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Uppers Cafe & BakeshopB+Worth Trying
2024 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404
· Breakfast restaurant, Bakery, Cafe
· 4.8/5 Google (192 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Charming neighborhood cafe-bakery with standout pastries, friendly staff, and a hidden back patio; food is fresh and satisfying, though space is tight and parking can frustrate.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Uppers Cafe & Bakeshop delivers solid neighborhood cafe quality through excellent pastries and coffee paired with genuinely warm, attentive service. The hidden back patio creates genuine charm, though tight indoor seating and occasional inconsistencies in cooked items prevent it from reaching higher distinction. A reliable local favorite that exceeds typical cafe standards.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked along Broadway, this cozy spot feels like a neighborhood living room with a hidden back patio where people linger over lattes and cake. Staff are repeatedly described as warm and genuinely helpful, and one diner raved, "service beyond five stars." Space inside is small, but the energy stays calm and welcoming once you settle in. On the plate it leans classic cafe with a European accent: think a fresh, light breakfast burrito, salmon bagels with proper capers, and pastries from a hands-on owner-baker. The cooking is straightforward and ingredient-first rather than flashy, with standouts like the Basque cheesecake and honey cake earning devoted followings. Portions are generous for the price, especially sandwiches and soups. Families do fine here thanks to familiar choices like French toast and croissants, a burger, and customizable egg sandwiches. Seating inside is limited, so the patio is the best bet with kids at off-peak hours; expect tight street parking and plan a short walk to the back entrance.
At a Glance
- Excellent pastries and coffee with strong consistency
- Friendly, attentive service and accommodating staff
- Charming hidden back patio with relaxed vibe
- Limited indoor seating and challenging parking
- Occasional dish misses (omelette, potatoes) amid overall strong showings
What Sets It Apart
- hidden_back_patio
- house_baked_pastries
- owner_baker_presence
What People Love
- Feeling welcomed by upbeat, kind staff
- Discovering the hidden patio escape
- Pastries that taste freshly baked and balanced
- Hearty breakfast burritos with satisfying sides
- A reliable neighborhood cafe vibe
Points of Concern
- Parking is tight; some guests park across the street and walk to the patio entrance
- Very limited indoor seating; patio is key during busy hours
- Occasional inconsistencies reported on omelette seasoning and side potatoes
- One report of brusque interaction; outweighed by many positive service notes
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-$36 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For lighter fare, choose Quinoa-Kale salad ($13.50) or Egg Salad Toast ($11.95)
- For hearty lunch, pick Pastrami ($14.50) or U.H. Burger ($15.85) with side salad
- Vegetarian-friendly picks: Easy One Avocado Toast ($12.95), Veggie Panini ($11.50)
Perfect For
- Casual breakfast meetups
- Solo coffee and pastry breaks
- Light lunch on a sunny patio
- Neighborhood cake pickups for celebrations
Location Insights
Area: Mixed commercial-residential corridor near offices and apartments; relaxed neighborhood vibe with daytime foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy by day; typical urban parking constraints.
Nearby: Near Broadway office nodes, healthcare and creative firms; convenient for locals, workers, and casual meetups.
Santa MonicaThe dining scene in Santa Monica is diverse, ranging from casual cafes and bakeshops to upscale restaurants. The area is characterized by a relaxed, beach-town vibe with a focus on fresh, health-conscious, and artisanal food offerings, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking quality dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–15:00
Tuesday07:00–15:00
Wednesday07:00–15:00
Thursday07:00–15:00
Friday07:00–15:00
Saturday
Sunday
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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