Stereotypes be darned: Angelenos are a dessert people. We like sugar and we like dairy, and we love it when the two are combined. Here are some classic Los Angeles desserts, from frozen to baked to fried. What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments!
Since 1910, Mikawaya has been producing wagashi, Japanese pounded rice pastries, in Downtown's Little Tokyo neighborhood. Mochi-wrapped ice cream is undoubtedly their most famous and imitated creation. [Image by Flickr user christinelu.china]
Kanom, or Thai sweets, use a ton of coconut. Here, a type of fried crepe with meringue and citrus, with two jellied coconut and peanut cups. These are from Thai Town's Bhan Kanom. [Image from Flickr user larryleenyc]
The Bazaar uses molecular gastronomy (even though we're not supposed to use that term anymore) in almost all of their desserts - this Spanish flan is one of the more "normal" menu offerings. [Image by Flickr user Muy Yum]
Budino at Mozza. If you've had it, you know. [Image courtesy of My Weekend Passport]
Though dessert trends come and go, we're certain that donuts will always be number one in L.A.'s heart. Or stomach. This beauty comes from Stan's in Westwood. [Image by Flickr user manda_wong]
Red velvet cake may not be a California tradition, but once we finally figured it out a couple years back, there was a city-wide addiction problem that we're only just now learning to manage. This one is from Nickel Diner.
Cupcakes in all forms are appreciated, but this carrot cake variety from Auntie Em's is especially worthy of praise.
Patina's foret noire comes from a long and proud line of tiny, fanciful desserts that cost a great deal more than the ingredients themselves. You're paying for the artistry, my dears. [Image by Flickr user Muy Yum]
The Oinkster uses Fosselman's ice cream to great effect in their milkshakes, especially the ube (taro) and horchata flavors.
Frozen yogurt shops are practically the Starbucks of L.A. (Aside from Starbucks.) It's perfectly acceptable to pledge allegiance to one chain, but just know this industry secret: Ninety-five percent of them use the exact same yogurt company. [Image by Flickr user _e.t]
The ice cream sandwiches from Diddy-Riese may not use locally sourced, artisan ingredients, but they are absolutely worth the wait in line. [Image by Flickr user tobo]
More L.A. Sweets:
Simplethings: A Cuban Sandwich & Cutie Pies
Diabolically Delicious Local Halloween Treats
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jqueeng02 says :
Wow, I just love desserts...My friends in LA, always tell me that Diddy Riese's ice cream sandwich is the best...They are all mouth watering though.