5 Of The Best Bakeries in NYC

New York is in the midst of a “bakery boom”, and it’s a delicious world out on the streets. We’ve taken on the task of finding the best bakeries to satisfy your sweet tooth: whether you’re in the mood for a classic American chocolate chip cookie, the honey-drenched flakiness of baklava, you’re looking to explore 21st century baked goodies (just what is that cronut about?) or if you’re in search of the taste of the hometown pastry you left behind, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the top picks for New Yorkers to get their sweet on:

Magnolia Bakery
No guide to NYC bakeries would be complete without a mention of Magnolia Bakery—with an emphasis on both service and selection, this bakery truly has something to suit any sugar craving. Cakes are moist and icing piled high, Magnolia is known throughout the country for its cupcakes. Cookies are chewy and generously sized, and the cheesecake has been lauded by tourists and locals alike. You can’t go wrong with a trip to Magnolia Bakery. The best part? They’re open late, so you can get an after-dinner treat on your way home.

Sprinkles Cupcakes
As the name implies, this is a bakery that’s known for making a gorgeous cupcake. But what you might not know is that they’re equally known for their milkshakes—and in case you’re feeling torn, don’t worry, the folks at Sprinkles have got you covered—their signature milkshake is a blended confection of ice cream, milk, and you guessed it…cupcakes. Word on the street is the red velvet cupcake shake is delightfully decadent. Gluten free and feeling unloved? Have no fear! Sprinkles also has a line of gluten-free cupcakes, as well as a unique attraction, a “cupcake ATM” that dispenses cupcakes for New Yorkers on the move. Bonus: Sprinkles Cupcakes is conveniently located next to Bloomingdale's, so you can get your cupcake fix while you shop.

Dominique Ansel Bakery
With a reputation as one of the best breakfast destinations in New York, this is a must-visit for travelers and a prized local spot. Come in for the cronuts (but come early, as even well after the initial craze, these uniquely delicious treats sell out quick) but stay for the macaroons, exquisitely crafted pastries, daily special offerings, and of course—the cookie that inspired Proust’s Remembrance of Things Past, the ubiquitous Madeleine cookie. Hot out of the oven daily, you’ll understand the power of this tasty morsel.

Schmackary's
For cookie monsters (both of the child and adult variety), you can’t go wrong with a trip to Schmackary's. For traditionalists, local favorites include the chocolate chip cookies that are packed with chips and chewy, Funfetti cookies, moist peanut butter cookies, but Schmackary's has a rotating “cast of cookies”, so check in for their daily offerings. More exotic flavors include maple-bacon cookies, chunky monkey, and the “Dirty Leprechaun”. With flavors as unique as lemon poppyseed and frosted brownie cookies and sharable sizes, bring a friend and share the sweetness. Bonus: many cookie flavors come in gluten free options, with no effect to the cookie’s taste or “tooth”—they’re nearly indistinguishable from their glutinous brethren!

Arcade Bakery
If your tastes run towards baguettes or viennoiserie, Arcade Bakery is the way to go. In addition to sweet and breakfast-y offerings such as croissants, Danish, and babka, Arcade also has savory offerings like quiche, pizza, and freshly baked bread. After lunchtime, Arcade offers a “laminated baguette”, which is basically the lovechild/genius creation of a baguette covered in croissant dough. We personally guarantee you’ve never tasted anything like it before—and you’re going to be forever spoiled once you’ve tasted this mind-blowingly good combination of texture and taste.