Even the most calorie-conscious people deserve to splurge on a sweet treat now and then, especially when they’re on vacation in a gorgeous, relaxing location like San Luis Obispo. SLO has quite a few places serving unique desserts locals and visitors alike simply must try. If you’re visiting this lovely California city and you’re in the mood for a bit of delectable sugary decadence, you’ll definitely want to check out some or all of these spots, recommended by the people who know SLO best, the friendly staff at Sands Inn & Suites, a AAA Three-Diamond San Luis Obispo hotel located within walking distance of California Polytechnic University and downtown San Luis Obispo.
It’s only fitting that one of SLO’s most iconic landmarks serves one of San Luis Obispo’s most iconic desserts. Your taste buds will be delighted by the pink champagne cake served here. Thick Bavarian cream separates several layers of white cake, and the whipped cream icing is sprinkled with bits of bright pink chocolate and pink chocolate curls. The bakery at the Madonna Inn also offers a variety of unique cakes, such as toffee crunch cake, chocolate curl-topped Black Forest cake, and almond-covered banana nut cake.
Location: 100 Madonna Road
As the name implies, brown butter cookies are the signature treat at this charming shop owned and operated by sisters Christa Hozie and Traci Nickson. These delicious little shortbread cookies are a local favorite, and they come in a wide variety of flavors, from the classic original to citrus, espresso, cocoa, lemon poppy seed, cocoa mint, and almond.
Location: 1003 Osos St.
The donuts you’ll find here are far from the ones you’ll get at any run-of-the-mill donut chain. Choose from drool-worthy Oreo-topped donuts, Nutella pillows, peanut butter pillows, chocolate chip-filled donuts with maple frosting, and even sweet azuki bean paste donuts. The SLO Donut Company is open 24 hours a day, so you can drop in any time you’re in the mood for fresh, luscious donuts.
Location: 793 Foothill Blvd.
If you can’t decide if you want cookies or ice cream, why not have both? Batch’s specialty is cookie and ice cream sandwiches, and you get to choose the flavors. Try fudge cookies with mint chip ice cream or peanut butter cookies with chocolate. The choices are endless! The cookies are chewy and soft, and they’re filled with premium ice cream that’s made locally.
Location: 1108 Broad St.
These chewy, deliciously gooey cinnamon rolls are well worth the short drive to nearby Pismo Beach. You can enjoy them plain or with a thick topping of cream cheese frosting. The cinnamon rolls served at this bakery are extremely popular, so don’t be surprised if you see long lines at the door.
Location: 861 Dolliver St., Pismo Beach
No matter what kind of sweet treats you prefer, you’re sure to find a dessert spot that suits your tastes in San Luis Obispo. If you’re planning to stay in the city and want the perfect accommodations for a family vacation or a relaxing getaway, reserve a room at Sands Inn & Suites. At our hotel, SLO visitors will find all the amenities they need for a comfortable stay. To reserve your room or learn more about our amenities, which include microwaves, refrigerators, flat-screen TVs with digital cable, and complimentary high-speed WiFi, call us today at (800) 441-4657.