Got a sweet tooth? Us, too.
Hollywood isn’t just about stars on sidewalks and movie magic.
Behind the glitz and glamor, Hollywood desserts offer some of the most Instagram-worthy and delicious treats you’ll ever taste. From classic ice cream parlors that have served celebrities for decades to modern artisanal sweet spots, this iconic neighborhood has something for every dessert lover.
Whether you’re craving sweet treats in Hollywood studios between attractions or looking to discover hidden gems where locals get their sugar fix, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our handpicked list of 10 must-visit spots that serve the best sweet treats Hollywood studios and beyond have to offer – each with its own unique charm and mouthwatering specialties.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop
Image Source: Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
Located right on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop brings San Francisco’s chocolate legacy to Tinseltown. As your local guide, I can tell you this spot has become a Hollywood sweet spot since opening in 2013.
Ghirardelli’s Signature Sundaes
The star of the show here is the Magical Sundae – a Hollywood exclusive featuring vanilla ice cream drizzled with handmade hot fudge, topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and signature waffle ears. The World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae and Ocean Beach Sea Salt Caramel Sundae are crowd favorites that’ll make you feel like a VIP.
Ghirardelli’s Chocolate Shop Experience
When you walk in, you’ll be greeted with complimentary chocolate samples – a sweet welcome that sets the tone for your visit. The shop features an exclusive Hollywood Chocolate Bar with milk chocolate and caramel, perfect for souvenirs. The bustling atmosphere matches the energy of Hollywood Boulevard, with both counter seating and to-go options available.
Ghirardelli’s Pricing and Best Sellers
Premium treats come at premium prices, but they’re worth every penny:
Top Sellers:
- World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae ($15.75)
- Magical Sundae ($16.25)
- Lands End Salted Caramel Brownie Sundae ($18.95)
For a lighter treat, try their signature hot cocoa ($6.25) or a classic brownie ($6.95). Pro tip: sundaes are generous enough to share, and you can upgrade any sundae with a hand-dipped waffle bowl for an extra special touch.
Gelato Festival
Image Source: Gelato Festival
Step into the world’s most prestigious gelato competition right in the heart of Hollywood! Just steps from the Dolby Theater, the Gelato Festival brings together master gelato artisans from across North America, making it one of the most unique sweet treats in Hollywood studios.
Gelato Festival’s Unique Flavors
As your local guide, I can tell you the flavors here are mind-blowing! From Tres Velvets (a creamy dairy delight) to M.Squared (an innovative vegan creation), each recipe tells a story. Don’t miss their exclusive Lemon Ricotta flavor, a special collaboration that perfectly balances sweet and tangy notes.
Gelato Festival’s Tasting Experience
The festival transforms the Ovation Hollywood Courtyard into a gelato lover’s paradise. You’ll get to sample competing chefs’ creations and even vote for your favorite! What makes this experience special is learning the story behind each flavor – from ingredients to production process. Plus, you’ll catch live cooking demos and expert-led workshops.
Gelato Festival’s Pricing
Their all-inclusive ticket options include:
- Gelato Beginner ($15) – Includes 6 gelato samples
- Gelato Lover ($40) – Features 12 samples and full access to activities
- Gelato Hero – All-day access, 12 samples, espresso, and take-home pint
Pro tip: Visit their flagship store at 6801 Hollywood Blvd for year-round access to award-winning flavors, including dairy-free and gluten-free options!
Mashti Malone’s Ice Cream
Image Source: Mashti Malone’s Ice Cream
Hidden in a modest strip mall between Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard, you’ll discover one of LA’s most treasured dessert spots. For over 40 years, Mashti Malone’s has been serving up a unique blend of Persian and traditional ice cream flavors that you won’t find anywhere else in Hollywood.
Mashti Malone’s Persian Flavors
Let me introduce you to some truly extraordinary flavors! Their signature Saffron Rosewater with Pistachio has been the top-selling flavor for four decades. The French Lavender and Persian Cucumber offer refreshing alternatives to traditional options. For adventurous souls, I always recommend trying the Herbal Snow, a magical blend of 15 different herbs and spices.
Mashti Malone’s Ice Cream Making Process
What makes this place special is their commitment to authenticity. Master ice cream maker Mashti Shirvani crafts each batch using all-natural ingredients – no food dyes or artificial flavors here! They produce about 1,000 gallons daily, using organic ingredients like French lavender and premium Iranian saffron. Many varieties are dairy-free and gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Mashti Malone’s Pricing
Their premium treats are reasonably priced:
- Single Scoop: $5.95
- Double Scoop: $7.95
- Signature Mashti Special (ice cream sandwich): $5.95
- Hand-packed Pint: $11.95
Pro tip: Try their unique Baklava Special ($7.95) – a scoop of ice cream topped with honey-soaked rosewater pastry filled with pistachios and cardamom.
Turn Dough
Image Source: Turn Dough
When Prague native David brought his European dessert expertise to Los Angeles in 2017, he created something truly special at Turn Dough. This unique spot combines traditional Czech pastry-making with modern Hollywood flair.
Turn Dough’s Chimney Cake Creations
Watch in amazement as skilled bakers craft these cylindrical wonders right before your eyes! Each chimney cake takes about 7 minutes to prepare, emerging warm and fragrant from special rotisserie ovens. Made with premium ingredients, including grass-fed dairy milk and Madagascar vanilla beans, these treats are worth the short wait.
Turn Dough’s Specialty Toppings
With 18 signature combinations, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Some must-try favorites include:
- S’More Supreme – Nutella-lined cake topped with gelato and a torched marshmallow
- Unicorn Fantasy – Magical creation with colorful sprinkles and handcrafted fondant
- Honey & Pistachio – Middle Eastern-inspired with cardamom and organic honey
Turn Dough’s Pricing
At around $12 per creation, these Hollywood desserts might seem premium-priced, but they’re comparable to theme park treats and absolutely worth it. Each chimney cake is generously sized and can easily be shared. The quality ingredients and made-to-order preparation justify the cost, making it one of the best sweet treats in Hollywood studios.
La Monarca Bakery & Cafe
Image Source: La Monarca Bakery
For an authentic taste of Mexico’s sweet heritage among Hollywood desserts, La Monarca Bakery & Cafe brings the warmth of a traditional Mexican panadería to Sunset Boulevard.
La Monarca’s Mexican Pastries
The aroma of freshly baked pan dulce welcomes you into this charming establishment. Their seasonal specialties are particularly noteworthy – the traditional pan de muerto (available September through early November) draws crowds from across LA. The flaky palmier cookies and chocolate croissants, served warm, showcase their master bakers’ skills.
La Monarca’s Coffee and Beverages
What sets La Monarca apart is their commitment to organic coffee, locally roasted in small batches. Their signature drinks include:
- Cafe de Olla ($14.99/12oz bag) – A traditional Mexican coffee blend
- Oaxaca Reserve Coffee ($14.99/12oz bag) – Direct from Mexico’s coffee heartland
- Oatchata Latte – A unique twist on the classic horchata
La Monarca’s Pricing
True to their community-focused spirit, La Monarca keeps prices reasonable. Most pastries range from $3-5, while specialty drinks average $6-8. Their commitment to quality extends beyond the menu – as a certified 1% For The Planet Member, they donate a portion of every purchase to protect Monarch butterflies.
Hollywood Brown Derby
Image Source: Walt Disney World
Step back in time to one of Hollywood’s most iconic establishments, where classic Hollywood glamor meets exceptional desserts. The Hollywood Brown Derby, modeled after the famous Vine Street original, carries forward a legacy of serving stars and sweet lovers alike.
Brown Derby’s Signature Grapefruit Cake
The legendary Grapefruit Cake ($14.00) stands as the crown jewel of Hollywood desserts. This vanilla sponge creation, layered with tangy cream cheese frosting and fresh grapefruit, originated when a Hollywood columnist requested something “slimming.” While the cream cheese frosting might not qualify as diet food, the delicate balance of citrus and sweetness makes it irresistible.
Brown Derby’s Classic Ambiance
Walking into the Brown Derby feels like stepping onto a 1930s movie set. The Spanish Mission-style interior features vaulted ceilings, heavy chandeliers, and walls adorned with both original gold-framed caricatures and classic black-and-white sketches. The plush red leather seating adds to the sophisticated atmosphere.
Brown Derby’s Dessert Menu Pricing
Current dessert offerings include:
- Double Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée ($12.00)
- Citrus Honey Nest with Lemon Cheesecake ($13.00)
- Mini Dessert Trio featuring the signature Grapefruit Cake ($15.00)
Pro tip: Make reservations for later evening hours to enjoy the ambiance without missing park attractions during peak hours.
Mama Melrose’s Ristorante
Image Source: Walt Disney World
Tucked away near the Muppet*Vision 3D attraction, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante offers a charming escape into an authentic Italian dessert paradise. Trust me, as your Hollywood guide, this hidden gem is worth seeking out!
Mama Melrose’s Italian Desserts
The star of the sweet lineup is their Pasticciotti Cream Tart ($10.00), a house-made delight featuring delicate pastry cream and frangipane, perfectly complemented by Amarena cherry compote. For chocolate lovers, the Tiramisú ($8.50) presents layers of mascarpone and espresso-soaked lady fingers, though be aware it contains Kahlua.
Mama Melrose’s Restaurant Atmosphere
The moment you step inside, you’re transported to a cozy neighborhood Italian restaurant. The walls showcase a fascinating collection of Italian-American memorabilia, vintage records, and classic Hollywood photographs. The warm glow of Christmas lights strung across wooden panels creates an intimate dining experience, while the show kitchen adds a lively energy to the space.
Mama Melrose’s Dessert Pricing
Current dessert offerings include:
- Mini Cannoli Trio ($11.00) – Orange Cream, Caramel-Butterscotch, and Traditional
- Goat Cheese Mousse Tart ($10.00) – Topped with honeycomb and edible flowers
- Flourless Chocolate Cake ($10.00) – Served with vanilla gelato
Pro tip: The Pasticciotti Cream Tart is absolutely worth saving room for – it’s quickly becoming a favorite among Hollywood Studios’ sweet treats!
Hollywood Scoops
Image Source: Walt Disney World
Along Sunset Boulevard, where the Hollywood glamor meets sweet indulgence, Hollywood Scoops serves up some of the most refreshing treats in the park. This charming ice cream parlor brings a taste of classic Americana with a Hollywood twist.
Hollywood Scoops’ Seasonal Shakes
The real showstoppers here are their seasonal specialties. During holidays, you’ll find creative concoctions like the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Milk Shake, topped with a chocolate doughnut and peanut butter icing. Their innovative seasonal offerings keep locals and tourists coming back for more unique flavors throughout the year.
Hollywood Scoops’ Ice Cream Selection
The regular menu features hand-scooped favorites including:
- Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry classics
- Cookies ‘n Cream and Mint Chocolate Chip
- Orange Sherbet for fruit lovers
- Sugar-Free Vanilla for dietary considerations
Don’t miss their Mickey Brownie Sundae, featuring a house-made Mickey-shaped brownie topped with old-fashioned vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, and fresh whipped cream.
Hollywood Scoops’ Pricing
Single scoops start at $6.79, while specialty sundaes like the Mickey Brownie creation run $7.79. For those with dietary restrictions, plant-based frozen desserts are available at $5.29. Pro tip: Annual Passholders can enjoy exclusive treats like the Lightning McQueen Ice Cream Sundae with special toppings.
Trolley Car Cafe
Image Source: Walt Disney World
Inside a charming 1920s-style trolley station, where coffee meets Disney magic, the Trolley Car Cafe serves up some of the sweetest surprises in Hollywood Studios. As your local guide, I can tell you this isn’t your ordinary Starbucks!
Trolley Car’s Famous Cupcakes
The Carrot Cake Cookie ($4.99) steals the spotlight here – it’s a Hollywood Studios exclusive that keeps locals coming back. Their rotating selection of themed cupcakes includes the famous Butterfinger Cupcake, a chocolate masterpiece topped with peanut butter buttercream and crowned with chocolate Mickey ears.
Trolley Car’s Coffee and Treats
Beyond the standard Starbucks menu, you’ll find Disney-exclusive treats like:
- Chocolate-covered Apple with Dark Chocolate and Peanut Butter Crunch ($10.99)
- Glimmer and Shimmer Pineapple Mousse ($5.49)
Trolley Car’s Pricing
Coffee prices remain consistent with regular Starbucks:
- Grande Caffè Latte: $4.69
- Grande Frappuccinos: $5.49-$5.99
- Assorted Pastries: $1.79–$3.99
Pro tip: Visit early morning to grab the freshest pastries, and don’t forget you can customize any drink with special milk options for just $0.59 extra!
Catalina Eddie’s
Image Source: Walt Disney World
Nestled within the vibrant Sunset Ranch Market, Catalina Eddie’s brings a touch of storybook magic to Hollywood Studios’ sweet scene. This charming counter-service spot might look modest, but it’s where fairy tales meet confectionery artistry.
Catalina Eddie’s Themed Desserts
The crown jewel here is the Beauty and the Beast Rose ($5.79), a masterpiece that’s as enchanting as the tale itself. This dark chocolate mousse creation features delicate notes of blackcurrant and Morello cherry, perfectly balanced atop a chocolate shortbread cookie. The gilded chocolate-covered cocoa nibs add both elegance and crunch.
Catalina Eddie’s Specialty Items
Beyond their signature rose, you’ll find seasonal treasures that keep locals coming back. The Toffee and Coconut Blondie ($4.99) steals hearts with its salted caramel buttercream topping. For summer refreshment, try their exclusive Blueberry Chai Iced Latte ($5.99), featuring aromatic notes of clove, cinnamon, and orange blossom.
Catalina Eddie’s Pricing
Sweet treats here won’t break the bank:
- Themed Desserts: $4.99-$5.99
- Specialty Beverages: $5.99
- Seasonal Items: $4.99-$6.99
Pro tip: Visit during off-peak hours to catch fresh batches of their themed treats, especially the Beauty and the Beast Rose, which often sells out by late afternoon.
Conclusion
Hollywood’s dessert scene offers something magical for every sweet tooth, from classic ice cream parlors to innovative artisanal bakeries. These 10 spots showcase the neighborhood’s rich culinary diversity, featuring everything from traditional Italian gelato to Persian ice cream specialties.
Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate affordable treats at La Monarca Bakery, while those seeking premium experiences can indulge in signature sundaes at Ghirardelli or savor the legendary Grapefruit Cake at Hollywood Brown Derby. Many locations offer unique photo opportunities perfect for social media, particularly the stunning creations at Turn Dough and Hollywood Scoops.
Smart dessert hunters should plan their sweet adventures strategically. Morning visits often guarantee the freshest pastries, while evening stops at spots like Mama Melrose’s provide a perfect dinner finale. Remember that popular items like Catalina Eddie’s Beauty and the Beast Rose tend to sell out early.
These carefully selected destinations prove Hollywood serves up much more than movie magic – each spot adds its own chapter to the neighborhood’s vibrant culinary story. Pick any place from this list, and you’ll discover why Hollywood remains a premier destination for dessert lovers.
