Bake Sum

Bake Sum is a must-visit if you're in Oakland. The online ordering process is smooth, though they really need to work on their pickup notifications. I never got the text saying my order was ready, so I just showed up 10 minutes after my scheduled time. Luckily, it was ready when I got there, but the digital alert system is definitely missing the mark. Logistics-wise, it’s easy. Parking on Grand Avenue was no problem at all on a Sunday morning, and the service was great. The staff were friendly, helpful, and actually asked if I needed anything else before I left—which I appreciated. The food, however, is on another level. This isn't just your typical neighborhood bakery; they are doing some serious fusion work here that really pays off. The Okonomiyaki Danish: A genuine masterpiece. I’ve never seen anything like it. If you’re a fan of okonomiyaki, this hits those same savory notes in a totally new way. It’s inventive and the flavors are spot on. The Green Onion Croissant: Just as good as a high-end green onion pancake, but with that perfect flaky croissant texture. The Seasonal Croissant: A great test of quality. The passion fruit curd was sharp and bright, but the pastry stayed perfectly crisp. The Coconut Milk Bun: Light, airy, and the coconut flavor was authentic and not too heavy. Even the standard croissant was excellent—perfectly flaky and a great match for some simple jam. Bake Sum is a fantastic addition to the Oakland and East Bay food scene. Despite the minor issue with the pickup text, the product itself is top-tier. I’m already planning on going back to see what else they rotate in.

The Yuzu Meringue Bun at Bake Sum on Grand Avenue is ridiculously more decadent than I was prepared for, and it is worth every single bite.I decided to treat myself to a really fancy pastry, and I am so grateful that I did. The cinnamon sugar sprinkled all over the outside gives it a great texture that pairs beautifully with the heavy, rich pastry dough. All of that body is exactly what was needed to balance out the generous amount of yuzu filling inside, which has a light, delightful, and surprising citrus taste. It is perfectly executed and the ultimate way to pamper yourself.

Was excited to try their famous fusion pastries that I kept seeing online. Sadly I fell for the gimmick and was very displeased. Save your money! Croissubi ($6.25): A cold croissant and thin piece of spam slapped together. The inside is mostly hollow and there's really nothing special about this at all. Green Onion Croissant ($5.75): Tasted like a very bad and dense version of green onion pancakes. Black Sesame Snickerdoodle Cookie ($4.75): Took a few bites to really get into it. If you're a fan of sesame you might enjoy it, but I learned that I much prefer normal snickerdoodles.

I saw this place on the news a few years ago, and was so happy to finally try it! Food: 10/10, the flavors are so good! I want to come back with a larger group to try everything Service: 10/10, friendly, efficient, and helpful Atmosphere: 10/10, they have some small tables outside if you’re eating there. Getting there: It was a nice walk to get here from the 19th st BART station walking along Lake Merritt. If you don’t have to drive and pay for parking, I’d recommend Can’t wait to come back!

I always love coming into Bake Sum!! This is one of the local spots I frequent the most. Their employees are always so kind, efficient, and go above and beyond. I've tried a good amount of the pastries here and they're always so good. The milk buns are my favorite and I love that they keep it fresh by doing rotating flavors each month. The milk buns always remind me of being a kid eating conchas but with a creamy filling that can't be beat. All of the milk bun flavors I've tried here are bangers and I love to come by at least 2 times a month. They also sometimes have a delicious matcha tiramisu that is to die for. I also have tried some savory pastries as well and those are always awesome! The sandos they have are very tasty. If you go, please note, it's a small local bakery and like most small bakeries, they sell out throughout the day so, plan accordingly and come early if you want something specifically.