As expected, droves of people descended on the L.A. expansion of New York’s trendy Magnolia Bakery this past Saturday. Whatever one may think of the cupcake craze, which was boosted into the stratosphere by this very brand, there’s no denying the West Coast space is heavy on charm, with the look of an adorable vintage ice cream parlor or soda fountain, as designed by Tyra Abrams, who owns the chain with husband Steve. What’s inside?
Clean white counter spaces and hand-drawn signs provide a background for the famous buttercream cupcakes, as well as the freshly squeezed lemonade, homemade banana pudding, fair-trade coffee, cakes, brownies, personal-size cheesecakes, and muffins that could keep the place popular once the hype dies down. Magnolia will likely stay a destination for the gaggles that shop at Kitson’s, but still stands a good chance of distinguishing itself without the endorsements of Miranda and Samantha. Like relative newcomers Bite Bar and Bakery or Brentwood’s Sweet Rose Creamery, the nostalgic confines are almost as sweet as the sugary desserts neatly arranged on every flat surface. Love or hate their signature treats, the space is a charming addition to Third Street. Check out our slide show of the space.
Magnolia, 8389 West Third St. West Hollywood. 323-951-0636.
