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ZipPicks Awards
Best French in Downtown LA
Best Bakery in Downtown LA
Best Donuts in Downtown LA
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Pitchoun Bakery
7.8
A family-run French bakery and café near Pershing Square that anchors downtown mornings with serious bread and pastry craft. Croissants, baguettes, and tarts are the headliners, but the savory side—tartines, soups, salads—makes it an easy lunch stop too. Reliable, unfussy, and built for daily repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Almond croissant, Jambon-beurre baguette, Savory tartine
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Classic French boulangerie execution in a downtown grab-and-go format.
Who should go: Pastry lovers and coffee-break locals.
When to visit: Morning for the freshest bake.
What to order: Almond croissant, baguette sandwich, seasonal tart.
Insider tip: Arrive early—top pastries sell out fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited during weekday business hours; nearby paid garages around Pershing Square are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual and come-as-you-are; office attire blends right in.
Noise level: Moderate in the morning rush, easing to low-medium during late mornings and afternoons.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; the café closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak noon rush, often no wait before 11:45am or after 1:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pastries, salads, and tartines fit easily.
Vegan options: Limited — a few breads and select salads may work, but pastry options are sparse.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — some salads and soups are naturally gluten-free, but pastries and breads dominate the menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a low-pressure morning coffee or pastry date — casual seating and high foot traffic make it relaxed but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service with open seating; securing a spot may take a few minutes during peak morning traffic.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick visits — pastries and simple seating work for most ages, though the tight space and weekday rush may be challenging for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Consistent French pastries and breads at accessible prices, ideal for grab-and-go breakfast or a quick lunch bite.
Skip if: You want a long sit-down brunch, extensive savory menu, or a quiet, lingering café experience.
Hours
Monday8am - 3pm
Tuesday8am - 3pm
Wednesday8am - 3pm
Thursday8am - 3pm
Friday8am - 3pm
Saturday8am - 3pm
Sunday8am - 3pm