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 meeting spot for friends and dessert lovers in San Diego, boasting two stunning locations in Little Italy and Bankers Hill. Founded by renowned pastry chef Karen Krasne, this celebrated bakery-café offers an ever-changing menu of globally-inspired, gourmet desserts crafted from the finest ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a dazzling variety of lavish cakes, tortes, pastries, and ice creams that provide a unique and luxurious experience. Beyond sweets, the cafes serve savory dishes such as creative paninis, salads, and artisan cheeses, accommodating diverse tastes with gluten-free and vegan options. The ambiance is elevated by award-winning architectural design, providing a visually stunning yet cozy setting perfect for intimate gatherings or special celebrations. Accompanying the delightful food offerings is a curated selection of small batch roasted organic coffees, globally sourced teas, boutique organic wines, and craft beers from local breweries. This combination of extraordinary culinary artistry, thoughtful service, and welcoming environment makes Extraordinary Desserts an ideal destination for friends to connect and indulge in unforgettable flavors.
Here's what people think of Extraordinary Desserts
As of recent, Extraordinary Desserts holds a 4.4-star rating based on 4635 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Extraordinary Desserts for its exquisite dessert offerings and beautiful presentation, reflected in a strong 4.4-star average from over 4600 reviews. Many highlight the richness and freshness of signature cakes such as the Black Velvet Cake and Dulce de Leche Cake, with a few reviewers mentioning their enthusiasm for the chocolate balboa cake and fruit-layered creations. Visitors appreciate the daily variety and the creative, artistic touches that make each dessert feel special. Positive reviews frequently mention the warm, attentive service and the inviting ambience crafted by the tastefully designed interiors. Several guests also commend the savory selections and the quality of the organic coffee and beverages that complement the desserts. On the other hand, some negative feedback revolves around the challenge of parking near the locations and occasional wait times during busy hours. A minority of patrons noted prices as somewhat premium, though most felt the quality justified the cost. Overall, the reviews reflect a highly favorable consensus; Extraordinary Desserts not only maintains its reputation for sweet indulgences but also for delivering memorable dining experiences, making it a beloved landmark in San Diego's culinary scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rachel Egyed
We stopped by Extraordinary Desserts to try a couple of small desserts. The presentation was definitely a highlight—each treat looked stunning, almost too pretty to eat. The portion sizes were reasonable, though the pricing felt a bit on the higher side for what we got. Not outrageous, but not exactly budget-friendly either. While the variety was impressive, the actual flavors didn’t blow me away. They were enjoyable, but not particularly memorable. The experience was nice, just not as extraordinary as the name might suggest. One downside was the wait. There was a decent line, and ordering took a bit longer than expected. If you’re visiting, plan for a little extra time. Overall, a good place if you’re looking for beautiful desserts with plenty of choices, but not necessarily a must-visit if flavor is your top priority.
Josh Baltazar
Nice view of all the pastries in the front. We ordered the Mixed Berry Greens (greens, butter leaf lettuce, berries, feta, pistachios and raspberry vinaigrette), a Lemon Square and Carrot Cake. I am not the biggest raspberry vinaigrette person but I did enjoy the salad a lot. Also I like the Carrot Cake but my partner did not like the fruit sauce on the bottom. I do have to say it overpowered the Carrot Cake flavor. Overall food was ok, but employees were nice!
Sheldon R
This place is fancy with delicious desserts at reasonable prices. We went here around 7 or 7:30pm on a Saturday night and it was pretty packed, but we were still able to find a table for 2. They have so many options to choose from and the ambiance is a great place for a date or a hangout spot with family and friends. I'm not really a cake person, but the blood orange ricotta came with some sort of red and a yellow drizzle that tasted so good. The begat strawberry raspberry scone was a little dry, and so adding the drizzle to that really elevated the flavor. Vegan strawberry raspberry scone: 4.5/5 Blood orange ricotta: 5/5
Maria Mnatsakanova
Gorgeous looking desserts and pleasant ambiance. Taste wise it’s usually hit or miss, but it is still a place worth visiting and desserts worth exploring. Today we got a blueberry cake, a Danish Parisienne and a chocolate chip cookie. We wouldn’t recommend the cookie, but the Blueberry pie was really good. I would like to try Pavlova next time I am here.
Shauna Pepitone
I thought this place was called Love because that's what's plastered on the outside of the building. Regardless, this was an amazing first experience. From the beautifully decorated bakery items to the friendly staff to the decor, 5 stars all the way. Everything tasted amazing and I can't wait to go back.
How to reach Extraordinary Desserts
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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 is a premier destination that turns an ordinary outing into an unforgettable celebration, making it an ideal spot to rally with friends or family. With a stellar rating of 4.4 from over 4600 reviews, this bakery and cafe has proven itself as a beloved local favorite for its exquisite desserts and welcoming ambiance. What sets Extraordinary Desserts apart is more than just the quality of its mouthwatering creations; it’s the inviting atmosphere where friends can gather, relax, and indulge in culinary artistry. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a get-together, this place offers a stunning array of beautifully crafted cakes, pastries, and desserts that double as both treats and conversation starters. Its late hours extending up to 11 PM ensure flexibility for evening meetups, accommodating everyone’s schedules comfortably. The blend of classic and adventurous dessert options caters to diverse palates, making it easy for groups with varying tastes to find something irresistible. Extraordinary Desserts isn’t just a spot to eat — it’s a destination that elevates social experiences through its inspiring flavors and charming setting, encouraging meaningful moments with the people you care about.
What kind of dessert experiences can you enjoy at Extraordinary Desserts?
Extraordinary Desserts specializes in a dazzling variety of desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, making it a perfect venue for indulging your sweet tooth with friends. The menu features an extensive selection ranging from rich chocolate specialties to delicate fruit tarts, all crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each dessert is meticulously prepared and presented, often described as edible art, which heightens the enjoyment for group meetups where sharing and tasting multiple items is part of the fun. Guests can delight in signature offerings like the famous chocolate bread pudding, seasonal fruit creations, and classic cakes elevated to extraordinary levels. The bakery also accommodates diverse dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, so everyone in a group can find something suitable to enjoy. In addition to desserts, the establishment offers gourmet teas, coffee, and select wines and beers, providing complementary beverages that enhance the overall experience of savoring desserts with friends. The variety ensures that each visit feels fresh and exciting, encouraging groups to come back repeatedly for new tastings and shared enjoyment.
What makes Extraordinary Desserts suitable for group meetups?
Extraordinary Desserts caters exceptionally well to groups, providing an environment designed for comfortable socializing alongside exceptional dining. Its spacious seating arrangements, including table service and some outdoor seating options, allow groups to gather without feeling cramped or rushed. Accessibility features such as wheelchair access and high chairs for toddlers ensure that guests of all ages and mobility levels can participate easily, which is essential for family meetups. The friendly, professional staff understand the dynamics of group orders and celebrations, making recommendations and managing orders effectively so that everyone receives their choices promptly and the experience remains smooth. The flexibility in timing, with late-night hours especially on weekends, means that groups have plenty of options to schedule visits around work, school, or other commitments. The two convenient locations in San Diego—Little Italy and Bankers Hill—offer neighborhood charm and easy accessibility, making it simple to find a spot that suits your meet-and-greet needs. Whether for a casual coffee and dessert or a celebratory gathering, Extraordinary Desserts provides the perfect backdrop for creating joyful memories.
Why is the ambiance at Extraordinary Desserts ideal for social gatherings?
The ambiance at Extraordinary Desserts complements its culinary offerings perfectly, creating a warm and inviting environment that encourages lively conversations and relaxed enjoyment. Both locations boast a cozy yet elegant decor, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming charm that makes groups feel right at home. The inviting lighting, tasteful furnishings, and artfully displayed desserts create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and comfortable—a rare combination that suits both casual hangouts and special occasions. The background music is curated to be unobtrusive, allowing guests to converse without raising their voices, which is ideal for gatherings focused on reconnecting and catching up. Outdoor seating options at some locations allow for fresh air and a more casual vibe, perfect during pleasant weather and for those who prefer an alfresco experience. All these elements make Extraordinary Desserts not merely a place to eat but a destination to enjoy the company of your favorite people in an atmosphere that delights all the senses.
What additional services and perks enhance the group experience at Extraordinary Desserts?
Extraordinary Desserts goes beyond serving exquisite food by offering thoughtful services and perks that make group visits more enjoyable and convenient. Guests can place special event orders or inquiries for private and wedding events directly with the restaurant, allowing groups to plan personalized celebrations with custom desserts tailored to the occasion. For groups unable to visit in person, online ordering and delivery through Postmates, Uber Eats, and DoorDash present an alternative way to share extraordinary flavors without leaving home. The cafes also offer a well-curated beverage menu featuring gourmet tea, coffee, beer, and wine, providing adults with options to complement their desserts and keep the mood festive. The attentive and efficient staff are available to assist with any special needs or questions, ensuring that each visit is seamless and stress-free. Moreover, the presence of seasonal menus and limited-time treats encourages groups to visit regularly and experience new delights, making it a dynamic destination that keeps the social energy alive. These additional services reflect the establishment’s commitment to enhancing the overall guest experience and making every meetup memorable.
How is Extraordinary Desserts recognized by customers and the local community?
The reputation of Extraordinary Desserts as a top-tier bakery and cafe in San Diego is reflected in its high ratings and glowing customer feedback. With a 4.4-star rating based on over 4600 reviews, both locals and visitors consistently praise the establishment for its outstanding quality, creativity, and welcoming atmosphere. It has earned a Travelers’ Choice award, positioning it within the top 10% of the city’s eateries, a testament to its reliability and popularity among discerning diners. Customers frequently highlight the exceptional taste and presentation of the desserts, coupled with attentive service that makes every visit special. The business’s two locations—Bankers Hill and Little Italy—are strategically situated near prominent local attractions, making it a natural stop for tourists as well as a favorite gathering place for residents. This community recognition assures new visitors that Extraordinary Desserts delivers a consistently exceptional experience, making it a secure choice for anyone planning to meet with friends or family over sublime sweet treats. The accolades help reinforce its status as not just a restaurant, but a vital part of San Diego’s vibrant culinary landscape.