Helms Bakery

Nestled in the iconic Helms Bakery District alongside Father’s Office and the sprawling H.D. Buttercup showroom, this reimagined bakeshop has become a daytime dining destination for Culver City locals. The expansive space features multiple dedicated counters—each with its own line—so you can grab your morning coffee and pastry at one station, order a slice of cake at another, or build your lunch from the deli counter offering classics like meatloaf and potato salad.

The mornings here belong to the bakers. Hit up the front counter for indulgent treats like mango mascarpone donuts that blend tropical sweetness with Italian cream, or grab one of the sugar-dusted morning buns that practically melt in your mouth. Cold cases throughout the space showcase grab-and-go options ranging from kimbap to mortadella subs, giving you plenty of variety when you’re in a rush.

Once the clock strikes eleven, the deli counter becomes the main attraction. The thick-cut pastrami melt delivers exactly what you want from a Jewish deli sandwich—piles of tender meat with just the right amount of fat. Their fried chicken, available by the bucket, comes out beautifully golden with a satisfying crunch and enough seasoning to keep you reaching for more. Don’t leave without picking up a loaf of their soft sandwich bread, a callback to what put Helms on the map decades ago.

Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast pastry, a proper lunch, or want to stock up on prepared foods for later, this revamped bakery covers all your bases without making you feel rushed. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that rewards repeat visits—there’s always something new to discover in those cold cases.