Gayle's Bakery & Rosticceria
504 Bay Ave, Capitola, CA
Crema's Take
“Gayle's is a beloved institution in Capitola where the counter staff remembers your order like old friends and the pastries and prepared foods are so good that people willingly wait through triple-digit ticket numbers. This is equal parts beloved neighborhood bakery and casual rosticceria, where families have built decades-long traditions and both the morning coffee and evening princess cake hit with the kind of consistency that makes it feel genuinely exceptional rather than just convenient.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
We've all had good experiences that we think will be close to the norm, not that different from anything else. Gayle's is the exception. How the counter staff can remember everything you order, from creamy dreamy deviled eggs to baked goods to a wide range of specialty items, is beyond my understanding. People in my life may have over-hyped it, and yet, still delectably amazing. There is parking in the main lot and along the street. Great options to grab and go or settle in with your beverage of choice and savor the flavor. Very much feels like a special occasion price without busting a budget. Hope you enjoy as much as we did!
There are bakeries, and then there is Gayle’s. Whether it’s morning, noon, or night—every meal is a win. I’ve literally waited through a 100 numbers before, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. It’s the soul of Capitola for a reason. Don’t let the crowd scare you off; the wait is more than worth it. Best of the best!
For me, this place rates me, not the other way around🤣 Absolutely amazing in every sense of the word. There is a huge variety of options, from desserts to sandwiches, making it a great spot for the whole family. I usually don’t like lattes in the U.S., but their latte was exceptional and honestly reminded me of Italy. Even though the place was very busy, the staff were incredibly friendly. It’s always full of people, which makes it perfect for anyone who enjoys lively, bustling places with great food and atmosphere.
i heard the princess cake here is great, so i came here in the evening. this feels like a half-delihalf-bakery. the deli side had a good selection of hot & cold foods but i didn’t get anything. the bakery side also has a good selection, with seasonal items. i got a cake from the deli fridge & ordered a green tea. i didn’t realise that i would receive a paper cup to get hot water & put a teabag in. the drink was a good conplement for the cake i got but i wouldn’t pay again to have a cup of tea i could make at home. then again i’m not familiar with rosticcerias & i was instead expecting a cafe style presentation- maybe this is the norm? the princess cake was yummy, each component of the slice made for a balanced and not too sweet bite. it(& pretty much everything here) is much more expensive than what i usually buy though, so if you’re trying to budget like me then save this spot for a special treat. overall i wasn’t disappointed & i would come back to explore the deli side & more of the baked goods.
The best bakery in the Santa Cruz area! It’s been a family favorite and tradition since I was a baby, and have been continuing to go as an adult when visiting friends and family. Food options and quality, service, and quaint ambience/atmosphere is outstanding. Wide variety of fresh, real, and organic options! They have a covered patio area with additional seating as well. Favorite bakery items- kouign-amann, fruit tarts, and the swedish princess cake. The latter was made for one of my birthdays, but I used to order them more frequently than I probably should’ve haha! They are the best!
Crema Reviews
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