Pandor Bakery: Cafe, Gelato - Orange

I absolutely love the gelato here, but the bread, pastries, and coffees are also fantastic. The staff is incredibly friendly. This is definitely a must-visit restaurant, with all the local artists' work on the walls.

Every time we visit California to see family, we make a trip to Pandor at the circle in Orange. We usually enjoy a delicious breakfast, or we pick up some bakery treats like chocolate or almond croissants. This time, I noticed some changes. The portions coming out of the kitchen seemed smaller than before, but still looked delicious. I understand that times are tough for restaurants, and they used to serve large portions that most people couldn't finish. The ordering/cashier area had new equipment, and I noticed that the tip screen started at 15% but allowed for custom tip entry. Despite only ordering to go, I chose to tip 10%. However, I was surprised that it took longer than expected for my order to be prepared. The cashier checked the tip on the screen, then crumpled the ticket and threw it on the floor. I waited for what felt like an eternity before a manager finally took my order and got it for me. The lack of good customer service left me wondering why the restaurant wasn't as busy as it used to be. It felt like customers were being punished for not tipping more.

I adore the warm atmosphere of the staff, as well as the top-notch quality and generous portions of the food. Additionally, their gelato is hands down one of the best I have ever had.

Bakery/cafe located right across the park that’s currently offering al fresco dining options as well as takeout during coronavirus. Decided to have some dessert and take a load off. There’s plenty of outdoor seating and it’s all shaded seat yourself). Masks are required and they do enforce social distancing. I like that they do have beers $5) so if you don’t have a sweet tooth like my dad, you can just enjoy a cold one just remember to ask them to open it while you’re inside the store). My one qualm is that the stracciatella gelato wasn’t as creamy as I’d hope it would be, and there was a dearth of chocolate mixed in. Gelato flavors were pretty standard, and they have a small/medium/large option which amounts to having 1 scoop/2 scoops/3 scoops. Alas they don’t have waffle cones, but they do have a variety of pastries and baked goods. They accept credit cards. For parking, we found street parking but be sure to read the posted signs. Otherwise there are public parking lots available.

Delicious food. Some classic French and some innovative.