New York City runs on rituals, and few are as deeply ingrained as the daily pursuit of exceptional bread, pastry, and cake. The scent of butter, caramelized sugar, and fresh yeast spills from storefronts in every borough, creating a sensory map of the city that is as reliable as any subway line.
From old-world institutions that have perfected a single loaf over generations to modern patisseries pushing the boundaries of laminated dough, the landscape is staggeringly diverse. For locals and visitors alike, the perfect bakery is not just a place to buy food; it is a neighborhood anchor, a source of comfort, and often a masterclass in patience and precision.
The definition of a “best” bakery varies wildly depending on who you ask. For some, it is the shatter of a perfectly laminated croissant that leaves a dusting of flakes on your shirt. For others, it is the dense, chewy interior of a naturally leavened sourdough or the nostalgic sweetness of a black-and-white cookie.
New York’s culinary ecosystem supports all of these obsessions simultaneously. The city’s competitive real estate and demanding clientele force bakers to operate at the top of their game, meaning mediocrity is rarely tolerated for long.
In recent years, the city has experienced a grain revolution. Millers and bakers have forged direct relationships with regional farms, prioritizing stone-milled heritage grains over commodity flour. This shift has produced breads with deeper flavor profiles, better nutritional value, and a distinct sense of place.
You can taste the terroir of the Northeast in a crusty boule from a Brooklyn wood-fired oven or in the tender crumb of a whole-grain scone on the Upper West Side. This movement has elevated the humble bakery from a simple convenience to a destination worthy of a pilgrimage.
Of course, tradition still holds immense power here. The city’s immigrant history is written in flour and sugar. Italian bakeries preserve recipes for pignoli cookies and rainbow cookies that date back decades.
Jewish bakeries keep the art of the bialy and the challah alive, while French patisseries maintain rigorous standards for viennoiserie. Walking into these establishments is often like stepping back in time, offering a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage in every bite.
Navigating this crowded field requires a strategy. The best approach is to follow your cravings and be willing to explore beyond Manhattan’s tourist corridors. While iconic spots in the Village or Midtown are famous for a reason, some of the most exciting baking is happening in the outer boroughs, where rents are lower and creativity flourishes. Whether you are hunting for the ultimate bagel, a slice of celebration cake, or a simple morning bun, this guide offers a curated starting point for your journey.
The following list represents a cross-section of the city’s finest bakers, ranging from legacy institutions to new-school innovators. Each entry has been selected for its mastery of craft, consistency, and contribution to the city’s vibrant food culture.
NY Bakery and Desserts Midtown
| Address | 512 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (917) 693-3563 |
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican culture, resilience, and the rich traditions that bring people together. At NY Bakery and Dessert, you can find festive favorites like tres leches, strawberry tres leches, and flan. My favorite is the strawberry tres leches — the combination of three kinds of milk with fresh strawberry flavor is incredibly soft, rich, and delicious. You’ll also discover a wide variety of desserts from around the world — French pastries, gluten-free opera cake, macarons, Napoleon, Italian pastries like cannoli and rainbow cookies, and many other international specialties. NY Bakery and Dessert offers a dessert selection as diverse and vibrant as New York itself.
I recently bought a cake from a local bakery here in the USA for my friend’s birthday, and I had a great experience. The cake looked beautiful and tasted even better. It was fresh, soft, and perfectly sweet. The staff was friendly and helped me choose the right design and flavor. Everyone at the party loved it and kept asking where I got it from. It really made the celebration special. I will definitely come back again for future occasions!
Very good I highly recommend trying the caramel croissant Corona was definitely dry the croissant doughnut so if you get that you must get a delicious coffee
My wife and I stopped here to get some chocolate chip cookies because that is one of my favorite desserts. We ended up seeing Baklava which we both love so we thought we would give it a shot. The Baklava from Costco is way better that this stuff. I paid $8.60 for three little pieces at NY bakery and desserts Midtown, what a waste of money. We ate one and the rest is going in the garbage. Baklava was soggy and
very bland, tasted like nothing. Beware they charge an extra 4% if you use your credit card and on top of it they will not tell you. Waste of money and I even asked the two ladies at the front one with brown hair and the other with black hair (Elviina) if the Baklava was good and they both said yes. I will never ever return here.. 👎👎
came in for a late night sweet treat and saw the good reviews and had high hopes. I usually like desserts that are semi sweet. I asked the girls if I should get crème brûlée or flan and one of them said flan. First bite and I was immediately turned off. The flan is is very dense, thick and sticky, not the consistency that it should be. It was also way too sweet. I had to throw it out after one bite. 🙁 off to get a mcdonald’s sundae I guess😒
NY Bakery and Desserts Times Square
| Address | 1580 Broadway, New York, NY 10036 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (201) 954-2339 |
They have a huge variety of cakes, cheesecakes, pastries, cookies, gelato, and specialty desserts. I especially enjoyed the carrot cake. The location is convenient, and the fact that they’re open 24/7 is a big plus, especially for a late-night dessert. A little pricey, and the quality or portions may vary depending on what you order. Overall, I think it’s worth stopping by when you’re in Times Square and want plenty of dessert options in one place.
The scone and coffee were excellent. We had to wait about three minutes for the fresh brewed coffee. The staff were friendly and they offered us couple of free cheese puffs. They were very tasty too. Love the friendliness of the staff at this place.
The place looked good, lots of different desserts. However, we took three desserts, 2 pieces of cake and cream Carmel flan. After starting in the cake, we discovered mold, mind you, the cake was not expired, in the fridge there were a couple of expired ones though. The flan was bad, very hard, like eating cheese cake, too sweet and stale. I don’t like leaving bad reviews, but when I went back to front desk, the manger refunded the cost of one of the two cakes that we couldn’t eat due to mold and did not want refund the flan, claiming it was fine. This is simply insulting a customer’s inelegance, I did warn him that I would be leaving a bad review. I guess he thought I was bluffing or just didn’t care. Either way, I do not recommend wasting money in this place, there a million other places around this area.
Happed to be in need of help for late night luggage storage as it the place for Bounce. Immediately Kald offered the biggest help to resolve my problem. One of a kind support ever. We decided to stop by for desserts two days later. The oatmeal raisin cookie and the milk tres leches were the best from a variety of choices. Love this place which is definitely worth another visit. Thank you, Kald!
Really disappointed, spent $40 and bought three different cake slices. By the time we got home and ate them, realized each cake was moldy and smelt horrible. Scared we are going to get sick after eating some of them not realizing there was mold….
Le Parisien Bakery
| Address | 235 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (212) 837-2210 |
What a wonderful experience! We stopped in for coffee and were immediately impressed by the beautiful display of pastries and desserts. The atmosphere was warm, inviting, and elegant. Our coffee was delicious, fresh, and perfectly prepared. The staff was friendly and provided excellent service from start to finish. Even though we only ordered coffee, everything around us looked amazing, and we’ll definitely be back to try some of the pastries next time. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a charming spot with great coffee and outstanding customer service! ☕🥐✨
We stayed ar the Paramount and we went here 3 times over 2 days. The ham egg & cheese croissants were perfect!
We ordered fresh squeezed OJ and it was delicious. More importantly the staff was friendly and personable. They also have a wine bar at night.
We can't wait to come back for some of their delicious desserts
I was looking for a place to grab coffee early in the morning in New York, and thank God I came across this little gem and decided to give it a try!
First of all, they made me an iced flat white — which was a pleasant surprise since most places only offer iced lattes. The coffee was excellent. I also ordered a butter croissant, and they even warmed it up for me without me having to ask (which almost never happens!).
Everything was prepared very quickly. The place itself is tiny, but the level of service is outstanding. Great coffee, friendly staff, and attention to detail.
Highly recommend!
I have to say Lorenzo is such a delight awesome customer service, very professional and attentive. A joy to see every morning for our coffee. The staff is awesome and the food is delicious. This shop had made our stay a deligh.
Visited La Parisian Bakery at the Paramount Hotel in Times Square and had a wonderful experience. The croissant was absolutely amazing — fresh, buttery, and perfectly baked. The bread was also really good and tasted very authentic. On top of that, the service was friendly and attentive, which made the visit even better. A great little bakery spot in the heart of Times Square!
Magnolia Bakery
| Address | 1240 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 767-1123 |
Unless you’ve been living under a rock most New Yorkers have at least heard of, if not experienced Magnolia Bakery. I tried them today after not visiting for a few years simply because I know they are always there down the block from my office.
I agree with a few of the reviews when it comes to their money maker the Banana Pudding. It’s changed over the years and not the chunky, hearty dessert year I remember as it seems like they are cutting corners on the ingredients. In this economy I can’t say I blame them necessarily but then the price should come down to reflect this change. The blueberry cheesecake missed the mark for me as well. The service was great and the line moved quickly!
The other good news is their banana white chocolate cookie has become my new favorite thing. Simply deelish! The chocolate cake slice was decent as well. Still overpriced but a nostalgic moment nonetheless. I’ll check back in 2027 and hopefully the banana pudding will return to its glory days!
Cheers to our next adventure 🥂
Magnolia Bakery is a NYC classic for a reason! The banana pudding absolutely lives up to the hype—creamy, light, and so flavorful. The tres leches cake was also delicious, soft, and perfectly moist. Everything tasted fresh, and the bakery has such a cozy, nostalgic vibe. Definitely worth stopping by if you’re in New York and craving something sweet!
Was really hyped about the banana pudding from online trends. After trying it, I must say it is decent. It is not overly sweet. The pudding is a mixture of fresh banana cream mixed with some cake/bread bits that were quite tasteless and slices of fresh bananas. Nothing impressionable or mindblowing.
If happiness had a smell, it would probably be the inside of Magnolia Bakery 🧁✨. Walking in feels like stepping into a dessert lover’s dream sweet aromas, pastel vibes, and displays that basically whisper “just one more treat…” (spoiler: it’s never just one 😅).
Let’s start with the star of the show: the famous banana pudding 🍌💛. Creamy, dreamy, and dangerously addictive, it’s the kind of dessert that makes you question all your life choices… like why you didn’t order a bigger size 🤭. The cupcakes are also top-tier—light, fluffy, and topped with frosting that’s almost too pretty to eat (almost 👀).
The vibe is cheerful and a little nostalgic, like a cozy bakery straight out of a movie 🎬. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends, go on a cute date, or simply treat yourself because… why not? 💁♀️🍰
Service is quick and friendly, even when it’s busy which it usually is, because let’s be real, nobody can resist this place 🙌.
Prices are a bit on the indulgent side 💸, but honestly, for desserts this good, it feels worth it. You’re not just buying cake, you’re buying a tiny moment of joy.
Overall, Magnolia Bakery is sugar, spice, and everything nice 💕. Just be warned: you might come for one cupcake and leave with a whole box… no judgment here
Used to be a regular here but I don’t think I will be returning. Walked in to grab 2 large puddings only to be informed that they are out of the large sizes and only have small and medium, okay, But clearly I could see them filling up small containers. All they had to do was simply fill up two large containers, but blindly refusing to do so without any reason as to why they couldn’t. Zero for customer service.
Supermoon Bakehouse
| Address | 120 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Really cool concept but the pastries were a bit disappointing. Croissants are beautiful presentation wise but I expect to taste more butter and the texture was an overall miss. The corn crunch cookie was a nice mix of flavors. I loved my experience here but I would probably never wait in line.
Ordered a matcha soda, ube eclair and a rand and leek croissant
The matcha soda feels a bit confused, slightly too acidic to my liking.
The croissant itself is great, but the filling is a bit too sour again.
The eclair is decent nonetheless. What i would expect from an ube flavored pastry, with nice little crunch
The chocolate croissants are huge! My friend got the strawberry matcha and didn’t like it because it tasted like legit jam. But I tried it and it was better than some in the neighborhood. I would come back to try more pastries and their gelato. The server was patient and noticed when we walked in. You can see the bakers making the goods in the back. Definitely worth a visit! It’s on the pricey end though
Asian inspired bakery with an industrial, spaceship kind of vibe. All the seats and tables are metal (very cold to sit on when the AC is on, lol). Hard to pick a pastry because they all sound interesting! Ended up trying their famous ube eclair. Good but wasn't as ube forward as I was expecting. Actually preferred their creme brulee danish, which was filled with custardy deliciousness.
Got there late in the day and still had most things in stock. The pastries tasted a bit old and I think would've been better earlier in the day. I like that they open late though!
The ube eclaire was amazing. The ube filling was rich and cold where you can detect the ube flavor. The mini meringue dollops on top were a nice touch.
The strawberry jasmine sticky bun croissant, however, was a huge let down. What is up with the filling to pastry ratio? I was hoping for the pastry to be as stuffed as what other review photos depicted but was extremely disappointed to see the cross section.
Levain Bakery
| Address | 167 W 74th St, New York, NY 10023 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (917) 464-3769 |
if there's one bakery that consistently shows up on every New York food recommendation list, it's Levain Bakery. Known for its legendary oversized cookies, this was another must-visit stop on our NYC food tour, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. We picked up an assortment of their famous cookies along with a slice of their Banana Chocolate Chip Cake, and everything was fresh, rich, and incredibly satisfying.
The cookies were exactly what they're known for—thick, gooey, and packed with flavor. Crispy on the outside with a soft, almost doughy center, each bite was loaded with chocolate and baked to perfection. They're huge enough to share, but once you take a bite, you'll probably want one all to yourself. The Banana Chocolate Chip Cake was equally impressive, incredibly moist with plenty of banana flavor and pockets of melted chocolate throughout, making it the perfect complement to the cookies.
The bakery itself has a cozy neighborhood feel, with the smell of fresh-baked treats filling the space the moment you walk in. Despite the constant crowd and long line of visitors, service moved quickly and efficiently. Whether you're a cookie lover or simply checking off iconic NYC food spots, Levain Bakery is well worth the visit and easily one of the best dessert stops in Manhattan.
Levain Bakery is one of those NYC spots that actually lives up to the hype. The cookies are huge, rich, and perfectly baked with a crisp exterior and a soft, gooey center. I usually get the Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip and it is beyond delicious . One cookie is easily enough to share, though you may not want to. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in NYC and craving something sweet.
Loved these!!! We were looking for amazing ny cookies and tried levain. Honestly these taste amazing and have only good things to say, very chewy, nice flavors and cute store! We asked them to heat the cookies and I feel like this is a MUST. I recommend to share the cookies with more people because they are very big. We tried the levain cookie, the double chocolate (which is very similar) and the seasonal cookie that had dark chocolate and cinnamon! So so good. These are also nice reheated. A bit expensive considering these are cookies but everything in nyc is. Try it with a friend!!!
Ice cream perfect cookie overrated. Listen I'm OBSESSED with cookies. Cookie needs to taste crunch a bit with some soft but the taste to this was bleh meh and I got double chocolate chip and when I show you the pictures you will be like OMG but in reality it's just meh. Also cookie should be smaller size not a sandwich size
My husband works close and he sometimes goes to buy these delicious cookies we’ve had the pistachio cranberry? Chocolate, chocolate coconut the brioche cinnamon breads just delicious and he says the workers aver very nice polite.
Angelina Bakery
| Address | 575 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 687-7100 |
Absolutely amazing bakery! Their custom cakes are beautiful, creative, and truly made with so much attention to detail. Not only do the cakes look incredible, but their baked goods are also absolutely delicious.
Everything tastes fresh, flavorful, and homemade, and you can tell they take a lot of pride in what they create. Whether you’re looking for a stunning custom cake for a special occasion or just want delicious baked treats, this bakery is definitely worth visiting. Highly recommend! 🎂✨
Yes it tastes as good as it looks. Beautiful pastries! Lots of options for the sweet and savory craving. These bakeries are located all over NY and I definitely stopped at a few different ones. All great! Definitely recommend stopping in for at least one meal.
The place is comfortable, perfect for having breakfast or grabbing a bite at any time of day. The dishes are flavorful and well-balanced—in fact, they’re just as delicious as they look. They’re a bit on the pricey side, but definitely worth it.
My main issue is the music. I’ve been there twice, and about half the time they were playing music that really takes away from the experience. It’s an Italian bakery, but those reggaeton-style beats just don’t fit the atmosphere—I find it hard to enjoy my food with that kind of background music
A very tasty surprise right next to the hotel, hot and fresh pastries, good coffee and excellent service. I came by chance and will definitely be back during my vacation here. A great place to enjoy New York style Italian food
A chain-bakery located just blocks away from Port Authority Bus Terminal. Very nicely baked goods with pretty prices matched. Usually packed with tourists.
Cozy dining area in the second floor.
NY Bakery and Desserts NoMad
| Address | 1204 Broadway, New York, NY 10001 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (347) 506-7403 |
This is a nice stop if you're looking for a dedicated dessert shop near Koreatown. My wife and I tried their triple chocolate and strawberry sorbet ice creams and really enjoyed them. Their chocolate was very savory and their strawberry had a nice zing to its flavor. We also took a triple chocolate cake slice to go, that was nicely pre-packaged in their freezer.
The staff was very nice and patient as we looked over everything the shop had to offer. They have limited seating so expect to take your dessert on the go if it's busy.
Nice and clean bake shop with a lot of different pastries and chocolates. Delicious French macarons. But their coffee is very weak.
We grabbed the Oreo mousse cheesecake and dot cake cup and they were the perfect date night treat! This place is a must! Clean, lots of delicious desserts!
Macarons are amazing, absolutely delicious. A various selection of cakes and pastries. Not to mention hospitality is wonderful!!! Recommend 10/10.
NY Bakery and Dessert is truly a place where everyone can find something they love. Everything is homemade, which makes the experience feel fresh and authentic. Their homemade Dubai chocolate, crafted from Belgian milk chocolate with plenty of pistachio paste, is absolutely unique. The strawberry-covered chocolate is really, really good, and the macarons are among the best in the city. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re looking for quality desserts with a special touch.
Dominique Ansel Bakery
| Address | 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 219-2773 |
This was another Instagram find. The popular cronut was good, but a little too sweet for my liking. If you have a sweet tooth, then this place is heaven. The display of pastries looked spectacular. You do have to order and pay ahead for the cronuts on their website, as they run out of them pretty quickly.
Great desserts! They look impressive and are very tasty. Quite pricey and never liked the cronuts. Staff is very welcoming, great atmosphere with a very nice green enclosed patio in the back. I have been coming to this location before this was Dominique Ansel. I miss the Japanese desserts but current mgmt did a great job too.
Absolutely love this place, I am a foodie, and I can honestly say there are not many places that come close to the quality of the patisserie here! And hands-down, nothing beats the Cronut…Wow.
Well, maybe the hot cookie cup with milk in it!
If there is a line, it is definitely worth waiting for if not get in and see if there are any available left! You will not regret this, highly recommend!
We had a great experience at Dominique Ansel Bakery in New York. The bakery is very popular, and after trying some of their desserts it’s easy to understand why.
The famous Cookie Shot was absolutely delicious and definitely worth trying. The cookie itself was warm, soft on the inside, and perfectly baked so it could hold the milk inside like a little edible cup. The flavor was amazing and it was a really fun and unique dessert experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the bakery.
Another thing we really appreciated was how thoughtful and professional the staff were. The Cookie Shot contains milk, but they also kindly informed us that there is a small amount of alcohol in it as well. We were very grateful that they clearly warned us about this before serving it. That kind of attention and transparency shows great customer care, and we really appreciated it.
Overall, it was a wonderful visit. The desserts are creative, high quality, and very tasty, and the service was friendly and attentive. If you are in NYC and enjoy unique desserts and pastries, Dominique Ansel Bakery is definitely a place you should visit. The Cookie Shot alone makes it worth the stop!
The cronut definitely lived up to the hype. Best donut I have had!! The flavor we ate was Vietnamese Coffee and Condensed Milk Ganache. Ultimate!!! The Perfect Little Egg Sandwich was very good, unique, elevated take on the regular egg sandwich made with perfect, buttery bread. The DKA very light, crusty, flaky. Check it out. Beautiful little garden seating in the back.
Levain Bakery
| Address | 2 W 18th St, New York, NY 10011 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 974-5901 |
Possibly and most likely the best cookie in the world! There hasn't been a cookie that surprised me in every bite whether it was London, paris or los Angeles. This was so perfectly made. How can it actually be crunchy to perfection in every bite? It was nice and warm when I got it but it was not too messy. It was moist and just sweet enough and not overly rich. The chocolate was plenty and I personally do not like nuts in my cookies so I was able to avoid it for the most part since I got their famous walnut chocolate chip. Amazing cookie. Maybe I need to come back to NYC just for this.
Levain Bakery in New York absolutely lives up to the hype 🍪✨ We tried the famous Original Chocolate Chip Cookie and it was honestly incredible - warm, gooey, rich, and just next level. Definitely one of the best cookies I’ve ever had.
We also had two cappuccinos, which paired perfectly with it and made for a really nice little break.
We were lucky enough to grab one of the very limited indoor seats (there are only a couple of tables), which made the experience even better since we could sit down and really enjoy everything.
Even though we were already quite full from earlier stops, we shared one cookie just to try it and it was 100% worth it. We would have loved to try more.
Great selection of cookies, super tasty drinks, and overall a really great experience. We’ll definitely be back 🍪☕️✨
Levain Bakery is an absolute legend in New York City. From the outside, it looks simple and charming — but once you taste their famous cookies, you instantly understand why people line up for them every day.
The chocolate chip walnut cookie is unforgettable. Thick, massive, slightly crisp on the outside and incredibly gooey on the inside. Every bite is rich, indulgent, and perfectly balanced. The texture alone makes it stand out from any other cookie you’ve ever tried.
The bakery has a cozy, authentic feel. The smell of freshly baked goods fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Despite the constant crowd, the staff remains friendly, efficient, and well organized.
The portions are generous — one cookie is practically a dessert for two! It’s the perfect treat while exploring the city or a must-stop destination for dessert lovers.
If you’re in NYC and want to try something truly iconic, Levain Bakery is non-negotiable. Simple concept, extraordinary execution, and unforgettable flavor. Highly recommended
Levain Bakery is a must-visit for cookie lovers 🍪✨. Their cookies are thick, gooey, and absolutely irresistible, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor 🤤. The chocolate chip walnut is a fan favorite for a reason!
The place itself is simple and cozy, with that amazing fresh-baked smell as soon as you walk in 😍. Prices are a bit high, but the portions are huge, so it’s totally worth it 💸.
Quick verdict: come for one cookie… leave wanting five 😅🔥
I was gifted cookies by my brother. I moved from NYC a few years ago & never tried one so I was pretty excited for this birthday gift. I’m completely disappointed on so many levels. If the packaging was done correctly in the first place, they wouldn’t have been bounced into crumbles and broken pieces. Poor thinking in shipping in a cardboard box with zero cushion - just wrapped in cellophane with a ribbon. On top of it - they were old. Clearly. Dry on the outside and just not good. Probably why they tell you to heat them in the oven for 20 minutes first. I can’t believe the reputation this cookie has since my experience left me feeling nothing but disappointment and disgust. This added to my already shitty birthday - not even a gift sent from miles made it any better, but worse. Sad on many levels.
SALSWEE
| Address | 180 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
SALSWEE in New York is an awesome spot! The pastry selection was great, and I was so happy to find everything still in stock when I got there. I ordered the mango sticky rice cake and the mango fruit dessert, and both were absolutely delicious. They were light, refreshing, and perfectly "not too sweet," which I loved. I really appreciated all the Asian-inspired flavors on the menu, too. The inside is super modern with some seating available if you want to hang out. The prices were a bit high, but hey, it’s New York—it’s definitely still worth a try!
Tasty and creative. Everything I've tried here has been excellent. My favorite is the Strawberry Cake, Tiramisu, and the Orange. The Orange has a hard candy-like shell, but the inside is creamy and delicious. It's easy to miss this place on the street, because it's very minimalistic.
Absolutely loved this place! The desserts are as beautiful as they look online, but what impressed me most was the taste. The Pear and Mango desserts were both incredible - light, perfectly balanced, and full of fresh flavor. Every bite felt thoughtfully crafted, not just visually stunning.
The presentation is gorgeous, the atmosphere is modern and inviting, and the staff was friendly. Definitely worth visiting if you enjoy unique desserts or are looking for a special treat in NYC. I’ll definitely be back to try more!
Came here with my brother, he wanted to try to fruit like desserts. We came around 30min to closing and thankfully there was still items for sale. We each got a mango and also a banana to share. The mango one was really good, the filling is very yummy 😋 the banana one was not bas as well, the filling tasted like chocolate banana, not bad, still prefer the mango. The coconut looked pretty good, will try that next time!
Salswee truly elevates the cafe experience with their Japanese-inspired pastries. I love the evolution of their menu, compared to a year ago when it was mostly puff pastries, the new dessert selection is much more impressive.
This location def has more seating, though I really wish they would turn up the heat! It was freezing inside, which made it a bit hard to fully relax.
What we got:
Yuzu (4.25/5): A delicate hint of yuzu; I appreciated that it wasn't overly sweet.
Mango (4.5/5): My favorite! The fresh mango flavor paired perfectly with the passionfruit
Levain Bakery
| Address | 351 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (917) 464-3782 |
Finally tried the famous Levain cookies… and yes, they’re worth the hype. 🍪
What we ordered:
🍪 Two Chip Chocolate Chip Cookie — $5.75
🍪 Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie — $5.75
🥛 2 Small Whole Milk — $4.50
Warm cookies + cold milk = perfect combo.
#LevainBakery #NYCDesserts #NYCFoodie #CookieLovers #GoodieFoodie
Favorite NYC cookies — truly worth the hype (and the line) 🍪
• Visited early in the morning right after a snowstorm, so there was little to no wait and I got my order quickly
• Best picks: chocolate chip walnut and peanut butter cookies — rich, thick, and incredibly satisfying
• The coconut cookie was also delicious
• Banana bread was soft, buttery, and just as impressive
• Previously ordered for delivery, but the cookies arrived a bit crumbly and slightly stale
• Reached out to them and they responded promptly with coupons for my next purchase
• Unfortunately, I’m currently overseas and couldn’t use them, but I really appreciated the great customer service
• A must-try when in NYC!
A snowy chocolatey dream in NYC! 🍪❄️
"Les Papilles sont de sortie" (Our taste buds are out!) had an amazing experience at Levain Bakery! 🗽
This place is a true institution for a reason. We tried:
- The Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie: Absolute perfection! Crispy on the outside and incredibly gooey on the inside. A real game-changer.
- The Blueberry Scone: To die for! Perfectly textured and packed with flavor.
- Oat Milk Hot Chocolate: So creamy and delicious, the ultimate comfort in a cup.
❄️ The Vibe: Unlike many spots in the city, there are a few tables here where you can sit down. It was so cozy and pleasant to enjoy our treats inside while it was snowing outside!
✨ Pro tip: The portions are huge! These cookies are definitely made for sharing (if you’re generous enough!).
Our rating: 💋💋💋💋 (Excellent!)
A must-visit in the Upper West Side!
"Follow our mother-daughter food adventures on Instagram @lespapillesontdesortie 💋"
I LOVED the wallnut/chocolate chip cookies. I also got a lemon cookie and enjoyed it as much as the wallnut one! Cookie sizes are big so finishing it at once could be difficult. Coffee was also tasty.
One of the best cookies 🍪 in the world! Chocolate Chip Walnut cookie is probably one the best cookies they have. They also have multiple locations in the NYC as well as in some other large cities in US. Total rating ⭐️ is 9.5 out of 10
Rosetta Bakery
| Address | 120 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (917) 261-2693 |
Cute little Italian bakery. Their iced cold brew and iced matcha were yummy. The food and desserts looked amazing too but we didn’t get to try since we had lunch and dinner plans already. I really liked the atmosphere and vibe.
Rosetta was delicious! We have ordered numerous pastries. All were fresh and very good! Latte was very good as well! This place does get crowded and you might not end up with a seat if you are dining in. The only bad thing is when its crowded it is hard to see all the pastry options since the line is in front of all of it.
Not a tremendous amount of pastries in terms of choices. This a very bright place with tables and chairs to sit down.
Pastries are good with a mix of what seem to be French éclairs, tiramisu, cream puffs filled with chocolate custard or pistachio and several other types of pastries.
Overall it’s good but a bit overpriced, maybe due to its location and clientele type.
The Nutella croissant was very good. Normally, these kinds of pastries don’t have much chocolate inside, but this one had an incredible amount of Nutella 😅 Even though I really like it, I could only manage to eat half.
I didn’t like the focaccia sandwiches because the focaccia was dry and thin. Apart from that, the cakes and tartlets were very delicious, but a bit overpriced.
Rosetta Bakery opened near Bryant Park about one year ago. I was excited to finally try it (have walked by many times). Stopped in on Monday evening March 16, 2026. First thing I noticed was that the store was too hot (heater was too strong) - they propped open the front door but it was still uncomfortably warm.
Got an apricot&nuts circle bread (unique item on their menu). Good thing I cut it into pieces before eating otherwise may not have noticed the short black hair sticking out! The hair was embedded deep into the bread dough that I had to forcibly pull it out! It wasn't a hair that had fallen from someone's head onto the bread - the hair was embedded into the bread during the preparation/baking process.
This store needs to implement better quality control and hygiene measures. Employees should wear hair nets etc.
First and probably last time visiting this bakery. Lost my appetite for the rest of the day.
Magnolia Bakery
| Address | 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 462-2572 |
Visited Magnolia Bakery in the West Village while in Manhattan, and this spot absolutely lived up to the hype. Magnolia Bakery is famous for its Banana Pudding, so that was the main thing we came to try, and it was definitely worth it. We ordered the classic Banana Pudding along with the Carrot Cake Pudding, and both were incredible.
The Banana Pudding was super creamy, light, and full of fresh banana flavor. It had the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, and you can immediately understand why it’s one of New York’s most iconic desserts. The Carrot Cake Pudding was also amazing, combining the flavors of carrot cake with a rich creamy pudding texture. The hints of cinnamon and cream cheese flavor made it unique and really delicious.
The bakery itself is pretty small and cozy, with a classic old-school New York bakery feel. There isn’t really seating inside, so after grabbing our desserts we walked over to the park across the street, sat down, and enjoyed everything there. Honestly, that made the experience even better. Sitting outside in the West Village with Magnolia Bakery pudding felt like the perfect New York dessert experience. Definitely a must-visit spot when in Manhattan.
Magnolia Bakery has been on this corner of Bleecker Street for decades and became a genuine cultural moment after a famous TV show put it on the map, but walking past the line outside on any given day tells you the cupcakes were already doing the work long before that. The shop itself is small, pink and white, a little cramped with display cases up front packed with cakes, pies, and rows of cupcakes in every flavor.
We got a classic vanilla cupcake with vanilla buttercream, and the frosting is really the star here, swirled high and sweet without being cloying, soft cake underneath that holds up well even after sitting in a box for a while. We also tried the red velvet, properly tangy from the cream cheese frosting, and a banana pudding, which turned out to be a sleeper favorite of the visit, layers of vanilla wafers, fresh banana, and pudding that wasn't overly sweet. Someone in our group got a slice of the icebox cake, dense and chocolatey, a nice change of pace from the cupcakes. Lines move quickly even when they look long from outside, the staff have clearly done this a thousand times and keep things efficient.
It's touristy, no question, but the quality holds up regardless of the crowd, and grabbing a cupcake to eat on a bench nearby in the West Village is a pretty nice way to spend twenty minutes.
Hmmmm well I had high hopes after hearing the rave reviews but was left feeling meh. Not bad but nothing impressive.
The chocolate cupcake was good. The banana pudding had a great fluffy texture, however the flavor was lacking. Service was fast despite them being busy.
This was just an average sweet treat experience.
The cupcakes were really good smooth, buttery, and they just melt in your mouth. The banana pudding, though, was nothing special. It’s basically banana-vanilla ice cream and cream cheese, so it felt pretty one-dimensional. Adding sea salt / caramel / some nuts could’ve easily taken it from a 5/10 to an 8/10.
All the staff were welcoming and looked genuinely happy, so that’s definitely a plus!
Stopped by the original Magnolia Bakery in NYC and had to try the famous banana pudding. The bakery itself is small, charming, and has that classic New York feel you can tell it’s the original spot. The banana pudding was really good. Super creamy, fresh bananas, and the vanilla wafers were perfectly soft without being mushy. It’s definitely a solid dessert and lived up to what I expected. Is it the best thing I’ve ever had? Probably not. But it’s tasty and worth trying at least once, especially if you’re already in the area. Glad I stopped in.
Breads Bakery
| Address | 18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 633-2253 |
Breads Bakery at Union Square is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area. The bakery has an inviting atmosphere with a beautiful display of freshly baked breads and pastries that makes it hard to choose.
I tried a few of their pastries and could see why they’re so popular. The quality of the ingredients and the baking are excellent, with buttery, flaky textures and rich flavors. Their famous chocolate babka is a must-try—soft, indulgent, and generously filled with chocolate.
Prices are on the higher side, but that’s fairly typical for Manhattan. If you’re looking for high-quality artisan baked goods, this is a great stop for breakfast, coffee, or an afternoon treat near Union Square.
Randomly walked past after visiting the Nespresso Boutique..... absolute perfect surprise pairing. The cheese danish is beyond, especially with the zest onto. I've never had a croissant dough based black and white cookie, so when I bit in and found the "cookie" was also filled, my eyes went wide open and couldn't get enough.
Soany great options
Had a lovely experience here. Tried their coffee and banana chocolate chip pound cake—both were absolutely delicious. The pound cake was super moist, rich, and perfectly balanced in sweetness, with just the right hint of banana and chocolate in every bite. The coffee paired really well and made it even better. Simple items, but done exceptionally well. Definitely a place I’d come back to!
Im always a fan of a Breads bakery but especially like this location for the long display and searing. I got the chocolate babka, egg salad, and strawberry cheesecake bun. The babka is one of my favorites. The strawberry cheesecake bun was nice and not too sweet.
Babka only comes in whole pre-packaged loaves, so take it home and warm it up! So rich and chocolatey and gooey. It keeps well and stays moist. I didn't find the rugelegh that unique tasting, just a chocolatey croissant. It's still tasty, but the babka was definitely the highlight for me!
Tips for Navigating New York’s Bakery Scene
To make the most of your bakery tour, a little local knowledge goes a long way. While the city is incredibly accessible, the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming, and timing is everything when it comes to securing the freshest loaves and pastries. Here are a few strategies to ensure you have the best possible experience, whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong New Yorker looking to refine your routine.
1). Time Your Visit Strategically
The early bird gets the warm cinnamon roll. Most bakeries sell out of their signature items by early afternoon, especially on weekends. If you want the full selection of croissants, danishes, and breads, aim to arrive within the first two hours of opening. Conversely, if you dislike crowds, mid-afternoon on a weekday is often the quietest time.
2). Bring Cash for Legacy Shops
While most modern bakeries have adopted contactless payment systems, several historic, old-school establishments remain cash-only. Carrying a twenty-dollar bill will save you from embarrassment and ensure you don’t have to put back that black-and-white cookie you’ve been craving.
3). Ask About the Baking Schedule
If you are specifically seeking warm sourdough or a particular pastry, call ahead or check the bakery’s social media. Many places bake certain items only on specific days of the week. Knowing that the sesame rye comes out at 11:00 AM on Thursdays is the difference between a good visit and a great one.
4). Respect the Flow
New York bakeries are often tight on space and operate with assembly-line precision. Have your order ready before you reach the counter, and avoid lingering at the register. If you plan to sit and enjoy your coffee, scout for a table first or be prepared to take your treats to a nearby park.
5). Don’t Sleep on the Savory
While cakes and pastries get most of the attention, the true test of a baker is often their savory program. Focaccia, quiche, and laminated doughs stuffed with cheese and vegetables are often where a bakery’s technical skill shines brightest.
Exploring the city’s bakeries is more than just a culinary exercise; it is a way to connect with the rhythms of New York life. It is the early morning ritual of grabbing a coffee and a pastry before the rush, the Friday afternoon pickup of a challah for the dinner table, and the weekend indulgence of a slice of layer cake shared with friends.
As you make your way through the spots listed above, remember that the best bakery is ultimately the one that makes you feel at home. New York is a city of constant change, but the simple, honest craft of baking remains a steady and delicious constant. Whether you are biting into a crusty baguette or a delicate fruit tart, you are tasting the passion and history of the people who make this city great.
