Syrup Desserts

Tamara Drewe

The mixed berry combo waffle is the most popular dish at Syrup.

By Linda Kim

Walking down the west side of Spring Street, you just might miss one of the best dessert bars in Downtown.

Tucked discreetly between a Mediterranean restaurant and a dry cleaners is a place that could easily have been an artist's studio. With large windows and a high, exposed ceiling, the space has a very comfortable, open feel to it – the perfect place for creating works of art and, in a way, that is what it's used for.

Here, the artist's canvas is batter and the palette is chocolate (Nutella to be exact), along with whipped cream and fruit. Although there is a clear refrigerated case showcasing slices of cheesecake, Boston creme pies, and fruit tarts, if you have the time, go past the delights on display and order a waffle at the counter. The waffles may take a bit longer, as they are made fresh to order, but they are well worth the wait.

Syrup's menu features three different types of waffles (Belgian, buttermilk, and Liège) and boasts over a dozen combinations of toppings. The mixed berries combo is by far the most popular dish and it's no wonder: the juices from the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries gently seep into the waffle's larger pockets, creating bursts of flavor and natural sweetness that leave no need for syrup. If that wasn't enough, try it with a forkful of the blueberry black tea ice cream for an extra kick of herbal flavor.

For those more accustomed to the crisp yet fluffy texture of Belgian waffles, a word of caution: beware the Liège waffle. Despite also hailing from Belgium, they are much denser, sweeter, and chewier than what is traditionally referred to as the "Belgian waffle." Since they tend to be a bit doughy, the wrong combination of toppings (read: Syrup's S'more Liège waffle) can result in a quite dry and gummy experience. Liège waffles may work better with juicier toppings, but are still a far cry from the more familiar Belgian variety (also known as the Brussels waffle).

If waffles aren't your thing, Syrup Desserts makes crêpes and sweet grilled cheese sandwiches, as well. They also serve ice cream from local flavor pioneer Scoops and brew coffee from L.A. Mill and Intelligentsia beans. For your daily caffeine fix, Syrup offers the usual array of espresso drinks and tea, hot or iced. The mint mojito iced tea, a Syrup favorite, is quite refreshing, even though it's virgin. And with the chillier days of winter fast approaching, their melted hot chocolate is a delectable alternative to the powder based hot cocoas served at many other coffee chains.

Whatever your choice of sweets or drink, Syrup Desserts has got you covered. It's perfect for studying, conversing, or just eating delicious desserts with friends. A small selection of games are even provided for customers on the second floor, along with lounge chairs and coffee tables perfect for board games and cards. As residents of the Historic Core themselves, managing partners Stan Lim and Steven Seav are dedicated to reaching their vision for a place downtown where friends can get together and just hang out without having to go to a bar. So whether you live in one of the neighboring lofts or are just visiting, they invite you in for some good food and a good time any day or night of the week.

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