The best coffee and pastries in Del Mar. Love working here and the service is the best. Patio is perfect when the weather is warm and food is delicious! read more

Darshan Bakery - Kitchen - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

This is the only bakery I go to in San Diego. We previously drove all the way to Encinitas, but now Darshan is just a few blocks away! This is the real deal. Butter, butter, butter makes their pastry the best. Peach tart, eclairs, Napoleons are all delicious. Yes they are expensive, but it's not mass produced. It's a small shop and you get what you pay for. I don't mind the price if I get real pastry. Love this place. read more

This place is amazing and we love their pastries. The area is beautiful and the workers are outstanding. I Definitely recommend this place! read more

Darshan Bakery - Amazing avocado sandwich, tomato and bre, peach delight and Indian chia latte. - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

Very small selection, but home-made pastries. I arrived at 11 and not much left, but blueberry scone was very good (crunchy and warm on outside, moist and fluffy inside). Tried the Bombay iced latte (cardamom flavored) and it was very good. Nice little seating area in front and even a few tables inside. One really cool thing is you can watch them making the pastries through a glass window. Will certainly try this place again when in the area and need a pastry and coffee drink. They do have sandwiches also. read more

Great bakery: croissants, pains au chocolat and almost croissants are EXCELLENT ! Didn't have a chance to try anything else yet but definitely will! Staff is very friendly and helpful. Highly recommended read more

Darshan Bakery is generally good, tasty food, good coffee/tea, but could use some improvements. First, please have some real silverware (or bamboo utensils) available. All you have is plasticware (and pretty flimsy plasticware at that), which should be eliminated for environmental reasons. Second, it would certainly be nice to have real, porcelain cups/mugs as an option for eating in house. Only paper cups are available now. If paper, though, they should at least ask if you need a lid. (Plastic lids are also environmentally hazardous.) Better yet, have lids on the side for those who really need them. And, regarding the food preparation, recently they heated a quiche for me; it took a really long time, and then was still cold in the middle. The quiche was great, and given my time crunch, I didn't say anything, but improvement there is needed. Most of their pastries I've had there have been quite good. But once I got a plain croissant; it was overcooked (almost burnt) and mostly hollow in the middle. Almond croissants, however, have been delicious. In summary, this place is nice, worth a visit, but needs a few upgrades. read more

Amazing food, great atmosphere! If you want an authentic French croissant, this is the place to go. Great sandwiches too... and be sure to try the blueberry scones... YUM!! read more

I was delighted to discover a second Darshan Bakery located in Del Mar. The pastries are admittedly pricey but oh so worth it. I tried the morning bun, regular croissant, almond croissant, apple turnover, and financier. Everything was so freaking delicious, especially the apple turnover (close to $8?). My only regret is that I didn't have room for a blueberry scone. Next time! You can peek through the glass window inside and see the baker at work. I really like the outdoor seating with the ocean view. Bathroom is located outside and around the corner. On the way there and back, I was blasted in the face by the sweet scent of rose and cardamom. Staff are very friendly and efficient. read more

Paying for the real estate. $11 for a ready made sitting in the cooler puny sandwich. read more

Darshan Bakery - $11.00 for puny tuna sandwich :-/ - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

Ordered a sandwich and instantly gave me the one sitting on the counter. Hard as a rock bread and it was $15+!!! You're not paying for quality, you're paying for the location. I tell the staff at the end for notice on the quality and taking no accountability of serving me an old sandiwch, one worker explains to me how baguettes are hard, talking to me as if I never ate one before. You think I've never tried a baguette? I don't often write reviews but I didn't appreciate the subtle ignorance. Over $30 for 2 coffees and a whatever sandwich? I'm good read more

So so so good. Just come and try any and everything. The baguettes are out of this world and the tuna sandwich will surprise you how good it is. read more

It's a bit expensive (especially the premade sandwiches) and the ambiance isn't great. But the pastries are great, the location is nice, the service is good and they usually make a pretty good latte. Nice place to grab breakfast on the weekend. read more

Stepped in for a coffee and bite to eat. They had some good looking quiches in the display case, and the woman taking our order suggested their Almond croissants, which had just come out of the oven. Being that it was our first time there, we scanned the menu to see what else they had. The whole time though the cashier (female, short dark hair) looked really impatient, and spoke to us as if we were invalids. I looked behind us, assuming that we were holding up the line, only to find that there was no line behind us. It seemed as if taking our order was a huge burden to her. In the end, the croissant and quiche were exceptional, but damn did we get rubbed the wrong way by the cashier. Unfortch, it was enough of a negative experience for us not to visit again. read more

If you believe covid is real- do NOT go here. They don't ask customers to wear masks, not all staff wears masks, no gloves. One customer literallly sneezed on a display case of sandwiches and the next customer PICKED UP one of the plastic wrapped goodies covered in boogers. Couldn't concentrate on the food because I was trying to get out of there as soon as possible. No social distancing. No enforcing. When a customer asked a mask less customer to wear a mask, the masked customer got yelled at/chased out by the unmasked Del Mom. 1/5 I would give 0 if I could read more

The best quiche I have had outside of France! The mushroom with two cheeses was simply divine. My cousin said the chocolate croissant and chai were fantastic. read more

I will NEVER be coming here again. Up until this point, we frequented this bakery, but we will not be coming here anymore. I am furious and frankly APPALLED. This establishment has shown me that they don't give a SHIT about the safety of their employees or customers during a pandemic that's killing thousands of people daily. The absolute lack of appropriate masks at this establishment during this pandemic is a passive act of violence and malevolence. NONE of the people in the back of the bakery were wearing ANY mask at all. 3 of the employees in the front of the shop were wearing a little 2-3 inch piece of plastic that sat on their chin and was in front of their nose and mouth, which was open at the top and bottom. Basically like wearing an oversized glasses lense upside down. It covered NOTHING, what do these people not understand about an AIRBORNE VIRUS?!? The AIR goes AROUND your tiny piece of plastic. They might as well not have worn anything at all. I know the management is allowing this. So it's mostly their responsibility, negligence, and lack of empathy. They truly do NOT care about protecting their employees or their customers. I feel bad for the 1-3 employees that were wearing proper face coverings, but I can't come here anymore if the management doesn't give a shit about being safe during COVID. My mother commented to our cashier (one of the men wearing the tiny piece of plastic in front of his mouth) that "You know, that really doesn't protect you or your customers. It doesn't block anything." To which the man responded "Well, the Sheriff came and inspected us and said that everything we are doing is within protocol." Very stand-offish and rude, like a teenager telling their parent to fuck off. The sheriff isn't a health professional. The CDC guidelines are clear in their definition of a proper face covering for food establishments. I will tell everyone I know NOT to go here because they have shown me pretty obviously that they do not care about the safety of anyone in or out of their establishment. read more

The coffee is tasty - especially the one with the house made cardamom syrup! Croissants are among the best to be had in San Diego and there is a range of pastries offered. I was delighted with the interior - its more than meets the eye from the outside for sure. Through a glass window you can see the baker mastering dough and mixing up batches of their offerings. There is a decent amount of seating inside and out, and the neighborhood seems to have embraced this business. Customer service is solid too! read more

I stopped in and got a cappuccino and mediocre croissant for $7.25. Way too expensive for the low quality. Most disturbing, a gossipy customer who was obviously friends with employees was behind the counter blabbing without a mask on while they were making my drink! The guy making the coffee had one of those fake plastic masks on and was talking to her. Ughhh. read more

Mushroom quiche and chai tea. Supper yummy! It is just a stones throw from the revamped City Hall. So nice to have a place in town where you know they bake their goods. Locals (and non locals) please come support this place!! read more

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Delicious takeout turkey avo sandwich. The homemade foccacia really was the best part. Yum. Next time will buy the whole foccacia to take home. Thank you! read more

Coming from NY I needed a place that makes decent French croissants and pastries. I'd 100% recommend you go for any of the pastries & strong coffee but I feel everything else on the menu is overpriced and not tasty enough. read more

Had an awesome tuna sandwich. Staff was friendly, everyone working seemed to be wearing masks which was a concern before going. read more

Darshan Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

Yummy bakery and a good find. People there are very nice and pleasant. Their scones are delicious and definitely not dry. It was perfectly delicate and slightly moist. Also had a croissant and it did not disappoint. Would definitely go back. read more

Such a lovely spot. Employees are sweet. Relaxing terrace with the view of the ocean. The chai is amazing and the pastries are magnifique! read more

Darshan Bakery - chaussons aux pommes - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

Why are they not shut down! With all the complaints about the workers not wearing masks, or trying to pretend to address the issue by wearing these shields without masks as if they are not breathing all over the sandwiches they are making!? How is this allowed? I for one am going to find out the regulatory department, whatever it may be and file a complaint. I politely asked if they would put on a mask while preparing food and the young man who was preparing the food said by law he didn't have to. How rude, and inconsiderate. read more

Very disappointing. No idea how this place has so many good reviews. The interior seems empty and looks bland. There is no coffee menu, I had no idea what I'd order and what the price was. I was charged $8 for a super small cappuccino and a tiny macaroon bite. This is the smallest cappuccino I've seen and it was lukewarm. When the barista brought it to my table, some of the coffee had spilled on the plate and she just set it down like this and left. Finally, they don't have wifi. Shaking my head, spent $8 for nothing, going down the street to Zel's. read more

Darshan Bakery - $8 for this?! - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

I would agree with other reviews commenting on the quality of baked goods at Darshan, however I believe it's worth letting customers know that Darshan early in the COVID-19 pandemic promoted PlanDemic propaganda with flyers on their walls and tables. The management of Darshan is free to express their political views, though I can't support a business that promotes anti-science conspiracy theories which spread mis-information about COVID-19. Reports of staff flaunting public health recommendations (not wearing masks) only adds to the disservice this business brings to our community. It's a shame that Darshan has taken an anti-science stance on such an important public health issue. read more

Darshan Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Del Mar, California

This place had horrific customer service. You get in line to pay and then have to fetch your own sandwich from the display. If they ran out of what you want, you have to go back in line and asked them to make it. Also, the description of the sandwich is different than what you get. I ordered a sandwich that said comes on a fresh croissant, but they said it will be 2 dollars extra for that-evwn through THEY messed up on the description. This makes zero sense. If you want to overpay for a mediocre cup of coffee or sandwich and experience terrible customer service then this place is for you! read more

I went to this location for the first time today and had a great experience. I ordered the mushroom quiche which I HIGHLY recommend. I also tried one of the sandwiches and it was excellent as well. The outdoor patio is nice and had plenty of seating. read more

We live in town and are deeply disturbed by Darshan's owners and staff -- MY HUSBAND AND I SEE THEM FIRST HAND NOT WEARING MASKS AND GLOVES. ERIN TOLD MY HUSBAND THEY DO NOT HAVE TO WEAR MASKS. And, we agree 100% with everyone that took the time to write that the folks working behind the counter and in the kitchen are not wearing masks and gloves and keeping us safe, and themselves safe from us. They are either not wearing gloves or not changing their gloves between handling food and then money. We are so sadly disappointed in them because we enjoy their food and coffee and we do like the folks that work behind the counter. Please know, we have worked so hard to promote their business to folks in town because they struggled for customers when Del Mar took forever with the major construction of downtown's roadway, sidewalks, and driveway aprons. Many of our friends and neighbors are upset and have been treated rudely and flippantly about not wearing masks by stating that they don't have to wear them. Until they comply with the Governor's and CDC guidelines/statues, we will not support Darshans, and we are letting everyone know that we are not supporting them, too. read more

employees were not wearing masks or wearing them incorrectly. I don't want your Covid in my bread.

A decent place to have croissant and pastry - cute small patio overlooking ocean in a distance. But I didn't like the coffee at all, it was over extracted and milk foam wasn't properly done on my cappuccino. Bombay latte was very milky and dilute as well. I ate brie sandwich, that was good but it was cold. Ample parking available if you come in the morning (private lot and street spots) . read more

Not really sure what is happening at this place anymore. Got here right when they opened today, ordered an almond croissant. It was very cold and super hard. Clearly from yesterday. When I asked the clerk about it she claimed that they made it this morning, but I'm not that stupid. And your espresso machine is out again? And they changed their quiche from individual pies to a slice of a big pie. So now the quiche just doesn't have the same pop. Probably won't be coming back here for a long time. read more

Glorious goodness!! I have come here a few times and everything is delicious. I've always picked up a few treats for my friends and they've loved them as well. All of it is good! A bit pricey though but your in Del Mar! read more

Great pastry and coffee. Too bad we are in the middle of a pandemic that's killed 125,000 people so far and the older pastry chef in the back adamantly refuses to wear a mask while prepping food for the public. Must be afraid he'd mess up his big bushy beard. Great way to get your business closed down. read more

Absolutely LOVE this place!!! Their almond croissant is to die for. Seriously the best I've had, ever. I come here every time I visit Del Mar and get a few to go. I find it ridiculous that sheeple in the reviews felt the need to leave a 1 Star review because they weren't happy about the way the establishment deals with a virus that has a 99.6% survival rate. I have a suggestion for all you arrogant know-it-all sheeple who want everyone else to do things differently for YOU to feel comfortable. How about you stay home, wear your mask, gloves, don't forget goggles (the virus transmission can happen through your eyes in case you didn't know), body suit, turn the TV on, and just do us all a favor and don't leave your house. Wait for the experimental mRNA genetic vaccines and please go get them as soon as available. While the rest of us live our lives. Darshan Bakery, keep on shining! read more

STAY AWAY, or GO AT YOUR OWN RISK. I've been to Darshan bakery in Del Mar twice before. Their pastries are very good, albeit somewhat overpriced, but that was ok until today. This was a special occasion, and my daugher really likes chocolate croissants. I went there this morning to buy Pastries and Baguettes for my Daughter's graduation brunch, planned socially distant in my back yard. Of the seven of us, three grandparents were over 80 (85, 81, and 80), as well as my daughter, who is severely immunocompromised (chronic, since she was 11). I went in, ordered 5 chocolate croissants, 5 regular croissants, and two fresh baguettes. As I was paying, I noticed that TWO of the women working behind the counter a few feet from the cashier counter were NOT MASKED. One of them, at the counter behind the cash register, was not only unmasked, she was breathing unmasked while assembling/standing over the pink boxes the Bakery packs their pastries in!!! When I remarked on this, she replied along the lines that she had a medical condition that exempted her from wearing a mask!!! Really, I'd like to see the CDC, State, San Diego, or Del Mar statute that exempts food workers, actively working with food right now, from having to wear a a mask. NOR was their any social distancing guidance on the floor of the facility, NOR was their hand sanitizer for the customers after signing credit card receipts, NOR was their a barrier between the server/cashier at the counter. C'MON, the taco shop at the Von's Del Mar Heights shopping center had all of that...Masked employees, distancing plan, barrier, hand sanitizer. I'm not sure if this is still in process, or "we don't believe in the pandemic" on behalf of the owners but I was under the understanding that businesses needed to comply with a bunch of regulations BEFORE reopening. We have done take out a bunch of times during the pandemic from Sbicca, and they do a GREAT job managing the process, as does Rendezvous (both always highly recommended!). My family and I have been supporting businesses in Del Mar (our home town) but ONLY if they show a reciprocal concern for the residents of the community. BTW, I'm someone who tested positive for COVID (after travel to New York in early March), was sick for a month, never hospitalized, but this is someone we all need to pay attention to. I don't believe that food serving establishments can have "mask optional" employees right now, if so, I invite the owners, Tim and Heidi Brock, to post the health regulations that exempt their employees from having to wear a mask while working with food/serving boxes...and frankly, moving your unmasked employee to the back room won't cut it either (where she went after i made my comment). Finally, they refunding my purchase without any issue, which was appropriate. However, I asked for a manager to address the issue there, and the person told me the only way to do that was to give my name and number, and would NOT provide me with the name of the manager or owner...really bad optics in a service business. And I did NOT get a call back to address my issues, hence this review. I have also noticed I am NOT the only customer to identify these issues at Darshan locations. So, until IF and WHEN they get with the program, I am going to stay away. Note, my family and I did a scramble for brunch food, and we still had a good brunch with the grandparents, outside, and spaced from one another, albeit without the pastries and bread from Darshan. STAY SAFE! read more

The number of stars is not for the pastries. They are quite good. It is for the fact that we were there yesterday to get a few croissants, and the two women behind the counter had no masks, no gloves, and of the 6 people eating in the cafe, four had no masks either. Covid-19 is here, it is dangerous, and there seems to be intentionality in Darshan not following CDC guidelines. We won't be back during the pandemic, that's for sure. We will patronize our other favorite baker, Prager Brothers, in Encinitas. read more

Ordered a quiche and was offered to have it warmed up and said yes please. Received on a cheapo paper plate ice cold. Not a lot of selection of pastries and doesn't look like items move move much in the glass case. Went back to ask it to be warmed up and was told they couldn't take it back. Asked for another one to be warmed up and magically an exception was made. Still ice cold, like the customer service. read more

This bakery is not worth it from both food and service perspectives. First, the service is absolutely terrible, bordering on snobby, and with little reason to act the way they do. It took us 15 minutes to receive two less than perfect cappuccinos. They do not know how to balance the amount of coffee/espresso and milk and they serve it in a small, thimble like, cup. Second, the pastries are way overrated. Charging an expensive price and offering low quality pastries can never be justified. They are taking advantage of the Del Mar location and squeezing customers with marginal pastries, low quality coffee and snobby service. There are plenty of better places where you can enjoy good food and nice people, not the snobs and low quality service from Darshan. Try the Stratford Cafe on 13th Street. read more