Brio Brio Bakery & Café

Brio Brio Bakery & Café in Lake Forest, CA, is a delightful gem that masterfully blends Japanese-inspired flavors with classic café comforts, making it a standout destination for brunch lovers and bakery enthusiasts alike. Specializing in Japanese sweets, artisan sandwiches, and a thoughtfully curated drink menu, Brio Brio offers an inviting dining experience that excels in both quality and ambiance.

Step inside and you'll find a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere with charming indoor seating complemented by an airy outdoor patio shaded by umbrellas and canopies—a perfect balance of sunlight and comfort. This setting encourages lingering over conversations and savoring every bite and sip in pleasant surroundings.

At the heart of Brio Brio’s menu are their signature baked goods that fuse traditional Japanese techniques with premium ingredients. The Lemon Brioche, their signature bread, boasts a perfect balance of zesty brightness and buttery softness that lingers deliciously on the palate. Fans rave about the Prime Beef Curry Bread, which envelops tender US PRIME beef in rich Japanese curry, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. The Matcha Cookie Cream Bread is a showstopper, marrying an outer layer of crisp matcha cookie with a velvety, high-quality matcha cream inside—a treat that truly honors the subtle, earthy tones of premium Japanese matcha.

The sandwich selection is equally impressive and thoughtfully diverse. From the tender, juicy Roast Beef Sando featuring carefully sourced PRIME beef to the uniquely savory Chashu Pork Sando with melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, each sandwich is a satisfying flavor journey. The Chicken Pesto Sando featuring JIDORI chicken and fresh arugula pesto offers a refreshing twist that balances juicy protein with herbal brightness. Even more adventurous palettes will appreciate the Mentai Mozzarella or the classic Tuna Melt, both crafted with attention to texture and taste.

One cannot talk about Brio Brio without highlighting their expertly made drinks. The Hojicha Latte with its deep, smoky charcoal-roasted tea flavor combined with creamy organic milk creates a comforting, nuanced beverage that warms from the first sip. For something fruity yet sophisticated, the Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte brilliantly balances the grassy punch of premium matcha with sweet, fresh strawberries, creating a captivating harmony. Other fascinating options like Matcha Yuzu Lemonade and Hojicha Yuzu Lemonade beautifully marry traditional Japanese flavors with refreshing citrusy brightness, perfect for a sunny day on the outdoor patio.

Patrons consistently praise Brio Brio not only for the food's high caliber but also for its welcoming environment and attentive service. One visitor shared how the vanilla bean custard pastry was “suuuper delicious,” paired perfectly with the café’s specialty drinks. Others appreciate the friendly staff and cozy setting that beg you to slow down and savor the moment. While some long for occasional menu items that have rotated out, the café’s current offerings still hold a strong appeal for regulars and newcomers alike.

In sum, Brio Brio Bakery & Café is more than just a brunch spot or bakery—it’s a lovingly curated experience that captures the charm of Japanese café culture right in the heart of Lake Forest. Whether you’re indulging in a flaky lemon brioche, savoring a complex matcha latte, or biting into a hearty chashu pork sandwich, every visit promises layers of flavor and a comforting ambiance that invites repeat visits. This café is a heartfelt invitation to explore refined, authentic tastes in a bright, inviting setting.