The 6 Best Bakeries Worth Lining Up for in NYC
If you’re hunting for the best bakeries in NYC worth the line or building your own NYC bakery bucket list, you’re in the right place. I’ve lived in NYC for 7 years now, and while I don’t consider myself a “foodie influencer,” my partner and I love discovering new bakeries — especially the Asian ones that everyone sleeps on.
We’ve stood in the lines, tried the pastries, and dealt with the crowds… so you don’t have to gamble on what’s overrated. These are the NYC pastries worth lining up for, and yes, even my impatient self thinks they’re worth it.
Papa D’Amour
French–Taiwanese pastries by the OG Dominique Ansel bakery — aka the man behind the Cronut.
Papa D’Amour blends French technique with Taiwanese flavors in the sweetest sentimental way — the name literally means “Dad of Love,” what Ansel’s kids call him. The pastries are rich, delicate, and frankly, some of the most unique bites in Manhattan.
WHAT TO ORDER: Taro Mochi Lace Batter Donut, Crispy Shrimp Sando, Kurobuta Hot Dog Spiral, anything seasonal — they go fast!
TIP: Go early. They will close if they sell out.
NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenwich Village
NEARBY TRAINS: 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W
L’Appartement 4F
The “handmade cereal” bakery everyone lines up for at sunrise.
We showed up at 7:45 AM, and there was already a line! Thank goodness the line moved pretty quickly once they opened. Their pastries are gorgeous, the space is cozy (they even have an upstairs area for you to sit and enjoy your pastries), and the famous handmade cereal? Unreal.
WHAT TO ORDER: The viral handmade cereal (grab it before it sells out). Pistachio Rose Croissant. Kouign Amann.
TIP: Go before opening. Once the cereal sells out, it’s gone for the day.
LOCATIONS: West Village, Manhattan. Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn (we visited this one).
Kora
Filipino donuts inspired by family recipes — the kind that ruin regular donuts forever.
Kora has a special place in my heart. Before they even had a storefront, my partner and I discovered them through an Asian food creator on YouTube. Back then, you could only order online and pick up from pop-up locations, and our first box of donuts blew us away. They finally opened their first real shop in March 2025, and honestly? Their donuts still taste like love — literally inspired by the founders’ grandma’s recipes and Filipino comfort food.
WHAT TO ORDER: The menu rotates pretty frequently, but everything is incredibly delicious. Here are my recommendations: Leche Flan Ni Nola, Ube, and Salted Coconut.
LOCATION: Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Radio Bakery
The crunchy-flaky pastries that disappear before 9 AM.
Radio Bakery has that “if you know, you know” vibe. We arrived around 8 AM, and half the case was already empty. The flavors are bold, the pastry layers are ridiculously crisp, and every bite reminded me why the line exists.
WHAT TO ORDER: A mix of sweet + savory (trust me)
TIP: Go early, and don’t expect seating — grab coffee and enjoy somewhere nearby or at home.
LOCATIONS: Greenpoint & Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
La Cabra
Danish minimalism meets NYC pastry culture.
My first visit to La Cabra was totally unplanned — my friend and I were coming from a candle-making class and popped in for pastries and matcha. There was only one table left, but we walked over and ended up talking for hours. The interior is everything I love: minimalist, warm, and beautifully Danish in the best way.
Since then, I’ve visited their Soho and Bushwick locations, and they’re all consistent, aesthetic, and delicious. It feels serene even when busy. Their pastries are refined, their matcha is great, and the design makes you want to stay awhile.
WHAT TO ORDER: Cardamom bun — their signature. Matcha.
TIP: Bushwick’s new location is way more spacious if you want a chill experience.
LOCATIONS: East Village, Soho, Bushwick
Caroline’s Donuts
French-style donuts that melt in your mouth.
Caroline’s Donuts used to be our neighborhood gem back when my partner and I lived in Bed-Stuy. We’d walk over with our dog on weekend mornings to grab a fresh batch — all handmade daily, all ridiculously soft and flavorful. They’ve since moved to the Upper East Side, a couple of blocks away from The Met, but the quality? Still chef’s kiss.
Their donuts taste like a cross between classic French pastries and the fluffiest American donuts. Not too sweet, super pillowy, and full of flavor.
WHAT TO ORDER: Crème Brûlée Donut. Dulce de Leche.
LOCATION: Upper East Side (originally Bed-Stuy)
NYC food tours you might like
check out my recent travel vlog!
YOU MIGHT ALSO LOVE
Thinking about visiting The Met Cloisters? This hidden medieval-style museum in Washington Heights, Manhattan is one of NYC’s most magical escapes. Here’s everything you need to plan a stress-free, unforgettable visit — and actually enjoy it.