When it comes to baked goods, Los Angeles County, CA is a haven for those with a sweet tooth. From cupcakes to croissants, there is no shortage of delicious treats to indulge in. But have you ever wondered about the history of bakeshops in this county? Which one holds the title of being the oldest?
The Rise of Bakeshops in Los Angeles County
The history of bakeshops in Los Angeles County dates back to the late 1800s when the county was experiencing a population boom. With more people settling in the area, the demand for baked goods also increased.This led to the opening of several bakeshops, each offering their own unique specialties. One of the earliest bakeshops in the county was French's Bakery, which opened its doors in 1871. Located in downtown Los Angeles, this bakery quickly gained popularity for its freshly baked bread and pastries. It was also one of the first bakeshops to introduce French-style baking to the county.
The Oldest Bakeshop in Los Angeles County
While French's Bakery may have been one of the first, it is not the oldest bakeshop in Los Angeles County. That title belongs to Porto's Bakery & Cafe, which was established in 1960 by Rosa Porto. What started as a small Cuban bakery has now become a household name in Southern California. Rosa Porto immigrated to the United States from Cuba and brought with her a passion for baking.She started by selling cakes and pastries from her home kitchen before opening her first storefront in Echo Park. The bakery quickly gained a loyal following, and in 1976, Porto's moved to its current location in Glendale. Today, Porto's Bakery & Cafe is a bustling establishment that serves up a variety of Cuban-inspired baked goods, including their famous potato balls and guava pastries. The bakery has also expanded to several locations throughout Los Angeles County, making it easily accessible to residents and visitors alike.
The Secret to Porto's Success
So what is the secret behind Porto's Bakery & Cafe's success? According to Betty Porto, Rosa's daughter and current co-owner of the bakery, it's all about staying true to their roots. The bakery still uses many of Rosa's original recipes, and the family is heavily involved in the day-to-day operations. But it's not just about the food.Betty believes that the bakery's success also comes from their commitment to providing excellent customer service. She says, "We treat our customers like family. We want them to feel at home when they come into our bakery."
The Legacy of Bakeshops in Los Angeles County
Porto's Bakery & Cafe may be the oldest bakeshop in Los Angeles County, but it is certainly not the only one with a rich history. Many other bakeshops have been around for decades and have become an integral part of the county's culture. One such example is Bea's Bakery, which has been serving up delicious cakes and pastries since 1947. Located in Tarzana, this family-owned bakery has become a staple in the community, with customers coming from all over the county to get their hands on their famous black and white cookies. Another notable bakeshop is La Mascota Bakery, which has been in operation since 1952. This Boyle Heights institution is known for its traditional Mexican pastries, including conchas and pan dulce.The bakery has also been featured in several films and TV shows, solidifying its place in Los Angeles County's history.
The Future of Bakeshops in Los Angeles County
As the county continues to grow and evolve, so do its bakeshops. While many traditional bakeries still thrive, there has also been a rise in modern bakeshops that offer unique and innovative treats. One such example is Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, which opened its first location in Los Angeles County in 2014. This San Francisco-based bakery quickly gained a cult following for its cruffins (a croissant-muffin hybrid) and other creative pastries. With locations now in Highland Park and West Hollywood, Mr.Holmes Bakehouse has become a must-visit for foodies in the county.
