3 Best Bakeries in Tempe, AZ

Service, food, and drinks are amazing. They do have some tables to eat outside. No indoor sitting. But, OMG the food is to die for.

I love stopping by on my way to work to get pastries for my coworkers and a coffee for myself. There is I think one or two tables outside and that's it for seating. It's a small place so you have to be patient and wait for your coffee.

Every once in a while, the staff talks you into ordering something you normally wouldn't, and it ends up being one of the best things you eat all week. That was my experience today at @experimentcoffeeshop—a true hidden gem and exactly the kind of place I love discovering. As someone who almost always goes savory for breakfast, I wasn't planning on ordering anything sweet. But when I asked about the most popular items, the answer came quickly: the Kouign-Amann. A laminated pastry made with salted butter and caramelized sugar doesn't sound like my typical breakfast, but one bite changed my mind. It was outstanding. The layers were delicate and crisp, the butter came through beautifully, and the caramelized sugar added just the right amount of sweetness. Add in a rich, flavorful coffee, a spotless café, and a warm, knowledgeable staff, and it's easy to understand why this place has such a loyal following. I came in alone this morning and left thinking, this is exactly the kind of hidden gem I love finding.

Amazing place ! Owner was sooo nice came to our table ask about everything! Nice to see a wonderful gem like this.

I first discovered Essence when they were still in their original Tempe location, and I’ve been a regular ever since they moved to Indian School Road. The food is consistently excellent, and the pastries are every bit as good as those I enjoyed while visiting Paris. As a locally owned business, Essence is an important part of the community. It’s the kind of place where I almost always run into someone I know, which adds to its charm. My favorites are the seasonal omelets—they’re so light and fluffy they’re like little clouds on a plate. The specials are always worth considering, too. And no visit is complete without a croissant. Whether it’s a savory cheese croissant or a sweet passion fruit and chocolate creation, they’re all fantastic. My personal favorite is the pistachio croissant. Service can occasionally take a little longer than expected, but quality takes time, and the results are always worth the wait. If you’re looking for a neighborhood bakery and café that combines exceptional food, world-class pastries, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Essence is one of Phoenix’s gems.

My God, I cannot even begin to describe the amazing bakery and coffee sold here! The croissants are the best I had outside Lacroix Pâtissier, Paris. No kidding. The efforts of the staff are wonderful. Go! You won't be disappointed.