Looking for a tasty treat in the Big Apple? New York City is home to some amazing bakeries where you can find everything from classic bagels to unique pastries.
You might be wondering which spots are the best to visit. This article highlights the top 10 bakeries that you should check out on your next NYC adventure.
Table of Contents
1) Dominique Ansel Bakery
You’ll find Dominique Ansel Bakery in the heart of SoHo, NYC. This bakery is known for its creative and beautiful French treats, created by the talented pastry chef Dominique Ansel. When you step inside, the smell of freshly baked pastries welcomes you right away.
The bakery’s biggest claim to fame is the Cronut®, a delicious half-croissant, half-doughnut pastry. It’s a treat you just have to try. Other popular items include Cookie Shots, which are warm chocolate chip cookies shaped like shot glasses and filled with homemade Madagascan vanilla milk.
Another favorite is the Blossoming Hot Chocolate, which comes with a marshmallow flower that blooms in your cup. If you’re in the mood for something cool, try the Kiwi Sorbet Bar, made with fresh kiwi sorbet, Madagascan vanilla ice cream, and poppyseeds, all coated in milk chocolate.
Dominique Ansel Bakery offers more than just sweets. You can sit and enjoy a cozy breakfast or a quick coffee with friends. They also deliver in NYC and ship some of their treats nationwide, so you can enjoy their tasty creations even if you can’t visit in person.
Rating: 4.3 (7920 reviews)
Location: 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 219-2773
Website: Visit Website
2) Sullivan Street Bakery
Sullivan Street Bakery is a great spot to grab some delicious, handcrafted Italian-inspired breads. When you walk in, the smell of freshly baked bread fills the air. The place has a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing afternoon.
You’ll find a variety of breads here, from multigrain to sesame. Each loaf is crafted with care, and you can truly taste the difference. The staff is friendly and more than happy to help you pick out the perfect bread for any occasion.
Located in a busy part of New York City, Sullivan Street Bakery is a hidden gem that offers a break from the hustle and bustle. The bakery’s website offers more details about their offerings, making it easy to plan your visit.
Rating: 4.6 (658 reviews)
Location: 533 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 265-5580
Website: Visit website
3) Breads Bakery
Step into Breads Bakery, and you’ll be greeted by the delicious smell of freshly baked goods. This spot in Union Square is bright and airy, with high ceilings that add to its charm. Known for its handmade breads and pastries, Breads Bakery has become a New York favorite.
One of the highlights at Breads Bakery is their babka, especially the chocolate babka, which has been named the best in New York by New York Magazine. They also offer a unique twist with Martha’s ‘Good Thing’ Babka, made in collaboration with Martha Stewart, featuring sweet poppy and golden raisins.
Besides babka, you can enjoy light lunch fare, various breads, and delicious pastries baked in small batches to ensure they’re always fresh. Catering is also an option, making it easy to share these tasty treats with friends and family.
Rating: 4.6 (2,182 reviews)
Location: 18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 633-2253
Website: Visit Website
4) Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffe
You step into Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffe and are instantly transported to another time. This bakery has been around since 1894, offering some of the best Italian pastries and coffee. The colorful stained-glass ceiling creates a charming and cozy atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
The cannoli here are a must-try. They are creamy, crispy, and just the right amount of sweet. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their many other Italian pastries. The sfogliatella, for example, is equally delightful.
Veniero’s is more than just a bakery; it’s an experience. Whether you’re there for a midday coffee break or an afternoon treat, you’ll appreciate the old-world charm and delicious offerings. Friendly staff and a relaxed environment make it a great spot to hang out.
Rating: 4.6 (4590 reviews)
Location: 342 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 674-7070
Website: Visit Website
5) Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery
When you step into Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery, you’re greeted with the smell of freshly baked pastries. The place has a cozy vibe with simple yet elegant décor. It’s the kind of spot where you can sit for hours, enjoying a book or catching up with friends.
From the first bite, you’ll notice the quality of ingredients used. Their brownies and cookies are rich and flavorful, and the cakes taste just as good as they look. They also have a nice range of savory pastries, which are perfect if you’re not in the mood for something sweet.
Tom Colicchio backs this bakery, which adds to its charm. You’ll find a good mix of classic and creative items on their menu. The staff is friendly and helpful, making sure each visit is enjoyable.
Rating: 4.6 (779 reviews)
Location: 28 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 498-9810
Website: Visit Website
6) Amy’s Bread
Amy’s Bread is a must-visit spot in New York City, especially if you enjoy freshly baked goods. Located in Hell’s Kitchen, this bakery has been serving the community for over three decades. Their bread is made with top-quality ingredients, including unbleached and unbromated flour.
When you walk into Amy’s Bread, you’re greeted with the smell of fresh bread and pastries. The sandwiches are made with their own bread, making them extra tasty. You can’t miss trying one of their cakes for special occasions, either.
They offer a variety of products, all available for local delivery. If you’re into supporting local businesses, this bakery is a gem. Don’t forget to check out their mention in “13 Essential Manhattan Bakeries” on Eater.
Rating: 4.4 (1244 reviews)
Location: 672 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 977-2670
Website: Visit Website
7) Mille-Feuille Bakery
When you step into Mille-Feuille Bakery, you’re welcomed by the smell of fresh croissants and pastries. This French bakery in New York feels cozy and inviting. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee and enjoy a sweet treat.
Their macarons are a must-try. They have so many flavors, it’s hard to pick just one. The Napoleons and cakes are also delicious and beautifully presented.
The small café also offers a quiet place to sit and relax. It’s perfect for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Simple, yet charming, Mille-Feuille Bakery is a gem.
Rating: 4.8 (1123 reviews)
Location: 552 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 533-4698
Website: Visit Website
8) Levain Bakery – Original Location, 74th St, NYC
Levain Bakery on 74th Street is a gem in the Upper West Side. Known for its huge, crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside cookies, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place.
You can practically smell the fresh-baked goods from down the street.
Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald started Levain back in 1995. What began as a spot for fresh-baked breads quickly grew popular for their giant chocolate chip walnut cookies. These cookies have become an iconic New York treat.
Walking into Levain Bakery, you immediately feel welcome. The shop might be small, but the warm atmosphere more than makes up for it.
They even donate unsold goods to charity, showing their commitment to the community.
Rating: 4.7 (6195 reviews)
Location: 167 W 74th St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (917) 464-3769
Website: Visit Website
9) Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery is a cheerful spot that feels like a warm hug as soon as you walk in. Known for its classic homemade treats, it’s famous for its world-famous Banana Pudding. The layers of fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and creamy pudding taste like heaven in each bite.
Their cupcakes and pies are also a must-try. Every treat they offer has a homemade touch that makes it special.
The cookies and other desserts are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. You can even find their soft-baked cookies inspired by their Banana Pudding at grocery stores now.
Are you planning an event? Magnolia Bakery has you covered with custom catering options. You can order for pickup, get nationwide shipping, or arrange custom catering for your special occasions. The team is eager to help make your celebration memorable with their best creations.
Rating: 4.3 (4190 reviews)
Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 462-2572
Website: Visit Website
10) Billy’s Bakery
When you step into Billy’s Bakery, it feels like you’ve been transported to a cozy, welcoming kitchen. The smell of freshly baked cakes and pies fills the air, making it impossible to leave without trying at least one treat. This bakery has a charming, quaint vibe.
Their cupcakes and cheesecakes are especially popular. The red velvet cupcake is a must-try – moist, with just the right amount of frosting.
It’s easy to see why locals love their baked goods. Everything is made with care, just like grandma used to do.
If you’re planning a celebration, Billy’s Bakery has you covered. Their cakes are perfect for birthdays, weddings, or even just because you feel like indulging.
They also offer convenient in-store pickup and deliver within Manhattan, most parts of Brooklyn and Queens.
Rating: 4.2 (618 reviews)
Location: 184 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 647-9406
Website: Visit Website
Baking Traditions
New York City’s bakeries are rich with history, shaped by cultural influences and the evolution of bakery trends over the years. These factors have created a unique and diverse baking scene.
