Rick’s Dessert Diner in Sacramento has been making desserts from scratch daily since winning Best of Sacramento for Dessert in 1986—and they’ve kept that title every year since. Walking in, you’re faced with an overwhelming choice: over 285 varieties of European and American desserts. The display cases alone are worth the trip, filled with everything from French pastries to classic American cakes and pies. They also do custom cakes for birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations if you want something made to order.

The place has a classic diner feel that makes you want to linger, and the good news for dog owners is that you can do exactly that at their outdoor seating area. You’ll see dogs tied up at tables while their people work through slices of cake or pastry, which is the kind of casual, unselfconscious dog-friendliness that actually works well. The outdoor patio isn’t fancy, but it’s a comfortable spot to sit with your dog and work through whatever temptation you picked from those cases.

The variety here is genuinely impressive—you’re not picking from a small rotating selection. On any given day, there are multiple types of chocolate cakes, fruit tarts, cream pies, éclairs, and desserts you might not find elsewhere in Sacramento. Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. Service is straightforward; you order at the counter and find a seat, either inside or out.

If you’re planning to order a custom cake for an event, calling ahead makes sense so they know what you’re looking for. But even if you just stop by for a single slice on a random afternoon with your dog, you’ll understand why this place has stayed consistent for nearly 40 years. Their website has the current menu and special offerings if you want to plan ahead.