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ZipPicks Awards
Best Bakery in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Breakfast in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Brunch in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Burritos in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Cheap Eats in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
Venice Bakery & Restaurant
8.1
A family-run bakery-café where Cuban coffee culture meets Guadalajaran breakfast traditions—the chilaquiles recipe was brought in directly from Jalisco and paired with plantains from the founder's Cuban household. The counter service moves fast for early-morning regulars who know to grab pan dulce while waiting for eggs. Works best as a no-frills weekend breakfast run where generous portions and reasonable prices offset the functional atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles, Pan Dulce, Bolillos
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Old-school Mexican bakery and café serving house-baked breads and traditional breakfast plates since the neighborhood was still affordable
Who should go: Early risers craving authentic Mexican bakery and brunch
When to visit: Weekend mornings for fresh-baked pan dulce selection
What to order: Start with cafe de olla, order chilaquiles as your main, grab bolillos and pan dulce to take home
Insider tip: Ask which pan dulce came out of the oven most recently
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Venice Blvd—typically easy on weekdays during breakfast hours
Noise level: Moderate—family-friendly atmosphere, comfortable for conversation
Weekday lunch: Usually easy to get a table, closes by 2pm weekdays
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Beans and chilaquiles salsas are lard-free; El Veggie Omelette available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual daytime date than a romantic evening. This family-style Mexican bakery closes by 2-3pm, so it's breakfast/brunch only. The covered patio is pleasant but the vibe is relaxed neighborhood spot rather than intimate—think Sunday morning chilaquiles with someone new, not candlelit conversation. Good for a low-pressure early date where great food matters more than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are the norm here. It's a small family-run spot, so weekend mornings can get busy with waits for seating. Arrive early (closer to 6am opening) for the best chance at immediate seating. Weekday mornings are typically easier. They do accept reservations if you want to guarantee a table, but most guests walk in.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - this is a family-run spot with a casual atmosphere where kids fit right in. The relaxed patio setting and approachable Mexican breakfast fare (burritos, eggs, pan dulce) work well for children. The noise level is forgiving and staff are accommodating. High chair availability not confirmed—call ahead if needed.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups. This is a small family bakery, so very large parties may be challenging. Tables on the covered patio can accommodate groups, and they're listed as good for groups with reservation options. For parties over 6, call ahead to confirm they can seat you together: (310) 839-3478.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - they currently offer outdoor dining only on their covered patio. Tables are well-spaced, the patio is dog-friendly, and it provides a pleasant setting for enjoying their home-cooked Mexican breakfast. The covered design offers shade and weather protection.
Best For
Better for: Sunday morning chilaquiles, casual brunch with kids, covered outdoor patio dining
Skip if: You need dinner—closes 2-3pm daily; you want AC in summer—indoor seating lacks cooling
Hours
Monday6am - 2pm
Tuesday6am - 2pm
Wednesday6am - 2pm
Thursday6am - 2pm
Friday6am - 2pm
Saturday6am - 3pm
Sunday6am - 3pm