Though Los Angeles teems with top-notch bakeries churning out gorgeous baked creations, only a select set truly takes the cake. From old-school institutions that have been icing and decorating for decades to nouveau cake craft shops putting imaginative new spins on tiered temptations, here are the seven best places for birthday cakes in Los Angeles.
Website/ Various
From pastry lover Lisa Olin, Cake Monkey has wooed Los Angeles captures the magic of childhood nostalgia by way of ornately decorated, tasty cakes. With classic flavors like german chocolate and apple crumble to stunners like strawberry passion fruit and Cake Monkey Crunch, Cake Monkey makes special-order birthday cakes a true piece of art.
Website/ 8389 W Third St 90048
Though Magnolia Bakery originated in New York’s West Village, Angelenos have embraced the sweet shop’s retro-classic cakes and cupcakes since its first West Coast outpost opened in 2010. When celebrating someone’s special day, you’re guaranteed to delight with the buttery vanilla-based Confetti Cake or the ultra-rich, three-layer Chocolate Cake.
Website/ 969 N Broadway 90012
Since the Chan family first established their storefront in 1938, Phoenix Bakery in Chinatown has been a staple source for cakes and pastries in Los Angeles, staying true to tried-and-true recipes, including the signature strawberry whipped cream cake that made it famous. Phoenix Bakery has a history of satisfying the likes of the Lakers and Dodgers, so whether you opt for the popular tres leches cake or something customizable, you’re in good hands.
Website/ Various
What began as a small Cuban bakery in Silver Lake has flourished into a SoCal mini-empire for Porto’s stellar selection of cakes and other baked goods reflecting generations-old family recipes. With numerous locations now across the region, Porto’s offers beautifully decorated cakes fit for commemorating another year around the sun. Its signature lineup includes Rosa Porta’s Pineapple Cuban Round Cake (named after its founder), the decadent Parisian Chocolate Cake and the refreshing mango mousse cake.
Website/ 2547 Lincoln Blvd 90291
If you’re looking for gluten-free cakes or dessert that’s just plain delicious, Sinners & Saints has you covered. The Venice bakery makes decadent layer cakes for any kind of eater that are almost too gorgeous to eat. Choose from an array of traditional flavors like vanilla, lemon, chocolate, red velvet and salted caramel chocolate.
Website/ Various
With multiple SusieCakes bakeries dotted around Los Angeles, the brand has become synonymous with celebration cakes marking all manner of milestones and special occasions. Made using simple, quality ingredients, their birthday cake selection includes popular flavors like vanilla, chocolate, marble and red velvet finished with billowy frosting.
Website/ Various
Despite a brief closure at the beginning of 2024, Sweet Lady Jane is open across the city abnd remains a paragon of superlative cakes in Los Angeles. Birthday celebrants can opt among a hearty lineup of cakes that include the fan-favorite Oreo cheesecake, widely cherished triple berry and decadent The Beverly with yellow cake and Cordillera chocolate mousse. Expect delicate florals, playful patterns or classy text atop these sweet masterpieces.
See also: The 19 Best Restaurants To Celebrate Your Birthday At In Los Angeles
Photography by: Getty Images; Photo by Stan Lee for Cake Monkey; Courtesy Magnolia Bakery; Phoenix Bakery; Porto's Bakery; Sinners and Saints Desserts; SusieCakes; Sweet Lady Jane
