"The bakers at Gusto Bread in Long Beach are sourdough people. At their adobe-tiled storefront on Retro Row, they put naturally leavened dough and heirloom grains to good use with spins on classic Mexican pastries that often sell out by early afternoon. The star of the show here is the tender chocolate concha, coated in a crunchy layer of cacao crumble that spirals to the center. You'll also find highlights like jalapeño cheddar bolillos, guava pastelitos, and caramelized orejas rolled in toasted corn husk sugar, plus seasonal specials like rosca de reyes and pan de meurto. The coffee drinks—made with beans sourced from Oaxaca—are excellent, too. " - Sylvio Martins, Nikko Duren