30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Ice Cream in Mid-Wilshire
Best Sandwiches in Mid-Wilshire
Master Critic Review
Haute Mess
7.9
Part European-style market, part café, HauteMess also runs a serious gelato program behind the counter. Guests pair rich, slow-churned scoops with sandwiches, salads, or espresso, making it an elevated option for dessert and a light meal in one stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Saffron rosewater gelato, Pistachio gelato, Mascarpone fig gelato
Scores:
Value: 6.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: European-style market café with restaurant-level gelato by the scoop.
Who should go: Gelato seekers wanting cafe seating with European market vibes.
When to visit: Warm evenings or weekend afternoons for gelato and people-watching.
What to order: Saffron rosewater gelato, pistachio gelato, mascarpone fig gelato.
Insider tip: Grab a pint to go from the freezer cases after your cone.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared surface lot for the small plaza plus limited metered street parking along W 3rd; easier before 6pm, tougher during weekend peak hours.
Dress code: Casual but stylish fits the Euro-market vibe; athleisure is fine, but many guests lean polished-casual.
Noise level: Moderate; café chatter and espresso machines create a lively backdrop but conversation is easy at most tables.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for a café table; gelato counter usually moves quickly even during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; easy to order gelato or grab a small table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, sandwiches, and several gelato flavors are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — expect occasional dairy-free sorbet-style options but not a full vegan gelato lineup.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — some salads and gelato flavors work for gluten-free diners; cones contain gluten but cups are safe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it's casual but chic, with European market energy that feels both relaxed and elevated. Great for a low-pressure meet-up with gelato and a small walk afterward.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it operates as a café/market, so seating is first-come. During busier weekend windows, be flexible and consider grabbing a gelato first while waiting for a table to open.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families stop in for gelato often. Limited seating and a boutique market layout mean strollers can feel tight, but older kids will be fine.
Best For
Better for: Elevated, European-style gelato with café seating — ideal when you want dessert plus light bites or espresso in one stop.
Skip if: You want a classic American scoop shop, ultra-budget pricing, or a large seating area designed for groups.
Hours
Monday7am - 9pm
Tuesday7am - 9pm
Wednesday7am - 9pm
Thursday7am - 9pm
Friday7am - 9pm
Saturday7am - 9pm
Sunday7am - 9pm