Sugar and caffeine are two substances that many Angelenos can’t live without. How else do you expect to make it through a midday slump? Starbucks is convenient, but sometimes you want something with a little more oomph.

Caffe Luxxe
925 Montana Ave Santa Monica, CA 90403 

For a hand-crafted espresso, look no further. This small café takes the art of coffee very seriously and grounds your beans to-order for the freshest, most heavenly cup of coffee. When we saw Reese Witherspoon here one morning, we figured if it was good enough for her, then it was good enough for us. Croissants are delicate and any coffee drink mixed with mocha is delicious. There is also a second location in Brentwood. 


Susina Bakery
7122 Beverly Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036
Talent runs in the family at Susina; owner Jenna Deal’s mother was also a bakery owner in her hometown of New Jersey. Jenna’s passion for baking imbues this magical place with a warm, relaxed feeling as soon as you step through the door. The glass case holds row upon row of heaven in the form of pastries, cookies, cakes and tarts, but we keep coming back for the croissants. Beautifully boxed sweets and candies are also available for that impromptu gift for someone special (including yourself).

Café Audrey
6701-B Hollywood Blvd Hollywood, CA 90068

The serene yet quirky appeal of this café in Hollywood is the personality to behold. White walls filled with framed photos of Audrey Hepburn make this whimsical café a favorite amongst Hollywood locals craving something besides Coffee Bean. Small black tables are usually filled as there is free wireless and sometimes live music. Hit up “Happy Hour” from 3-6 p.m. to get a cookie and a house coffee (with unlimited refills) for $2.

Jin Patisserie
1202 Abbot Kinney Blvd Venice, CA 90291

One of the coolest bakery/teahouse combos in L.A., Jin Patisserie can be found in Venice. The Abbot Kinney spot is known for their gorgeous pastries and elegant macaroons which melt in your mouth. Lavender Almond Cookies are so good you’ll want to take some home. Unwind with a pot of tea out front in their garden patio or try to pick just one dessert from inside. We dare you.

Vanilla Bake Shop
512 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90401

Don’t let the name fool you, there may be a lot of vanilla-flavored items found here but there is a whole handful of other flavors as well. What draws you in beyond the happy pink walls and white chandeliers is the line that forms for the scrumptious cupcakes. Popular versions include “Vanilla Bean” and “Black & White.” Straight up “Mom’s Birthday Cake” to “Southern Red Velvet” melt in your mouth. “Toasted Coconut” and “Meyer Lemon Raspberry” are also widely loved and very tempting. One final note - for those of us who can't get enough of frosting, you can order your cupcakes stuffed with frosting, just in case what you got on top isn’t enough. They also make wedding cakes and other necessary evils.

SusieCakes
11708 San Vicente Blvd. Brentwood, CA 900049 (locations also in Calabasas, Manhattan Beach & Newport Beach)

This will hit all those nostalgic memories for kids and adults alike. SusieCakes specializes in some good ole baked goods that you will never tire from. Pies, layer cakes, whoopee pies and frosted cookies are delightfully reminiscent of childhood years. We adore classics like the old-fashioned 6-layer chocolate cake and the butterscotch toffee pudding. Lemon Squares are also a winner. Frosted sugar cookies will have you looking like Martha Stewart at any party.