Moonbelly Bakery — Restaurant in Sacramento

Moonbelly is the definition of a hidden gem. For those in the know, it's a pilgrimage—one that requires patience, persistence, and a little bit of luck. Open just a few day a week, its doors hold the kind of exclusivity that makes you ache for more.

As I waited in the 35-degree Sacramento cold, anticipation curled around me like the scent of butter and yeast spilling from within. Every time the red candy apple door swung open, waves of fresh-baked bliss teased my senses. My mouth watered as customers emerged, their arms heavy with boxes, their faces alight with satisfaction.

Two boxes and two loaves later, I stepped outside, eager to savor my spoils. If you were to choose only one item, let it be this croissant.This morning, I was one of the lucky ones. The stars aligned, and I managed to claim the very last almond chocolate croissant before another devotee could snatch it away.

To the pastries at Moonbelly Bakery in Sacramento: consider this my heartfelt confession. I have been utterly, irrevocably seduced by your almond chocolate croissant. You are the epitome of perfection—flaky yet tender, buttery yet light, with a filling so rich it borders on sinful. Every layer, kissed by the hands of angels, unravels like a well-kept secret.

Standing outside, cradling my prize, I tore into it with reverence. Warm butter shimmered on my fingertips, and for a moment, the world hushed. The velvety chocolate melted into the almond-laced filling—a harmony of flavors so divine it felt like a stolen indulgence.

After tearing it apart, warm butter dripped decadently down my hands, and the delicate flakes gave way to a chocolate-almond filling so luscious, so intoxicating, it was like a kiss that lingers long after it’s gone. A good make-out session without the emotional baggage—though, truth be told, I was emotionally attached. I resisted the urge to lick my fingers...

And then, there was the whiskey, persimmon, and walnut loaf—a quiet masterpiece in its own right. Its bold, smoky notes of whiskey met the natural sweetness of persimmon, rounded out by the earthiness of walnuts. The flavors unfolded in layers—first robust and heady, then soft and honeyed, like cantaloupe kissed by the autumn sun as it melts away in your mouth.

Every item I have surveyed at Moonbelly has never left me astray. But here’s the truth: I would let Moonbelly Bakery ruin my life, my diet, my self-control—without hesitation. Every bite is an intoxicating affair, a fleeting moment of bliss that leaves you yearning for more. You’ve set the standard, Moonbelly, and I’m not sure I’ll...

Best croissant I have ever had. Without exaggerating, better than anything I had during a 10 day trip to France.

The outside was incredibly crisp and flaky, exactly as it should be. Inside was soft, fluffy, and (of course) buttery!

There has recently been some debate on the Sacramento subreddit about the best croissant in town...surprise everyone, you can stop looking and just go to Moonbelly!

I can't wait to actually get there in the morning (instead of the afternoon) and try some of the flavored/not plain ones.

Coffee was tasty (not burnt) and they offer oat milk as the dairy alternative which is a plus to me. My husband mentioned it might have been a little weak, but he's literally a caffeine addict and needs 72 cups a day anyway, so don't take his word for it. We got it iced and they have the highly desirable pellet ice, so that's another win.

Also, as you can see in my photo, they offer homemade fruit spreads. We tried Meyer Lemon Pumpkin Butter, delicious!

There is some outdoor seating, but only one table was in the shade (we were there at noon). There is also a shaded bench with no table, as well as another table that was in full sun by midday. I'm sure it would be fine if you're there in the morning.

The front door currently has no signage, but the address is clearly indicated above the door and there is a small sign that reads "open" on the bright red entrance.

I hope this place is incredibly successful because I selfishly want to come here instead of grabbing donuts...

Oh my gosh, Moonbelly Bakery is one that's been long awaited. I used to live in an apartment building next to it and when I saw the sign go up, I got so excited.

Lucia's operation is small, but mighty. I got to try some of her sourdough when she was testing them out pre-opening. Her goal is to be a small, neighborhood bakery slinging goods to the neighbors. Her goal has been accomplished and she's more than just the neighborhood baker, as evidenced by how fast everything has sold out in just the three days she's been open.

I came in first thing in Friday, grand opening day. I got the ham and egg croissant, chocolate croissant, and regular croissant. So good.

I came in again same time on Sunday and the line was already out the parking lot, and the wait time was about 30 min. I watched her sell out of strawberry croissants as I salivated in line. This time, I got the ham and egg, ham and cheese, cardamom, cinnamon bun, butternut croissant, chocolate croissant, and almond croissant. Don't let the flaky crunchy outsides of the cardamom and cinnamon buns fool you. They are so chewy and soft in the middle. The almond croissant really stole the show for me though. Most folks slap almonds and powdered sugar on top and call it good. Not Moonbelly. The filling inside is the perfect amount of sweet and juicy.

Now if I could just get my hands on the strawberry croissant... and I saw a peach one on...