For 21 years Mani’s Bakery reigned supreme on Fairfax & 6th St. with its healthy baked goods. Then Mani’s tried to expand to a larger space in a sleepy part of Beverly Hills, and is consequently out of business (sad). In its old Fairfax location though, a new bakery has popped up. Introducing Black Cat Bakery, a sleeker and more appealing neighborhood spot, if I may say so myself.
The breakfast and savory food at Black Cat is totally delicious, and the decor feels fresh, compared to the ’70s vibe that Mani’s gave off. However, the bakery selection looked pretty minimal and not totally exciting. I opted for a this Chocolate Croissant.
The chocolate inside it was super delish.
If I were to be super picky, the croissant could have been slightly more buttery and flaky. But really, I’m docking half a cherry here for the lackluster dessert display upfront. I mean, they call themselves a bakery… show me the goods!
Ultimately, I’m delighted by this new little joint and I look forward to brunch there again. But if they want to make me a regular, they need to up the ante on the desserts!
For more info on Black Cat Bakery, click here.
BTW- very interesting that The Little Next Door and Black Cat Bakery, only blocks away from each other, both feature black cats!
XOXO

I live around the block from this place, and at first was very sad to see Mani’s go. On a block of questionable integrity, it was a shining jewel. But Black Cat has quickly become a favorite location (the gray salt chocolate chip cookies are ridiculous). Also, you forgot to mention that all of their bread comes from Homeboy Industries, which is very cool.
I so miss Mani’s and their chocolate bottomed banana cream pie and vegan carrot cake…
Will try this joint next time I am at the grove!
Wow Mani’s is gone?? Chocolate croissant is a huge fav of mine too 🙂
i miss mani’s – used to go there all the time! have been meaning to try black cat – we should meet sometime!