Tucked into a back corner of the Brentwood Country Mart, the Los Angeles outpost of New York’s famed City Bakery is worthy of a visit, and probably many more after that. The space is clean, large, and brightly skylit. There is a complete self-service buffet that wraps the interior of the food area, a limited sit-down menu, and of course, a bakery section. In addition to the main sections, there are a few little departments arranged around the place, these include a bread bar, “chocolate room”, dog stuff, and City Bakery apparel. There is a communal table, a few smaller tables and bar inside, as well as a lot of outdoor Country Mart seating. The feeling is less like a restaurant and more like a market style emporium. Yes, it takes a little work to get situated, but it is fun and the food is worth the effort.

The self-serve area features prepared seasonal produce, salads, grains, sides, lighter fare, and some creative dishes that are good for sampling. There is also a macaroni and cheese bar, with some of the best in L.A., it seems like everyone here is coming for this. The “buffet” is $12 a pound, but worth it because you can just go for what you like, or sample everything. In the bakery/dessert section, which is a separate sale, there is a nice selection of pizza (with a delicious, croissant-like crust), cookies, and pastries. You absolutely have to try the famous “pretzel croissant”, this buttery, rich croissant with the tang and shell of a soft pretzel, is unlike anything you’ve had! On my last visit, they had a currant/fig/ricotta tart that was unbelievably gorgeous, and I’m sure the $40 lemon crepe cake would be welcome at any party. On the main counter you will find nicely assembled, ready to buy cookie platters to take to the office or a party, and they also offer catering services.

The attitude of City Bakery is casual and hip, but not sceney (though you are near guaranteed a celebrity sighting with every visit). I would have photographed my plate, but Robert Downey Jr. was sitting across the communal table from me and I didn’t want him to think I was trying to sneak a photo of him eating, ONLY in Los Angeles. I truly think The City Bakery is one of the great food spots in L.A., it can satisfy everyone’s taste, and the Country Mart is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.

The City Bakery
Brentwood Country Market
225 26th Street
Los Angeles, CA
310.656.3040