The dining scene in Downtown Hollywood is full of choices. It’s easy to find just about any cuisine around the neighborhood, so it’s just a matter of narrowing down what you want. Sometimes, though, you don’t want a full meal. And sometimes, you just want dessert.
Fortunately for those with a sweet tooth, Hollywood is also a great place to find your favorite sugary concoctions. The next time you’re in the mood for dessert, check out one of these five spots in Downtown:
Kilwins
Chocolate fans should be no strangers to Kilwins — the scent of the confectionary is heaven on earth. This is also where New Year’s resolutions come to die: If you come in for one thing, you’re bound to leave with a lot more than you bargained for; everything looks so good. Kilwins is known for their chocolate, so that’s a good starting point if you’re new to the brand. The signature truffles and their decadent fudge, in particular, are customer favorites.
Even if you’re not a big fan of chocolate, there are other options to please your palate. Caramel apples are another solid choice, as are the various flavored popcorns. Although the weather is somewhat cool now, Kilwins ice cream will be a perfect spring/summer treat once things warm up a little.
The Macaroon Factory
This spacious establishment specializes in the namesake French pastry. Expect a rainbow of colors: If there’s a flavor you can think of, then The Macaroon Factory probably has it. Traditional flavors like vanilla and espresso are listed alongside peanut butter cup, crème brulee and other unique iterations. Pick up a few for yourself or buy a bunch to give as a gift — the staff will happily help you with your request.
Don’t let the name mislead you, though. Although it’s called The Macaroon Factory, it’s not the only thing they sell. Cupcakes and other desserts are also available, along with coffee, tea and a variety of beverages to wash everything down. Just be sure to pace yourself: The eponymous pastries have a lot more filling than you may be used to from other shops.
The Little Sugars
At this charming bakery run by owner Sarah Price, guests can enjoy a plethora of creations that pull inspiration from her great grandmother’s recipes. Pies, cookies and bars are just a few of the staples that Price serves up every day with a lot of love. We suggest you spring for one of her signature bars, which come in flavors such as guava, apple crumble and lemon. The tartlets are almost too cute to eat — the key word being almost.
Whatever you do, save room for a pie — the chocolate bourbon pecan pie is a must. While we suggest you stop inside the physical storefront, you can also order online. They ship across the country, so if you know someone with a penchant for sweets, you can send them any of the stuff we mentioned or one of Price’s gift crates.
Tasta Gelato & Cafeteria
At Tasta, you can get a taste of Italy without spending money on a plane ticket. The Italian gelato shop and café is all about variety. Want something fruity? Something more on the chocolate side? The Sicily-based Tasta has what you’re craving. There are even vegan options for those following a plant-based diet. Among the flavors available are cheesecake, oreo, white chocolate and hazelnut. To list them all would put this blog over the word count by a lot. Other desserts include cannolis and granitas.
Since this is a cafeteria, there are also savory options to choose from. Tasta’s croissaints and paninis are perfect for snacking or for a meal. Just be sure to pair them with one of Tasta’s many coffee drinks.
The Scandinavian Bakery and Coffee House
Adding to Hollywood’s international flair is The Scandinavian Bakery and Coffee House, which features an assortment of Danish pastries. All of the dough is made in Denmark, and guests can select from goodies big and small like Danish swirls and Danish buns. There are even larger pastries available, which are meant to be shared (or kept all to yourself).
Word of advice: Don’t miss out on their buttery and flakey croissants. If you’re trying to eat healthier, they do have a whole wheat Danish available but we recommend you bite the bullet and indulge — you’ll be glad you did. If you can’t make it to the storefront for whatever reason, you can also order their goods through the UberEats app.
In the end, there’s no reason NOT to have dessert in Hollywood. With so many great selections in the neighborhood, diets are practically doomed. Just don’t forget to balance all these sweets with some good ol’ exercise. Moderation is key, especially when you’re surrounded by deliciousness.
Written by:
Geoffrey Anderson Jr.
Co-Founder
MiamiFoodPug.com