Isabelle Briens French Pastry Cafe is a charming gem nestled in Encinitas, California, offering a delightful fusion of French pastries and savory dishes. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the ambiance is inviting for any time of day. Patrons rave about the flaky, buttery croissants, particularly the chocolate variety, which are described as the best in town. The cafe's Monaco croissant sandwich is a standout, packed with flavorful cheese and ham, stealing hearts with its generous portion size.
For breakfast lovers, the Biarritz Omelette, brimming with crispy bacon and served with fresh fruit, stands out as a hearty option. The menu also features delicious crepes, including the gluten-free buckwheat Crepe Monaco, pleasing a diverse clientele. Customers appreciate the friendly staff, creating a warm and welcoming experience that encourages them to linger longer. Whether grabbing a quick bite or savoring the moment among freshly baked goodies, guests consistently leave feeling happy and satisfied. Isabelle Briens French Pastry Cafe is not just a cafe; it's a beloved local destination that encapsulates the essence of French culinary comfort.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free multi-storey car park
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Isabelle Briens French Pastry Cafe
Nick G.
Jun 19,2025
Beautiful little cafe and bakery. They offer indoor and outdoor patio seating. You order at the counter and then find your own seat. I tried their American . It was enjoyable, they come with a little bit of foam. I would go with the 16oz cup, they offer a 10oz as well. I had half of their Monaco crossiant sandwich with cheese and ham. The crossiants are deliciously flakey and have a brilliant butter taste while devouring. Great big portion sandwich. I also ordered the Biarritz Omelette. It was also a large portion that came with fresh fruit and a slice of bread. Loaded with lots of crispy bacon! Great first time experience.
Maddy Hengge
Jun 9,2025
My absolute favorite spot in town for birthday cakes, decadent chocolate croissants, and hot sandwiches (seriously, you have to try the Fifi Larue – prosciutto, mozzarella, basil, and tomato – it's heaven!). And don’t even get me started on their crepes – they’re out of this world! Plus, they offer gluten-free options, which is a total game-changer. My go-to is the buckwheat Crepe Monaco – so delish. The staff here is always super friendly and helpful, making every visit feel like a treat. Whether I’m soaking up the sun outside while enjoying my pastries or cozying up inside, surrounded by the irresistible smell of fresh-baked goodies, this place is my little slice of heaven!
Mh ForWork
May 24,2025
Chocolate croissants all the way!!! If you haven’t tried them yet, you might be missing out ;) They’re flaky, buttery, and loaded with rich, gooey chocolate. Honestly, they’re the best we’ve had in town. And the staff? So welcoming and always ready with a big smile. It’s a place where we felt like regulars from our very first visit. Whether we're grabbing a quick snack or hanging out for a bit, it’s always a great experience!
Alex Maulder
May 20,2025
A lovely little spot! I’ve been going here for a while now every few months and the food is always good as ever! Definitely come here in the morning if you want a nice pastry breakfast!
Claire scherler
May 15,2025
I have been coming here for years and so has my whole family. The food is AMAZING. Weather you order A hot Panini or a sweet crepe from their menu, you will not be disappointed. Pastries are phenomenal! by far the best croissants in town, possibly that I’ve had ever! Definitely worth a trip over to isabel pastry. stop by in the morning and see a variety of pastries. Best time for a large selection is right when they open! They also make cakes!
Chris Wolf
Mar 27,2025
We visited for the first time today. I had an almond croissant that was absolutely delicious. My husband had the almondine which he very much enjoyed. The coffee is excellent! Isabelle and her staff were personable and very kind. This place is a gem!
Kamila carr
Mar 23,2025
Took my son here this am on a crepe date. The Nutella strawberry crepe was perfect, not huge and overly sweetened with Nutella. We split a croissant that was delicious as well. The price point was good, and the desert selection in the window shelf was beautiful. I got a cold sandwich that was good.
A L
Mar 23,2025
Isabelle’s has the BEST croissants in all of North County San Diego... if not in all of the US! So flaky, buttery & delicious. Not to mention Isabelle herself is so personable and kind, she sits down to talk with you whenever she’s not running around or making cakes. It’s truly a one of kind, authentic experience.
Reviews For Isabelle Briens French Pastry Cafe