Talk about the bakery of my dreams. Indulgent sweets, available whole or in slices, include killer carrot cake, chocoflan (chocolate cake topped with flan) and tres leches. Have your cake and eat it, too, along with breakfast and lunch sandwiches, soups, salads and Mexican house specialties like Mayan tamales and guacamole with chips. Grab an espresso drink (beans are certified organic and fair trade) and take advantage of free wi-fi. This independent shop cares for more than your stomach; enjoy art exhibits, live music, spoken word sessions, chess matches and a “book club” where you can trade one of your own tomes for a volume on its shelves.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Schwartz