The Absolute Best Bakery in Manhattan [Updated 2024]

Having personally reviewed twelve bakeries in Manhattan, I can confidently say that this city is a haven for pastry enthusiasts. From the traditional bakeries that have been serving up delicious treats for decades, to the trendy new spots pushing the boundaries of flavor, Manhattan has it all.

In this article, I will take you on a journey through the crème de la crème of the Manhattan bakery scene. Whether you're in search of a classic croissant, a decadent cake, or a perfectly flaky pie, I've got you covered.

So, get ready to indulge your taste buds as I unveil the best bakery in Manhattan.

Magnolia Bakery - Rockefeller Center

Highlights
Famous banana pudding
Generously portioned
Kosher certification
Efficient service
Delicious baked items

From the moment I stepped into Magnolia Bakery - Rockefeller Center, I could smell the delightful aroma of freshly baked creations, instantly tempting my taste buds. As I perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to the famous banana pudding that I had heard so much about. Well, let me tell you, it absolutely lived up to the hype. Creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, each spoonful was a decadent delight.

What impressed me even more was the generously portioned treats that lined the bakery display. From the classic cupcakes to the flaky pastries, everything looked too good to resist. I indulged in a heavenly cinnamon roll that was perfectly sweet, soft, and fluffy. It was as if my taste buds were dancing with joy.

One thing that stood out to me about Magnolia Bakery - Rockefeller Center was its Kosher certification. As someone who appreciates diversity and inclusivity, it was refreshing to know that this bakery caters to a broader range of dietary needs.

The efficient and friendly service also deserves praise. The staff behind the counter were knowledgeable and guided me through their wide selection. They not only provided excellent recommendations but also shared interesting tidbits about their baking process.

In conclusion, Magnolia Bakery - Rockefeller Center undoubtedly deserves a spot in the conversation for the best bakery in Manhattan. With its famous banana pudding, generously portioned treats, Kosher certification, efficient service, and a wide range of delicious baked items, it's a true gem for any dessert lover. I highly recommend treating yourself to a visit and experiencing the magic firsthand.

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Magnolia Bakery - Grand Central

Highlights
Tasty red velvet pudding
Long queue
Good cappuccino
Limited gluten-free options
Tasty coconut macaroons

Walking into Magnolia Bakery at Grand Central, my senses were immediately overwhelmed with the tantalizing scent of freshly baked goods. It's no wonder why there was a long queue - people just couldn't resist the delicious treats.

I've always been a fan of red velvet, so naturally, I had to try their famous red velvet pudding. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The pudding was rich, velvety, and had just the right amount of sweetness. It was like taking a bite of heaven.

While waiting in line, I decided to try their cappuccino. It was the perfect pick-me-up, with a good balance of flavors and a smooth milky texture. It complemented the sweetness of the desserts perfectly.

If you have dietary restrictions, you might find limited options at Magnolia Bakery. While they do offer gluten-free treats, the selection is not as extensive as I had hoped. However, what they do have is top-notch. I was particularly impressed by their tasty coconut macaroons. They had a delightful balance of chewiness and crunchiness, and the coconut flavor was simply divine.

Overall, Magnolia Bakery at Grand Central is a must-visit for any bakery enthusiast. From their delectable red velvet pudding to their divine coconut macaroons, every bite is an indulgence. Just be prepared to wait in line, as the word has clearly spread about this bakery's delicious offerings.

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Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery

Highlights
Brioche donut
Vanilla pastry cream
High quality baked goods
Friendly and helpful staff
Pleasant and magical experience

Upon my visit, I was immediately drawn to the brioche donut displayed in their pristine glass case. It had a perfectly golden, flaky exterior that almost made it seem too good to bite into. However, I couldn't resist and took my first indulgent bite. Oh, what a treat! The donut was light and airy, with a hint of sweetness that lingered on my taste buds. It was a true delight.

Not stopping there, I also tried their vanilla pastry cream, which was nestled inside a buttery and delicate pastry. The cream was smooth and velvety, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was an absolute dream.

What impressed me the most about Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery was the consistency and quality of their baked goods. Every item I sampled was baked to perfection, with attention to detail evident in every bite. It was clear that they take great pride in their craft.

Furthermore, the staff at Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery were incredibly friendly and helpful, making my experience all the more enjoyable. They patiently answered all my questions and offered recommendations that did not disappoint.

Stepping inside this bakery felt like stepping into a pleasant and magical world of delectable delights. The cozy atmosphere, delightful aroma, and beautifully crafted pastries created an experience that was simply enchanting.

Considering all these elements, it's no wonder that Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery is a strong contender for the title of the best bakery in Manhattan. Its high-quality baked goods, accompanied by a friendly staff and a pleasant and magical experience, truly set it apart from the rest.

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Carlo's Bakery

Carlo's Bakery in Manhattan is a delightful slice of heaven. With a playful yet professional ambiance, this bakery brings happiness to both taste buds and souls. From their heavenly cannolis to their decadent cakes, Carlo's Bakery leaves you craving for more. A must-visit for any dessert aficionado in Manhattan.

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Magnolia Bakery - Central Park South

With its charming ambience and delectable treats, Magnolia Bakery - Central Park South is a sweet haven in Manhattan. From their famous cupcakes to their heavenly banana pudding, this bakery will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their mouthwatering creations!

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Angelina Bakery Hell's Kitchen

Angelina Bakery Hell's Kitchen in Manhattan is a sweet slice of heaven! From buttery croissants that melt in your mouth to decadent chocolate cake that makes angels weep with joy, this bakery is a must-visit for any dessert enthusiast. The quality of their baked goods is simply divine, and the friendly staff adds a touch of warmth to the experience. Say goodbye to your diet and hello to a tantalizing taste bud adventure at Angelina.

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Levain Bakery – Upper West Side, NYC

Levain Bakery in the Upper West Side of NYC is a must-visit spot for any cookie fanatic. The scent of freshly baked goods greets you as you enter this cozy little bakery. The cookies are heavenly – warm, gooey, and packed with chunks of chocolate. You'll be transported to cookie paradise!

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Levain Bakery – Upper East Side, NYC

Levain Bakery – Upper East Side, NYC in Manhattan is a true gem for all bakery lovers. From the moment you step through the doors, the aroma of freshly baked goods embraces you. Their signature cookies are heavenly, with a crispy exterior and a gooey center. Don't forget to try their massive scones, bursting with flavor. Levain Bakery is a must-visit for any serious sweets enthusiast in Manhattan.

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Levain Bakery – NoHo, NYC

Levain Bakery – NoHo, NYC is a hidden gem in Manhattan that will blow your taste buds away. Their cookies are thick, chewy, and bursting with flavor. The rich aroma of their baked goods will make your stomach growl. Don't miss out on their world-famous chocolate chip walnut cookie – it's worth every calorie!

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Levain Bakery – Harlem, NYC

With just one visit to Levain Bakery in Harlem, NYC, it's clear why this gem deserves a spot in the fiercely contested list of the best bakeries in Manhattan. Their cookies are sheer perfection: crispy on the outside, yet ooey-gooey on the inside. Don't even get me started on their massive size – each one is practically a meal in itself! The bakery itself is cozy and inviting, and the staff are beyond friendly. Whether you're a cookie aficionado or simply looking for a delightful treat, Levain Bakery in Harlem is a must-visit. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Levain Bakery – Original Location, 74th St, NYC

Levain Bakery – Original Location, 74th St, NYC: A doughy slice of paradise in Manhattan! From the moment I walked in, I was engulfed by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodies. The giant cookies were life-changing – crispy on the outside, ooey-gooey on the inside. A must-visit spot for every bakery lover in Manhattan!

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Tous Les Jours

Tous Les Jours in Manhattan is a playground for pastry lovers. This bakery offers a wide range of delightful treats that are both visually stunning and tantalizingly delicious. From their flaky croissants to their rich chocolate cakes, every bite is a sweet bliss. A must-visit for any bakery enthusiast in Manhattan!

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