Best Cheesecake Los Angeles
Best Bakery Desserts in LA
Whenever my sweet tooth starts acting up in Los Angeles, I’m on the hunt for the city’s tastiest bakery treats. With so many awesome bake shops around, every stop is a sugar-coated adventure.
Top Bakeries in Los Angeles
Here are a few of my fave spots that keep me coming back again and again:
| Bakery Name | Location | Notable Dessert |
|---|---|---|
| CAR Artisan Chocolate | Pasadena | Chocolate croissant that dreams are made of Eater LA |
| Gjusta | Venice | Flaky tahini croissant and carrot cake that melts your heart Eater LA |
| Clark Street Bakery | Larchmont, Brentwood, Echo Park | Cookies and country loaves that you can’t resist Eater LA |
| République | Mid-Wilshire | Can’t-miss Basque cheesecake and pain au chocolat The Infatuation |
Exquisite Pastry Selection
Diving into the pastry collection at these bakeries is a delight like no other. At CAR Artisan Chocolate, the croissant is a crispy dream, packed with gooey chocolate goodness. Gjusta comes through with pastries that are almost too beautiful to eat, but my personal favorite has to be the tahini croissant that I tell everyone about.
When it’s time for some solid artisan munchies, Clark Street Bakery is where I head for cookies or a warm, fresh country loaf. They nail it every time. République takes the cake, literally and figuratively, with their selection of French and American pastries, especially that Basque cheesecake that leaves my taste buds cheering.
LA’s bakery scene isn’t just about sugar and carbs; it’s a showcase of baking talent, right in your face. If you’re on a mission for the best cheesecake in Los Angeles, don’t skip these must-visit bake joints for a full pastry joyride.
Must-Try Pastries in LA
When you’re wandering through LA and that sweet tooth starts whispering in your ear, I’ve got just the fix for you! Here are the ultimate pastries you can’t afford to skip out on.
Chocolate Croissants at CAR Artisan Chocolate
Listen up, chocoholics! You haven’t really lived until you’ve tasted the chocolate croissants at CAR Artisan Chocolate in Pasadena. It’s not just any croissant—this one took nearly a year to perfect and folks say it’s the crown jewel of the chocolatey realm. It’s got this gorgeous crunchy shell with not one, not two, but three gooey chocolate treasures inside. Imagine biting into that crisp shell and the chocolate just melts like a dream. Seriously, this one’s worth every penny.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment | CAR Artisan Chocolate |
| Location | Pasadena |
| Specialty | Chocolate Croissant |
| Key Attributes | Crunchy outside, dreamy chocolate inside |
Flaky Pastries at Gjusta
Venice peeps, listen up! Gjusta is where the pastry magic happens. Their flaky tahini croissant is the talk of the town, and boy, does it deliver. Your breakfast game will never be the same after tackling their ham and cheese croissant. Oh, and don’t skip the carrot cake—it comes with a mountain of cream cheese frosting. Feels like a mini celebration with each bite!
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment | Gjusta |
| Location | Venice |
| Popular Items | Flaky tahini croissant, carrot cake |
| Key Attributes | Flaky goodness overload |
Traditional Treats at La Mascota Bakery
For a dash of nostalgia, hit up La Mascota Bakery in Boyle Heights. This place is practically a legend for its coffee and those iconic conch shell cookies that take you back in time. They’ve been around the block, always leveling up their pastries, so expect a fun mix of the old and the new.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment | La Mascota Bakery |
| Location | Boyle Heights |
| Specialty | Conch shell cookies |
| Key Attributes | Timeless yet refreshing flavors |
When your taste buds are tingling for something sweet, these bakeries should top your foodie list. Dive into these treats on your next trip exploring the best food in Los Angeles. Happy munching!
Artisan Bakeries in LA
On my quest for the yummiest cheesecake in Los Angeles, I find myself drawn to artisan bakeries that bring out the ultimate in flavor and texture. A couple of places that consistently hit the sweet spot are Clark Street Bakery and République.
Clark Street Bakery’s Quality Baked Goods
Clark Street Bakery has really made a name for itself as a go-to spot for incredible baked goods in LA. With spots in Larchmont, Brentwood, and Echo Park, they dish out a delightful spread of cookies, viennoiserie, and hearty country loaves. Everything’s made with such care and craftsmanship, you can’t help but have a bite that’s nothing short of wonderful every time you swing by (Eater LA).
| What’s on the Menu | Tastiest Bits |
|---|---|
| Cookies | Fresh from the oven, bursting with flavor |
| Viennoiserie | Buttery croissants, dreamy doughnuts |
| Country Loaves | Rustic bread, full of character |
Whether it’s a buttery croissant or a rustic loaf calling your name, Clark Street Bakery always comes through. Their knack for quality makes it a stop you just shouldn’t skip if you love artisan pastries.
French & American Staples at République
République is another favorite of mine over in Mid-Wilshire. Under the guidance of the amazing Margarita Manzke, this bakery takes French and American classics like croissants and cookies to a whole new level. Manzke bagged the James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker in 2023, underscoring République’s top-notch talent and acclaim (Eater LA).
But République doesn’t stop at croissants; their menu also shines with Basque cheesecakes, chocolate tarts, and pain au chocolat. If you’re dropping by, splurging on a box of their goodies is a no-brainer—they tend to fly off the shelves once brunch wraps up (The Infatuation).
| Special Treat | What Makes It Awesome |
|---|---|
| Basque Cheesecake | Creamy, rich – don’t leave without trying it |
| Chocolate Tart | Deeply satisfying with a perfect crust |
| Pain au Chocolat | Soft and chocolaty—just what you’d expect |
Both Clark Street Bakery and République prove LA’s a haven for foodies, especially those with a thing for baked goodies. Make sure to hit up these bakeries as you munch your way around the best desserts in Los Angeles.
The Cheesecake Factory Flavors
Sweet Cheesecake Picks
The Cheesecake Factory in LA whips up a variety of cheesecake flavors that’ll make any sweet tooth smile. It’s tough picking just one, but I’ve managed to highlight a few that made my taste buds do a happy dance. Here’s a sneak peek at some yummilicious ones:
| Cheesecake Flavor | Description |
|---|---|
| Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake | This one’s got strawberries on top that’d make summer blush. It’s fluffy, light, and always a crowd favorite. (Check out Thrillist for more about this flavor.) |
| Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple | Dream combo for peanut butter fans: creamy cheesecake with bits of Butterfinger and a thick peanut butter ganache. (Thrillist has the deets.) |
| Original Cheesecake | This one’s got that creamy texture people can’t get enough of, sitting pretty on a graham cracker crust. (More info at Thrillist) |
| Lemon Meringue Cheesecake | Lemon lovers rejoice with this bright option. It’s got a zesty cheesecake, lemon mousse, and a top hat of meringue. Perfect for keeping it light. (More at Thrillist) |
Best of the Bunch
While you can’t go wrong with any slice, some options steal the show. The Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake not only turns heads with its looks but also refreshes like a summer breeze. Chocolate fans won’t be able to resist the Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple, taking dessert up a notch.
Whether you’re sitting down at the restaurant or grabbing a slice to-go, these cheesecakes top the charts in LA. If you’re craving other sweet spots in the city, take a gander at best desserts in Los Angeles or snag a treat from the best bakery in Los Angeles.
Best Cheesecake in Los Angeles
Looking for that lip-smacking cheesecake in Los Angeles? I’ve got two must-try favorites that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Check ’em out!
Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake
First up, we got The Cheesecake Factory’s Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake. Imagine a slice of heaven topped with sweet strawberries. It skips the sour cream topping and instead rocks a fresher, lighter vibe. No wonder it’s a hit among food fanatics! Perfect when you’re craving a dessert that’s not too heavy, this cheesecake is like a summer breeze after a BBQ. Seriously, if you’re at The Cheesecake Factory and you skip this, what are you even doing?
Here’s what makes it so special:
| What’s Good | It’s All In the Details |
|---|---|
| Top-Off Goodness | Juicy, Glazed Strawberries |
| Mouthfeel | Airy and Light |
| Taste Vibe | Sweet and Refreshing |
Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple Cheesecake
Now, if your sweet tooth needs a serious thrill, dig into the Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple Cheesecake. It’s an extravaganza of what a peanut butter dessert dreams of being. With Butterfinger bits and a peanut butter ganache that rocks my socks off, this one’s for when a plain ol’ cheesecake just won’t cut it. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying for any peanut butter lover.
Here’s the inside scoop:
| Yum Factor | What You Can’t Miss |
|---|---|
| Star Players | Peanut Butter, Crunchy Butterfinger |
| Texture Feels | Smooth and Indulgent |
| Taste Explosion | Sweet, Rich with a Nutty Kick |
Both of these cheesecakes are a slice of heaven right here in LA. If your appetite’s still kicking for more food awesomeness, why not check out our list of best burgers in Los Angeles or scope out the best desserts in Los Angeles?
Iconic Cheesecake Options
If you’re on a cheesecake quest in Los Angeles, I’ve got two gems from The Cheesecake Factory you should definitely try: the Original Cheesecake and the Lemon Meringue Cheesecake. Trust me, these aren’t just any regular desserts!
Original Cheesecake at The Cheesecake Factory
Okay, let’s talk about the Original Cheesecake. This one is a classic for a reason. Imagine cheesecake so creamy and dreamy, sitting on a graham cracker base that’s just the right amount of crunch. And then, just when you think it can’t get any better, there’s that gentle sour cream topping that pulls everything together like a champion. Honestly, one bite, and I was sold. This simple treat has a secret power—it redefines what plain cheesecake can be. If you love cheesecake or just the idea of dessert, this one’s got your name all over it!
| Cheesecake Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Cheesecake | Creamy cheesecake sitting on a graham crust with a light sour cream finish |
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a peek at some more scrumptious desserts in Los Angeles.
Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Variation
Now, for those of you with a thing for something zesty, the Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a must. It’s like sunshine on a plate—lemon cream cheesecake layered with lemon mousse, all wrapped up in a fluffy meringue. It’s a lighter take on dessert that keeps things sweet without overdoing it. Lemon lovers, this is your happy place!
| Cheesecake Variations | Description |
|---|---|
| Lemon Meringue Cheesecake | A fusion of lemon cream cheesecake, lemon mousse, topped with meringue |
These cheesecakes show exactly why The Cheesecake Factory continues to be adored in LA. So if you’re putting together a list of must-try treats, make sure these make the cut!
Unique Bakery Selections in LA
Hunting for the yummiest sweet treats in Los Angeles is like a treasure hunt, only with more calories and sugar highs. Le-z go! I’ve scoped out some top-notch bakeries that will make any dessert lover’s heart (and stomach) happy. Here are some of the sweet spots you won’t wanna miss.
Republique’s Pastry Paradise
Okay, Republique is the spot for pastries in LA, and it’s got the goods to back it up. You can find it in Mid-Wilshire, and trust me, resisting their treats is nearly impossible (I’ve tried). They’re whipping up everything from classic Basque cheesecakes to luscious chocolate tarts and heavenly pain au chocolat. And a shoutout to their croque-madam – it’s a must if you’re craving something savory! Don’t even get me started on their chocolate croissant – pure bliss on a flaky pastry (Eater LA).
Pro tip: go early, especially on weekends. Their goodies vanish faster than you can say “calorie count” after the brunch stampede rolls through. Splurge on a box of assorted pastries, and thank me later (The Infatuation).
Check out some of their crowd favorites:
| Pastry Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Basque Cheesecake | Creamy dream with a touch of caramel |
| Chocolate Tart | Rich, gooey chocolate nirvana |
| Pain au Chocolat | Fluffy pastry plus dark choc happiness |
Fab Finds for Bialys and Baguettes
Outside of Republique, LA is a haven for bialys and baguettes with an international twist on the bread scene. Loads of spots stick to the old-school methods, making sure what you bite into is truly legit and lip-smacking.
Manny’s Bialys slings out fresh, cloud-like bialys every single day. Then there’s my go-to, La Brea Bakery, where the artisan baguettes come out crusty and perfect – don’t even need more than a smear of butter to make your taste buds sing.
If you’ve got a craving for these doughy treasures, better hustle because they tend to fly off the shelves. Follow your nose – the delicious aroma will guide you right in!
Looking for more lip-smacking suggestions? Check out my guide on the best desserts in Los Angeles or uncover the best bakery in Los Angeles.
Global Dessert Influences
New York Cheesecake’s International Notoriety
You know what I love? Seeing how food brings folks together, and New York cheesecake is a superstar at this gig. The origins of this creamy wonder aren’t just tied to one spot—they’re scattered across the globe. Picture a cheesecake family tree with branches reaching out to Eastern Europe’s crumbly, dry-curd delights, Germany’s kasekuchen, and Italy’s fresh-cheese masterpieces.
What sets New York cheesecake apart is its silky texture, paired with a perfectly baked crust that hits just right. We’re talking sugar, eggs, cream cheese—often the much-loved Philadelphia kind—all coming together as one flavorful masterpiece. That light crumb crust? It works magic with the rich cream, making this dessert a bit indulgent and delightfully balanced. No wonder it’s on my list for those hunting down the best cheesecake in Los Angeles.
Modern Italian Tiramisu Dessert
I can’t skip a beat without giving a shoutout to tiramisu—that Italian delight that’s now a global sensation. Think layers of whipped mascarpone snugly hugging coffee-soaked ladyfingers, with espresso, chocolate, cream, and sometimes a cheeky splash of liqueur joining the party.
Tiramisu’s birth story is shrouded in mystery, but it’s widely agreed to have bubbled up from the kitchens of Le Beccherie in Treviso. Its fame skyrocketed in the ’80s and ’90s, capturing taste buds everywhere. Its rich taste and creamy texture offer a sweet symphony that’s pretty hard to resist after a good meal.
New York cheesecake and tiramisu are two stellar bites of how different culinary trails cross paths, making them absolute must-tries for anyone on the hunt for the best food in Los Angeles.
