Top 15+ Best Bakeries in New York City 2024
New York City is a paradise for food lovers, especially those with a sweet tooth. The city’s bakery scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from classic American treats to international delicacies.
Whether you’re craving a flaky croissant, a decadent chocolate cake, or a perfectly crafted macaron, NYC has a bakery that will satisfy your cravings.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best bakeries in the Big Apple. These establishments have earned their reputation through years of serving delicious baked goods, using high-quality ingredients, and often blending traditional techniques with innovative flavors.
From small family-run shops to renowned patisseries, each bakery on this list offers a unique experience and mouthwatering treats that keep locals and tourists coming back for more.
As you read through this list, you’ll discover bakeries spread across different neighborhoods in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Some specialize in specific items like cookies or cheesecakes, while others offer a wide range of pastries, bread, and savory options.
Best Bakeries in New York City 2024
Whether you’re planning a bakery tour of NYC or just looking for the perfect spot to grab your morning coffee and pastry, this guide will help you navigate the city’s sweet landscape.
We also cover Top 20 Best Cheap Places to Ear in New York City Under $15, do try these places.
Top 19 Best Bakeries in New York City 2024
1. Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery
- Locations: West Village, Battery Park City, and Midtown East
- Address: 28 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
- Offers: Croissants, cookies, scones, cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, brownies, coffee
- Popular for: The Heavenly Cheesecake, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Dark Chocolate Brownies
Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery is a haven for dessert lovers, offering a range of high-quality treats that blend traditional flavors with modern twists.
Their signature Heavenly Cheesecake lives up to its name, with a light and fluffy texture enhanced by hints of vanilla bean and lemon zest. The bakery’s commitment to quality shines through in every bite of their chocolate chip cookies and dark chocolate brownies.
With a cozy atmosphere and beautiful interior at each location, Mah-Ze-Dahr is perfect for both a quick coffee stop and a leisurely dessert experience. Don’t miss their selection of croissants and scones for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
2. Breads Bakery
- Locations: Midtown West, Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Union Square, and Kips Bay
- Address: 1230 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
- Offers: Babka, baguettes, rye bread, olive bread, croissants, loaf cakes, cookies
- Popular for: Chocolate and cinnamon babka, Banana Chocolate Chip Cake
Breads Bakery has become a New York institution, known for its artisanal, handmade pastries and bread baked in small batches throughout the day.
Their chocolate and cinnamon babkas are legendary, with a perfect balance of sweet and buttery flavors. The bakery’s commitment to freshness means you’re always getting bread and pastries at their peak.
Beyond the famous babka, don’t overlook their excellent baguettes, rye bread, and olive bread. For those with a sweet tooth, the Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is a must-try. The Upper East Side location even offers a weekend brunch, making it a perfect spot for a lazy Saturday or Sunday morning.
3. Mille-Feuille Bakery
- Locations: Prospect Heights, Greenwich Village, and the Upper West Side
- Address: 552 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012
- Offers: Croissants, cakes, cookies, macarons, sandwiches, coffee, tea
- Popular for: Rolled Almond Croissant, macaron, and croissant baking classes
Mille-Feuille Bakery brings a taste of Paris to New York City with its authentic French pastries. This family-owned patisserie prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to create freshly baked treats daily. Their Rolled Almond Croissant is a standout, offering a unique twist on the classic pastry.
Beyond pastries, Mille-Feuille serves a variety of sandwiches and salads, making it a great spot for lunch as well. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate their selection of beverages, including iced coffee, matcha tea, and lattes. For those interested in honing their baking skills, the bakery offers macaron and croissant baking classes at their Greenwich Village location.
4. Mia’s Brooklyn Bakery
- Locations: Times Square and Brooklyn
- Address: 139 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Offers: Cupcakes, cheesecakes, pies, tiramisu, cake pops
- Popular for: Gourmet cupcakes, various cheesecake flavors
Mia’s Brooklyn Bakery has made a name for itself with its delectable cheesecakes and gourmet cupcakes. With locations in both Brooklyn and the heart of Manhattan, it’s a convenient stop for locals and tourists alike. Their cheesecake offerings are diverse, including flavors like blueberry, caramel, and strawberry.
The bakery’s commitment to freshness is evident in their daily-baked classic desserts. For cupcake lovers, flavors like Chocolate Chocolate and Lemon Coconut offer something for every palate. Beyond these specialties, Mia’s also serves up delicious pies, tiramisu, and cake pops, ensuring there’s a treat for every sweet tooth.
5. Levain Bakery
- Locations: Williamsburg, NoHo, Upper East Side, and more (7 locations total)
- Address: 167 W 74th St, New York, NY 10023
- Offers: Cookies, breads, pastries, coffee
- Popular for: Six-ounce cookies in various flavors
Levain Bakery has achieved cult status in New York City, primarily due to its enormous, gooey cookies. These six-ounce behemoths come in flavors like Chocolate Chip Walnut, Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip, and Oatmeal Raisin, each with a perfectly crisp exterior and a soft, almost under-baked interior.
While the cookies are the star, Levain also offers a range of breads and other pastries, all baked fresh daily using simple, high-quality ingredients. The bakery’s humble beginnings as a passion project for two friends has grown into a New York institution with seven locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Don’t forget to grab a cup of their excellent coffee to complement your cookie!
6. Angelina Bakery
- Location: Midtown Manhattan
- Address: 575 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018
- Offers: Bombolone (Italian donuts), croissants, pastries, paninis, sandwiches, pasta, gelato, coffee
- Popular for: Bombolone in various flavors, especially strawberry and pistachio
Angelina Bakery brings a taste of Italy to Midtown Manhattan, founded by a baker who started his career as a pastry chef in Italy. The star of the show here is the bombolone, an Italian filled donut that comes in a variety of flavors. The strawberry bombolone, filled with strawberry cream, and the pistachio bombolone, filled with pistachio cream and sprinkled with pistachios, are particularly popular.
Beyond these Italian donuts, Angelina offers a wide range of pastries, including unique croissants like raspberry and cream cheese varieties. For those looking for a more substantial meal, the bakery also serves Italian sandwiches, pasta, and focaccia. Pair your treat with one of their coffee drinks for the full Italian cafe experience.
7. Fortunato Brothers
- Location: Williamsburg
- Address: 289 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
- Offers: Italian pastries, breads, biscotti, cakes by the slice, coffee, Italian soda
- Popular for: Authentic Italian pastries, eclairs, pistachio mousse, cream puffs
Fortunato Brothers is a family-run bakery that has been serving authentic Italian pastries since 1976. Founded by three brothers from Italy, this Williamsburg institution stays true to its roots with a focus on traditional Italian sweets. Their eclairs, pistachio mousse, and cream puffs are standout items, each crafted with care and expertise.
The bakery also offers a variety of breads, biscotti, and cakes sold by the slice, all made fresh daily. For a true Italian experience, try their Italian cheesecake, a lighter and less sweet version than its American counterpart. The bakery’s commitment to quality and tradition has made it a neighborhood favorite for decades, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Italy in Brooklyn.
8. Bakeri
- Locations: Brooklyn and Queens
- Address: 150 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
- Offers: Small-batch European-style bread, homemade pastries, coffee, breakfast and lunch items
- Popular for: Avocado Tartine, vegan smoothies, homemade pastries
Established in 2009, Bakeri has become a beloved spot for those seeking high-quality, European-style baked goods in Brooklyn and Queens. The bakery prides itself on using organic and local ingredients whenever possible, resulting in breads and pastries that are both delicious and conscientiously made.
Their breakfast menu is a highlight, featuring items like the popular Avocado Tartine served on sourdough rye bread. Bakeri is also a great lunch spot, offering a variety of sandwiches and salads. For those with dietary restrictions, their vegan smoothies are a refreshing treat. With its commitment to quality ingredients and skilled baking, Bakeri offers a taste of Europe right in the heart of New York.
9. Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery
- Location: Lower East Side
- Address: 126 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
- Offers: Cakes, cupcakes, pies, cookies, bars, vegan options
- Popular for: Variety of cupcake flavors, vegan cupcakes, 60s and 70s vibe
Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery brings a touch of retro charm to the Lower East Side with its 60s and 70s inspired decor and vibe. Established in 2003, this bakery has become known for its wide variety of delicious cupcakes and cakes. Their “Strawberry” cake with cream cheese frosting and “Bob” (yellow cake with chocolate almond buttercream) are crowd favorites.
What sets Sugar Sweet Sunshine apart is its selection of vegan cupcakes, including the popular “Vegan Chocolate Explosion”. Beyond cupcakes, the bakery offers pies, cookies, and bars, ensuring something sweet for every palate. The nostalgic atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot for a quick treat or to pick up dessert for a special occasion.
10. Almondine Bakery
- Location: Dumbo
- Address: 85 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Offers: Fresh-baked bread, pastries, cakes, coffee
- Popular for: Traditional baking methods, almond croissants, specialty cakes
Almondine Bakery, nestled in one of Dumbo’s oldest buildings, brings a taste of France to Brooklyn. Founded in 2004, this bakery is known for its commitment to traditional baking methods, particularly in its bread-making process. The Almondine Baguette, made with a blend of whole wheat and white flour, is a testament to their craft.
Beyond bread, their almond croissants have gained a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. For those with a sweet tooth, Almondine offers a range of cakes, including the “Chocolate Passion” with its exotic blend of passion fruit and mango mousse, and the “Lemon Raspberry” featuring a light pistachio sponge. The bakery’s location in a historic building adds to its charm, making it not just a place for great baked goods, but also a delightful spot for a date or casual meetup.
11. Billy’s Bakery
- Locations: Chelsea, Tribeca, and the Upper West Side
- Address: 184 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
- Offers: Cupcakes, cookies, bars, muffins, cake loaves
- Popular for: Buttercream Confetti Cookie, a variety of cupcake flavors
Since its establishment in 2013, Billy’s Bakery has become a neighborhood favorite across its three Manhattan locations. The bakery is known for its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes to create a wide range of sweet treats. Their cupcakes come in an array of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more unique options like banana and carrot.
The “Buttercream Confetti Cookie” is a standout item, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Billy’s also excels in creating delicious bars, muffins, and cake loaves, all made from scratch daily. The bakery’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for satisfying your sweet cravings or picking up treats for a special occasion.
12. Zeppola Bakery
- Location: Garment District
- Address: 499 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018
- Offers: Italian pastries, croissants, fruit tarts, cookies, sandwiches, pasta, focaccia, coffee
- Popular for: Cannoli Siciliani, Banana Walnut Bread, Italian lunch dishes
Zeppola Bakery brings the flavors of Italy to the heart of New York’s Garment District. This bakery stands out for its wide range of Italian treats baked fresh daily, as well as its savory lunch options. The “Cannoli Siciliani” is a must-try, offering an authentic taste of Sicily. For those seeking something a bit different, the Banana Walnut Bread has become a customer favorite.
Zeppola isn’t just about sweets though – their lunch menu features delicious Italian sandwiches, pasta, and focaccia. The “Avocado Sandwich” served on round focaccia is particularly popular. To complement your treats, Zeppola offers a variety of coffee drinks, including nitro cold brew and matcha latte. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick Italian pastry or a full lunch, Zeppola Bakery has you covered.
13. Magnolia Bakery
- Locations: West Village, Midtown, Upper East Side, and Upper West Side
- Address: 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
- Offers: Cupcakes, banana pudding, cookies, cakes, brownies
- Popular for: Red velvet cupcakes, banana pudding
Magnolia Bakery, established in 1996 in the West Village, has become an iconic New York City bakery, even featuring in popular TV shows and movies. While it now has multiple locations across Manhattan, the original Bleecker Street shop still draws crowds. Magnolia is perhaps best known for two items: its red velvet cupcakes and its banana pudding.
The red velvet cupcakes feature a chocolate-flavored cake topped with their signature whipped vanilla icing. The banana pudding, made with fresh bananas, vanilla pudding, and vanilla wafers, has achieved cult status among New Yorkers and tourists alike. Beyond these famous items, Magnolia offers a range of other cupcake flavors, cookies, cakes, and brownies, all made with high-quality ingredients. The bakery’s vintage decor and friendly service add to its charm, making it a must-visit for any dessert lover in NYC.
14. Cousin John’s Bakery
- Location: Brooklyn (Park Slope)
- Address: 60 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
- Offers: Pastries, breakfast items, lunch sandwiches, salads, quiches, soups
- Popular for: Cream puffs, chocolate eclairs, apricot tarts, lunch menu
Cousin John’s Bakery, located in Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood, offers a diverse menu that goes beyond just sweet treats. While their cream puffs, chocolate eclairs, and apricot tarts are standout items in the pastry case, Cousin John’s really shines with its breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch offerings.
The bakery serves up a variety of lunch sandwiches, with the “Smoked Mozzarella & Sun Dried Tomatoes” on basil bread being a particular favorite. For those looking for comfort food, their grilled cheese sandwich, made with your choice of cheese, is a crowd-pleaser. Cousin John’s also offers a range of salads, quiches, and soups, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or weekend brunch. The bakery’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu have made it a neighborhood staple.
15. Ladybird Bakery
- Location: Brooklyn (Park Slope)
- Address: 1112 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
- Offers: Cakes, cupcakes, pies, tarts
- Popular for: Brooklyn Blackout cake, Red Velvet cupcakes
Ladybird Bakery, founded in 1992, has become a beloved institution in Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood. Their signature item is the “Brooklyn Blackout” cake, a dark chocolate lover’s dream. This cake features layers of dark chocolate cake and chocolate pudding, frosted with fudge and finished with chocolate cake crumbs.
It’s a true indulgence that keeps customers coming back. Beyond this famous cake, Ladybird offers a variety of other cakes, cupcakes, pies, and tarts. Their Red Velvet cupcakes are another popular choice, perfectly balancing flavor and texture. The bakery’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes has made it a go-to spot for both everyday treats and special occasion desserts in Brooklyn.
16. Dominique Ansel Bakery
- Locations: SoHo and Flatiron District
- Address: 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
- Offers: Pastries, croissants, eclairs, tarts, cookies, hot drinks
- Popular for: DKA (Dominique’s Kouign Amann), Blossoming Hot Chocolate
Dominique Ansel Bakery, which opened in 2011, quickly rose to fame with its innovative creations. The bakery’s founder, Dominique Ansel, is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional pastry. Their signature item is the DKA (Dominique’s Kouign Amann), a caramelized croissant that has gained a cult following.
The bakery also offers a range of other pastries, including classic croissants, eclairs, and tarts. One of their most Instagram-worthy items is the “Blossoming Hot Chocolate,” featuring a marshmallow flower that “blooms” when placed in hot chocolate. With its blend of classic French technique and innovative flair, Dominique Ansel Bakery offers a unique experience for pastry lovers.
17. Martha’s Country Bakery
- Locations: Several, including Williamsburg
- Address: 263 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
- Offers: Cakes, breakfast pastries, muffins, vegan options
- Popular for: Wide variety of cake slices, vegan cake options
Martha’s Country Bakery, established in 1969, has grown into a multi-location bakery known for its wide variety of cakes and pastries. Their cake selection is particularly impressive, with options like the “Black Forest” (chocolate sponge cake with black cherry filling) and the “Seven Layer” (vanilla sponge cake with chocolate mousse filling).
What sets Martha’s apart is their extensive selection of cake slices, allowing customers to try different flavors without committing to a whole cake. They also offer a range of vegan cake options, catering to those with dietary restrictions. Beyond cakes, Martha’s serves up delicious breakfast pastries, muffins, and other treats. The bakery’s long history and commitment to quality have made it a staple in New York’s bakery scene.
18. Fabrique Bakery
- Location: Greenwich Village
- Address: 348 W 14th St, New York, NY 10014
- Offers: Stone oven-baked goods, including bread, pastries, cinnamon buns
- Popular for: Stone oven-baked goods, seasonal menu
Fabrique Bakery brings a taste of Stockholm to New York City. Founded in Sweden in 2008, Fabrique opened its New York location to bring its famous stone oven-baked goods to a new audience. The bakery is known for its handmade products baked in a stone oven, which gives their bread and pastries a unique texture and flavor.
Their menu changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh, relevant offerings year-round. While they offer a variety of items, their cinnamon buns and rye bread are particularly popular. The bakery’s commitment to using fresh, natural ingredients shines through in every bite. For those looking for an authentic Scandinavian bakery experience in New York, Fabrique is the place to go.
19. Carlo’s Bakery
- Location: Midtown West
- Address: 625 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018
- Offers: Italian pastries, cakes, cookies
- Popular for: Cannoli, Italian pastries, variety of cake flavors
Carlo’s Bakery, made famous by the TV show “Cake Boss,” brings a taste of Hoboken to Midtown Manhattan. Known for its Italian pastries and elaborate cakes, Carlo’s offers a wide range of sweet treats. Their classic cannoli, filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, is a must-try.
The Italian Napoleon, a rum-soaked cake with layers of homemade custard, is another popular choice. For cake lovers, Carlo’s offers a variety of flavors by the slice, including Red Velvet and Vanilla Confetti. The bakery’s TV fame means it can get busy, but the quality of their Italian-American pastries makes it worth the wait. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just looking for authentic Italian sweets, Carlo’s Bakery offers a unique experience.
NYC Bakeries Tips:
When exploring New York City’s bakery scene, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan your visit: Many popular bakeries can get crowded, especially on weekends. Try to visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
- Combine with sightseeing: Many bakeries are located near popular attractions. For example, you can visit Levain Bakery and then explore nearby Central Park.
- Try seasonal specials: Many bakeries offer seasonal items. Don’t hesitate to ask about any limited-time offerings.
- Bring cash: While most places accept cards, some smaller bakeries might be cash-only or have a minimum purchase for card transactions.
- Share with friends: Portions at NYC bakeries can be generous. Visiting with friends allows you to try more items without overindulging.
- Take advantage of seating: If a bakery offers seating, take some time to enjoy your treats in-house for the full experience.
- Follow on social media: Many bakeries announce specials or new items on their social media accounts. Following them can help you stay informed.
Conclusion:
New York City’s bakery scene is a testament to the city’s culinary diversity and innovation. From century-old establishments serving traditional recipes to modern bakeries pushing the boundaries of pastry, there’s something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic New York cheesecake, an authentic French croissant, or an innovative pastry creation, the bakeries in this guide offer some of the best sweet treats the city has to offer.
Remember, part of the joy of exploring New York’s bakeries is discovering your favorites. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond this list and try out local neighborhood bakeries wherever you find yourself in the city. Each bakery has its own unique charm and specialties, reflecting the diverse communities and culinary traditions that make up New York City.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking a bakery tour of NYC is a delicious way to experience the city’s food culture. So grab a coffee, bring your sweet tooth, and embark on a journey through the best bakeries in New York City. Happy eating!
