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The 15 Best Bakeries in Santa Barbara

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Santa Barbara, California is known for many things, from its stunning coastline to its vibrant arts scene. But what you may not know is that Santa Barbara is also home to an array of remarkable bakeries. Below is a guide to the 15 best bakeries in Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy everything from fluffy croissants to delectable cupcakes.

Check out also; 20 Best Brunch Spots in Santa Barbara.

1. Helena Avenue Bakery

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Located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, is an outstanding artisan bakery that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike.

Helena Avenue Bakery specializes in handmade, locally sourced, and utterly delicious baked goods. Each day the bakers use fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a variety of bread, from the classics like sourdough and whole grain to specialty bread like olive and rosemary or seeded rye.

Here’s more on the 15 Best Breakfast Places in Santa Barbara.

Along with their bread, they offer a menu full of delightful pastries and sweet treats. You’ll find everything from buttery croissants and pain au chocolat, to morning buns and muffins, all made with the same careful attention to detail and passion for baking.

Beyond their baked goods, Helena Avenue Bakery also serves a range of handcrafted sandwiches, made with their fresh bread. Their sandwich menu changes seasonally, showcasing the best flavors and produce that the local area has to offer.

The bakery has become a cornerstone of the Funk Zone’s food and wine scene, not only for the quality of its food but also for its commitment to community and sustainability.

Helena Avenue Bakery offers the perfect blend of old-world baking traditions with modern, sustainable practices, making it a delightful and delicious place to visit when in Santa Barbara.

2. Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro

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When you step into in Santa Barbara, you’re not just walking into another bakery, you’re embarking on a culinary journey that transports you straight to the heart of Paris. A beacon for Francophiles and pastry lovers alike, Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro has been delighting patrons with its sophisticated range of French pastries, cakes, and bread since its opening.

Founded by renowned French chef Renaud Gonthier and his wife Nicole, this patisserie and bistro is known for its exquisite selection of pastries. From croissants so light and flaky they practically dissolve on your tongue, to eclairs filled with rich cream and topped with velvety chocolate, the quality of Renaud’s offerings is consistently high.

Not to be missed are their famous almond croissants, generously filled with almond cream and topped with slivered almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar. The brioche, a French classic, is another customer favorite, as are the buttery madeleines, perfect for dipping in your café au lait.

Renaud’s also offers an assortment of beautifully decorated cakes, tartlets, and cookies. Their selection varies daily and seasonally, meaning there’s always something new to tempt your taste buds. Each treat is not only delicious but also a work of art, with a level of craftsmanship that speaks to Renaud’s classical training and passion for pastry.

Beyond the pastries, Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro also serves a delightful array of sandwiches, quiches, salads, and other savory dishes, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Their bistro menu embodies the same French flair as their pastries, with classics like Croque Monsieur and Quiche Lorraine on offer.

The ambiance at Renaud’s is charming and relaxed, with a European flair. The display case filled with rows of pastries and cakes, the sound of French accents, and the aroma of fresh coffee all contribute to the authentic Parisian experience.

3. Andersen’s Danish Bakery & Restaurant

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is a beloved institution in Santa Barbara, renowned for bringing the authentic taste of Denmark to the sunny shores of California. Established in 1976 by Charlotte and her husband Henrik, this family-owned bakery and restaurant offers a delightful blend of Danish and European pastries and dishes, each one crafted with love and tradition.

The heart of Andersen’s is its bakery, where you’ll find an assortment of classic Danish pastries. Renowned for their Danish Kringle, a beautifully crafted almond-filled pastry, Andersen’s also offers a delightful selection of marzipan cakes, butter cookies, and other sweet treats. Their pastries boast a perfect balance of flaky, buttery crust and rich, flavorful filling that reflects their commitment to quality and authenticity.

Andersen’s is also well known for their Smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich. Piled high with an array of toppings from herring to roast beef, these sandwiches are a satisfying, savory complement to their sweeter offerings. Beyond Smørrebrød, the restaurant menu features hearty Danish and European dishes, including stroganoff, lasagna, and a variety of soups and salads.

Read more on; The 15 Best Pizza Places in Santa Barbara.

Walking into Andersen’s is like stepping into a charming European bakery. With its cozy atmosphere, antique decor, and welcoming staff, it offers a warm respite from the bustling streets of Santa Barbara. The bakery and restaurant are adorned with imported Danish art and Royal Copenhagen porcelain, further enhancing its authentic Danish feel.

Andersen’s Danish Bakery & Restaurant offers a truly unique blend of traditional Danish baking and cuisine in the heart of Santa Barbara.

4. Bree’Osh

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Tucked away in Santa Barbara, is a charming, locally-owned bakery that provides a delightful slice of French cuisine and culture to its patrons. Founded by a French couple who were inspired by their passion for baking and the irresistible charm of brioche, Bree’Osh offers an array of traditional French baked goods, all lovingly made with the finest ingredients.

Bree’Osh is best known for its namesake, the brioche. This classic French bread, made with butter and eggs, has a rich, tender crumb and is used in various forms throughout the bakery’s menu. From the Brioche Toast with homemade jam to their delicious Brioche Sandwiches, filled with everything from avocado to smoked salmon, this special bread is the star of the show.

In addition to their signature brioche, Bree’Osh offers an assortment of French pastries, including the quintessential French croissant. With its crispy, flaky exterior and soft, buttery interior, it’s a favorite among patrons. They also offer a selection of muffins, cookies, and other sweet treats, all prepared daily from scratch.

Bree’Osh doesn’t stop at baked goods. They also serve a variety of French-style sandwiches, tartines, and brunch items that showcase the quality and simplicity of French cuisine. Combined with its selection of locally-roasted coffee, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or a laid-back lunch.

The ambiance at Bree’Osh is relaxed and inviting, with a distinctively French vibe. From the rustic wooden tables to the smell of fresh bread and coffee, every detail is designed to make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a little corner of France.

The owners, Nelly and Pierre, are known for their warm hospitality, making customers feel like family. Their passion for baking and their love for their community shines through in every aspect of Bree’Osh, from the quality of their food to their dedication to customer service.

5. Lilac Patisserie

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Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, is an outstanding bakery renowned for its commitment to creating delectable gluten-free baked goods. Founded by husband and wife duo, Gillian and Alam Muralles, the Patisserie is dedicated to creating a menu that offers something sweet for everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions.

At the forefront of Lilac Patisserie’s offerings is a spectacular array of cakes. From their decadent carrot cake, crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting, to the exquisite layers of their tiramisu cake, each dessert is a testament to the art of gluten-free baking. They also offer the option for custom cake orders, making them a go-to for birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions.

Lilac Patisserie extends its menu beyond cakes. They offer a splendid selection of muffins, cookies, brownies, and other pastries. The cinnamon rolls, pecan sticky buns, and lemon bars come highly recommended, with each treat ensuring a delicious experience that would please any sweet tooth, regardless of gluten sensitivity.

Yet the allure of Lilac Patisserie is not restricted to its sweet creations. They also boast a full café menu complete with breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings. From quiches and scrambles to sandwiches and salads, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to be both flavorful and gluten-free.

The environment within Lilac Patisserie is as delightful as its menu. With its light-filled interior, elegant décor, and inviting atmosphere, it offers the perfect setting for a relaxed brunch or an afternoon tea. The display case filled with pastries is a sight to behold, and the aroma of freshly baked goods creates a warm, welcoming ambiance.

What sets Lilac Patisserie apart is not just its dedication to gluten-free baking but its commitment to taste and quality. Each item is crafted with care and precision, ensuring that gluten-free doesn’t mean flavor-free.

Lilac Patisserie is a beacon of inclusivity in the world of baked goods, proving that dietary restrictions need not limit delicious possibilities. Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or simply appreciate a well-made pastry, Lilac Patisserie in Santa Barbara is a bakery worth visiting.

6. Crushcakes & Cafe

Located on 1315 Anacapa Street, is a popular joint for freshly baked goods, hearty breakfasts and sweet tooth treats. They also serve lunch since they’re open from 8 am to 3 pm.

The menu features a variety of treats, but cupcakes and coffee are the highlight just like the name of the establishment suggests. But that’s not all there is to offer from their rotating menus; find tasty sandwiches, pancakes, bagels, and paninis in different kinds of flavors too

See also; 10 Amazing Coffee Shops in Santa Barbara.

Crushcakes & Café endeavors to provide the freshest items, and these are made daily, on site with locally produced and organic ingredients whenever available. You’re sure to find vegan and vegetarian options. The meats used are hormone free, eggs are organic. For breakfast, gluten-free bread is available upon request.

 Try the crush red velvet pancakes, served with maple syrup, fresh strawberries and sour cream frosting, or the tasty Salsa Scramble. Breakfast burritos are a popular pick too, and there are several to pick from. As for beverages, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Both hot and cold drinks are offered, and all in different flavors. Coffee, chai latte, cocoa, homemade lemonade, fresh-squeezed orange juice, iced tea, name it! Check out the crushcakes house specials too, and don’t forget to ask for their house-made whipped cream. Should you order takeout, note that a 10% service charge will apply and there are no refunds.

7. Oat Bakery

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In the heart of Santa Barbara, stands as a testament to the power of simplicity, quality, and sustainability in baking. This unique bakery, founded by Mark and Meryl Dougherty, has been making waves in the community with its revolutionary approach to bread, centering on the nutritious, versatile grain: oats.

At the core of Oat Bakery’s offerings is their signature Nordic oat bread. Made from organic, gluten-free oats sourced from small American farms, this hearty, delicious bread is unlike any other. The oats are soaked and sprouted to maximize their nutritional value and enhance the bread’s texture and flavor.

Check out these 15 Best Breakfast Places in Santa Barbara.

But the innovation doesn’t stop with the ingredients. Oat Bakery also uses a slow fermentation process, allowing the bread to rise naturally over 24 hours. This results in a final product that’s not only better for your health but also incredibly tasty, with a distinctively nutty flavor and satisfyingly chewy texture.

Oat Bakery’s menu extends beyond its signature bread, offering a range of unique flavors and toppings. From savory options like their Tomato Basil or Sweet Onion loaves to sweet variations like Cinnamon Raisin or Chocolate Chunk, each loaf is thoughtfully crafted to create a unique taste experience.

Alongside their oat bread, the bakery offers a selection of oat-based pastries, including muffins, cookies, and granola, all adhering to their commitment to wholesome, organic ingredients. They also serve locally-roasted coffee and a variety of fresh smoothies, perfect for a nutritious, quick breakfast or a healthy afternoon pick-me-up.

The bakery itself exudes a minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic, mirroring the simplicity and honesty of its baking approach. Its light, airy space with clean lines and neutral tones provides a serene environment to enjoy its delicious creations.

What truly sets Oat Bakery apart, though, is its dedication to sustainability and community. They prioritize sourcing ingredients from local, organic farmers and use biodegradable packaging. Through initiatives like their bread subscription service, they aim to foster a sense of community and connection among their patrons.

8. Bagel Market Cafe

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Located in the Mesa Shopping Center on Cliff Drive, is a bagel shop offering tasty varieties of the popular treat. Whether you prefer plain ones, or cinnamon raisin, blueberry flavored bagels, lots of options are available. These are freshly made, daily, on-site.

Bagels may be the star of the show here but there are other popular items on the menu for your breakfast delight. The breakfast sandwiches are hard to miss. The Santa Barbara Breakfast Sandwich for example, features your choice of ham, sausage, turkey or bacon, melted cheddar cheese, egg, tomato, cucumber, red onion and lemon pepper on your preferred bagel. Veggie sandwich is available as well, with avocado.

Bagel sandwiches come in several flavors and delightful creations, including hummus, tomato & cheese, and turkey cranberry. And just when you thought it’s all they’ve got, delicious donuts on offer beg to disagree.

Vanilla-glazed, custard filled, plain, chocolate, butter, strawberry cream, cinnamon; are just some of the donut flavors to choose from. Salads, tea and smoothies are available too. The café is popular among locals and visitors for breakfast, brunch or just a quick snack on the go.

9. Alessia Patisserie & Bakery

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If you’re craving some European-style pastries, then is a fantastic place to start whenever you’re in Santa Barbara. They offer a wide variety of sweet tooth delights, cakes, breads, pastries and other desserts.

Coffee and tea, some light brunch fare, are available too. The pastries are made with fresh ingredients to bring out the best flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for croissants, danishes, or tarts, a birthday cake, some sourdough bread, all you have to do is place your order.

The place has gained popularity among locals and visitors alike for its tasty menu items, and cool, slow paced atmosphere that’s equally relaxing and inviting. Service is quick and the staff is attentive.

10. Eller’s Donut House

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Donuts, fresh and tasty; that’s the center piece at The family-owned shop has been in business since 1992. The donuts are available in several varieties, and you will probably be spoilt for choice.

Do you prefer them jelly or custard filled, glazed, raised twist or the round, old fashioned ones perhaps? Is two not enough and you need an assorted dozen to go? The options are many, and all you have to do is decide. Glazed donuts are a classic favorite, and they are made with light dough, glazed to perfection.

But donuts are not the only item on the menu here, bagels, croissants, raisin rolls, and breakfast sandwiches are available too. Try the breakfast wrap too ( ham or sausage with egg and melted cheese wrap in flour tortilla).

To crown your order, add some ice blended drink. Mocha, caramel, Chia Tea, taro, coffee green tea, coconut, watermelon, or even peach, the options are as tasty as they are many. Although there’s often a line, especially on weekends, wait time is generally short.

11. Deux Bakery

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Santa Barbara’s is a local gem, renowned for its incredible variety of handcrafted bread and pastries. Since its inception, Deux Bakery has been committed to honoring the centuries-old traditions of bread making, offering an array of artisanal goods that highlight the beauty of simple, quality ingredients.

The bread at Deux Bakery is baked fresh daily using traditional methods. This includes a slow fermentation process that lends depth to the flavor and improves the bread’s overall texture. From the crisp, golden baguettes and hearty whole grain loaves to the fragrant rosemary focaccia and chewy ciabatta, every type of bread here is a testament to the art of baking.

Beyond bread, Deux Bakery also serves a selection of pastries that are both delicious and visually stunning. The croissants are exceptionally good, with their flaky crust and tender, buttery interior. The pain au chocolat, almond croissants, and a variety of scones and muffins are also worth trying.

Check out the 15 Places For Delicious Burgers in Santa Barbara.

One unique aspect of Deux Bakery is its dedication to serving the local community. They provide bread to many local restaurants and cafes, showcasing their commitment to supporting other local businesses. They also participate in local farmers’ markets, further embedding themselves in Santa Barbara’s vibrant food scene.

Deux Bakery is a celebration of traditional baking methods and quality ingredients. Their commitment to crafting excellent bread and pastries, coupled with their community-centric philosophy, makes Deux Bakery stand out in Santa Barbara’s culinary landscape.

12. Recipes Bakery

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Located downtown, is a small, cozy pastry and coffee joint known for its tasty baked goods and Australian-style coffee drinks. It’s been in operation since 1978, and you know they’ve been doing it right to be around for that long.

The bakery has an extensive menu with popular treats including cinnamon rolls and banana bread. It’s hard to miss a house favorite; the Ricotta Pineapple pancakes and the jalapeno biscuits.

Each item is freshly made on site, so it might take more time than a regular bakery. Breakfast starts at 7.30 am, and is available all through till 1 pm. The cozy, elegant setting adds to the overall charm of the place. You can order online, and they offer catering services too

13. Spudnuts & Bagels

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Located in Ontare Plaza on State Street, is a popular locals’ joint for tasty potato flour donuts, bagels and other baked treats. The family owned shop has locations in nearby Goleta and Isla Vista too.

Spudnuts is the name given to the potato flour donuts here, and it goes without saying that they’re the star of the show. They are made with potato-based batter, and this gives them your not-so-usual kind of flavor and texture. This unique signature item draws many here, but there’s more.

Bagels, which are boiled before they are baked are another popular item on the menu. Croissants, muffins, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, fresh orange juice, smoothies, hot chocolate and tea are also available.

It’s perfect for breakfast or sweet treats to grab and go. Just remember to call directly for your to-go orders

14. Jeanine’s Restaurant & Bakery

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is a beloved institution in Santa Barbara, serving the community with its delectable array of baked goods, breakfast, and lunch items for over three decades. Founded by Jeanine and Gordon Harlow, this family-owned establishment combines the coziness of a bakery with the hearty offerings of a restaurant.

Jeanine’s bakery section is a feast for the senses, displaying an array of pastries, cakes, cookies, and pies, all baked daily on the premises. Their almond croissants are a local favorite, offering a sweet, nutty delight, while the buttery, flaky pain au chocolat and the assorted muffins cater to various taste preferences.

Their bread selection is just as impressive, ranging from crusty baguettes and tangy sourdough to hearty whole-grain loaves. Each loaf is handcrafted with care, reflecting the bakery’s commitment to traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients.

Moving beyond the bakery, Jeanine’s shines as a restaurant as well. Their breakfast menu is a blend of classic and innovative dishes, with offerings like fluffy pancakes, French toast, and a variety of egg dishes. Lunch options range from fresh salads and homemade soups to hearty sandwiches made with their freshly baked bread.

The ambiance at Jeanine’s Restaurant & Bakery is warm and welcoming, with quaint, homey decor that makes you feel like you’re in a family kitchen. The friendly staff is attentive and knowledgeable, adding to the overall charming experience.

A noteworthy aspect of Jeanine’s is their commitment to the community. They are well-known for supporting local charities and initiatives, reinforcing their position as a beloved community hub.

15. D’Angelo’s Bread

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In the heart of Santa Barbara lies a slice of bread heaven: . This artisanal bakery has been serving the community with an outstanding selection of bread and pastries since 1991. It’s a place where tradition meets creativity, resulting in baked goods that are both flavorful and deeply satisfying.

D’Angelo’s Bread takes pride in its diverse range of handcrafted bread. From classic French baguettes and tangy sourdough to the Italian-style ciabatta and multigrain loaves, each variety has a unique flavor profile and texture. The bakery’s commitment to traditional baking techniques, such as slow fermentation and hand shaping, results in bread with an excellent crust and tender crumb that’s full of complex flavors.

But bread is not the only thing on the menu at D’Angelo’s. The bakery also offers a delightful array of pastries. The almond croissants and pain au chocolat are crowd favorites, with their flaky layers and rich fillings. The bakery’s scones, muffins, and cookies offer more sweet and savory options to satisfy your cravings.

One of the unique aspects of D’Angelo’s Bread is its early morning hours. Opening at 5 a.m., they cater to early birds and night owls alike, providing fresh, warm bread practically straight from the oven. It’s an experience that’s rare to find in most bakeries.

The atmosphere at D’Angelo’s Bread adds to the overall experience. The bakery exudes a warm, cozy vibe, and the open kitchen allows customers to see the bakers in action, infusing the space with an authentic, down-to-earth feel.

Read more on the 20 Best Restaurants to Try in Santa Barbara.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect croissant, a delicious sandwich, or a tasty treat, there’s a bakery in Santa Barbara that is sure to hit the spot. Each offers its unique charm and flavors, making a bakery tour of Santa Barbara a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss.