Forma Bakery

I realize vegan isn't trending anymore and so I was concerned that this place would be doing poorly. Went for the first time today and I was so happy to see a line of people ordering bright and early, and going for some of the vegan things. not only was it absolutely excellent (best croissant I've had in a long long time, and certainly best vegan croissant), but it was quick, loads of options, and in a great neighborhood for foodies. My husband had a PB chocolate cookie and I took a bite. Also excellent. The pistachio croissant was too decadent for me, but i feel that way about most sweets. the arroz con leche apricot i felt the apricot overpowered the arroz con leche but to his palate, they were perfect. He also has the ham and cheese croissant (not vegan) and said it was his favorite thing. Grateful for this bakery. Maybe will get a loaf of bread in the future.

Forma Bakery is one of those rare spots that instantly earns a permanent place in your rotation. This place is great. From the moment you walk in, it feels thoughtful, intentional, and genuinely special, without trying too hard. What really sets Forma apart, though, is how confidently they do vegan baking. Tons of vegan options, and not the sad, “this is fine, I guess” kind. These are pastries you’d proudly serve to anyone, vegan or not. The textures are spot-on, the flavors are layered and balanced, and nothing feels like a compromise. No one else does it this well. Period. The breads and pastries feel both comforting and elevated—classic ideas executed with serious skill. You can tell everything is made with care, from ingredient choices to presentation. It’s the kind of bakery where you try one thing, then immediately want to come back and work your way through the entire menu. Oakland has no shortage of good bakeries, but Forma stands out in a crowded field. If you care about great baking, creative vegan options, or just really good food, this is a must-visit.

I could easily say that this bakery really took me by surprise when someone told me that this was “Temescal’s favorite pastry spot” — because indeed, they were right. The long lines, the whiff of aroma of French and Mexican tastes, were all coming together. They are a local business in Oakland, and I’m way more than impressed as to how they were able to bake such delicacies for the Temescal community and beyond — and be open for the most important occasions, when they least expect it. Upon ordering, I was very intrigued at the pastries they had made — tres leches crossaints, horchata danish, the name can go on and on without any hesitation. There was much more — pastries like flan-filled croissants, jam-bright rosquillas, and seasonal savory fruit or veggie versions that feel both familiar and exciting. Honestly, in my opinion, walking into Forma feels like walking into paradise. it feels like Telegraph is like finding a sweet little crossroads where French bakery technique meets vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors. Their coffee selections pair beautifully with the pastry lineup, as the baristas put thoughtful twists (like a café de olla latte or Mexican-style mocha). All in all, it brings a little extra warmth to every cup. Next time, if you’re chasing a classic buttery croissant or something with a little more creative soul, Forma delivers memorable texture, flavor, and that cozy neighborhood energy that keeps locals lined up early, way before opening time.

So many delicious vegan options, no wonder this place is popular! The line was long on a Sunday morning but it moved fast and everyone (staff and fellow customer) were friendly. Bought a box of 6 and paid $30, which seemed reasonable for the quality. Great to share with friends!

Great bread and croissants at this bakery. The croissants have a combination of lamination and texture that is hard to do, as well as a great flavor. The sourdough bread is delicious and a big loaf too. You can get coffee, and sit inside or outside; the seating area is small but nice.