Dianda's is a surreal experience the first time you go. Tucked into a block in deep Mission, this Italian bakery(yes, you read that right- Italian) is an unexpected find. You would expect Italian pastry this good and authentic in North Beach, how lucky to have it in a more accessible location. The morning pastries are good, as are all the cookies. Sometimes I go and pick out a bunch of different cookies, prices are reasonable so you can really sample. The cakes are where it's at though. If you really love someone get them the strawberry cake for their birthday. One thing though, there is no seating and the coffee is not great.
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