ZipPicks Awards
Best Bakery in Avondale & North Center
Best Brunch in Avondale & North Center
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Avondale & North Center
Master Critic Review
Au Levain Bakery & Cafe
8.5
Au Levain Bakery & Cafe in North Center focuses on classic French laminated pastries, cakes, and a small cafe menu built around high-quality ingredients. Locals line up for croissants, kouign amann, and coffee in a bright counter-service space that works best for quick visits and small catch-ups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Plain croissant, Kouign amann, Breakfast sandwich on house English muffin
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: French-style laminated pastries with serious technique in a casual cafe.
Who should go: Pastry obsessives chasing top-tier croissants and kouign amann.
When to visit: Early mornings for best pastry selection and shorter lines.
What to order: Plain croissant, kouign amann, breakfast sandwich on English muffin.
Insider tip: Go early on weekends; signature pastries often sell out by midday.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood is usually available, but can be limited during morning rush hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — think coffee shop attire.
Noise level: Generally low to moderate; easy for conversation except during peak weekend mornings.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — this is primarily a daytime bakery-cafe.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, though pastry selection may be limited later in the day.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — many pastries and a few cafe items are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — most pastries contain butter, but occasional vegan-friendly items may appear.
Gluten-free options: Very limited — offerings focus heavily on traditional wheat-based pastries.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you're planning a casual coffee-and-pastry date. The bright, relaxed setting works well for low-key meetups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served, but tables are limited during peak morning hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are welcome, though space is cozy and best suited for well-behaved kids or quick visits.
Best For
Better for: Classic French pastries made with strong technique — especially croissants and kouign amann — and quick coffee catch-ups.
Skip if: You need a full sit-down brunch menu, lots of seating, or broad vegan/gluten-free options.