’HOODS A busy thoroughfare where Cypress meets Buena Park

’HOODS

LOVELY LOCALS

Cafes and shops with friendly service and sweet treats brighten a busy thoroughfare where CYPRESS meets BUENA PARK. by Robin Jones

Ú GOOD TO KNOW Classics Flowers o ers nextday delivery for bouquets, as well as for a selection of potted plants, pastries, and its afternoon tea box.

GOOD EATS & SWEETS

A giant mural meant to look like a blackboard—covered with chalk drawings of dogs, a strawberry, and a cup of coffee with legs—gives this cute cafe and bakery a cheerful air. Like the art, the menu is eclectic and includes cheeseburgers, tacos, burritos, and egg rolls ($2.50 to $6.79). Desserts are more traditional—and irresistible, especially the huge, dense brownie topped with crunchy peanut butter-chocolate fudge

($3.95). 6285 BALL ROAD, CYPRESS, 714-886-2016

CLASSICS FLOWERS AND CONFECTIONS

Floral arrangements, potted succulents, and houseplants sit among colorful canvas tote bags, scarves, and mini teapots at this florist, gift shop, and cafe; but the most tempting display is the bakery case filled with salted caramel brownies, huge chocolate chip cookies, apricot-white chocolate scones, and lemon bars. The cafe menu includes salads and sandwiches, and even afternoon tea to go, complete with scones, sandwiches, fruit, and

macarons. 10069 VALLEY VIEW ST., CYPRESS, 714-828-5611

SANDWICH HOUSE

Tucked into the back of a strip mall, this hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop has a loyal following for its reasonably priced banh mi ($5.50 to $7), made on French bread and packed with super-fresh carrots, daikon, onion, cilantro, and jalapenos. The tiny space, filled with packaged cakes, cookies, and other snacks, might be best known for its top-notch service; all orders come with complimentary iced tea and sweets. 9187 VALLEY

VIEW ST., CYPRESS, 714-828-9998

FURNACE SKATE SHOP

A mainstay of the skateboarding community since 1996, this small shop is packed with everything a skater might need, from decks, trucks, and wheels to Toy Machine socks. Stacks of graphic T-shirts include big brands such as Nike SB and independent ones such as Dime and Quartersnacks. A whole wall of sneakers features new releases from Converse and Vans. Friendly employees will help beginners and experienced skaters build customized

boards. 10100 VALLEY VIEW ST., BUENA PARK, 714-828-4226