Berkeley, California, a city renowned for its culinary diversity, offers a plethora of delightful options for those with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re a connoisseur of artisanal ice cream or a fan of mouthwatering pastries, Berkeley’s dessert scene has something to satisfy every craving. Below, Cheryl Newbrough takes readers on a delectable tour of Berkeley’s best dessert destinations.
Sweet Adeline Bakeshop
Sweet Adeline Bakeshop, situated on Adeline Street, offers a diverse selection of delectable treats, including cakes, pies, tarts, and pastries. With its wide array of pastry options available in one convenient location, customers can fulfill all their pastry cravings at Sweet Adeline’s.
What sets this bake shop apart is its comprehensive service. In addition to walk-in purchases, Sweet Adeline’s provides both pick-up and delivery options, making it a convenient one-stop destination for all your pastry needs. This ensures that patrons can enjoy their favorite treats from the comfort of their own homes, with the same quality and attention to detail that defines their offerings.
Masse’s Pastries
This pastry shop offers an exquisite selection of cakes and tarts that are sure to delight any dessert lover. The cakes come in an 8″ size, serving approximately 8-12 people. Notably, they offer gluten-free options in the same size. Among the standout classic cakes are the indulgent Ruffle Torte, the crowd-pleasing Chocolate Raspberry, and the zesty Lovely Lemon. For those with a penchant for tarts, the Lemon Meringue Tart is a tangy and fluffy delight, available on weekends with a 48-hour notice.
It’s important to note that while the gluten-free cakes are suitable for gluten sensitivity, they may not be suitable for those with true celiac conditions. The shop encourages customers with allergy concerns to inquire in advance before placing an order. The ordering process is conveniently facilitated online, and they exclusively offer online ordering at this time.
Overall, this pastry shop provides a delightful array of meticulously crafted desserts that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From rich chocolate creations to zesty lemon delights, their offerings are both diverse and delectable.
Gregoire
Gregoire offers a sophisticated take on classic desserts. This gourmet takeout spot elevates pastries and sweets to a whole new level. From their renowned Macarons to the divine Chocolate Mousse Cake, every bite is a testament to Chef Gregoire Jacquet’s culinary expertise.
Tara’s Organic Ice Cream
Tara’s Organic Ice Cream revolutionizes the ice cream experience with its commitment to using the finest organic ingredients. Each batch, meticulously crafted in small quantities, ranges from 2 to 4 gallons. Notably, the ice cream contains no emulsifiers or stabilizers. Instead, it relies on the purity of organic elements, incorporating fresh herbs and ground spices to yield unique and irresistible flavors.
The dairy, seasonal fruits, and herbs are sourced from local farms, underscoring T.O.I.C.’s dedication to both quality and supporting the community. The emphasis is on flavor, not excessive sweetness. Organic Cane Sugar is added judiciously, resulting in a perfectly balanced sweetness that complements the genuine taste of the ingredients.
T.O.I.C.’s sorbets, sweetened primarily with Organic Light Raw Agave, follow the same principle of simplicity. They contain no stabilizers or emulsifiers, relying solely on essential organic components.
Tara Esperanza, the founder with a background in fine dining, brings a touch of sophistication to the ice cream, resulting in flavors that defy convention. For those unable to visit one of their locations or retail partners, online orders are available.
Gelateria Naia
Located on bustling Telegraph Avenue, Gelateria Naia transports you to Italy with their authentic gelato. Using traditional Italian methods and high-quality ingredients, they create gelato that’s both creamy and bursting with flavor. The variety of gelato and sorbetto options ensures there’s something for everyone.
Chocolatier Blue
Chocolate lovers rejoice at Chocolatier Blue, where artisanal chocolates are crafted with precision and care. From truffles to bonbons, each piece is a work of art. The innovative flavor combinations, like Lavender Caramel and Honey Saffron, make this chocolatier a standout in Berkeley.
Cheese Board Collective
While primarily known for their delectable pizzas, the Cheese Board Collective also boasts an incredible bakery section. Their daily-changing selection of sweet and savory pastries, including Danishes, scones, and galettes, showcases the talents of their skilled bakers.
Saul’s Restaurant and Delicatessen
This classic Jewish deli in North Berkeley is a haven for dessert enthusiasts. Saul’s bakes their own rugelach, babka, and other traditional Jewish treats. The nostalgic flavors and inviting atmosphere make this spot a must-visit for those seeking a taste of the past.
Timeless Coffee
For those with a penchant for plant-based treats, Timeless Coffee is a paradise. This vegan bakery offers a tantalizing array of pastries, cakes, and cookies, all without compromising on flavor or texture. Pair your dessert with one of their expertly crafted coffee beverages for the perfect indulgence.
Crixa Cakes
Transport yourself to Europe with Crixa Cakes’ exquisite selection of cakes and pastries inspired by European baking traditions. From Hungarian Dobos Torte to French Napoleon, each creation is a testament to the artistry and dedication of the bakers.
Summary
Berkeley’s dessert landscape is a testament to the city’s culinary creativity and diversity. Whether you’re seeking traditional pastries, innovative flavors, or vegan delights, these dessert destinations promise a memorable and satisfying experience. So, embark on a sweet adventure and discover your new favorite dessert spot in Berkeley.