Old Fashioned Patticakes

I tried to pack everything in to one day—groceries, dry cleaners, merchandise returns, hardware store, dog bath, post office and everything else you can think of. By the time I'd worn myself out Patticakes was right there. I hadn't stopped by in ages and it was easy to talk myself into a treat.

But once I was inside I couldn't choose! Could you? They've got TEN different kinds of chocolate cake! Not to mention cheesecakes, muffins, croisants, mousse cakes and tarts. Plus you can pre-order just about anything for weddings, parties or personal indulgence. I finally settled on the "old fashion" chocolate cake (it had to be chocolate). Here's the menu description: " four layers of devil's food chocolate cake with a white chocolate mousse center, glazed with chocolate ganache." Not exactly like my mom used to make it. Yours?

Patticakes has been at the corner of Allen Avenue and New York Drive in Altadena for about 23 years, and has been owned by the same family for about ten years. Mike, Phyllis, Shawn, Shannon and Billy run the place, and while I was there three of them were visible. It's spotless, comfy and busy enough to be friendly but not rushed.

I took my time with that cake. The white chocolate mousse was a cool counterpart to the rich chocolate, and latte was the finishing touch.

You work hard, you rush around, you get tired. You deserve a break.