
Phoenix Bakery
Phoenix Bakery has operated in LA's Chinatown since 1938, still family-run by the Chan family, and is best known for its original strawberry whipped cream cake alongside almond cookies and sugar butterflies. The bakery describes itself as a fixture for birthdays, quinceaneras and retirement parties across generations. It keeps shorter hours on weekdays, closing at 4pm, with extended hours on weekends.
What people praise
- Reviewers consistently call the strawberry cream cake perfectly balanced, not overly sweet
- Custard buns and wintermelon pastries praised for tasting fresh and fragrant
- Described as fast-moving even with long lines, thanks to plenty of staff on the counter
Worth knowing
- Nearby parking is described as difficult to find, with a paid lot as the main option
Our take: The longest history on this list by far, going on 90 years, and the review base backs up the reputation. Come for the strawberry cake specifically.


