Post overview: Best bakeries in the Lower East Side, NYC

I try to live by the phrase “everything in moderation” but there is one place I can’t control myself – a bakery. It’s a humbling experience, I think I have self control but the doughnuts, croissants, and cakes practically beg me to take them home and I’m a weak, weak man.

How can something so bad for you taste so good? If God didn’t want me to eat 3 danishes a day he wouldn’t have put so many delicious bakeries in the Lower East Side!

As a resident of the Manhattan neighborhood, I lack the discipline to walk away when I see a bakery sign. Instead I press my face against the window like a toddler at a candy store and turn to my wife saying “I want that one!”

If you’re looking for the best bakeries in the Lower East Side I’m here to tell you about the spots you can’t afford to miss. But hey, I know I’m talking a lot, so what do you say we get to the good stuff?

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Best Bakeries in the Lower East Side

#15. Santo Domingo Bakery

Whenever I find myself in a situation where my sweet tooth is clearly winning and I need something quick, I head to Santo Domingo Bakery, one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

In a city that’s fast paced and always on-the-go, this Dominican bakery has stepped up to the plate and made convenience a priority.

Start your morning at one of the best Lower East Side bakeries with a donut and cup of coffee or plan a party and celebrate with an entire cake. Whatever the occasion may be, this LES bakery has something for everyone.

Santo Domingo is a low-key spot and by no means is this the fanciest bakery, but the quality speaks for itself and the baked-goods are top-tier. I recommend ordering the bread pudding, you won’t regret it!

Address: 93 Clinton St New York, NY 10002

#14. Café d’Avignon (in Essex Market)

When I first heard about Café d’Avignon, I was told they sell some of the best chocolate chip cookies in New York City. Being the cookie connoisseur that I am, I set my sights on giving it a try.

Now years later, I’m forever indebted to the friend who shared this hidden gem with me. Not only does Café d’Avignon churn out amazing chocolate chip cookies, they are also one of the best Lower East Side bakeries!

Café d’Avignon is an artisanal bakery café that sells everything from freshly baked bread to savory sandwiches served on flakey croissants. I originally tried the storefront in Chelsea, but once I discovered this LES bakery had a booth at the Essex Market, I became a regular, real quick.

Essex Market is New York City’s most historic food hall. The market has been around officially since 1940 (unofficially since the 1880’s) and has served as a culinary gathering place for New Yorkers to come together as a community.

So if Café d’Avignon is good enough to have a spot in an iconic NYC food hall, they are clearly one of the best Lower East Side bakeries.

Address: 88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002

#13. Mel The Bakery

Mel The Bakery is a charming and quaint spot in the neighborhood that sources ingredients locally. Quality is the highest priority at this Lower East Side bakery and treats they churn out are equally as impressive.

Each baked-good is carefully thought out and executed perfectly. With a handful of savory and sweet options to choose from, this is one of the few Lower East Side bakeries that has mastered both.

Popular for the delicious loaves of sourdough bread, Mel’s has become a staple for those in the neighborhood who can’t stay away from carbs (can you blame them?).

This LES bakery has mastered the art of texture and all the treats are paired intentionally. Like the “Danko” which is a delectable rye brownie topped with sunflower seeds. I recommend ordering a loaf of the Mel Country bread to-go. Pair that with some butter and flakey salt — you’re set for the week!

Fair warning though, since this is one of the best Lower East Side bakeries, pastries sell out quickly. Make sure to come early.

Address: 1 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002

Lower East Side Bakeries Mel the Bakery — Image Courtesy Mel The Bakery

#12. Ceci Cela Patisserie

If I was blindfolded and taste-testing croissants I’d think the ones from Ceci Cela were overnighted from France. I’m a sucker for a chewy, stretchy, buttery croissant and Ceci Cela has one of my favorites in New York City.

As one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side, the patisserie sells so much more than just croissants. The danishes, macarons and eclairs will have you feeling like you’re at a Parisian cafe in no time.

Ceci Cela Patisserie is also one of the cutest bakeries in the Lower East Side thanks to a charming, old-school vibe. There isn’t much seating, but if you’re lucky enough to snag the table outside it’s impossible not to take some photos (of yourself and your pastries!).

Address: 14 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002

Fresh croissants at Ceci Cela, best bakeries Lower East Side — Image Courtesy Goldbelly

#11. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe

Okay I know Ferrara Bakery & Cafe is in Little Italy, but where better to go in search of amazing cannolis? If you’re looking for the best bakeries in the Lower East Side the cafe is only a five minute walk from the neighborhood.

Opened in 1892 Ferrara’s has been a neighborhood favorite for generations. The secret to their success lies in part thanks to the Great Depression. Hear me out – in order to reduce waste, the cafe started baking small batches of pastries multiple times a day, and since the treats were always fresh Ferrara’s popularity grew.

The family owned business is now being ran by its fifth generation. By staying true to the principles that grew the business they’ve been one of the best Lower East Side bakeries for more than 100 years.

And I’m going to let you in on a local secret, although Ferrara Bakery & Cafe is widely known for their cannolis, their sfogliatelle (also called lobster tail) is what other professional bakers rave about.

Each bite sends flakes flying and I’d put the silky cream-filling on everything if they sold it in bulk. There’s plenty of other sweet treats too, including cakes, nougats and even gelato so it’s no surprise Ferrara is one of the best Lower East Side bakeries.

Address: 195 Grand St, New York, NY 10013

#10. Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery

I first visited Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery after a friend told me their banana pudding was the best in New York City (fighting words, I know). It didn’t disappoint, and immediately I knew this was one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Opened by two former Magnolia Bakery employees it should come as no surprise that Sugar Sweet Sunshine’s banana pudding tastes similar to Magnolia’s. There’s a wide variety of puddings options like red velvet, chocolate chip, and lemon trifle.

Besides the banana pudding, Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery’s cupcakes helps cement them as one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side. Each bite brings you a little closer to heaven (keep an eye on your blood sugar level) and is flawlessly moist and sweet.

If you’re wondering what spurred the bakery’s unique name it all happened when the owners were walking to tour the bakery’s future space. Still undecided on a name, they saw sugar sweet sunshine love etched in a heart on the concrete. They decided that’d be the name of their business, one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Address: 126 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002 & 88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 (inside the Essex Market)

#9. Doughnut Plant

Every great foodie city has their go-to spots for amazing doughnuts and Doughnut Plant is at the top of our list for best bakeries in the Lower East Side!

Customization is the name of the game here. There are vegan and gluten free options and everybody is sure to find something to satiate even the pickiest sweet tooth.

Their case is overflowing with mouthwatering options like the seasonal fresh blueberry Sourdoughnut and the ever classic chocolate sprinkle. Although the specialty is a single item, the wide variety makes Doughnut Plant one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

We recommend trying their signature crème brûlée donut, since it’s a unique flavor and showcased why Doughnut Plant is one of the best Lower East Side bakeries. Each donut is filled with vanilla bean custard and individually torched to caramelize the sugar topping. Save a bite for us!

Address: 379 Grand St, New York, NY 10002

#8. Harper’s Bread House

A small stop and go Lower East Side bakery, Harper’s Bread House is not only quick it’s delicious. Their egg tarts rival the most popular bakeries in the Lower East Side and for less than $2 are a killer deal.

My favorite item at Harper’s Bread House is the coconut cream bun. It’s softer than a Tempur-Pedic and pulls apart beautifully, filled with a coconut cream that’s worthy of being its own dessert.

There are a plethora of other unique pastries too that you won’t find at any old run-of-the-mill cafes. Pork buns, mango cake and pineapple bread only scratch the surface of what’s available at the Lower East Side Bakery.

For those who have wanted to try onigiri (rice balls wrapped in nori, often depicted as cartoons) Harper’s Bread House has some of the best. All the more reason to consider it one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side!

Something to note: Harper’s Bread House is cash only, so stop by an ATM before swinging by.

Address: 271 Grand St, New York, NY 10002

#7. Insomnia Cookies

I can name few things worse than having a late at night craving for sweets, and all the Lower East Side bakeries are closed. Insomnia Cookies must have heard my cries because they are one of the few dessert spots you’ll be able to find open past 9 PM.

The cookie options are endless, there are red velvet, double chocolate mint, vegan birthday cake, and smores to name a few. There’s also a few brownie options in case you’re in the mood for something more substantial.

If you can’t decide between cookies and ice cream I ask, why not both? Order a cookie ice cream sandwich for the best of both worlds. There’s even a vegan birthday cake ice cream, so everyone in your group can leave with a treat.

The little bites of heaven are baked from open to close so you’re going to get a fresh cookie regardless of when you visit. The late-night availability and sweet treats just go to show Insomnia Cookies is one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Address: 164 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

#6. Erin McKenna’s Bakery

Erin McKenna’s opened in 2005 with a simple mission in mind: Serve gluten-free treats tailored to folks with gluten, egg, soy and dairy sensitivities. The success was staggering and within a year it became one of the most popular gluten free bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Churning out some of the tastiest celiac-free baked goods in NYC, it’s impossible to leave with just one treat in hand. Not only is this one of the best gluten free bakeries in the Lower East Side, but the entire bakery is also kosher, egg-free, dairy-free, nut-free and soy-free as well.

The best part is that you wouldn’t even know it if it weren’t for the signage. The baked goods are on par with their gluten counterparts, and equally satisfying. The seasonal treats are especially great and warrant a detour.

Address: 248 Broome St, New York, NY 10002

Erin McKenna Cupcake in front of neon sign, best bakeries Lower East Side

#5. Joey Bats Cafe

If you’ve never been to Portugal you’re missing out, the unique cuisine and flavors are some of the best you’ll find in the world. The next best thing is to visit Joey Bats Cafe, one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Joey Bats Cafe is a Portuguese bakery in the Lower East Side puting European delicacies at our fingertips. Their pasteis de nata are traditional tart pastries made from egg-custard and baked to a soft and warm consistency.

The Lower East Side bakery has also introduced new innovations to the 200+ year old Portuguese dessert. Joey Bats Cafe has started incorporating chocolate and passion fruit to the pastry and the success has been incredible.

If you visit and love the pasteis de nata so much you want to take some home order a few frozen. This way you can stick them in your freezer and enjoy them whenever you’re craving a bite from one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Address: 129 Allen St, New York, NY 10002

Pasteis de nata at Joey Bats Cafe — Image Courtesy Chelsea Market

#4. Partybus Bakeshop

Founded by a musician turned baker, Partybus Bakeshop has put in a lot of hours in becoming one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side. Selling all the classics treats and pastries they also sell incredible bread.

I didn’t think about buying a loaf until I tried one of their breakfast sandwiches. After being astonished by how fresh the bread was (kind of obvious in retrospect, considering it’s a bakery) I decided to take a load of sourdough home.

The bread has been a hit not only for me, but for all my friends. I now place an online order once a week and have made buttered toast my breakfast of choice. If you want to a loaf of bread you have to order it in advance. Online orders are available three days in advance, and same day orders are available by phone.

As one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side there’s plenty of sweet treats too. The pistachio rose croissant is a must-try and you can’t leave without a scallion bun in your bag.

Address: 31 Essex St, New York, NY 10002

#3. Michaeli Bakery

Ask any local where to get the best babka in New York City and the honest ones will mention Breads Bakery. But what if I told you that the former head-chef of Breads opened up his own bakery in the Lower East Side and sells some of the best treats in the neighborhood?

It’s true! Adir Michaeli, who moved to NYC and helped open Breads Bakery in 2013, now owns and operates one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Michaeli is an Israeli-style bakery serving traditional baked-goods like challah, babka and rugalach to name a few. Both savory and sweet pastries have been mastered and the genius behind it all doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

The Sufganiyah (Israeli donuts) have a cult-like following (and for good reason!). The dough is light and airy and the filling is unreal, truly one of the most tasty pastries you’ll find at bakeries in the Lower East Side.

Folks with dietary restrictions haven’t been forgotten at this Lower East Side bakery. In fact, this is one of the few bakeries in the LES that offers both vegan and gluten-free options. Michaeli bakes a vegan version of babka which is almost unheard of and definitely difficult to find in NYC.

Michaeli is one of the best under the radar bakeries in the Lower East Side, but it won’t be long until word gets out on just how good it is. If there were ever the time to give a bakery six out of five stars, this would be it.

Address: 115A Division St, New York, NY 10002

#2. Petee’s Pie Company

New York City is no stranger to good pies, and I’m not talking about pizza pie. Petee’s Pie Company is one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side, family owned business making delicous, homestyle baked pies.

Petra “Petee” Paredez was born to bake. Her parents own a successful pie company in Virginia so it is no surprise she’s able to hold her own and opened one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side.

The dedication to her craft shows itself in the all of her pies and treats. Quality doesn’t waver, you can taste the fresh and real ingredients with every bite in the cozy bakery.

Regardless of which pie you get, you’ll understand why we consider Petee’s Pie Company one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side. Heck, you won’t even make it down the block without wanting to come back for more.

Address: 61 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002

#1. Supermoon Bakehouse

Supermoon Bakehouse is considered one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side and within one visit you’ll understand why. Renowned for its creativity and innovation, the baked goods have folks waiting on line for 1+ hours.

The star of the show is the filled croissant, which became an Instagram sensation and often sells out by noon.

I reached the bakery at 11am (one hour after opening) and waited in line for 45 minutes before reaching the front, safe to say it’s one of the most popular bakeries in the Lower East Side. I was willing to buy everything at that point but restrained myself.

And when I say “restrained” I should be clear — I ordered six items (and would have ordered more but I was by myself!) because I knew I had to try all the classics.

Arguably the most popular pastry a bakeries in the Lower East Side, nobody makes them quite like Supermoon Bakehouse. During my visit the special of the day was the everything croissant (stuffed with cream cheese, smoked salmon and dill). Not only did it completely live up to the hype but I wish I would have ordered two — it was so dang good.

Another item that came highly recommend was the nutella cruffin, a mixture between a muffin and croissant. It tastes as good as it sounds. Intricate layers of airy doughy goodness entangled with a soft and creamy nutella center. Perfection.

With the ingenuity and impeccable flavors it’s no surprise Supermoon Bakehouse is one of the best bakeries in the Lower East Side. I make the trek and wait in line far more often than I’m proud to admit, but it’s always worth it.

Location: 120 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002