April Westside Insider: Best Bakeries

Jyan Isaac Bread | Santa Monica

Jyan Isaac Bread in Santa Monica is a standout in LA’s artisan bread scene. Founded by Jyan Isaac Horwitz, who began baking at home during the pandemic after losing his job at Gjusta, the bakery quickly gained a devoted following. Known for its naturally fermented sourdough, marbled rye, cinnamon raisin brioche, and olive fougasse, the bakery emphasizes quality and tradition . With a storefront on Ocean Park Blvd and presence at several farmers markets, Jyan Isaac Bread has become a beloved destination for bread enthusiasts across the city.

Petitgrain Boulangerie | Santa Monica​

Petitgrain Boulangerie in Santa Monica is a delightful neighborhood bakery that combines French pastry artistry with California’s finest ingredients. Led by Clémence de Lutz and Tony Hernandez, both seasoned bakers with deep roots in the local food scene, Petitgrain is renowned for its buttery croissants, flaky pain au chocolat, and inventive seasonal treats like orange-glazed cinnamon rolls . Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of organic, locally milled flours and produce sourced from the Santa Monica Farmers Market . With a cozy storefront on Wilshire Blvd, Petitgrain has quickly become a must-visit destination for pastry enthusiasts across LA.

Breadhead | Santa Monica

Bread Head is a modern sandwich shop in Santa Monica redefining what a great sandwich can be. Founded by chefs with fine-dining backgrounds, the concept blends elevated technique with everyday comfort. Their signature focaccia—light, airy, and baked in-house daily—sets the stage for thoughtfully layered ingredients and bold, inventive flavors. With a rotating menu and a strong local following, Bread Head offers a fresh, elevated take on the classic sandwich experience.

House of Bread | Westwood

​House of Bread, located on Westwood Boulevard, is a family-run bakery founded by Zarrin Shahlapour. Drawing from her Persian heritage and time spent in Paris, Zarrin offers a unique blend of traditional and artisanal breads. The bakery is renowned for its naturally leavened sourdough, sesame-crusted loaves, and traditional Persian sangak, all crafted without added oil or sugar . With a commitment to quality and authenticity, House of Bread has become a cherished spot for bread enthusiasts seeking both classic and culturally rich baked goods.

Clark Street Bakery | Beverly Hills

Clark Street Bakery has become a cornerstone of LA’s artisan bread movement, known for its uncompromising dedication to tradition and quality. What began as a small operation in a West Hollywood apartment has grown into a citywide favorite, with locations from Echo Park to Brentwood. Their naturally leavened sourdough and buttery croissants are the stuff of legend—crusty, golden, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re picking up a country loaf for home or enjoying a pastry with your morning coffee, Clark Street delivers timeless craftsmanship with every bite.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lodge Bread | Mar Vista 

 Lodge Bread Co. is a Westside staple that blends rustic charm with serious baking credentials. Founded by two former chefs, the bakery is beloved for its naturally fermented breads, hearty toasts, and cozy, communal vibe. Whether it’s their deeply caramelized country loaves, pillowy pita fresh from the oven, or thick-cut toasts topped with labneh and seasonal jam, everything feels thoughtfully made and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of place where quality speaks for itself—and keeps us coming back for more.