Bake It Up — Restaurant in Castro Valley

I look forward to visiting again in the future, as much for the Arabic-flavor-infused baked goods as the iced refreshers. Very welcoming from the moment you step inside, as everyone's addressed as “my love” by the owner.

For the leche cake, my first impression was saltiness! I am admittedly sensitive to salt, but rather than turn me off, it led to an interesting sweet–savory balance that kept me taking that next bite. The cake rested in a layer of milk, and heavy whipped cream adorned the milk-soaked white cake's top. The crushed pistachio nuts provide the cake with an appealing crunch, and the petals yielded a fun chew.

It's Vimto Time" had an excellent mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, with bubbly water livening it all up. Gorgeous color, too.

Mild spice and pumpkin flavors for the pumpkin caramel cake, but the shortening-based frosting and caramel sauce yielded tons of...

I tried the cinnamon bun, banana pudding, and Arabic leche. Wow! Each one was a delicious surprise!

The cinnamon bun came highly recommended by the other customers, and it must be served warm. It was flaky and buttery, with crisp edges coated in cinnamon sugar.

The banana pudding tasted homemade in the best way. Classic and comforting, it had a unique flavor that I still can’t quite identify, but it was creamy, rich, and layered with generous amounts of fresh bananas.

This was the STAR! The Arabic leche (similar to Tres Leche). The staff told me it’s their #1 seller, and I understand why! It was a beautiful surprise. Light, airy, and perfectly soaked. The rose petals and hint of pistachio added a delicate flavor that made it feel special, like something you'd serve for a...

We’ve been happy customers since Fatima was a vendor at our local farmer’s market and now she has her own shop!

Fatima is the sweetest woman and her shop carries the same sweet vibe.

Her cakes and pastries are incredible. Her Arabic inspired tres leche cake is incredible. Her banana cream pie is also amazing. We’re also fans of her baklava croissant and the artichoke croissant.

The jalapeño focaccia is quite delicious too.

As others have noted, the prices seem high but the portions are hearty. I was able to have four portions from one serving of the tres leche cake.

I haven’t had any drinks yet but I’m looking forward to the...