NYC Manhattan's Best Desserts [Updated 2025]

With my taste buds tingling from countless sugar-laden adventures, I dove into the sweet underbelly of Manhattan, uncovering 12 of the most tantalizing dessert spots you could imagine. Each bite transported me further into a world where every pastry tells a story and every scoop of ice cream is a celebration.

I’ve spent years indulging in treats from cozy cafes to upscale patisseries, and trust me, I know what sets the ordinary apart from the extraordinary. Whether you're a local or just visiting, my firsthand experiences will lead you to dessert destinations that will make your heart—and your stomach—sing. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth like never before!

Spot Dessert Bar

Highlights
Best Seller Combo
Honey Toast Standout
Vibrant Atmosphere
Attentive and Efficient Staff
Decadent Chocolate Dessert

Spot Dessert Bar has carved out a cozy niche in the heart of NYC, and trust me, it's a haven for dessert aficionados. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that instantly lifted my spirits. The attentive and efficient staff made me feel welcome, guiding me through their tantalizing menu.

I couldn't resist trying their Best Seller Combo, which showcases their ingenuity beautifully. Each dessert feels like a tiny masterpiece, bursting with flavor. The standout for me was their Honey Toast, a delightful concoction that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch. It's as if this delectable treat was crafted to send my taste buds on a joyful ride.

And let's not forget the rich, decadent chocolate dessert that I simply lost myself in—each bite was a velvety embrace of chocolatey bliss. Spot Dessert Bar has truly mastered the art of dessert-making, leaving me craving more long after my visit. If you're in the area and seeking an unforgettable sweet escape, Spot Dessert Bar is a must-visit destination that will make your dessert dreams come true!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Brooklyn.

NY Bakery and Desserts

During my delightful visit to NY Bakery and Desserts, I was immediately captivated by the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pastries. Their signature red velvet cake was a velvety marvel—moist and decadently crowned with rich cream cheese frosting that danced on my palate. The pistachio croissant was another standout, flaky and filled with a luscious pistachio cream that had me craving a second bite before I had finished the first. The cozy ambiance adds to the charm, making it the perfect spot for dessert enthusiasts. If you're on a quest for sweet indulgence in Manhattan, this bakery is an absolute must-try!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in NYC.

Sweet Rehab

Stepping into Sweet Rehab felt like entering a whimsical dessert wonderland! Their signature cupcakes are a must-try, boasting fluffy textures and inventive flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance. I indulged in the salted caramel delight, where the perfect balance of sweet and salty created an unforgettable symphony. The decadent chocolate mousse equally stole the show, with its rich, velvety finish that’s simply irresistible. Every bite here is a testament to the artistry behind each creation. If you’re seeking a delightful escape in the heart of Manhattan, Sweet Rehab is the sweet spot that should not be missed!

You might also want to check out the best bagels in Brooklyn.

ANDO patisserie

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, ANDO Patisserie is a delightful gem that captivates with its artisanal charm. My taste buds danced as I savored the matcha cheesecake, a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and creamy goodness that made my heart flutter. The delicate coconut financier was a heavenly morsel, bursting with subtle sweetness and a light texture. Each pastry is meticulously crafted, showcasing the patissier’s impeccable skill. The inviting ambiance and friendly staff only enhance the experience. If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable dessert adventure, ANDO is a must-visit that deserves a sweet spot in your itinerary!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Queens.

Seoul Sweets

Tucked away in the heart of Manhattan, Seoul Sweets is a delightful treasure trove of Korean-inspired desserts that had me smiling with every bite. The bingsu is an absolute standout—a cloud-like mountain of shaved ice drenched in sweet milk, topped with vibrant fruits and an addictive drizzle of condensed milk. Each spoonful is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that transport you straight to Seoul. Don’t miss their mochi donuts, which are a chewy revelation, bursting with innovative fillings. With its cozy ambiance and playful menu, Seoul Sweets is a must-visit for any dessert lover in the city.

You might also want to check out the best cakes in NYC.

Magnolia Bakery - Rockefeller Center

Stepping into Magnolia Bakery - Rockefeller Center felt like entering a sweet wonderland. Their iconic banana pudding is a must-try, rich and creamy, with vanilla wafers that add the perfect crunch. The cupcakes, beautifully frosted and bursting with flavor, are almost too pretty to eat—almost! I also indulged in a slice of their legendary chocolate cake, which was decadently moist and wonderfully rich. The charming ambiance makes it a delightful spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you're in the area, don’t miss this gem! You’ll leave with a smile and a sugar high that’s simply irresistible.

You might also want to check out the best diners in NYC.

Tous Les Jours

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Tous Les Jours in NYC Manhattan, and it was a delightful experience! The moment I stepped in, the aroma of freshly baked goods embraced me like a warm hug. Their signature macarons are an absolute must-try—each bite is a perfect balance of crispness and creamy filling. I also savored a slice of their decadent tiramisu, which was luxuriously rich yet surprisingly light. With its charming ambiance and friendly staff, Tous Les Jours is a sweet escape in the heart of the city. This gem definitely deserves a spot on your dessert bucket list!

You might also want to check out the best indian restaurants in NYC.

Soft Swerve Ice Cream - Allen

Soft Swerve Ice Cream on Allen is a visual feast and a taste sensation! The moment I stepped in, the vibrant colors of their unique flavors beckoned me. I opted for the matcha with a swirl of black sesame, and let me tell you, it was a delightful dance of flavors on my palate. The creaminess was unparalleled, wrapping around my senses with each delightful lick. Their beautifully crafted toppings added that extra pop of fun! If you're chasing the ultimate dessert experience in Manhattan, this is a must-visit spot that will leave you smiling and craving more!

You might also want to check out the best desserts in NYC.

Grace Street Coffee & Desserts

Nestled in the heart of the West Village, Grace Street Coffee & Desserts is a delightful haven for dessert lovers. My taste buds danced with joy as I indulged in their signature Korean rice cake desserts, delightfully chewy and paired with seasonal fruits. The harmony of flavors was enhanced with a luscious matcha latte, perfectly complementing the sweet treats. The cozy atmosphere invites you to linger, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. Don’t miss the ever-tempting bingsu—a refreshing treat that’s perfect year-round. Grace Street is truly a hidden gem that deserves a sweet spot on your dessert itinerary!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Brooklyn.

ChikaLicious Dessert Bar @Astor Place; by Appt

My visit to ChikaLicious Dessert Bar at Astor Place was nothing short of a delightful adventure! This gem offers a unique omakase-style dessert experience that keeps you on your toes. Each course is a whimsical masterpiece, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. I couldn't resist the signature textural dessert, featuring layers of rich chocolate and silky mousse, each bite dancing on my palate with a hint of surprise. The atmosphere is cozy yet chic, making it a perfect spot for sweet indulgence. If you’re a dessert aficionado, this spot is a must-try! 🍰✨

You might also want to check out the best ice cream in NYC.

Sundaes Best

Sundaes Best is an absolute delight tucked away in the heart of Manhattan! As I stepped inside, the sweet aroma of waffle cones enveloped me, instantly igniting my dessert-loving spirit. I savored their signature sundae, where creamy ice cream mingled with decadent fudge and fluffy whipped cream—each bite was a blissful explosion of flavors. The playful toppings, from sprinkles to candied fruits, added a whimsical touch that kept me grinning. If you’re in the mood for an indulgent escape, Sundaes Best is a creamy slice of paradise that deserves a spot on your dessert bucket list!

You might also want to check out the best pho in NYC.

Taiyaki NYC Japanese Ice Cream

At Taiyaki NYC, whimsical flavors swim alongside delightful textures in a magical fusion of dessert artistry. Their signature taiyaki — a fish-shaped cake encasing rich, creamy ice cream — is a must-try. I opted for the matcha with a stroke of red bean, and each bite was a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that left me grinning ear to ear. The ambiance is vibrant, making it the perfect spot for dessert lovers and Instagram seekers alike. With its unique offerings, Taiyaki has certainly earned its place among the best desserts in Manhattan, and I can't wait to return for more!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Long Island City.