Sugar Shock: The Haute 5 Desserts in Los Angeles

There’s no shortage of sweet shops in Los Angeles, but since I’ve already given you Haute 5 ice cream and Haute 5 bakeries in recent weeks, today I’m focusing on strictly meal-ending treats.

Providence

Two Michelin stars would guarantee a strong finish to your meal, but even so, Providence’s staff have outdone themselves in this regard. The entire Dessert Tasting Menu (three, five or even eight courses!) deserves wows–Kalamansi Gelee with Lychee Shiso Sorbet, White Chocolate Coconut Soup with Tapioca Pearls and Chocolate Nougatine is pictured above– though the sweet panzella “salad” with burratta ice cream, basil and balsamic frangiapane is the must-try.

Providence is located at 5955 Melrose Avenue, 323.460.4170

Water Grill

Though Dessert Chef John Park is no longer at this Downtown LA seafood institution (whose kitchen staff now includesTop Chef’s  Amanda Baumgarten), they still execute his elegant Red Velvet Pudding (with cocoa nib streusel and raspberry-mascarpone ice cream) to perfection.

Water Grill is located at 544 South Grand Avenue, 213.891.0900

Hatfield’s

Being co-owned by a pastry chef doesn’t guarantee that a restaurant will have great sweets, but it’s a pretty good clue. Karen Hatfield’s ever-changing desserts are certainly worthy of her husband’s savory creations, and offer so many strong choices you may find yourself just selecting the wonderful sorbet and ice creams, including Passion-Elderflower, Green Apple Vermouth and Butterscotch-Rosemary.

Hatfield’s is located at 6703 Melrose Avenue, 323.935.2977

The Bazaar

Pastry Chef Michael Gillette is equal to the task of following José Andrés’ molecular gastronomy. Among his prizes are a Nitro Coconut Floating Island with Passionfruit and Vanilla, prepared tableside with liquid nitrogen.

The Bazaar by José Andrés is located in the SLS Hotel at 465 South La Cienega Boulevard, 310.246.5555

The Brentwood

Just for variety, I’ll include this popular neighborhood spot, where the chocolate bread pudding causes cravings for miles around. They also serve Dr. Bob’s artisan ice cream.

The Brentwood is located at 148 S Barrington Avenue, 310.476.3511