Chaumont Bakery & Café
Santa Monica, United States
Insider Compass
An expert assessment built on data, context and gastronomic judgement.
About Chaumont Bakery & Café
Frederic Laski and Laila Abddaim bring proper French viennoiserie technique to Santa Monica's Colorado Avenue, where the lamination on their croissants speaks to serious training and an understanding of what makes pastry work. The commitment to offering vegan versions of nearly every classic—from pain au chocolat to almond croissants—isn't just a nod to LA trends but a technical challenge executed with precision, using house-made coconut-based vegan butter that delivers genuine flakiness. This is the kind of neighborhood bakery-café where the quality of the morning pastry matters, the organic coffee program is thoughtfully curated, and both plant-based eaters and traditionalists find what they're looking for.
Good to know
Ask to have your pastry warmed—the difference in texture and aroma when a croissant comes back from the oven is significant, especially with filled varieties like the chocolate or almond.
The chef
Frederic Laski and Laila Abddaim
Frederic Laski and Laila Abddaim lead Chaumont with a clear commitment to French pastry traditions while adapting to the plant-forward ethos of Los Angeles dining. Their approach centers on technical precision in lamination and fermentation, particularly evident in the dual track of traditional and vegan offerings that don't compromise on texture or flavor. The decision to develop a proprietary coconut-based vegan butter for their croissants demonstrates a willingness to solve technical challenges rather than settle for available substitutes. Their philosophy balances respect for classic viennoiserie with the innovation required to make those techniques work in a contemporary, health-conscious market.
The Insider Compass
Four dimensions, each assessed independently against the same criteria everywhere we rate.
Plate
The croissants are the foundation here—properly laminated, with the kind of shatter and pull that comes from respecting fermentation times and butter quality, whether you're reaching for a classic or one of the vegan pastries made with their proprietary coconut butter. Flavors range from traditional almond and chocolate to more inventive offerings like earl grey, matcha custard, and za'atar cheese, all showing careful attention to filling distribution and bake. The flaky cinnamon pastry arrives hot with a chewy center that demonstrates good oven work, while savory options like the vegan ham and cheese croissant prove that plant-based lamination can hold its own.
Vibe
LivelyThe space reads as a light-filled, plant-forward café with neutral tones and plenty of natural light—the kind of setting that works equally well for remote workers camping out with laptops and neighbors stopping in for a quick pastry and cortado. The atmosphere leans casual and welcoming, with both indoor seating and outdoor tables that capture Santa Monica's easy-going energy. Expect a lively but relaxed pace, especially on weekends when the counter can get busy with regulars who know exactly what they're after.
Service
The team behind the counter handles both barista work and cashier duties, which can create slowdowns during peak hours—this isn't a grab-and-go scenario when there's a line. That said, the staff shows genuine hospitality, offering to warm pastries on request and accommodating questions about the extensive vegan options with patience. Staffing can feel stretched during weekend rushes, but the intention to provide thoughtful service is clear, even when the pace lags.
Setting
The interior design favors natural light, lush greenery, and a neutral palette that creates a calming backdrop for the jewel-like pastries displayed at the counter. It's a more spacious setup than many neighborhood bakeries, with room to spread out and a homey decor that feels considered without being precious. Street parking can be tricky, but the Colorado Avenue location offers more breathing room than its Beverly Hills sibling, making it feel like a true neighborhood anchor.
These four dimensions are a handful of the attributes we review. The Insider Rating also draws on research the compass does not display — among them the wine programme, the size and quality of the cellar, the location, and how long the house has operated. It is not an average of the scores above.
Go for
- Serious French viennoiserie technique with both traditional and vegan options
- A light-filled, plant-forward café setting ideal for lingering over coffee and pastries
- Some of the better vegan laminated pastries in Los Angeles, made with house coconut butter
Don't go for
- A quick grab-and-go before work during peak hours when service slows
- Dairy milk options in your drinks—the program leans heavily on plant-based alternatives
Details
2930 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
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