted and are a delightful indulgence. It's an excellent option for a special occasion.
14. Din Tai Fung: Asian-inspired Delights
Din Tai Fung, renowned for its soup dumplings, also features a surprisingly good selection of Asian-inspired desserts. Their offerings complement their savory menu, offering a cohesive dining experience.
Chocolate Lovers' Paradise
15. Compartes Chocolates: A Chocolate Lover's Dream
Compartes Chocolates offers a wide variety of high-quality chocolates, from truffles to bars. It's a perfect place to indulge in a wide range of chocolate experiences.
16. See's Candies: Classic American Confections
See's Candies is a classic American candy shop, and their selection of chocolates is always a safe bet. They provide a nostalgic and comforting dessert experience.
Hidden Gems & Undiscovered Treats
17. Local Bakeries: Downtown LA's Hidden Gems
Downtown LA is full of hidden bakeries, offering a variety of unique cakes, pastries, and cookies. Explore the neighborhood and discover your own personal favorite!
18. Seasonal Offerings: Explore Downtown LA's Rotating Menus
Many restaurants offer seasonal dessert menus, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Keep an eye out for seasonal specialties and limited-time offerings.
This list provides a starting point for your Downtown LA dessert adventure. Remember to check menus and availability before your visit, and most importantly, enjoy the sweet journey!
