I live for dessert.  The expression, “Life is uncertain - eat dessert first” describes my outlook pretty well.  When I visit a new city, one of the first things I do is search out the best bakeries and dessert places.  Enjoying a slice of decadent chocolate cake with a cup of decaf coffee definitely puts me in a happy state of mind.   

Here, in no particular order, is a top ten list of my favorites from around the US:

Sweetie Pies – Napa, CA
Set in a rustic brick building, this bakery has atmosphere and excellent pastries and desserts.  Try their adorable individually-sized cakes. more

Mozarts – Austin, TX
Watch the boats go by on Lake Austin and enjoy fresh-roasted coffee, delectable desserts and live music on the weekends.  more

Prolific Oven - Palo Alto, CA 
In the middle of Palo Alto’s downtown.  Cakes are their specialty - try their chocolate on chocolate cake.

Urth Caffé – Santa Monica, CA 
Great for people watching – serves organic coffee and tea and a revolving selection of excellent desserts.  more

Café Intermezzo – Atlanta,GA
This European coffeehouse is a great place to spend an evening chatting over dessert and cappuccinos - try their banana chocolate chip cake.

Sweet Lady Jane -  W. Hollywood, CA 
Located on trendy Melrose Ave. – beautiful decorated cakes, tarts, cheesecakes and pastries.  Stop by on Friday or Saturday when the selection is best.

Upper Crust Bakery - Austin, TX
Great for morning or afternoon - excellent pastries and cakes – try the marzipan pocket, a cinnamon roll, or a ham and cheese brioche as big as your head.

Dahlia Bakery – Seattle
Located a few blocks from Pike Place Market – famous for their mile-high triple coconut cream pie.

Back in the Day Bakery – Savannah, GA
Located in the Design District of Savannah – try their double dipped chocolate cake which was featured in Chocolatier Magazine.  more

Nordstrom Café – Bellevue, WA
Inside the Nordstrom store located in Bellevue Square. Some of the best desserts around – try the key lime cheesecake. 

Have a favorite bakery or dessert place?  Add a comment and share your find!