When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Lavender Bakery & Cafe'
Why Lavender Bakery & Cafe' is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lavender Bakery & Cafe in Berkeley offers a charming and authentic European bakery experience that makes it an exceptional place to meet up with friends. Known for its fresh, beautifully crafted pastries, breads, and desserts, this family-run bakery specializes in French-style baked goods like croissants, palmiers, macarons, and danishes. Beyond the quality of the food, Lavender Bakery & Cafe provides a cozy atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy high-quality coffee alongside their treats. Their dedication to exceptional customer service is evident in their responsiveness and personal care, such as going above and beyond on busy occasions to fulfill orders and even arrange deliveries. Situated on Solano Avenue, the bakery invites visitors to savor both classic and customized treats, including wedding cakes and special event pastries. For those looking to gather over delightful baked goods with friends, Lavender Bakery & Cafe combines traditional European flavors with warm hospitality, delivering a memorable cafe experience in the heart of Berkeley.
Here's what people think of Lavender Bakery & Cafe'
As of recent, Lavender Bakery & Cafe' holds a 4.6-star rating based on 740 reviews.
Customer reviews of Lavender Bakery & Cafe are overwhelmingly positive, with a high 4.6-star rating based on over 740 reviews. Patrons frequently highlight the exceptional quality of the baked goods, describing the pastries as beautifully presented and delicious, especially praising the fresh breads, desserts, and specialty items like the vegan chocolate cheesecake and burnt almond dessert. The bakery’s family-oriented, attentive service is a standout feature noted by many, including stories of the owner personally ensuring order fulfillment during extremely busy times. Positive reviews also mention the friendly and accommodating staff, the pleasant cafe environment, and the bakery's willingness to customize cakes for celebrations and weddings, often earning repeat business from satisfied customers. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional inconsistencies in texture and flavor, such as pastries that can be tough or gummy, and limited outdoor seating availability. Parking challenges due to metered street parking were also noted. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus affirms Lavender Bakery & Cafe as a reliable destination for high-quality European-style baked goods and warm service, making it a valued local fixture and a great spot to meet with friends and enjoy authentic pastries.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
ahkwai Lert
The pastries at this cafe are quite delicious. However, one downside is that there aren’t many outdoor seats available. Parking is also a bit tricky — you’ll likely have to park on the street, which is metered. Today, I ordered the burnt almond dessert and the vegan chocolate cheesecake. Both were tasty and fragrant. The chocolate one was rich and sweet — I personally liked it, but I preferred the almond dessert more. The staff were lovely and friendly, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
William Wishart
True artists work here. I ordered a custom cake to look like a tree stump, with white trillium flowers. It was amazing! The details, and realistic edible flowers just brought my dream wedding cake to life. It was my first time ordering a custom cake, the process was easy, the staff helpful/friendly. The red velvet cake itself was moist, delicious, so decadent and rich. It was a really great experience from dreaming of what I wanted, to it being a cake on my wedding day. Worth mentioning, I ordered this from out of state, it was a destination wedding in California. A friend picked it up, said he had a wonderful time doing it. I really hope to visit or re-order on future visits to the bay area!!!
Ra Sh
Lavender is a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth! This was my first time visiting, and so many of my friends had highly recommended it. The variety of pastries on offer was impressive, making it tough to choose just a few. We ended up trying a selection, and each one was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich, and the textures were perfect. We also ordered their signature Lavender tea and Black tea, both of which were refreshing and complemented the pastries beautifully. The ambiance was cozy, with a charming atmosphere that made the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend Lavender to anyone looking to indulge in some amazing treats and enjoy a peaceful tea time. Can't wait to go back!
G Lee
Tain't a single bad thing I can say about Lavender. Seriously, their baked goods are just plain scrumptious, especially those sweets! 🍰 I'm all about those smaller desserts, way more than a big cake. Been here a bunch, but this is my first time writing this down. On this trip, we got a toasted almond pastry... ridiculously good, I tell you! The cream and that toasted crunch? Perfect combo. ✨ Then there was the fruit tart, custard style, with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on top. A little tart, which was just right with the sweet. 🍓🫐 And then tiramisu-like pastry? Melted in my mouth like a dream. 🤤 Lastly, an eclair, 'cause, well, I've loved those since I was a kid, and they just take you back. Flaky pastry, vanilla cream, chocolate on top... never gets old. Lavender just nails dessert every time.
Natacha Jeanty
I spent about $15. The croissant was a bit gummy; the apple turnover, though flakey, was filled with applesauce; and peach chossa had no filling. I’ve had better but for the price point I’m more irritated than disappointed. Maybe they’re better at cakes?
How to reach Lavender Bakery & Cafe'
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Why Lavender Bakery & Cafe' may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lavender Bakery & Cafe' with your friends? Because this charming spot offers more than just delicious pastries; it creates an inviting atmosphere that fosters connection and relaxation. With a stellar rating of 4.6 based on 740 reviews, Lavender Bakery & Cafe' combines the warmth of a neighborhood cafe with exquisite French-inspired baked goods that satisfy every palate. Its location on Solano Avenue in Berkeley makes it accessible and perfect for casual meetups or special occasions. Whether catching up over perfectly brewed coffee, sharing an array of fresh-baked treats, or lounging in a cozy corner, this cafe provides a welcoming environment that encourages lingering conversations. The blend of high-quality food, friendly service, and comfortable ambiance makes it an ideal destination to gather, celebrate, and enjoy time with friends or family members. The bakery’s strong local reputation ensures you’ll impress your group with both taste and atmosphere.
What activities can you enjoy at Lavender Bakery & Cafe' during a group meetup? One of the key attractions is sampling a variety of artisanal baked goods from croissants, cookies, banana bread, to exquisite cakes and pies, all freshly made on-site. Sharing a selection of these pastries encourages a communal tasting experience that sparks conversation and enjoyment. Alongside the bakery offerings, the cafe provides excellent coffee, including highly praised Americanos that complement the sweets perfectly. These food and drink options make it seamless to hold a brunch, afternoon tea, or casual treat session with friends. Additionally, the inviting indoor seating with cozy corners and a relaxed vibe means you can stay awhile, whether for a quick catch-up or a leisurely afternoon. The cafe’s layout supports socializing and mingling, making it easier for groups to engage comfortably. Many patrons have noted the great service atmosphere, which adds to the overall experience of hosting a fun, stress-free gathering.
Why is Lavender Bakery & Cafe' perfect for hosting group meetups? The spacious and thoughtfully designed seating arrangements accommodate groups of various sizes, making it ideal for both small parties and larger gatherings. Unlike many cafes where space is limited, Lavender offers a relaxed setting that facilitates conversation without feeling cramped or rushed. The friendly staff are known for their accommodating and attentive service, ensuring that your group’s needs—from menu recommendations to special requests—are well taken care of. Its hours of operation, typically open from early morning to evening, further provide flexibility for planning meetups that suit different schedules, be it a weekend brunch or an after-work coffee break. The cafe’s emphasis on quality and comfort means your guests will not only enjoy the flavors but also appreciate the thoughtful ambience. Its location within a vibrant neighborhood also means you can pair your visit with nearby parks or galleries for extra activities, adding value to your meetup.
What makes the menu at Lavender Bakery & Cafe' especially appealing to groups? The menu showcases a wide variety of French-inspired baked goods that appeal to diverse tastes, from flaky croissants to rich banana bread and delicate cookies. This variety allows groups to share and try different treats, creating a tasting-style experience that is both interactive and satisfying. On top of pastries, the cafe offers savory options that can serve as light meals, broadening the options for accompanying the bakery items. The drinks menu is equally impressive, with expertly brewed coffee and specialty beverages designed to complement the flavors of the baked goods. Customers frequently praise the consistency and quality of both food and drinks, which enhances the overall enjoyment of a shared meal or snack. This combination of sweet and savory, alongside beverages crafted to perfection, ensures there’s something for everyone, keeping all members of your group happy.
How does the atmosphere at Lavender Bakery & Cafe' encourage social gatherings? The cafe exudes a warm and welcoming vibe, blending the elegance of French patisserie with the casual comfort of a local coffee shop. The interior is bright and inviting, designed with cozy seating that invites you to settle in and engage in lengthy conversations. The noise level is generally moderate, allowing for easy talking without overwhelming chatter, making it suitable for catching up, celebrating special moments, or even informal business meetups. Patrons often highlight the friendly and attentive staff who enhance the atmosphere by providing personable service that makes guests feel valued and at ease. The combination of ambient lighting, tasteful decor, and a steady stream of fresh aromas from the bakery crafts a sensory experience that is both comforting and stimulating, perfect for a memorable group outing.
What additional benefits does Lavender Bakery & Cafe' offer for special occasions and group events? Many customers rely on Lavender Bakery & Cafe' to provide custom cakes and pies tailored for celebrations, enhancing the experience of birthdays, anniversaries, or any milestone with gourmet touches. The bakery’s reputation for consistency and quality ensures that these special treats are not only delicious but also beautifully presented. Because the cafe is accustomed to catering to groups and events, they are skilled in managing orders that meet specific dietary preferences or allergen needs, which adds convenience for diverse groups. Moreover, the business's convenient location near local parks and cultural spots means you can easily extend your meetup with outdoor activities or gallery visits, enriching the day beyond the cafe itself. Their flexible hours, friendly service, and environment tailored for comfort make it easy to plan and execute group events without hassle, making Lavender Bakery & Cafe' a top choice for community gatherings.
Why choose Lavender Bakery & Cafe' over other local cafes for your meetup? Besides boasting a 4.6 rating from 740 reviews, Lavender stands out for combining quality French bakery craftsmanship with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that many other cafes struggle to balance. Its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes ensures a superior taste experience that consistently delights patrons. The broad menu, warm ambiance, and excellent customer service create an all-around experience that is both convenient and memorable for social gatherings. Located strategically on Solano Avenue, it is easily accessible and surrounded by other amenities, making your meetup effortless to plan and enjoy. Whether for a casual coffee break, a celebratory event, or a relaxed family outing, Lavender Bakery & Cafe' offers the perfect blend of atmosphere, quality, and service to make your time with friends truly special.