the b8kery by Selanne's - Laguna Beach, California

Marissa A. C.

I’ve been a frequent visitor to B8kery in Laguna Beach, having initially fallen in love with it when it first opened under the ownership of Selanne Steakhouse. Selanne is a five-star establishment known for its impeccable service and exceptional quality, and B8kery initially reflected the same high standards. The bakery felt vibrant, abundant, and joyful, offering delicious and beautifully crafted pastries.

However, my last few visits to B8kery have been deeply disappointing, and I feel compelled to share my experience in the hopes that the issues can be addressed. Over the last three visits, I kept hoping that the decline in quality and service was a one-off situation, but unfortunately, it appears to have become the norm.

The service, once warm and attentive, has become curt and indifferent. On my most recent visit, the display case was nearly empty at 9 am, and the few pastries available looked unappetizing, as if they had been sitting there for days. Once airy and flaky, the croissants now have a heavy, pizza-like texture, and the fillings, such as ham and cheese, are of noticeably poor quality. I tried different items on multiple visits, but the decline in taste and texture was consistent. The change in the baker has clearly had a significant impact on the quality of the offerings.

The customer service experience was also disappointing. On my last visit, I was served by a kind but inattentive employee who seemed more engaged with her phone than with customers. Appearance and professionalism are crucial in the food industry, and unfortunately, this employee did not seem to meet those standards. When I discovered a hair in a bag of gluten-free doughnuts, the situation was handled awkwardly and unprofessionally, with initial resistance before a replacement was provided. It was an uncomfortable interaction that further underscored the lack of care and attention in the bakery.

The once pristine and inviting space now appears unkempt and disorganized, starkly contrasting the high standards associated with Selanne Steakhouse. If B8kery is to succeed and maintain its connection to Selanne's excellence, significant changes need to be made. The quality of the pastries must be restored, either by bringing back the original baker or by ensuring the current one is up to par. Additionally, the staff must be trained to provide attentive and professional service and wear uniforms that reflect the bakery’s potential and Selanne’s reputation.

This review is written with the hope that these issues can be addressed and that B8kery can return to being the wonderful bakery it once was. I can no longer recommend or return to this establishment without these changes.

Saood

I wouldn't go out of my way to come back to this cafe. I ordered a hot vanilla latte and butter croissant. The latte had an excessive amount of foam and was more inline with a cappuccino. The croissant came toasted. Unfortunately it's one of those mass produced pastries with a soft exterior and a doughy interior, nothing how a croissant should be. Service was pretty slow considering how slow they were. For parking, you'll have to go behind the shop into the alley and maybe you'll find an open spot. Quite overpriced for what it is.

Ekaterina K.

Great coffee and cute space.
Recommend

Monet B.

Best new bakery in town! Delicious smoothies, coffee, and pastries. I wish I could pick one thing to rave about, but I can’t decide on only one! Workers are very nice and the place is dog friendly. Highly recommend. I stop by every time I’m in the area.

Lauren B.

We searched high & low for a bakery to cater our wedding in Laguna Beach. Unfortunately we didn’t hear back from other companies, even those who were recommended to us through our venue. But, from the initial phone conversation with the staff at The B8kery , to our wedding day, the service, communication, & follow through have been amazing!! Lia & Madison helped us customize a Dessert Bar and wedding cake that fit our personal taste and wedding aesthetic. We received lots of compliments on all of the pastries from our guests! The cookies, brownies, strawberries, & red velvet cake were some of the best we’ve ever had!!! The morning of the wedding, my Dad & Husband bought a cinnamon roll & muffins for breakfast too, and said they were the best they’ve ever had! We recommend The B8kery 1000/1000 and can’t wait to come back to town and stock up on all of their goodies!!!

Kjell G.

Very cute new bakery, we had a croissant and a cappuccino, both delicious!

Lina S.

Best, new coffee shop in Laguna! Wonderful coffee, smoothies and pastries. Everything is delicious and the aesthetic is so cute. Dogs are welcome too. Highly recommend.

Georgina A. B.

Cute little bakery. I had the Lavender Latte and we shred a chocolate chip cookie. Both very good! Will be back!