Laurel Gallucci is the co-founder Sweet Laurel Bakery — which may sound familiar if you live in LA or travel often through LAX.
As you may have already figured out, Gallucci is also the namesake of Sweet Laurel Bakery. She is a third generation Angeleno and a self-taught baker. And, her baking journey began when she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease as a young adult.
Forward to present day: her baked goods use natural unprocessed ingredients that are grain-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free.
Now, with a location at LAX, Sweet Laurel Bakery is even more travel-friendly than before. Read on to learn where Gallucci feeds her sweet tooth when she’s traveling, and learn about her favorite keepsakes, too.
Other than your own sweets, what are your favorite bakeries?
There are so many incredible bakeries around the world. I think two in particular that I adore are Maman in New York and Violet Bakery in London. Both have a similar, unfussy, homemade approach to baking that I love.
Is there anything that you bake that was inspired by travel?
Yes. We love Italy and the Mediterranean, so many of our almond-based cakes have inspiration from there. Especially our seasonal olive oil cake — one of my favorites.
What is your favorite place to travel to?
Italy internationally, and Montecito locally. I love anywhere that is close to the countryside and the beach, and of course, warm weather and warm people.
What is your favorite hotel, and where is it?
Harbor House Inn in Mendocino is absolutely stunning, with the best Michelin-star room service.
What is your favorite in-flight snack and beverage?
I love a sparkling water, and then raw cacao that I bring in my purse. It’s the perfect pick-me-up.
Are you someone who brings only a carry on, or do you check bags?
Carry on! I’ve been burned too many times.
What is in your carry on?
Sunblock, white dresses, sandals, and never the right amount of outer wear. I tend to pack for the weather I wish was there. I once went to New York in the fall with no close-toed shoes, and had to buy boots my first day.
Where will you be traveling this spring and summer?
Bozeman and Ireland. Bozeman is a favorite place for our family, as we love hiking and the outdoors. Ireland will be a first, and we’re so excited about the incredible natural scenery and the food.
Where is one place or food destination you’ve never traveled to, but want to go?
Japan! Timing has kept me away but it’s the top of my list.
What do you like to do when you are in LA and have a day off?
Go to the beach and cuddle with my kids, while my phone sits in a drawer. Unplugging and reconnecting is so important to me.
What is the most spontaneous trip you’ve taken?
Nick, my husband, has surprised me with trips to his hotel projects and it’s always a fun adventure.
What is your favorite souvenir or keepsake from a trip?
Always an antique. I love treasure hunting and finding something one of a kind.
Seeing as that your hub is LAX, what are your favorite restaurants there?
I love getting an Americano at LAMILL. It’s a quiet corner of LAX and I love their coffee. And now, of course, picking up a Sweet Laurel treat too. We’re so thrilled to be in LAX and expanding our products nationally in local grocery stores, including Whole Foods and Sprouts.
