The sweet half of the SGV.

Dessert spot in Arcadia. Ice cream.

Navis Bakery in Rosemead might give your favorite Cuban spots a run for their money. Their chicken tamales pack heat from the salsa verde, and the meat stays surprisingly moist. But the real sleeper hit is the cheese rolls, bigger, flakier, and just a dollar each. Add in guava cheese pastries and creme brulee cheesecake, and this place quietly hits hard.

Bakery spot in Arcadia. Cafe.

Cafe spot in Pasadena. Coffee.

In Monterey Park, Pronto Donuts is slinging donuts, burgers, and subs all under one roof. You'll find the classics, croissants, and what might be the best cake donut in the area, just $1.65. We personally think it's as good or better than Sidecar. If you're into donuts, this spot is a must.

Jim's Bakery in Monterey Park is famous for their egg tarts, consistently some of the best in SGV. The custard is silky, the pastry is flaky, and they're best eaten warm. They also carry a solid selection of other Hong Kong-style baked goods, but the egg tarts are the reason to come. Get a few and don't feel bad about it.

Half and Half Good Old Time in San Gabriel feels like an old-school Taiwanese diner, quick, simple, and tasty.

Bakery spot in Pasadena. Cupcakes.

Gram Cafe in Monterey Park is all about the souffle pancakes, thick, jiggly, and worth the hype. They can take up to sixty minutes on weekends so order them early. We loved the seasonal mango pomelo version, fluffy, not too sweet, and full of ripe mango. They've also got chicken karaage, unagi, and drinks like the ube and Oreo lattes.

Dessert spot in Rowland Heights. Korean shaved ice.

Boba spot in San Gabriel. Boba.

Bakery spot in San Gabriel. Bakery.

Dessert spot in San Gabriel. Souffle pancakes.

Kee Wah Bakery is a Hong Kong bakery chain with SGV locations, known for mooncakes, pineapple buns, egg tarts, cookies, and grab-and-go Chinese pastries.

Dessert spot in Rowland Heights. Walnut pastry.