Clayton’s Bakery and Bistro, Coronado, CA

Clayton’s Bakery & Bistro opened six months before the pandemic hit. Owner Mary Frese is a seasoned restauranteur who’s been in the industry for 30 years. She took over Clayton’s Coffee Shop on Orange Avenue in 2008, and has since opened Clayton’s Mexican in Coronado and Clayton’s Galley on San Diego’s Harbor Island.

The decor of Clayton’s is gorgeous, turn-of-the-century-chic. Mary personally installed the amber tiles on the ceiling to evoke an old world apothecary feel. Even the tableware is on theme! Mary purchases one-of-a-kind pieces from antique stores and estate sales, and occasionally treats her customers by serving them on her mother’s authentic vintage milk glass.

All of the pastries and breads you’ll find at Clayton’s are made onsite. Taking a glance at the pastry case is a feast for the eyes, letting you know you’re in for a something spectacular. Hint: absolutely pick up one of those almond croissants, either to eat then or to enjoy later. The macarons are as delicious as they are beautiful—we tried a pastel blue-hued raspberry macaron with an edible gold leaf stripe down the center, and it tasted like a dream. We also indulged in the dulce de leche cupcake, which is something we’ll fantasize about until we return to get it again. The carrot cake is a heartier dessert ideal for sharing, with the perfect balance of warm spice and sweetness.

If you can make room for it, you’ll also find brunch menu items not to be missed. We loved the croque madame, with two slices of house sourdough griddled with rosemary ham and melted gruyere finished with rich béchamel sauce, another layer of melted gruyere and a sunny-side-up egg. Mary herself served us their Dutch baby pancake—a light, airy masterpiece finished with fresh berries, powdered sugar and lemon curd. If you’re looking for something simpler, the bistro bagel with herb and black pepper “schmear,” Persian cucumber, tomato and onion on a house-made everything bagel might be right up your alley.

We loved the variety of creative beverage offerings to pair with our treats, including flavor-infused lemonades, an impressive array of coffee drinks, mimosas and California wines. Our top picks are the lavender lemonade, golden turmeric oat latte and iced honey lavender latte.

Clayton’s Bakery & Bistro is a charming location for events such as group brunches, baby showers, birthday parties or even an office lunch outing. Mary recently purchased the retail space next-door which will soon house a full-service retail bakery. They will provide catering orders from that space perfect for events at home!

Now, It’s Your Turn

Clayton’s Bakery and Bistro is located at 849 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118.

Check out Clayton’s menus here.

They are open 6 days a week (closed Tuesday) from 7:00am – 4pm.

To make a reservation call (619)-319-5001.

Click here to follow them on Instagram @claytonsbakerybistro.