Palo Alto's Best Dessert [Updated 2025]

Having tasted and reviewed twelve delightful desserts from various local spots, I’ve indulged my sweet tooth in ways both decadent and comforting.

From mouthwatering pastries to innovative ice creams, Palo Alto has something to satisfy every craving.

Join me as I share my top picks that showcase not only incredible flavors but also the creativity of the local dessert scene.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, prepare for a sugary adventure that will leave you dreaming of these sweet treats long after your last bite!

GK Pastry

Highlights
Amazing focaccia varieties
Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Cute and inviting atmosphere
Helpfulness of the staff
Delicious jar cakes available

Visiting GK Pastry was like stepping into a delightful culinary dreamland where every whiff of freshly baked goods ignites the senses. The moment I entered, I was welcomed by a cute and inviting atmosphere that felt remarkably warm and homey. My eyes were immediately drawn to the amazing focaccia varieties that practically called my name, and I couldn't resist trying a slice. Each bite was a moist explosion of flavor, crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients that clearly made all the difference.

But the true star of the show for me was the delicious jar cakes displayed with a touch of whimsy. These charming treats come in an array of flavors, and I chose the vibrant lemon raspberry. It was a playful dance between tart and sweet, wrapped in a rich creaminess that delighted my palate.

Throughout my visit, the helpfulness of the staff was wonderful, guiding me through the menu with genuine enthusiasm. If you're in Palo Alto and on the hunt for your next sweet escape, I wholeheartedly recommend GK Pastry — a gem that promises to satisfy your cravings and make your day just a little more special!

You might also want to check out the best clam chowder in San Francisco.

Antoine’s Cookie Shop

Highlights
Crispy exterior, soft interior
Rich, deep flavor dough
Variations of delicious cookies
Best enjoyed warm and gooey
Premium quality chocolate

Antoine’s Cookie Shop is a hidden gem that deserves a spotlight in the realm of Palo Alto desserts. As I stepped inside, the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies engulfed me, setting the stage for a delightful experience. Taking my first bite of their signature cookie, I was greeted by a crispy exterior that gave way to a beautiful, soft interior—a perfect textural dance!

What really sets Antoine's apart is the rich, deep flavor of their dough that carries hints of caramelized notes and a delightful balance of sweetness. Each variation is a tasty adventure; from classic chocolate chip to inventive seasonal flavors, there’s something to cater to every palate. I highly recommend indulging in them when they are freshly baked, as the cookies are best enjoyed warm and gooey, melting in your mouth with each blissful bite.

The use of premium quality chocolate elevates the experience, making you truly savor each morsel. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, stopping by Antoine’s Cookie Shop is an absolute must for anyone in search of the best dessert in Palo Alto. Treat yourself; you won't regret it!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Half Moon Bay.

Douce France

Highlights
Exquisite French pastries
Rich, velvety hot chocolate
Attentive and passionate staff
Cozy and charming atmosphere
Fresh strawberries in desserts

Douce France is a charming gem that transports you straight to a Parisian bakery, and let me tell you, every bite is a lyrical ode to French patisserie! As soon as I stepped inside, the cozy atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm hug, and the enticing aromas lured me in further. I decided to indulge in their exquisite pastries, and I was not disappointed. The fruit tarts, adorned with fresh strawberries, burst with flavor that danced on my palate.

But the star of the show? The rich, velvety hot chocolate that arrived in a steaming cup, embracing me with each sip. It was the perfect balance of sweetness and depth, reminiscent of a warm winter's evening in Paris.

What truly stood out during my visit was the attentive and passionate staff; their enthusiasm resonated with every recommendation they made. It's clear that at Douce France, dessert isn't just food—it's an art form. If you’re in Palo Alto and craving a sweet escape, do yourself a favor and treat your taste buds to a delightfully indulgent experience here. You won't regret it!

You might also want to check out the best cafes in San Francisco.

Mademoiselle Colette

Highlights
Best Pain au Chocolat
Insanely Good Kouign Amann
Cozy Reading Spot
Friendly Staff
Delicious Cakes Available

Ah, Mademoiselle Colette—a charming little nook that feels like a slice of Paris right here in Palo Alto! As I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly baked goodies enveloped me like a warm hug. My eyes darted around, landing on the delectable pain au chocolat, which is undoubtedly one of the best I’ve ever tasted. Flaky yet perfectly balanced with rich chocolate, it was an indulgence I would repeat on any day!

However, the true star of my visit was their kouign amann. This delightful pastry has an insanely good sweetness that melds beautifully with its buttery layers, creating a texture that’s crisp on the outside and soft within. Each bite was a heavenly experience, taking my taste buds on a joyride!

What I adored even more was the cozy atmosphere, perfect for curling up with a book or simply enjoying the moment. The friendly staff added a sprinkle of warmth to my visit, making it feel less like a cafe and more like a home.

If you’re on the hunt for unforgettable desserts, Mademoiselle Colette is a must-visit gem in Palo Alto!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Francisco.

Alexander's Patisserie

Highlights
Beautiful pastry presentations
Unique and creative flavors
High-quality, fresh ingredients
Memorable flavor experiences
Perfect for special occasions

Alexander's Patisserie is a delightful haven for dessert lovers, and my recent visit certainly reinforced its reputation as one of Palo Alto's finest! The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by beautiful pastry presentations that looked almost too good to eat—key word: almost! With an array of colors, textures, and intricate designs, each pastry felt like it told a story.

As I savored my selection, the unique and creative flavors made my taste buds dance with joy. I was particularly impressed by the harmonious blend of seasonal fruits, rich chocolates, and delicate creams. It was evident that Alexander’s takes pride in using high-quality, fresh ingredients, elevating each bite into a memorable experience.

Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet escape, their desserts are not only visually stunning but also taste like a dream. I wholeheartedly recommend making a visit to Alexander's Patisserie—it's a delightful adventure for your palate. If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable treat in Palo Alto, look no further; this gem is ready to dazzle in both taste and artistry!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in San Francisco Little Italy.

Shekoh Confections

Highlights
Delicious chocolate truffles
Unique flavor offerings
Beautiful gift packaging
Friendly service experience

Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, Shekoh Confections delivers an exquisite chocolate experience that’s simply irresistible! From the moment I stepped in, the rich aroma of chocolate enveloped me like a warm hug, beckoning me to indulge. I couldn't help but dive into their delicious chocolate truffles, which are truly the stars of the show. Each truffle is like a little treasure chest of unique flavors, artfully balancing decadence and creativity.

What truly sets Shekoh apart are their unique flavor offerings, including hints of lavender and exotic spices that dance on your palate. I relished every bite—each one a delightful surprise. The beautiful gift packaging makes it an ideal choice for any occasion or a self-indulgence on a cozy evening.

And let's not forget the service! The staff were not only friendly but animatedly passionate about their craft, which enhanced the overall experience tenfold.

If you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Palo Alto, do yourself a favor and visit Shekoh Confections. They have truly redefined dessert for me, and I just might have to return for another round of those heavenly truffles!

You might also want to check out the best food in Alameda.

Tong Sui Desserts & Drinks (Palo Alto)

At Tong Sui Desserts & Drinks, every sweet creation is a delightful adventure for the taste buds! I indulged in their signature mango sago—a luscious blend of creamy coconut milk and juicy mango that danced on my palate. The texture was perfectly balanced, with chewy tapioca pearls that added an exciting twist. I also couldn't resist their steamed ginger milk custard, which was silky smooth and magically soothing. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it an ideal spot to savor these heavenly treats. If you're seeking dessert bliss, look no further than Tong Sui! 🍧✨

You might also want to check out the best cookies in San Francisco.

Salt & Straw

Salt & Straw in Palo Alto is an ode to the art of ice cream! With whimsical flavors like Honey Lavender and Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, each scoop is a delightful adventure. The rich, creamy texture melts in your mouth, leaving hints of nostalgia and joy. The vibrant atmosphere invites you to linger, while the friendly staff adds charm to your visit. Don't miss their innovative seasonal specials—each one tells a unique story! If you’re seeking an unforgettable dessert experience, Salt & Straw is a must-try destination that transforms ordinary moments into delightful memories. 🍦✨

You might also want to check out the best tattoo shops in San Francisco.

Palo Alto Creamery

Stepping into Palo Alto Creamery is like entering a delightful time capsule, bursting with nostalgia and sweet aromas! Their signature sundaes are a heavenly masterpiece—think rich, creamy ice cream generously drizzled with chocolate sauce, crowned with fluffy whipped cream and a cherry on top. Every scoop is a celebration of flavor that makes my taste buds dance! The vibrant atmosphere adds a sprinkle of joy, making it the perfect spot for dessert enthusiasts. If you’re on the hunt for an irresistibly delectable treat, look no further—this charming creamery is an absolute must-visit for any sweet tooth!

You might also want to check out the best coffee shops in Berkeley.

SOMISOMI

SOMISOMI in Palo Alto is a whimsical dessert haven that captures the joy of childhood with every bite! Their signature Ah-Boong, a delightful Korean dessert, offers a warm, fish-shaped waffle cone cradling an ocean of velvety soft serve. I was enchanted by the rich matcha and sweet black sesame swirl, perfectly complemented by delightful toppings like fresh fruit and sprinkles. Each spoonful was a playful dance of flavors that left me craving more. SOMISOMI isn’t just about dessert; it’s an experience that brings out the kid in all of us. A must-visit for dessert lovers!

You might also want to check out the best bbq in Oakland.

Marvel Cake DTPA

Stepping into Marvel Cake DTPA felt like entering a whimsical dessert wonderland! Their signature matcha latte cake dazzled my taste buds with its delicate balance of earthy green tea and creamy layers. Each bite was a delightful dance of flavors, leaving me craving more. The fluffy chiffon texture melted in my mouth, while the subtle sweetness was just right—no cloying aftertaste here! The ambience was as charming as the treats, making it a perfect spot for sweet indulgence. If you’re on the hunt for the best dessert in Palo Alto, don't miss this gem; it’s a slice of heaven!

LeVant dessert

At LeVant, the desserts are nothing short of magnificent. I indulged in their signature baklava, crafted with delicate layers of phyllo pastry and a delightful honey syrup that danced on my palate. The rosewater panna cotta was a revelation—light, creamy, and imbued with a floral note that was both exquisite and refreshing. The ambiance is a charming blend of cozy and vibrant, making it the perfect spot for indulging your sweet cravings. If you're on the hunt for a remarkable dessert experience, LeVant should be at the top of your list!