Massé’s Pastries represents European-trained craftsmanship brought to North Berkeley. Since opening in 1997, owners Paul and Marcia Massé have created a refined neighborhood bakery that draws on over 30 years of combined professional culinary experience at distinguished institutions like the Four Seasons Hotel Company in Chicago.

The Pastry Philosophy

This is not a casual bakery—it’s a destination for those serious about quality pastry. Every item reflects careful technique: croissants with proper lamination, tarts with precise decoration, cakes composed with exacting attention to flavor balance and presentation. The Massés’ approach emphasizes that pastry is both craft and art, requiring skill, patience, and ingredient quality that goes beyond standard bakery offerings.

Specialties

Massé’s is particularly renowned for several signature items. Their macarons have earned recognition in East Bay food publications, showcasing delicate technique and balanced flavors. Sufganiyot—Jewish jelly-filled donuts—are a specialty that connects the pastry traditions of Europe with the community’s heritage. Custom cakes for celebrations represent the bakery’s most sophisticated work, with each design reflecting consultation with customers about their vision.

Seasonal Tarts & Pastries

The bakery rotates seasonal offerings that take advantage of Berkeley’s year-round produce access. Spring brings fruit tarts highlighting fresh berries and stone fruits. Summer showcases lighter preparations. Fall features apple preparations and warming spices. Winter highlights chocolate and preserved fruits. This seasonal approach keeps regular customers returning to discover new offerings.

Hours & Visiting

Massé’s operates Wednesday through Saturday (10am-5pm), Sunday (10am-4pm), and Monday from 10am-1pm for pre-ordered cake pickup only, remaining closed Tuesdays. This limited schedule reflects the time-intensive nature of serious pastry work. Arriving early is advisable for the best selection.

Experience

The small shop maintains an intimate atmosphere where you can watch staff working behind the counter. The pastry cases display items with a curator’s eye for arrangement, and the staff offers friendly guidance on selections. For those celebrating special occasions, custom orders can be arranged with advance notice.

Location

Massé’s sits on Shattuck Avenue in the Gourmet Ghetto neighborhood, surrounded by other quality food businesses. It’s walkable from Chez Panisse and other neighborhood destinations, or accessible by bus via Shattuck Avenue’s regular service.