This is one of Carpinteria's best kept secrets.

Moonlite Cheesecakes is a wholesaler of high-quality New York-style cheese cakes.  They service restaurants, independent groceries, fundraisers and a busy mail-order business.  When you walk through their door you will find yourself in an seemingly ordinary business office.  

So why are they here under top picks?

Here's where the secret comes in.  If you drop by their offices during normal business hours  you can buy these wonderful cheesecakes directly from them.

And even better, you will often find the best bargain in cheesecakes anywhere in the county.  They offer what they call "cheesequakes," which are slightly damaged (but still quite edible) and their bakery overruns, which are first quality and still discounted.  They mix, bake, freeze and package these cakes right on the premises and the varieties change frequently.

When you swing by their offices, you don't have to wear a tie, but do be prepared to make some tough decisions.  Raspberry white chocolate or Dutch chocolate walnut....

Directions:

Southbound:  Take the 101 to the Carpinteria Avenue exit.  Drive about a block and their offices are on the right.

Northbound: Take the 101 to the Santa Monica exit.  At the stop sign turn right.  At the next stop sign turn right.  Go over the bridge and at the stop lights turn right.  Continue almost until the end of Carpinteria.  Their offices are on the left.  You may want to turn around the cul de sac at the end of Carpinteria Avenue and park right in front of the building.