Café Dear Leon - Baltimore

Drove 25 minutes out of my way at 6am on a Sunday to try this spot I've been stalking on Instagram and it did not disappoint! This cute Cafe is bright and invit... read more Drove 25 minutes out of my way at 6am on a Sunday to try this spot I've been stalking on Instagram and it did not disappoint! This cute Cafe is bright and inviting with super helpful and friendly staff! I ordered the Ham and Cheese Croissant along with a Cream Cheese Blueberry Muffin. The croissant was perfectly savory and flaky with warm gooey cheese. The muffin was sweet and moist with bit of crunch from the topping. Perfect mix of sweet and savory to the day!

The pastries and coffees at this beautifully designed café are simply delightful. Everything I sampled during my multiple visits was truly outstanding. I had th... read more The pastries and coffees at this beautifully designed café are simply delightful. Everything I sampled during my multiple visits was truly outstanding. I had the pleasure of trying the smoked salmon focaccia, ham and cheese croissant, almond croissant, Danish loaf, sweet potato tart (a seasonal offering), crab and egg salad sandwich, poached pear tart (also seasonal), and an oat milk latte. The quality of the baked goods amazed me; they featured perfectly crisp crusts, a delicate flakiness, and exquisite flavor balance.

I absolutely adored this charming little spot! It tends to get quite busy, and they only have outdoor seating. I arrived around 7 AM and tried their ham and che... read more I absolutely adored this charming little spot! It tends to get quite busy, and they only have outdoor seating. I arrived around 7 AM and tried their ham and cheese croissant, crème brûlée, and quiche Lorraine. Everything was rich, flaky, and utterly delicious!

A true treasure tucked in Baltimore, Café Dear Leoné stands tall as the city’s best bakery. From flaky, buttery pastries to hearty savory bites, every item here... read more A true treasure tucked in Baltimore, Café Dear Leoné stands tall as the city’s best bakery. From flaky, buttery pastries to hearty savory bites, every item here is crafted with care, precision, and flavor. The breakfast sando is an absolute showstopper—crispy, golden shokupan wrapped around a fluffy spinach omelet, gooey cheddar cheese, and a smoky chipotle mayo. Every bite hits with warmth and boldness, setting the tone for a perfect morning. Among the sweet offerings, the financiers shine with their nutty brown butter richness—delicate, soft, and deeply comforting. The coconut chocolatine is a revelation: extra crispy, layered with coconut frangipane and just the right hit of rum—an indulgent twist on a classic viennoiserie. The chausson aux champignons, a flaky, golden pastry filled with a blend of mushrooms and cheese, may not be for everyone, but mushroom lovers will be thrilled. Pair it with truffle aioli, and it easily ascends to something special. Don’t skip the coffee brioche—pillowy soft and generously filled with coffee custard cream. It's the kind of pastry that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. Drinks here deserve a mention too. We tried the cherry cola flat white, a seasonal limited-edition beverage that was surprisingly delightful—balanced, creative, and fun. They also welcomed us with a sampler featuring blood orange, a refreshing and thoughtful touch to begin the experience. From start to finish, Café Dear Leon offers a morning that’s both elegant and deeply satisfying. It’s not just a bakery—it’s a ritual worth repeating. Service: Takeaway Meal type: Breakfast Price per person: $1–10 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Recommended dishes: Bakery, Crab Dip Bagel, Financier

The hype is realvery boutique, small batch-its an artisan shop-elevated, deliberate and intentionally thoughtful pastries and beverages. The crab dip bagel was... read more The hype is realvery boutique, small batch-its an artisan shop-elevated, deliberate and intentionally thoughtful pastries and beverages. The crab dip bagel was delightfulthe mix of sweet, savory, airy bagel creamy with touches of corn and oldbay with the beauty notes of crab meat! The chocolate croissant had a crystal sugar coating and the most precise layers! Out tasted the ones we had in Québec! Hands down our new go-to bakery Service: Takeaway Meal type: Brunch Price per person: $10–20 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Recommended dishes: Crab Dip Bagel Vegetarian offerings: Not sure Vegetarian options: Cute outdoor dining space!