New York City

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Bakeries and Dessert Shops

Treat yourself to iconic bakeries, patisseries, and dessert shops offering everything from bagels and croissants to cookies and cakes.

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Comprehensive Guide to Bakeries and Dessert Shops in New York City

New York City is a paradise for food lovers, and its bakeries and dessert shops are no exception. From iconic institutions to hidden gems, NYC offers a diverse range of sweet treats that reflect its multicultural identity. Below is a detailed guide to some of the best bakeries and dessert shops in the city, including what to try, costs, cultural tips, and nearby landmarks to enhance your visit.

1. Dominique Ansel Bakery

  • Location: 189 Spring Street, SoHo
  • Famous For: The Cronut® (a croissant-doughnut hybrid)
  • Unique Items: Frozen S’mores, Cookie Shots, Blossoming Hot Chocolate
  • Cost: $6–$10 per item
  • Cultural Tips: Arrive early if you want a Cronut, as they sell out quickly. The flavor changes monthly, so check their website for updates.
  • Nearby Landmarks: Explore SoHo’s cobblestone streets and boutique shops. The New York City Fire Museum is a short walk away.

2. Levain Bakery

  • Locations: Multiple (Upper West Side, NoHo, Williamsburg, etc.)
  • Famous For: Giant, gooey cookies
  • Unique Items: Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookie
  • Cost: $5 per cookie
  • Cultural Tips: These cookies are massive and rich—one is often enough to share. Lines can be long, especially at the original Upper West Side location.
  • Nearby Landmarks: If visiting the Upper West Side location, stroll through Central Park or visit the American Museum of Natural History.

3. Magnolia Bakery

  • Locations: Multiple (West Village, Rockefeller Center, etc.)
  • Famous For: Banana Pudding
  • Unique Items: Cupcakes, Cheesecakes, Seasonal Pies
  • Cost: $4–$8 per item
  • Cultural Tips: The West Village location gained fame from Sex and the City. The banana pudding is a must-try and comes in various sizes.
  • Nearby Landmarks: The West Village location is near the iconic Friends Apartment building and Washington Square Park.

4. Breads Bakery

  • Location: 18 E 16th Street, Union Square
  • Famous For: Chocolate Babka
  • Unique Items: Rugelach, Challah, Savory Pastries
  • Cost: $4–$12 per item
  • Cultural Tips: This bakery has a strong Israeli influence, and the babka is a perfect gift to take home. They also serve excellent coffee.
  • Nearby Landmarks: Union Square Greenmarket (open on select days) and Strand Bookstore.

5. Milk Bar

  • Locations: Multiple (East Village, Midtown, etc.)
  • Famous For: Cereal Milk Soft Serve
  • Unique Items: Compost Cookies, Birthday Cake Truffles
  • Cost: $3–$8 per item
  • Cultural Tips: Milk Bar is known for its playful, nostalgic flavors. The East Village location is the flagship store.
  • Nearby Landmarks: Tompkins Square Park and St. Mark’s Place for a vibrant East Village experience.

6. Lady M Confections

  • Locations: Multiple (Midtown, Upper East Side, etc.)
  • Famous For: Mille Crêpes Cake
  • Unique Items: Green Tea Mille Crêpes, Seasonal Flavors
  • Cost: $9–$12 per slice
  • Cultural Tips: This is a more upscale dessert experience. The cakes are delicate and beautifully presented, making them perfect for special occasions.
  • Nearby Landmarks: The Rockefeller Center location is ideal for pairing with a visit to Top of the Rock or Radio City Music Hall.

7. Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop

  • Location: 727 Manhattan Avenue, Greenpoint, Brooklyn
  • Famous For: Old-fashioned donuts
  • Unique Items: Red Velvet Donut, Crullers, Jelly Donuts
  • Cost: $1.50–$3 per donut
  • Cultural Tips: This retro bakery is a neighborhood favorite. It’s cash-only, so come prepared.
  • Nearby Landmarks: Greenpoint’s McCarren Park and the waterfront with views of Manhattan.

8. Supermoon Bakehouse

  • Location: 120 Rivington Street, Lower East Side
  • Famous For: Croissants with a twist
  • Unique Items: Cruffins (croissant-muffin hybrids), Flavored Croissants
  • Cost: $6–$10 per item
  • Cultural Tips: The bakery’s Instagram-worthy pastries and interiors make it a favorite among foodies. Arrive early for the best selection.
  • Nearby Landmarks: The Tenement Museum and Essex Market.

9. Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffé

  • Location: 342 E 11th Street, East Village
  • Famous For: Italian pastries
  • Unique Items: Cannoli, Tiramisu, Sfogliatelle
  • Cost: $3–$8 per item
  • Cultural Tips: This historic bakery has been serving Italian desserts since 1894. It’s a great spot for a sit-down coffee and pastry experience.
  • Nearby Landmarks: St. Mark’s Place and the East Village’s vibrant nightlife.

10. Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery

  • Location: 28 Greenwich Avenue, West Village
  • Famous For: Brioche Doughnuts
  • Unique Items: Cheesecake, Scones, Savory Pastries
  • Cost: $4–$8 per item
  • Cultural Tips: The name “Mah-Ze-Dahr” comes from an Urdu phrase meaning “the essence of flavor.” The bakery’s minimalist design makes it a peaceful spot to enjoy a treat.
  • Nearby Landmarks: The Whitney Museum of American Art and the High Line are a short walk away.

11. Spot Dessert Bar

  • Location: 13 St. Marks Place, East Village
  • Famous For: Asian-inspired plated desserts
  • Unique Items: Matcha Lava Cake, Golden Toast, Yuzu Eskimo
  • Cost: $8–$15 per dessert
  • Cultural Tips: This is a sit-down dessert bar with creative, shareable options. Perfect for groups or a date night.
  • Nearby Landmarks: St. Mark’s Place and the East Village’s eclectic shops and restaurants.

12. Taiyaki NYC

  • Location: 119 Baxter Street, Chinatown
  • Famous For: Fish-shaped Japanese Taiyaki cones
  • Unique Items: Matcha Soft Serve, Red Bean Filling
  • Cost: $7–$10 per cone
  • Cultural Tips: Taiyaki is a traditional Japanese dessert, and this shop gives it a modern twist with Instagram-worthy presentation.
  • Nearby Landmarks: Chinatown’s bustling streets, Columbus Park, and Little Italy.

Practical Tips for Visiting NYC Bakeries and Dessert Shops

  1. Timing: Many bakeries have long lines, especially on weekends. Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure availability of popular items.
  2. Payment: Some smaller or older establishments (like Peter Pan Donut) are cash-only. Always carry some cash just in case.
  3. Dietary Restrictions: Many bakeries now offer gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options. Check their websites or call ahead if you have specific dietary needs.
  4. Portion Sizes: Portions can be large (e.g., Levain cookies), so consider sharing or saving some for later.
  5. Photography: NYC bakeries often have Instagram-worthy treats and interiors. Be mindful of other customers when taking photos.

Exploring Nearby Landmarks

NYC’s bakeries are often located near cultural or historical landmarks, making it easy to combine food and sightseeing. For example:

  • Pair a visit to Dominique Ansel Bakery with a walk through SoHo’s art galleries.
  • Enjoy a Levain cookie before exploring Central Park.
  • Stop by Lady M at Rockefeller Center before heading to the Top of the Rock.

New York City’s bakeries and dessert shops are as diverse as the city itself, offering something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re indulging in a Cronut in SoHo or savoring a cannoli in the East Village, these sweet spots are sure to enhance your NYC experience.