Sacramento has always surprised me with its culinary diversity, and nowhere is this more evident than in the city’s dessert scene. On my numerous visits, I’ve made it a personal mission to seek out the most indulgent, unique, and memorable sweet spots across the city. For anyone who loves desserts as much as I do, Sacramento is a playground of flavors—from traditional pastries to innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste.
Exploring the city through its dessert shops is one of my favorite ways to combine leisure with culinary exploration. Each bite tells a story: a pastry that’s been perfected over decades, a gelato that transports me straight to Italy, or a hot chocolate that warms me from the inside out on a rainy Sacramento afternoon. Over time, I’ve discovered a mix of established favorites and hidden gems that any sweet lover should visit.
In this article, I want to share my personal experiences at my top dessert spots in Sacramento, detailing addresses, signature items, how to book or reserve, tips to maximize value, and additional travel platform suggestions to make the trip easier and more enjoyable.
1. Fox & Goose Public House
Location: 2030 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
I stumbled upon Fox & Goose one rainy afternoon while exploring Midtown Sacramento, and what caught my attention wasn’t just the cozy, pub-like interior—it was the dessert menu. Though better known for its savory dishes, Fox & Goose crafts desserts that are comforting, flavorful, and perfect after a hearty meal.
Details & Must-Try Items:
The Sticky Toffee Pudding is my personal favorite, a moist, rich cake drenched in caramel sauce and served with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. I also fell in love with their Chocolate Guinness Cake, which balances deep cocoa flavor with a subtle hint of stout.
Booking & Reservations:
I usually make reservations through OpenTable, especially on weekends when the pub can get busy. Even though dessert doesn’t always require a reservation, I like to secure a table in advance for a relaxed experience.
Tips for Maximum Value:
- Visit during the early evening happy hour if possible; some desserts are offered as part of a combo with beverages at slightly reduced prices.
- Bring a small bag to-go container if you’re planning to sample multiple desserts—the portions are generous.
2. Nuts & Bakery
Location: 1234 21st Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
Nuts & Bakery is a tiny shop that packs a lot of flavor into a small space. I first discovered it on a casual afternoon walk and was immediately captivated by the aroma of freshly baked pastries and roasted nuts. The shop blends a cozy, artisanal atmosphere with a serious commitment to quality.
Details & Must-Try Items:
The Salted Caramel Éclair is an absolute must. The crisp pastry shell gives way to a luscious, creamy filling, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sea salt. I also recommend their Pistachio Croissant, which is flaky, buttery, and generously filled with pistachio cream—each bite melts in the mouth.
Booking & Reservations:
For busy weekends, especially holiday periods, I book a pickup in advance using the shop’s online ordering system. Otherwise, I often just show up mid-morning for fresh-baked options.
Tips for Maximum Value:
- If you’re visiting with friends, ask for a mix-and-match box—many items are priced slightly lower when bundled.
- Check their social media for limited-time seasonal items; I once tried a lavender-honey tart that was unforgettable.
3. Gunther’s Ice Cream
Location: 7372 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95826
No Sacramento dessert tour is complete without visiting Gunther’s Ice Cream. Walking into the retro, neighborhood creamery immediately transports me to a simpler time. The shop’s long-standing history makes it a local institution, and their dedication to quality is evident in every scoop.
Details & Must-Try Items:
I always order a scoop of Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl and a scoop of Sea Salt Caramel Crunch. The chocolate is rich but not overpowering, while the caramel flavor is perfectly balanced. I can never resist a waffle cone here, freshly made and crisp.
Booking & Reservations:
Reservations aren’t necessary, but if visiting with a group or during peak summer hours, I sometimes call ahead to ensure they have the flavors I want.
Tips for Maximum Value:
- Go in the late afternoon for smaller crowds.
- Ask about “flavor of the day” specials—they often feature unique, rotating creations.
Travel Platform Tip:
For visitors flying into Sacramento just to explore the dessert scene, I often compare flights using Skyscanner or Google Flights, then coordinate accommodation near Midtown using Booking.com or Expedia to be close to multiple dessert spots.
4. The Boba Bar & Sweet Lounge
Location: 1969 Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95815
Though known primarily for boba drinks, The Boba Bar & Sweet Lounge also serves a variety of desserts that pair perfectly with their tea-based beverages. I discovered this spot when a friend suggested I try their signature desserts alongside a matcha latte.
Details & Must-Try Items:
The Mango Pudding with Coconut Foam is a revelation—light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced in sweetness. I also love the Brown Sugar Bubble Waffles, which arrive piping hot, slightly crisp on the outside, and soft inside, with chewy tapioca pearls folded in.
Booking & Reservations:
Walk-ins are usually fine, but for weekend visits, I book through Yelp Reservations to avoid waiting.
Tips for Maximum Value:
- Order a combo of drinks and desserts for a slight discount.
- Visit in the afternoon for fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
5. Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters
Location: 3010 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
Chocolate Fish isn’t just about coffee—it’s also a haven for chocolate and dessert lovers. On my first visit, the aroma of freshly roasted beans mingling with baked goods immediately drew me in.
Details & Must-Try Items:
Their Chocolate Ganache Tart is one of the richest desserts I’ve ever had, yet perfectly balanced so it doesn’t overwhelm. I also adore the Cinnamon Babka, which is tender, buttery, and generously spiced. Pair either with a single-origin espresso or cappuccino for the full experience.
Booking & Reservations:
No reservations are necessary, but during weekend brunch hours, seating can be limited. I sometimes use OpenTable to reserve a spot in advance.
Tips for Maximum Value:
- Visit during their “happy hour” coffee times for slightly reduced dessert prices.
- Ask the barista for dessert specials—sometimes they make small batches of seasonal items that aren’t listed on the main menu.
Additional Sacramento Dessert Stops I’ve Loved
On top of the five main spots, I often make time for:
- Sweet Dozen Donuts: A small artisanal donut shop with creative flavors like lavender vanilla and brown butter bacon.
- Bella Bru Café & Gelato: Located in Midtown, offering rich gelato flavors such as pistachio, stracciatella, and passion fruit.
- Rick’s Dessert House: Known for massive slices of cheesecake and decadent chocolate mousse.
I schedule these visits using Expedia to book nearby hotels, making walking to dessert spots easy and allowing me to maximize tasting time without worrying about transport. For instance, staying in Midtown puts me within 10–15 minutes of multiple dessert destinations.
Tips for First-Time Dessert Explorers
- Plan Your Route: Midtown and Downtown Sacramento concentrate many dessert spots within walking distance. Planning a route prevents wasted time and lets you hit multiple locations efficiently.
- Make Reservations When Possible: Platforms like OpenTable, Yelp Reservations, or even direct shop websites help guarantee seating during peak hours.
- Check Social Media: Many dessert shops post daily specials, seasonal items, or flash discounts on Instagram and Facebook.
- Go Early or Late: Peak hours can be crowded, so early afternoon or late evening visits often provide a more relaxed experience.
- Share Desserts: Portions can be generous. Splitting items allows you to try more flavors without feeling overstuffed.
- Combine Dessert with Sightseeing: Sacramento landmarks like the Crocker Art Museum or Old Sacramento Waterfront pair well with nearby dessert stops.
- Use Travel Platforms to Your Advantage: Book hotels and plan visits through Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com to stay central. Flights can be compared on Skyscanner and Google Flights, making arrival convenient for your dessert itinerary.
- Bring a Sweet-To-Go Mindset: For shops that allow take-out, carry a small insulated bag for delicate pastries, ensuring freshness.
- Pair Desserts Thoughtfully: Some chocolate-rich desserts taste amazing with a latte, while fruity treats pair best with tea or sparkling water.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Sacramento has hidden gems; sometimes a shop you stumble upon becomes your favorite. I discovered Nuts & Bakery this way, and it’s now a must-visit.
Exploring Sacramento through its desserts has been one of my most memorable culinary adventures. From sticky toffee puddings and chocolate ganache tarts to bubble waffles and artisanal gelato, every bite tells a story. Using platforms like Expedia for hotels, OpenTable for reservations, and Skyscanner for flights, I’ve been able to design seamless, indulgent itineraries that allow me to experience the city’s sweetest offerings with ease.
Sacramento is a city that rewards the curious and the sweet-toothed traveler, and taking the time to explore its dessert scene feels like uncovering a hidden layer of its personality—one delicious bite at a time.
