Orange, California — A longtime Orange County bakery known for creating birthday cakes, pastries, and family traditions is preparing to close one of its locations, prompting an emotional response from customers who say the business has been part of their lives for decades.
French’s Pastry Bakery announced that its Orange location will permanently close on June 28, bringing an end to years of serving the local community.
The unexpected announcement quickly spread across social media, where longtime customers expressed sadness and shared memories tied to the bakery’s signature desserts and celebrations.
Bakery Announces Emotional Farewell
French’s Pastry Bakery shared the news in an emotional Instagram post over the weekend. The bakery apologized to customers while confirming that the Orange store would soon close its doors permanently.
“Good morning, Orange County. We are sorry to post this … but unfortunately, we have to close the Orange location.”
The bakery did not explain why the location is closing, leaving many loyal patrons surprised by the announcement.
Despite the closure, the company assured customers that its Costa Mesa location will continue operating, allowing fans to continue purchasing many of the bakery’s well-known products.
Customers Share Decades of Memories
The announcement sparked an outpouring of heartfelt reactions from customers who described French’s as more than just a neighborhood bakery.
Many recalled ordering birthday cakes, holiday desserts, and treats for special family occasions over the years. One customer reflected on an important family milestone.
“My son’s first birthday cake…. it was perfect!!! Thanks for the memories.”
Another longtime customer expressed disappointment over losing a favorite source for Mardi Gras desserts.
“Oh no you guys are closing you guys are the only ones in Orange County where i get my Kings Cake for Marti Gras!!! Ahhhh im going to guys so much ive bee. Going there for 9 years.”
Others described the bakery as a local institution, saying few businesses offered the same combination of custom cakes, pastries, and personalized service.
Bakery Became a Community Favorite
Over the years, French’s built a loyal following through a wide selection of baked goods.
Customers frequently visited the bakery for custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and specialty pastries prepared for birthdays, weddings, graduations, and other celebrations.
Among its most recognizable menu items was the “Wagon Wheel,” a large circular pastry filled with fruit and sweet cream cheese that became one of the bakery’s signature creations.
For many residents, the bakery became a destination for family traditions that stretched across multiple generations.
Not the First Location to Close
The Orange closure follows another difficult decision made by the bakery in recent years. In 2023, French’s announced the closure of its Mission Viejo location, ending a 27-year run in that community.
While the company has not provided details about the latest closure, customers hope the remaining Costa Mesa bakery will continue serving the region for years to come.
As June 28 approaches, many longtime patrons are planning one final visit to celebrate the business that played a role in countless birthdays, holidays, and family milestones.
For many in Orange County, the closing marks the end of an era for a bakery that became part of the community’s traditions as much as its desserts.
Do you have a favorite memory of visiting French’s Pastry Bakery or another longtime local business in your community? Share your memories and thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
