Indulging Your Sweet Tooth: The Best Desserts in Palo Alto
When you find yourself in the lovely college town of Palo Alto, California, youll likely work up an appetite exploring the tree-lined streets, unique boutiques, and vibrant culture. Once hunger strikes, the array of phenomenal restaurants serving global flavors and locally-sourced dishes are sure to entice your palate. However, no meal is complete without a delectable dessert - and Palo Altos sweet treats do not disappoint.
Classic Confections
For time-honored desserts with simple, quality ingredients, stroll down University Avenue to find delightful mom-and-pop eateries and old-fashioned ice cream parlors. You cant go wrong with an old favorite like:
- Freshly baked apple, cherry, or blueberry pie at The Prolific Oven Bakery
- House-made waffle cones filled with creative ice cream flavors like honey lavender at Rick's Rather Rich Ice Cream
- Flaky French pastries like croissants, tarts, and petit fours at Pastry Arts Bakery
- Gooey, warm chocolate chip cookies from Coupa Caf, studded with chocolate chunks
When you want something comforting and familiar, Palo Altos beloved local bakeries and cafes deliver nostalgic treats made beautifully from scratch.
Global Influences
The diverse culture of Palo Alto also infuses its desserts with enticing flavors from around the world. For a taste of distant lands, sample sweets like:
- Japanese mochi ice cream in flavors like mango and green tea at Cream
- Indian rasmalai, a cheese ball soaked in sweet cream, from Janta Restaurant
- French macarons in pistachio, chocolate, and other flavors from The Prolific Oven Bakery
- Mexican churros, fried dough coated in cinnamon and sugar, from Coupa Caf
From European cakes to Asian fruit desserts, the international options offer a global tour for your taste buds one plate at a time.
Local, Sustainable Sweets
Known for its emphasis on farm-to-table dining, Palo Alto also features fabulous desserts focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients from local providers. For responsibly-sourced sweets, try:
- Mini fruit galettes with seasonal fillings like berries, stone fruit, and citrus at The Midwife and The Baker
- Dark chocolate pot de creme highlighting regional cacao at BAIA
- Goat cheese cheesecake with local honey and nuts at Cafe Venetia
- Berry cobblers baked with peak-season farmers market produce at Anatolian Kitchen
Using the incredible local resources of Northern California, these eateries create sweet masterpieces that capture the essence of the region.
Decadent Dessert Destinations
While Palo Alto offers no shortage of spots for superb sweets, a few beloved bakeries and chocolate shops stand out for their stellar reputations and exceptional edible artistry. When only the most decadent dessert will do, visit:
St. Michaels Alley
Tucked away on a charming side street, this cozy ptisserie crafts exquisite cakes and tarts in ever-changing flavors. Their varieties span chocolate decadence, fruit elegance like lemon chiffon and key lime, and seasonal masterpieces featuring ingredients at their peak freshness. With intricate decorations and divine texture combinations, their creations are as gorgeous as they are delectable.
Sprinkles Cupcakes
The premium Cupcake ATM outside this shop keeps their famous cupcakes stocked for 24/7 access to these perfect miniature cakes. Available in flavors from red velvet to cookie dough, these moist, frosty bites satisfy your inner child. Sprinkles also offers hand-crafted ice cream and seasonal specialities like heart-shaped Valentines to satisfy your sweet tooth with a smile.
Gail & William Chocolates
Using single-origin Venezuelan cacao beans, this artisan shop produces sustainable, fair-trade chocolate with exquisite flavor. Their sea salt caramels, jalapeo truffles, and other unique creations reignite your passion for chocolate. Their confections not only use responsibly-sourced cacao, but donate proceeds to conservation causes as well.
Whether you crave something familiar or innovative, Palo Altos outstanding desserts offer something delectable for every preference. Let your taste buds tour the town and discover your perfect sweet treat!
FAQs
Where can I find the best cupcakes in Palo Alto?
Sprinkles Cupcakes offers premium cupcakes available 24/7 from their iconic Cupcake ATM. Their moist, beautifully decorated bite-sized cakes come in flavors like red velvet, chocolate, and cookie dough.
What's a great spot for fresh, seasonal desserts?
The Midwife and The Baker serves incredible fruit-focused desserts highlighting peak seasonal produce. Their mini fruit galettes overflow with juicy berries, stone fruits, and citrus when they're at their flavorful best.
Where can I find unique chocolate creations?
Gail & William Chocolates uses single-origin Venezuelan cacao beans to craft incredible fair-trade chocolates. Try their sea salt caramels, jalapeño truffles, and other mind-blowing flavors for a chocolate experience like no other.
What classic Palo Alto bakery is a must-visit?
University Avenue's Prolific Oven Bakery serves exceptional classic treats like hot-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies, apple pies with house-made crusts, and the flakiest croissants you've ever tasted.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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