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ZipPicks Awards
Best French in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Breakfast in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Brunch in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
The Ivy Bakery - Dolce Isola
8.2
The production bakery behind both Ivy restaurants, run by chef Richard Irving whose pedigree traces through L.A. Desserts and Le Restaurant, turning out house-baked breads, gelato, and a trimmed Ivy menu at roughly half the price. The European cafe atmosphere—real flowers, antique chandeliers, weathered French chairs—punches well above typical counter-service, making it a quieter way to access Ivy-quality cooking without the Robertson scene. Best used as a weekday lunch stop or a take-home bakery run for the famous chocolate chip cookies and fresh baguettes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Fresh Fish Tacos on Homemade Tortillas, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Salad Nicoise
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: The casual bakery offshoot of The Ivy, doubling as the production bakery that supplies desserts to both Ivy locations daily, serving a shortened version of The Ivy menu at lower prices.
Who should go: Ivy fans seeking the same kitchen without the scene
When to visit: Weekday mornings for fresh-baked pastries without a wait
What to order: Start with the fish tacos on homemade tortillas, grab a box of chocolate chip cookies to go, and finish with a scoop of gelato — portions are cafe-sized so ordering two savory items works well
Insider tip: This is breakfast and lunch only (closed Sunday-Monday), and you can buy boxes of their cookies, housemade breads, and gelato to take home
Logistics & Planning
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual daytime date — this is a charming European-style bakery cafe with real flowers on every table and lovely artwork, giving it a romantic, Parisian feel. The catch: it's daytime only (closes by 3:30pm), so this is a brunch or lunch date spot, not dinner. Indoor music can run loud and the downstairs tables are tightly spaced, so request outdoor patio seating for easier conversation. Best as a relaxed, getting-to-know-you date over pastries and coffee rather than a formal evening out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this operates as a walk-in bakery cafe with no formal reservation system. That said, the space is small and gets busy during peak lunch hours (roughly 11:30am–1pm). Arrive before 11am or after 1:30pm on weekdays for the best chance at seating without a wait. Weekends can be busier, so plan accordingly. Open Tuesday–Friday 8:30am–3:30pm and Saturday 8:30am–3pm; closed Sunday and Monday.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual daytime bakery format is naturally family-appropriate, and a kids menu is available. Gelato, fresh pastries, and chocolate chip cookies are easy kid-pleasers. The noise level indoors is already elevated (loud music), so a child won't stand out. One note: the downstairs seating is cramped, which can be tight with a stroller — the outdoor patio is a better bet for families. High chair availability not confirmed online — call ahead if needed.
Is it good for groups? Not ideal for larger groups. The downstairs dining area is small with mostly 2- and 4-top tables, and reviewers note a shortage of larger tables. Groups of 2–4 are the sweet spot. There is an upstairs space that may be available for private events or larger parties, but details aren't published online — call directly to inquire. For a casual group of 6+, expect a tight squeeze or plan to split across multiple tables.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a ground-level patio area along Robertson Blvd. Reviewers describe it as a peaceful setting, notably quieter than the loud music inside, making it the preferred spot on a nice day. The patio is dog-friendly. Whether it's covered or heated is not confirmed online — expect a modest-sized patio rather than a large terrace given the overall footprint of the space.
Best For
Better for: Custom celebration cakes and bespoke designs for weddings and special occasions — rooted in classic European pastry traditions with premium ingredients
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday8am - 3pm
Wednesday8am - 3pm
Thursday8am - 3pm
Friday8am - 3pm
Saturday8am - 3pm
SundayClosed