La Châtaigne - Lafayette, California

Kaushick N.

I’ve visited this bakery several times, but unfortunately, the staff’s reputation for being unfriendly was confirmed today. The person behind the counter was extremely rude, and no one smiles. The quiche was ice-cold like it was straight from the fridge, and they refused to warm it up—even with a microwave in plain sight. The croissant was nothing special. I love supporting local businesses, but basic kindness toward customers shouldn’t be too much to ask. Looks like I’ll have to find a new local bakery.

A L. E. X. A. N. D. E. R. F.

Step into La Châtaigne, where pastries transcend mere confections to become edible works of art. Their creations are exquisite and sublime, each bite revealing a symmetry of taste layered in perfection. If Mozart were a pastry chef, his croissants would be his concerto - the delicate, butter-laden layers unfold like musical movements, each crisp, golden sheet whispering sweet harmonies. The flaky exterior shatters with a gentle touch, giving way to a tender, honeycomb interior that seems to dance on the tongue. These masterpieces aren't just baked; they're composed, with the same precision and passion that a virtuoso brings to the concert hall. Like a perfect cadence, each pastry resolves in a moment of pure gastronomic bliss.

SC

Just a quick noon pit stop at this little shop on Saturday to see what’s cooking and to be honest - it’s ok bakery and No-No on coffee.
Fresh and crispy croissant gets the stars, muffins with ham&onion, with raisins were just there, nothing to say.
Cappuccino thought was bitter and smelled burned (extra dark roast) with no warning during ordering.
Place is very tiny inside with no tables. Has few (3-4) cute, outside coffee tables.
Overall, good one time experience.

Ketty N.

Got lucky! Went on a Friday morning and the line was very short. Heard lots of wonderful things about this bakery so we had to stop here during our trip. We ordered 4 mini Kouign Amann, a chocolate croissant (not pictured), and monkey bite (not pictured).

These were the best Kouign Amann pastries I’ve ever had. Crispy/flakey/sweet on the outside and soft/moist on the inside. The variety of flavors were all delicious.

Pastries are so much more affordable in California than in Hawaii and to get true French pastries is even harder. A visit to this little bakery is a must!

Naomi R.

If we could afford it we would eat here every weekend. My husband got in line early and was home in time to surprise our daughter for her birthday. She specifically requested monkey bites, almond croissant, chocolate croissant, etc When you arrive be patient, there most likely will be a line, they might be out of certain things, but totally worth it.

Natalia P. M.

Amazing! French butter croissants were my favorite. Not a lot of seating but people come and go so tables open quick. We loved the service and delicious pastries and coffee.

DLZR

God-tier french butter croissants, quiches, and canneles de Bordeaux
Helpful staff that keep the line moving
Hard to believe the Bay Area's best croissants are not in Berkeley, Albany or San Francisco but are in fact behind the counter of a tiny bakery in Lafayette.
Go figure!

Charlotte N.

Got the bostock and country loaf (sourdough) along with a dark chocolate mocha and an americano. Everything was delicious! The staff was very friendly and helpful. The coffee was well priced compared to other shops (small mocha was $3.25). Will return!