Dolcissimo Bake Shop

The fluffy frosting keeps customers coming back for more cupcakes at this gourmet dessert shop. Every day, red velvets and three other signature flavors are served, along with four rotating specials of the day. Of the 20 flavors on the menu, there are innovative creations that take you back to childhood – orange Creamsicle and apple pie – plus pina colada and tiramisu for grown-up tastes. Most flavors come as mini-cupcakes, too. Besides cupcakes, Dolcissimo makes brownies, cookies, caramel apples and individual cheesecakes and pies. The shop is shamelessly girly, swirly and pink, with soft wood and glass to create a bright, cheery space. So, you’ve broken the rules and had dessert first. Congratulations. Now, if you’re ready for some food and/or nightlife, find the in-crowd at Chronic Cantina, Sutra Lounge, Bangkok Corner or the Detroit Bar. After a movie at the Edwards Cinema, there are dozens of eateries there in Triangle Square. For a classic OC quickie, take a short trip down the road to TK Burger or Taco Mesa.

Tips: If you’re picky and faithful to your preferred flavors, consult the website and plan ahead. Study the rotating selections and visit on a day when something looks appealing. Of course, the four everyday flavors cover the red velvet, chocolate, vanilla, pink and blue loyalists, so there’s a backup plan for almost any taste, should your first choice be sold out when you arrive. Though the bakery has coffee and cold drinks, there are only two outdoor tables and none inside, so most people get their goods to go. Parking is a little odd. The lot’s around back but there’s no rear entrance. You have to walk to the front door to get in.