Julio H.
Yelp
People need to come to this bakery because I like it. In a city where everyone has a saying about who has the best pastelito, Lucerne Bakery certainly has a spot among the top.
If you are wondering what type of pastelito is good enough to travel and find it, well, let me say a couple things about this place. First off, Lucerne Bakery doesn't have two glass counters full of Cuban pastries. It is a modest bakery. Also, they don't have a whooping array of pastelitos, only the basic guava, guava cheese, meat, cheese. Next to those, papa rellena, croquetas, empanadas, and empanada gallega. And, there are no tequeños or pan de bono on display. Since they are a bakery, and not just a window, there's a couple more counters with desserts, cakes, Cuban sandwiches and media noches, and other pastries. And of course Cuban bread, crackers, etc.
So, why Lucerne. Simple, they sell those guava and cheese pastelitos that look like a basket. Not the triangular or square ones, the basket ones, which happen to be my favorite. Also, all the pastelitos are fresh. No matter what time a day. Pair that with some coffee, or a soda, and your day will be a lot better.
But, there is one more thing that makes Lucerne Bakery a hit. There is little foot traffic here. You come in, get your stuff, and get out, unlike the other bakeries where is just fifteen minutes to order. And it may be this way because there is no seating at this bakery, and the abuelas and abuelos don't lounge here.
Now, don't think this is the best pastelito in the world, or that this is the best bakery in the world either, but if you like pastelitos and you are always looking for some good ones, stop by. Also, this place is not a social hub, but if you need a coffee and a snack, drop by. But most important, if you are in a hurry, or if you are not looking to drop coin, get out of your car and come in. There is nothing hip about this place, and you'll love that.