When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Temple Pastries
Why Temple Pastries is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Temple Pastries, located at the bustling intersection of 26th and Jackson in Seattle's Central District, offers a unique and inviting destination for friends to gather and enjoy artisan baked goods. Founded in 2018 by Christina Wood, this queer-owned bakery started as a pop-up and flourished into a brick-and-mortar space in partnership with Broadcast Coffee Roasters in 2020. Specializing in sourdough croissants and cruffins — a creative hybrid of croissant and muffin — Temple Pastries continuously entices with seasonal and innovative flavors such as salted caramel apple, chocolate hazelnut with orange zest sugar, and plum with cardamom. Beyond croissants, the bakery offers a diverse menu including cakes, breads, croissant pretzels, breakfast sandwiches, macarons, sweet potato jam doughnuts, and expertly crafted espresso drinks. Their breakfast sandwiches, baked on wheat buns with combinations like bacon, cheddar, and chives or poblanos, Swiss cheese, and mushrooms, add savory variety. The use of diverse whole grains such as buckwheat, rye, and whole grain flour enhances both flavor and nutrition. Temples Pastries' creative weekend specials, like the Blood Orange Campari Cake Donut and Miso Caramel White Sesame Cruffin, highlight the bakery’s commitment to inventive flavor profiles. The welcoming, clean atmosphere combined with quality offerings makes it an excellent place to meet friends for a cozy and delicious experience.
Here's what people think of Temple Pastries
As of recent, Temple Pastries holds a 4.5-star rating based on 567 reviews.
Reviews of Temple Pastries consistently praise the bakery for its exceptional quality, inventive flavors, and welcoming environment. Customers frequently highlight the moist Fig & Oat cookie and the unique Chili Verde Pulled Pork Donut as standouts, along with the decadent Black Forest dessert. Many reviews commend the bakery's expertise in sourdough croissants and the delightful Cruffins, which have become a signature item. Positive feedback emphasizes the friendly, informative service and the bakery's clean, cozy interior, enhancing the overall experience. Patrons often appreciate the creative weekend specials and the use of diverse flours, which offer depth and originality to traditional pastries. On the other hand, a small number of negative comments occasionally mention minor disappointments such as limited seating or a brief wait during busy hours, but these are rare and generally do not detract from the overall positive impression. The bakery's strong reputation, reflected in its 4.5-star rating from over 560 reviews, solidifies Temple Pastries as a must-visit destination for pastry lovers and social gatherings alike, promising fresh, handcrafted treats and a warm local vibe that draws customers back time and again.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kyle Cooley
Incredible bakery where everything—from flavors to techniques—is executed with absolute precision. The space is surprisingly large, with plenty of seating downstairs, even more upstairs, and a few outdoor tables as well. As expected, they're known for their pastries and baked goods, but they also offer an extensive menu of coffee, drinks, and a few sandwiches. I started with the breakfast sandwich and a seasonal drink whose name escapes me—it was a mix of matcha and lemonade. The sandwich was very tasty, with the highlight being the fresh-baked milk bread. The drink was interesting, but the grassy-sour combination wasn’t really for me. Naturally, I also tried a variety of baked goods. My favorites: • Parisian hazelnut flan – Like the best custard tart you’ve ever had. Absolutely phenomenal if you get it warm, first thing in the morning. • Banh mi sausage croissant – Really unique and delicious. You might be skeptical of the pickled carrots and daikon, but they blend perfectly with the buttery croissant. • Rye ham & cheddar – A rye croissant isn’t something you see often, but it’s great—more nutty and savory than a standard one. • Kouign amann – I mean, of course. The croissant layers are light and fluffy, and the caramelized syrup is rich and delicious. • Cardamom almond brioche – Simple, with perfect texture and balance of flavors. • Chocolate & cocoa nib cookie – I never thought to put cocoa nibs in a cookie, but it's a perfect way to add extra bitterness without overpowering other flavors. • Strawberry macaron – Probably the best macaron I’ve ever had. The texture is unbelievably light, and it’s bursting with flavor—unlike most macarons around here, which just taste like a bland Oreo. All the macarons are excellent, but the strawberry is my favorite.
Ky Le
The best croissant pastries I've ever had! I've tried many croissant-based pastries, and this is by far the best one I've had across the country. Sadly, I was only visiting, but I went back twice within five days of my visit, which should tell you something. Food: The best things to get here are: gruyere cheese croissant (a must), the mushroom quiche, and the flan. Honestly any croissant-based pastries. Patisserie isn't their strong suit but their raspberry charlotte was quite amazing. Their black sesame desserts are a hit or miss, sometimes they would have a weird herbal-y taste to it. Coffee is a no. We got an espresso latte and a match latte, both were very bland so not worth your $7. Vibe: Very cute with plenty of sitting areas for a bakery. Bathrooms are locked with codes fyi. The line starts to pick up at around 9:30am on the weekend. Do go early since they sell out most of their best pastries in the morning. We went once at 2pm and they only have a third of the pastries case left.
Andrew Leader
By far the best pastry shop in Seattle, they have the most unique things and constantly change it up. Today we had the hazelnut praline flan, which has some sort of croissant crust, and it was SO GOOD!! Never had a flan like that before! And the rhubarb custard croissant was really good, still sour and a little sweet. Want to try everything here! A bit expensive, but you don’t find stuff like this anywhere else!
L
Even if you visit after 1 PM on a rainy and windy Saturday afternoon, there are hardly any croffins or pastries left. I ended up making a trip in the cold for nothing. This place is known for its bread, but if there’s none left in the afternoon, it’s not worth the visit! I’ll leave another review if I get a chance to actually buy some next time. I really hope they bake more on weekends.
Kim Bao
Goodbye Macrina, Goodbye Farine, Hello Temple Pastries ❤️ I love food, I love bakeries. I've never felt like I couldn't reproduce at least a part of a menu, but this place is in its own league. We had a mushroom quiche, and the made to order sausage breakfast sandwich. Absolutely stellar. The quiche, the mushrooms, and the egginess once heated to serve was so good and it wasn't what I ordered but I forced sharing 😂. I actually went back and ordered the cheesy, egg and sausage sandwich. It was so good, my walk back to work all I kept talking about was how it was so good. The sausage breakfast sandwich was executed so well. The egg was perfectly cooked, the sausage was out of this world, and the cheesiness was American cheese that made you feel like a kid again. The bread was crispy, soft and buttery all at the same time. I didn't know that could be possible. And last. The flan cruffin? It was like a Portuguese egg tart made for Americans but with the elegance of the cruffin and some crispy caramelized bottom layer. There was no holding back on the vanilla beans in the custard. As any Viet person would say when something is perfectly executed, "it's not too sweet." Definitely excited about coming back again. And the team, sooooon sweet. I'm glad we are walking distance. There isn't enough miles to walk off all the goodness. 😂
How to reach Temple Pastries
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Why Temple Pastries may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Temple Pastries with your friends? Because this is not just a bakery; it’s a vibrant, welcoming hub of culinary artistry and community spirit where every visit feels like a celebration. Temple Pastries boasts a high rating of 4.5 stars from over 567 reviews, indicating a consistent track record of delighted customers. Located in Seattle’s Central District, the bakery combines a charming atmosphere with a menu full of uniquely crafted pastries and drinks that spark conversation and awaken the palate. It’s the kind of place where friends can gather not only to enjoy top-tier sweets and beverages but also to share moments of discovery — choosing from weekend specials like the Blood Orange Campari Cake Donut or the Coconut Curry Puff Pastry. The thoughtful creativity in each item appeals to all ages and tastes, making it ideal for groups with diverse preferences. Beyond the food, the space itself is clean, inviting, and staffed with friendly employees who enhance the warm, accommodating vibe. For groups, this makes Temple Pastries an inspiring, cozy location that transforms a simple meetup into a memorable outing brimming with flavor and fun.
What activities are available at Temple Pastries that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the bakery’s outstanding selection of pastries and specialty breads encourages shared tasting experiences. Groups can sample pastry platters featuring favorites like the raspberry and rose tart, miso caramel and white sesame cruffins, and the moist fig & oat cookies, fostering lively discussions about flavors and favorites. The weekend specials add an element of surprise and exclusivity, drawing repeat visits as patrons come back to try new creations. Beyond eating, there’s a strong social element: enjoying expertly brewed coffees, such as a rich London Fog tea latte, with friends. The spacious seating allows for comfortable conversation, and the layout encourages a casual, relaxed ambiance where groups can linger over multiple courses — from morning quiches to afternoon cheesecake. Temple Pastries also invites exploration into artisan baked goods that act as great conversation starters, enriching the experience. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary outing that brings friends together around a shared appreciation of quality and creativity.
Why is Temple Pastries the ideal setting for building lasting memories with friends and family? The ambiance here strikes the perfect balance between trendy and cozy — it’s sophisticated enough to impress but intimate enough to feel like a home away from home. The bakery’s layout supports connection: communal tables and snug corners are ideal for both large groups and smaller gatherings. Throughout various visits, customers have noted how the staff’s attentive service adds a genuine touch, with employees eager to recommend new pastries or provide insight on the origins of ingredients, making each visit interactive and personalized. Such thoughtful customer care means group meetups are smooth and enjoyable, with little stress over ordering or seating. Also, the quality and presentation of the pastries are simply stunning — each plate looks like edible art. This elevates ordinary moments into special occasions, perfect for toasting an achievement, catching up over coffee, or just treating your loved ones to something extraordinary. Temple Pastries combines aesthetic pleasure, exceptional taste, and welcoming hospitality — ingredients for unforgettable group gatherings.
What kind of pastry selections does Temple Pastries offer, and why do they stand out for groups? The bakery’s selection is both broad and deeply inventive, spanning traditional comfort pastries to bold new flavors that challenge the palate. Signature items like the blood orange Campari cake donut and the horchata brioche donut showcase creativity and skill, blending global influences and classic pastry techniques. Handmade croissants, including the jammy caramelized shallot with gruyere and nutty pistachio schnecken, are renowned for their flaky, buttery excellence and complex flavors. The use of unique ingredients such as miso caramel, chili verde pulled pork, and Guittard dark chocolate chips adds layers of depth to familiar forms, perfect for intrigue and discussion among friends. Many pastries incorporate textural contrasts—like crunchy cacao nibs or creamy fillings—making every bite interesting. The bakery prides itself on ingredient quality and craftsmanship, so groups indulging in these pastries can expect exceptional freshness and taste. These qualities not only satisfy but inspire shared culinary appreciation, making the pastry offerings a core reason why Temple Pastries is so well-suited to social dining.
How does the coffee and beverage menu complement the food and enhance the group experience? At Temple Pastries, the beverage program is thoughtfully designed to pair perfectly with the pastries, elevating the overall experience for visitors. The menu includes expertly brewed coffees, lattes, and teas — each crafted with the same attention to quality as the food. Offerings like the London Fog, a tea latte with a smooth, fragrant profile, provide a comforting counterbalance to the rich flavors of the pastries. Customers have noted the flavorful, well-prepared drinks that arrive quickly, facilitating relaxed conversations rather than long waits. Beverages served warm help create a cozy atmosphere for groups to gather around, while iced drinks offer refreshing options in warmer months. This deliberate beverage pairing makes it easy for friends to customize their tasting experience, matching bold pastries with mellow drinks or sweet tarts with stronger coffee notes. The drink choices extend the sensory experience and provide something for everyone, from coffee aficionados to tea lovers, making the spot truly inclusive for group meetups.
What makes Temple Pastries’ atmosphere and service stand out for hosting group gatherings? Beyond the remarkable food and drink menu, the bakery’s environment plays a pivotal role in its appeal for groups. The space is clean and inviting, combining modern design aesthetics with warm, intimate touches that make guests feel immediately comfortable. Seating arrangements include tables perfect for larger meetups as well as cozy spots for smaller circles of conversation. Additionally, frequent guests praise the staff for being kind and accommodating — always ready to help select pastries or ensure that everyone’s needs are met. This attentive service reduces typical stresses associated with group dining, such as long waits or confusion over orders, allowing guests to focus fully on their social experience. The overall vibe encourages guests to stay longer, talk more, and savor their time together. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up on a weekend afternoon, this atmosphere makes Temple Pastries stand out as a premier venue for meaningful, relaxed group gatherings.
What kind of occasions or group sizes are best suited for Temple Pastries? Temple Pastries accommodates a wide range of group meetups, from intimate gatherings of a few close friends or family members to medium-sized celebrations such as birthdays or casual business meetups. The bakery’s flexible seating and relaxed pace make it easy for parties to accommodate various needs, whether it’s an early morning coffee date, a weekend brunch, or an afternoon dessert social. The bakery’s early closing time (3 PM on weekends) encourages daytime gatherings that make the most of bright, lively hours. Because of the artistic and gourmet nature of the pastries, the place is ideal for celebrations that appreciate culinary quality: think quirky birthday treat outings, informal reunion meetups, or even casual foodie club meetings. The exclusivity of weekend specials lends a festive note, perfect for marking a moment or just enjoying time “out” with friends or family. While it may not be suited for very large or noisy parties, Temple Pastries perfectly suits groups who value a blend of sophistication, creativity, and relaxed enjoyment.
How does Temple Pastries compare with other cafes or bakeries for group meetups? Contrary to typical coffee shops that focus mainly on drinks, Temple Pastries distinguishes itself with a revolutionary approach to pastries — treating them as works of art and culinary innovation. Where many bakeries rely on classic, safe flavors, Temple Pastries pushes boundaries with bold ingredient combinations and complex textures. This uniqueness makes it a compelling destination for groups seeking a conversation starter beyond just good food. The high number of reviews and overall excellent rating demonstrate strong community appreciation and reliability. Moreover, customer testimonials emphasize not only the quality of food but the fast, friendly service and appealing interior, which many competitors lack. This balance of exceptional product, attentive service, and comfortable environment positions Temple Pastries as more than a cafe — a social hub where groups can connect over shared discovery and indulgence. For those seeking a memorable, upscale pastry experience with friends, Temple Pastries offers unmatched value and enjoyment.
What final considerations should you keep in mind when planning your meetup at Temple Pastries? Since Temple Pastries has specific weekend specials and limited daily hours (typically opening early and closing by mid-afternoon), planning ahead ensures the best experience. Arriving earlier in the day allows for the widest selection of pastries before items sell out, especially the highly sought-after specialty creations. Groups should be prepared for a cozy but potentially busy space, so booking or calling ahead (if possible) might help manage seating for larger parties. Given the unique flavor profiles and artistic presentation, newcomers might appreciate exploring menu recommendations or sampling smaller items to taste a broad range of offerings. The bakery’s location in Seattle’s vibrant Central District adds to the experience, inviting further exploration of the neighborhood after your pastry meetup. Ultimately, with a little planning, Temple Pastries becomes a delightful destination that makes every gathering feel special and worth repeating.