When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Extraordinary Desserts
Why Extraordinary Desserts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Extraordinary Desserts stands out as a premier destination in San Diego for those seeking globally-inspired gourmet desserts and a delightful meeting place with friends. Founded in 1988 by renowned pastry chef and author Karen Krasne, this establishment offers an inspiring atmosphere coupled with visually stunning and exquisitely crafted desserts. With two locations in San Diego's Balboa Park vicinity and Little Italy, guests can enjoy an evolving daily menu featuring an extensive array of lavish cakes, tortes, pastries, and ice creams. Beyond sweets, the menu includes a curated selection of savory offerings such as creative paninis, fresh salads, artisan cheeses, and appealing gluten-free and vegan options, providing a full café experience to accommodate varied tastes and dietary preferences. The café’s ambiance reflects Krasne's global explorations and culinary artistry, creating an inviting setting perfect for casual gatherings or special celebrations. Accompanying these treats are small-batch roasted organic coffees, carefully sourced tea blends from around the world, organic or sustainably produced boutique wines, and uniquely crafted San Diego artisan beers. The harmonious blend of dazzling artistry, sublime flavors, and attentive service makes Extraordinary Desserts not only a pleasurable destination for dessert lovers but also a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy an extraordinary culinary experience.
Here's what people think of Extraordinary Desserts
As of recent, Extraordinary Desserts holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2965 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise Extraordinary Desserts for its extraordinary quality and creative offerings. Positive feedback often highlights the visual artistry and rich flavors of signature cakes such as the Black Velvet, Passion Fruit Ricotta, Shangri-la, and especially the Dulce de Leche Cake featured on Food Network's “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” Visitors appreciate the wide variety of desserts available, noting that the fresh fruit layers, moist textures, and unique flavor combinations provide an unforgettable dessert experience. Many reviewers mention the friendly and attentive service, and some also commend the savory menu options and beverage pairings that complement the sweets. The café atmosphere appeals to customers seeking both a casual spot for a sweet treat or a venue for special occasions, with some reviews describing celebrated moments like birthdays enhanced by these gourmet delights. On the other hand, some critiques focus on practical challenges such as limited parking or sometimes longer wait times due to the shop's popularity. A few reviewers note that due to the premium quality and craftsmanship, prices can be perceived as higher compared to typical dessert shops. Despite occasional negatives, the overwhelming consensus remains favorable, positioning Extraordinary Desserts as a must-visit spot for dessert aficionados and visitors looking for an extraordinary culinary treat in San Diego.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Belle
Always a good place to get desserts. We wanted to buy everything! They look so pretty with the flower petals and icing. We settled into 4 different desserts and had it to-go. We were satisfied and happy with all of them. It's perfect with their coffee or tea. Service is fast and friendly. The restaurant is also very cozy, clean and spacious.
Michelle Mariano
Best place for luxurious fine pastries and desserts. This has been a local staple for birthday cakes or just because. They adorn their desserts with fresh flowers and pretty aesthetics. But it’s not just pretty, it is delicious as well! I highly recommend coming in for some Balinese coffee and a pastry. My favorite??? Any of their danishes, cakes and brownie/cheesecake
Alice Renee Pierceall
Nothing special at all. The cakes look very beautiful, and the display looks nice. Basically, it's just a storefront with seating outside. I was surprised how comfortable the seating was, considering that it was all cement. My friends and I each ordered something different and shared. To me, the best thing I tasted was the coffee. The atmosphere was lacking, and the service was mediocre at best. Very expensive, not worth it. Parking is very challenging.
Vita & Vox
Not what it used to be. I visited this dessert shop on 4th Avenue expecting something special, as it used to have a unique charm. While it looks like the business has expanded, the selection now feels limited and pretty standard—nothing really caught my attention or made me want to try it. The store feels a bit cold and empty, and there isn’t much in terms of service. The atmosphere is fine, but overall, the experience just didn’t leave much of an impression.
Roberto S. Fierros
Never disappointed by the amazing cakes! Made from scratch with quality ingredients and love. From the presentation to the plate presentation. Black Velvet is my favorite. Definitely give it a try. Pride ice cream was a combination of mango, blue dyed vanilla, and more!
How to reach Extraordinary Desserts
None
Website: None
Why Extraordinary Desserts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Extraordinary Desserts with your friends? Extraordinary Desserts offers more than just a place to eat; it provides an experience that makes gathering with friends or family truly special. This acclaimed dessert spot in San Diego, boasting a stellar 4.5 rating from nearly 3,000 reviews, is renowned not only for its sumptuous and artistic desserts but also for its warm, inviting ambiance that cultivates celebration and connection. Whether you are seeking a cozy corner to share stories over decadent sweets or a lively setting to mark a milestone with a larger group, Extraordinary Desserts delivers on all fronts. The combination of innovative American cafe cuisine, exceptional service, and a broad selection that caters to diverse dietary needs—including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—ensures every guest feels welcomed and delighted. Open until late evening, it accommodates gatherings that run from afternoon meetups to late-night celebrations. The thoughtfully designed seating spaces, some with outdoor options, provide an open and comfortable atmosphere that encourages relaxation and conversation. Gatherings here become memorable because the delicious, visually stunning desserts naturally bring people together, sparking joy and conversation, making Extraordinary Desserts an ideal rally point for friends and family.
What types of activities can you enjoy with a group at Extraordinary Desserts? Meeting at Extraordinary Desserts is not just about indulging your sweet tooth; it is an opportunity to revel in shared experiences centered on gourmet treats. The business is known for its diverse dessert menu featuring unique creations like exquisite cakes, tarts, and chocolate bread pudding—easily enough variety to satisfy every member of your group no matter their preference. Sampling multiple desserts together becomes an interactive, communal experience, encouraging everyone to share tastes and opinions. Beyond savoring sweets, the cafe offers a full beverage menu including gourmet teas, beer, and wine, perfect for toasting special occasions or simply enhancing the social vibe of your gathering. The venue also supports casual conversations, celebrations, and even intimate meetings with its table service and table seating arrangements conducive to group interaction. Whether your group enjoys a slow, relaxed afternoon or a vibrant evening outing, the flexible service hours, including late-night availability, allow your meetup to proceed at your preferred pace. Additionally, the availability of takeout and delivery services means that even if some friends prefer to join virtually, you can all share in the dessert experience. This combination of premium food, specialty drinks, and accommodating atmosphere makes Extraordinary Desserts an exceptional choice for group activities centered on connection and delight.
Why is Extraordinary Desserts perfect for hosting any group meetup? Extraordinary Desserts stands out as a premier destination for group meetups because it blends exquisite culinary craftsmanship with an ambiance designed for togetherness. The spacious locations in San Diego’s Banker’s Hill and Little Italy neighborhoods provide ample seating and a welcoming environment that is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for guests with different needs. The staff is known for attentive, friendly service that makes groups feel valued and well cared for, allowing hosts and attendees to focus on enjoying company rather than logistics. The menu’s attention to special diets—including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—means that inclusive planning is simplified, making it easier for everyone in your group to find something delicious. The elegant presentation of desserts doubles as conversation starters and photo-worthy moments, enhancing the social experience of your meetup. Moreover, the extended hours, some locations open till 11 PM, provide flexibility in planning events that fit everyone’s schedules, including after-work gatherings or celebratory late dinners. For larger or special occasions, Extraordinary Desserts even offers private event planning and wedding consultations, reflecting their commitment to making your group gatherings truly extraordinary. Whether it’s a casual friends’ night out, a family celebration, or a special milestone, the blend of sophisticated sweets, high-quality beverages, and an inviting atmosphere makes this business uniquely suited for hosting memorable group experiences.
How does the menu at Extraordinary Desserts cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs within a group? When bringing together friends or family, everyone may have different tastes or dietary restrictions, and Extraordinary Desserts excels at meeting these varied needs. The menu is expansive, featuring classic and inventive American desserts that range from rich, indulgent cakes to light, fruit-based pastries. Importantly, it accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests without compromising on flavor or presentation, ensuring no one feels left out. This thoughtful inclusivity means that hosts do not need to worry about limited options when planning a gathering, which often complicates group dining. The cafe also serves gourmet teas and a curated selection of beer and wine, providing sophisticated beverage choices that can be coordinated with dessert selections for a fuller culinary experience. This attentiveness to variety and quality allows groups to explore new flavors together, share their favorites, and enjoy a fuller sensory experience. The presence of seasonal or specialty desserts adds novelty and excitement to each visit, encouraging repeat meetups so groups can try something new every time. Overall, the menu’s breadth and attention to dietary details make Extraordinary Desserts a reliable, go-to spot for any group seeking exceptional sweets and drinks in a comfortable and inclusive environment.
What kind of atmosphere and service should groups expect at Extraordinary Desserts? The atmosphere at Extraordinary Desserts strikes a perfect balance between upscale elegance and cozy comfort, ideal for groups looking to enjoy both great food and quality time together. The interiors are beautifully designed with artistic details and thoughtful lighting that create a warm, inviting environment without being overly formal. Whether you choose to sit indoors or enjoy outdoor seating available at certain locations, the ambiance encourages lingering conversations and relaxed enjoyment of the culinary offerings. The staff are well-trained and attentive, providing impeccable table service that accommodates the specific needs of groups, such as seating arrangements that facilitate conversation and taking care to coordinate orders efficiently to reduce wait times. Additionally, the business’s accessibility features and accommodations ensure visitors with mobility or other needs feel comfortable and welcomed. Guests frequently note the friendly and professional nature of the staff, which enhances the overall experience by combining great desserts with exceptional hospitality. This atmosphere and service quality make Extraordinary Desserts more than just a place to eat—they make it a destination tailored to creating enjoyable and seamless group gatherings.
How can Extraordinary Desserts accommodate special group events or celebrations? Extraordinary Desserts goes beyond standard cafe service by offering tailored options for private events and special celebrations. Groups looking to host birthdays, anniversaries, corporate meetups, or other milestones can contact the venue directly to explore private event arrangements, ensuring personalized service that fits the scale and style of the occasion. The business provides wedding consultations as well, demonstrating its ability to handle significant life celebrations with sophistication and care. Through dedicated event inquiries, hosts can request customized menus, décor enhancements, and coordinated service, transforming the visit from a casual meetup into a polished celebration. This flexibility is particularly valuable for groups seeking a seamless combination of extraordinary desserts and professional event management in one location. Having two prime San Diego-area locations enhances convenience and choice for event planners. Overall, this commitment to versatility and client focus means that whether your gathering is intimate or large, casual or formal, Extraordinary Desserts is well-equipped to make your group event memorable and distinctively special. Hosting at this venue ensures your friends or family encounter a refined yet relaxed celebration atmosphere centered on exceptional food and shared joy.