Today we’d like to introduce you to David Nguyen.
Hi David, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I discovered baking during the pandemic—one of those accidental passions that started as a hobby and quickly became an obsession. My partner is a fantastic cook, but sweets were never his thing, so I took on the challenge. What drew me in wasn’t just the joy of a fresh cookie; it was the precision. Baking felt like chemistry class meets comfort food—measuring, mixing, and mastering the art of the perfect bite.
Fast forward a few years—we’re in Idyllwild, and I’m craving dessert. But every option I found was either too fussy, too fancy, or just plain forgettable. I wasn’t looking for a lava cake or a lavender foam tart. I wanted a classic: a nostalgic, high-quality cookie that tasted like it came from your childhood but baked with real care. And it didn’t exist.
When we got back to Los Angeles, I realized something surprising: the same gap existed here too. I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I’ve always dreamed of starting my own business, and I’ve always believed in the quiet magic of cookies—the way they make people smile, soften tough days, and turn strangers into friends. So I left my computer screen behind, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work. What began as a pandemic pastime has turned into something far bigger—and a whole lot sweeter.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting a bakery without formal culinary training has been a wild and humbling ride. From figuring out permits and licenses, to building a website from scratch, to learning how to market myself—it’s all been new, and at times overwhelming. But every challenge has taught me something valuable and pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.
Before I even launched to the public, I spent over eight months in my kitchen, obsessively tweaking recipes. I experimented with different types of flour, sugar ratios, and baking times to strike the perfect balance—something that felt classic but elevated. Once I was ready to go live, I hit another wall: the maze of permits and regulations. There were so many paths to take, and every person I asked had a different opinion on what to do. I had to drown out the noise, sit with the information, and trust myself to choose what made sense for me and my business.
Looking back, I realize this is what entrepreneurship is. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about taking risks, learning fast, pivoting when needed, and trusting your gut. And for me, it’s made every cookie that much sweeter.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Larchmont bake shop?
Larchmont Bake Shop is an at home cottage bakery specializing in nostalgic, homemade cookies. We focus on classic flavors and perfectly sized treats that satisfy without overwhelming. What I’m most proud of is the joy our cookies bring—and the loyal community that keeps coming back for more.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is spending Sundays with my family. We didn’t have much growing up, but every Sunday after church, we’d treat ourselves by going out to eat. It was our weekly splurge—our chance to try new cuisines and desserts we’d never had before. It became a tradition we looked forward to, not just for the food, but for the joy of sharing something special together.
Pricing:
- $3.75 per cookie
- $42 for a box of dozen
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.larchmontbakeshop.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larchmontbakeshop/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LarchmontBakeShop/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/larchmont-bake-shop-los-angeles
Image Credits
RJ Guillermo
