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Welcome to Venus Pie Trap

At Venus Pie Trap, located just steps from the ocean in Aptos, CA, a culinary delight awaits. This charming bakery and café specializes in artisanal pizzas and delectable pastries, all crafted with love and skill. The inviting atmosphere is perfectly complemented by friendly service from staff like Sol and Owen, ensuring every visit feels like a warm embrace. Guests rave about the standout ham, leek, and gruyere cheese quiche, along with superb coffee and inviting outdoor seating. Whether diving into a hearty pizza or enjoying a soothing latte, Venus Pie Trap offers a delightful experience that celebrates the joy of good food and community.

Venus Pie Trap: Reviews & Ratings

Susan R.
Susan R.

The Venus Pie Trap by Rio Del Mar offers tasty food with a great presentation, a variety of baked goods, great coffee, a warm, welcoming atmosphere with good music and a friendly staff, with Sol, (Sol=sun; her name is appropriate because she is warm and welcoming) and Owen. Check it out if you're at the beach; you will totally enjoy it! -Susan in Santa Cruz

Margaret E.
Margaret E.

The staff here are so welcoming and helpful! The ham, leak and gruyere cheese quiche was the best I've ever had!! They make it in house and their pastries are pretty darn good too! You can't beat the tables outside in the sun or shade right across from the ocean!! Definitely happy to have this in my neighborhood!!

Ashley H.
Ashley H.

Venus pie trap is a coffee and pastry shop that is open from 7am-4 pm Monday-Thursday and Friday-Sunday from 7am-5pm then it turns into Venus with a dinner menu with drinks. My friends and I showed up around 11 am on a Sunday and had no problems finding outdoor seating. I ordered the Carmel latte which was delicious. 10/10 and I also ordered the avocado toast which was pretty good but it's difficult to justify $10 avocado toast. The bread itself was good but it was so crunchy and slightly painful against the roof of my mouth. I would 100% come back and try their pizza and pies.

Brittany F.
Brittany F.

Simple little coffee shop with yummy food and drinks. The pizza is thick and the flavor is great. Beach front which is a huge plus. Service is great. Ambiance is casual.

Lana R.
Lana R.

Great lattes and breakfast, friendly staff, and right next to the beach. There is limited seating, but you can just walk 20 steps and take your stuff to the beach! We loved the avocado toast and vanilla latte.

Mary B.
Mary B.

Counter service so good and friendly and the place is quaint and local fav. Location perfect Mocha was so delicious

Melissa P.
Melissa P.

Great little coffee spot in Rio Del Mar. Quick friendly service and ample outdoor seating in this quaint cafe. The little pie and coffee spot makes a great morning or lunch stop with a view. Sweet and savory whole pies or slices in a lovely display. We picked up a chorizo and a samosa hand pie. Great little Sunday post run treat!

Annie T.
Annie T.

I can't explain why I like Venus Pie Trap so much when there is always a wait, my food isn't always heated entirely, I can't count on item availability (like pizzas, bread, and quiche have all been out), there usually isn't seating, and my drink order isn't always prepared correctly. With that said, it is a cute, clean, bougie cafe across from the beach, and it's dog-friendly. While waiting in the lines, I've always met friendly patrons so Venus Pie Trap attracts nice people. Parking is easy, and there's self-serve water by the entrance. Customer service is hit or miss. But did I mention it is right next to the beach?!! It's like with real estate, it's location, location, location! I give it an ecstatic 3.5 stars.

Location

  • Venus Pie Trap
    113 Esplanade Aptos, CA 95003 United States Hotline: (831) 661-5763

Discover the Charm of Venus Pie Trap

Nestled in the heart of Aptos, California, Venus Pie Trap stands as a delightful homage to all things baked, brewed, and beautifully presented. This unique establishment is not just your average bakery or café; it bridges the gap between mouthwatering pizza, artisanal pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that welcomes patrons from all walks of life. Located at 113 Esplanade, Aptos, CA 95003, just a stone's throw from the beach, it serves as a perfect pit stop for sun-seekers and culinary explorers alike.

  • Diverse Menu: From their hearty thick-crust pizzas to decadent quiches like the ham, leek, and gruyere cheese option that has garnered rave reviews, the menu is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures. Customers have praised their house-made dishes, creating an inviting experience that encourages repeat visits.
  • Quality Coffee and Pastries: Whether it’s the rich caramel latte or the variety of baked goods, every sip and bite promises satisfaction. The cozy ambiance is enhanced by the quality of their offerings, leading to a truly memorable coffee shop experience.
  • Outdoor Seating: With limited but coveted seating just steps from the beach, patrons can indulge in their meals while basking in the warm California sun or sipping coffee under the soft shade. The connection to nature here amplifies the overall experience.
  • Welcoming Atmosphere: As noted by satisfied customers, the friendly and attentive staff, including the warm-hearted Sol and Owen, create an ambiance that feels like home. With compliments about great service and a casual vibe, it encourages guests to relax and enjoy their meals.
  • Sustainable Practices: Venus Pie Trap's commitment to sustainability is commendable, as they feature compostable containers and plastic-free packaging, making it a great choice for environmentally-conscious diners.

As a food reviewer, I find the combination of tasty food, an inviting atmosphere, and prime location to be truly compelling. Venus Pie Trap is more than just a café; it’s a local gem that captures the joy of community dining. Whether you’re up for a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or an evening out enjoying their dinner menu paired with drinks, this spot invites you to take a moment away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a place where the flavors are as vibrant as the setting, and where every visit feels like a celebration of what good food and camaraderie really mean.

If you’re planning a trip to the beach, make sure Venus Pie Trap is on your itinerary—you won't just enjoy the food, but you'll soak in the warmth of the coast and the jovial ambiance, a true reflection of Aptos' culinary scene.