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Local picks

Cake and challah spots in the US

A slice of challah and a slice of cake satisfy the need for something soft and sweet.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Shalom Kosher Bakery image 1
Shalom Kosher Bakery image 2
Shalom Kosher Bakery image 3
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Bakery offers fresh bagels, soft challah, and rich chocolate pastries with options free of nuts, dairy, and eggs. Busy atmosphere reflects its popularity, with warm owners contributing to a welcoming vibe. Prices remain reasonable, encouraging frequent visits.

Chocolate coffee cake features a soft and fluffy texture with a chocolate swirl inside. Birthday cakes come out absolutely perfect, and chocolate chip fudge alligator coffee cake appears regularly.

Soft and delicious challah comes fresh daily. It pairs well with desserts and offers a satisfying, freshly baked experience close to home.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the best I've ever had."

"The chocolate coffee cake is amazing, soft, and fluffy inside."

"I found the challah to be soft and delicious."

Good to know

1

Bring cash when visiting as credit cards may not be accepted.

2

The bakery offers egg and dairy-free items for those with restrictions.

3

Expect the bakery to be very busy, especially during peak hours.

02
West Orange Bake Shop image 1

Bakery offers kosher baked goods with a focus on challah and pastries that many find exceptional. The atmosphere is busy with reasonable prices and ample free parking. It stands out for nut-free options and a strong reputation in its community.

Cakes here look like works of art and taste delightful. They offer nut free options and deliver consistently amazing flavors that stand out from other places.

Challah here stands out for its fluffy texture and freshness. The pretzel challah is a notable twist that many find amazing and highly recommend.

People are saying

"I found the challah here to be heavenly and so fluffy."

"I found the cakes here to be delicious and a work of art."

"The challah here is so good, my kids refused to let me buy it anywhere else."

Good to know

1

West Orange Bake Shop offers a variety of kosher pastries.

2

The prices are reasonable compared to supermarket bakeries.

3

There is plenty of free parking available.

03
Hershy's Bakery image 1

Warm, heimish aroma of fresh challah and rugelach fills the air. Bakery offers authentic taste with fluffy challah, soft sufganiyot, and a variety of mamash gevaldig pastries. Welcoming atmosphere with dairy-free options sets it apart.

Showcases hold a variety of cakes alongside babkas, cookies, and doughnuts. The cake stands out for its great taste and quality, often chosen for special occasions like birthdays.

Warm, heimish smell of fresh challah fills the air. Challah is great for Shabbat and often comes home in multiple boxes after a visit.

People are saying

"The challah and cake here are amazing and beautiful."

"The bakery has a warm, heimish smell and mamash gevaldig pastries."

"I found the heimish challah here to be the best."

Good to know

1

Hershy's Bakery offers a variety of dairy-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

2

Prices are reasonable, and portions are generous for all baked goods.

3

They provide a selection of breads and pastries beyond traditional offerings.

04
Abbalé Modern Mediterranean Kitchen - South Beach image 1

Mediterranean restaurant offers a beautiful patio with cozy, lively atmosphere and gorgeous decor. Outdoor seating enhances the experience, creating a welcoming vibe away from busy streets. The energy is vibrant yet relaxed, suited for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Moist and tasty, the olive oil cake pairs well with fresh gelato. The olive oil lemon cake stands out as a recommended dessert option.

Fresh, warm challah bread stands out with a soft texture and rich flavor. The sesame challah scores well for taste and pairs perfectly with dishes like the egg sandwich and mezze trio.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"You have to try the olive oil lemon cake; it's moist and tasty."

"The challah bread here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky on weekends, so plan accordingly.

2

They only accept cash and require exact change for payments.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long waits.

05
Kaff Bakery image 1

Bakery combines warm atmosphere with friendly staff and a salad bar alongside baked goods. It offers kosher, homemade products with a focus on fresh, visually appealing items and a variety of lunch and dinner options. Cleanliness and efficient service contribute to a pleasant experience.

Birthday cakes come with excellent taste and presentation. Character cakes are dairy-free, and cheesecake is also good. Cakes hold up well but can shift if not carried carefully.

Fresh hiemishe challah and challah rolls stand out here. The bakery offers a solid selection of baked goods including bread and pastries.

People are saying

"I found their bakery goods to be amazing and freshly baked."

"I found the challah rolls here to be great."

"I found the birthday cakes to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The bakery items are baked fresh every day.

2

They accept SNAP.

3

The prices are very reasonable.

06
La Farine Pâtisserie et Café image 1

Bright, elegant bakery with two levels and large windows fills the space with natural light. Atmosphere feels Parisian and cozy, welcoming for working or relaxing with coffee. Seating includes comfortable booths, upstairs lounge, and outdoor tables perfect for people watching.

Lemon cake stands out with its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, feeling like pure sunshine in every bite. The babka chocolate cake also impresses with rich, delicious taste.

Smoked salmon on a soft challah knot pairs with tzatziki and radish for a fresh, balanced bite. Challah breads and croissants come out rich and excellent.

People are saying

"The pastries here are phenomenal and taste so balanced."

"I highly recommend the smoked salmon on challah roll."

"I found the lemon cake to be the perfect balance of sweet and tart."

Good to know

1

Gloves should be worn when touching food and removed before returning to the register.

2

Expect 8-10 minutes to get your order taken if there's one person ahead.

3

Prices are higher than at Starbucks and other local cafes.

07
Shibolim Bakery image 1

Bakery offers authentic Israeli baked goods with a cozy atmosphere and freshly baked breads and pastries filling the air. Space includes a self-service layout and inviting seating area. The vibe feels warm and homey, reminiscent of Tel Aviv streets.

Chocolate cake stands out with rich flavor. Freshly baked cakes fill the air with an incredible aroma. They make cakes that enhance special occasions like Shabbat.

Soft, fresh, and flavorful challah loaves stand out for Shabbat meals. Sweet challah rolls work well for sandwiches and add a unique touch to the bread selection.

People are saying

"The pastries here are fresh, flaky, and full of flavor."

"The challah here is soft, fresh, and so flavorful."

"Their cakes were amazing and made our Shabbat extra special."

Good to know

1

Shibolim Bakery offers a variety of kosher baked goods, including challah and pastries.

2

All challah contains sesame seeds; consider this if you have allergies.

3

The bakery is conveniently located near the airport, making it easy to visit.

08
Taam Eden Bakery image 1

Bakery offers a huge selection of fresh breads, cookies, buns, and cakes with heimish, flavorful baked goods. Atmosphere feels lively and bustling, reminiscent of a busy Friday in Bnei Brak. Lines move quickly despite crowds, and a salad bar adds variety beyond baked items.

A wide variety of cakes and pastries fills the shelves, all tasting very good. Special cakes stand out among the selection of bread, cookies, and buns.

Spelt challah stands out with its excellent texture and flavor. Sourdough challah also appears in unique forms like a double kugel, showing variety in preparation.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best bakery I had ever experienced."

"I found the cakes here to be special and good."

"I thought the challah here was good."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, the bakery is very packed.

2

You may see long lines on Fridays, but the line moves quickly.

3

The prices at the bakery are reasonable.

09
Shawn's Cafe & Bakery image 1

Small cafe with no indoor seating offers quaint outdoor balcony space and views over a parking area. Atmosphere feels cozy and homey with a European-style bakery vibe. Popular spot known for high-quality baked goods and a comfortable, local feel.

Cakes here look pretty and appealing. Some have been bought but not yet tasted.

Challah stands out as a key item, especially available on Fridays. Ordering it in advance is common due to its popularity alongside bagels and pretzel rolls.

People are saying

"The cold brew here is great and perfect for summer."

"I enjoyed the mini cheesecakes and freshly crafted panini."

"I considered their challah to be the best."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating available at the cafe.

2

You should order Challah in advance.

3

The place is only a 2-minute walk from Aubrey Davis/Lid park.

10
Breads Bakery - Rockefeller Center image 1

French bakery offers freshly baked goods with a spacious, cozy atmosphere featuring natural lighting and table seating. The space fills up quickly, creating a lively but sometimes congested environment. Pastries like babka and croissants stand out for their quality and taste.

Chocolate chip banana cake stands out with its fudge-like, soft texture and rich flavor. Lemon cake offers a balanced tartness with a tasty crumble topping, while carrot cake delivers a moist, flavorful bite.

Sesame challah pairs well with labne and has a perfect texture and flavor. Plain challah costs nearly $10 but has a poor dough quality and is less enjoyable compared to other bakeries.

People are saying

"The croissant here is beautifully laminated with a delicate crunch."

"The banana chocolate chip cake is homemade and really good."

"I found the challah bread here to be the best."

Good to know

1

The almond croissant costs over $6.

2

The chocolate rugalach costs $14 for 6 pieces.

3

The bakery is located in midtown Manhattan along 6th Avenue, near the subway.

11
Zeman's Bakery image 1

Bakery offers a huge selection of breads, pastries, and cookies with a focus on kosher baked goods. Interior feels authentic and clean, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Known for 7-layer cake and cheese danishes, it draws both locals and tourists consistently.

Seven-layer cakes stand out with their rich flavor and complex layers. Bundt cakes and assorted sweets also come out delicious and well-crafted.

Challah comes in several varieties with rich flavor and a soft texture. Multiple loaves can be ordered, and the breads are consistently popular alongside other baked goods.

People are saying

"Their 7-layer cake is excellent and a must-try."

"I thought the bread here was the best in town."

"I found the challah here to be the best I ever experienced."

Good to know

1

Zeman's Bakery offers a wide variety of breads, pastries, and cookies.

2

Everything at Zeman's Bakery is under strict Kashrus.

3

The bakery is very clean and pleasant.

12
Moishe's Kosher Bakery image 1

Old-fashioned bakery with handwritten signs and a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like stepping back to the 1930s. Friendly, familiar interactions create a warm, welcoming vibe among a mix of local regulars. Known for authentic kosher baked goods sold by weight, it offers a unique, family-run experience with reasonable prices.

Babka and sponge cake stand out with rich textures. The pound cake offers a dense, buttery flavor.

Challah here comes in bread and rolls form with above average quality. It sits alongside other kosher baked goods like babka and hamantaschen.

People are saying

"I thought the chocolate babka was a one of a kind experience."

"I thought their black and white cookies were some of the best I've ever tasted."

"I loved the delicious kosher cakes here."

Good to know

1

The bakery/deli is cash only.

2

They sell everything by weight, allowing customers to try small portions.

3

Sunday is a great day to visit for fresh rye bread.

13
Cafe Yaya image 1
Restaurant

Stylish space features hand-painted brick walls and beautiful tile work with an earthy, rustic vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting despite busy, sometimes chaotic entry. Creative pastries and breads complement a relaxed all-day café energy.

Carrot cake stands out with its spiced flavor and satisfying sweetness. Pastry options include coconut cake with lemon curd, cardamom kouign amann, and date cake with rose icing, though some are quite sweet and vary in texture.

Freshness stands out with both challah and baguette available. The stuffed challah draws attention, paired with sweet treats like baklava and cardamom kouing.

People are saying

"The pastries here are delicious and bursting with flavor."

"You have to try the carrot cake; it's a stunner."

"I dreamed of the stuffed challah and its amazing flavors."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 20% service charge is added to all bills.

2

An additional 24% surcharge is included for service and healthcare charges.

3

Expect limited menu options, especially for brunch and lunch items.

14
Breads Bakery - Union Square image 1

Bakery offers fresh bread aroma and a lively morning atmosphere with many locals. Seating includes covered outdoor dining and a compact industrial interior near the kitchen. Pastries like almond croissants and babka stand out as exceptional.

Coconut and chocolate chip cake stands out as a divine choice. The chocolate banana cake also offers a super delicious option, with a variety of other cakes and sweets available alongside breads and croissants.

Challah stands out for its festive style and sesame topping. It tastes delicious and rich, often recommended alongside other baked goods.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries here to be delicious and fresh."

"I found the challah here to be the best I'd ever had."

"The Tunisian Sandwich's spicy harissa provides a sophisticated heat."

Good to know

1

Breads Bakery offers sandwiches, salads, bakery items, and coffee.

2

The caraway rye bread is only available on weekends.

3

They sometimes have items on the menu only for that particular month, like the cheesecake babka in May.

15
Brooklyn Diner image 1

Large, bright diner with traditional New York decor and retro exterior creates an authentic vibe. Atmosphere feels lively and celebrity-infused, with comfortable seating and booths ideal for people watching. Design uses shutters and mirrors to avoid feeling cramped, distinguishing it from typical NYC diners.

Chocolate cake comes as a double-layer slice priced at $15. It pairs well with milkshakes and stands out as a 10/10 dessert option alongside other cakes like strawberry cheesecake and coconut cake.

Challah bread here is tasty and great. It holds up well in sandwiches like tuna salad with cheese and lettuce.

People are saying

"This Diner burger was juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

"The challah here is served by friendly and helpful staff."

"You have to try the chocolate cake; it's rich without being too sweet."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day.

2

The restaurant closes at 9:00 p.m.

3

Reservations are needed for this diner.

16
gertrude’s image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with cramped tables and dark lighting that creates an intimate vibe. Creative cocktails and a menu featuring familiar dishes with unique twists attract a lively, convivial crowd. Outdoor patio seating includes heaters, making it comfortable for groups despite tight spaces.

Seven-layer cake stands out as a must-try dessert with rich, satisfying flavors. The chocolate layer cake ranks among the top experiences, offering a memorable finish to a meal.

Warm challah appears in several forms like French toast sticks and bread pudding. The challah bread burger also stands out as a savory option.

People are saying

"The food here is unreal, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared."

"That seven-layer cake is insane and a total highlight."

"I felt like a real New Yorker enjoying the great Challah here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Happy hour features $10 martinis and $3 oysters from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Gluten-free options are available, including bagels and burger buns.

17
Breads Bakery - Upper East Side image 1

Roomy bakery with varied seating options including sofas, high tops, and cushioned chairs creates a cozy atmosphere. Multiple music sources play simultaneously, contributing to a lively but sometimes noisy vibe. Pet-friendly space offers wifi and power outlets, supporting work and relaxation.

Fresh cakes sit beautifully in the shop window, including a coconut chocolate chip cake and a lemon cake. The chocolate babka resembles a marble chocolate pound cake or brioche Danish.

Great challah knots and a festive Rosh Hashanah apple challah stand out here. Challah bread is exceptional but priced around $9 for a small loaf, and it can sell out quickly.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be fresh, fragrant, and delicious."

"The chocolate babka is like a cake with plenty of chocolate."

"I found the challah here to be exceptional and festive."

Good to know

1

Cash is not accepted at the coffee stand.

2

You need to order while you are in line even if you don’t see what they offer.

3

The prices are on the high side, with croissants costing $5 to $6 each.

18
Ostrovitsky Bakery image 1

Small, clean bakery with a warm atmosphere and a polling system for ordering. Fully kosher with a wide selection of pastries and breads, including notable challah and rugelach. The scent of fresh baked goods fills the air, creating a heavenly aroma along the avenue.

Tiramisu cake and chocolate mousse cake stand out among the cake options. The bakery offers a nice selection of cakes and pastries, including sponge and babka varieties.

Large breakaway challah loaves are available, ideal for Shabbos. The challah is consistently fresh and highly regarded for its quality.

People are saying

"These pastries are rich, flaky, and super fresh."

"I found their challah to be amazing and you could taste the quality ingredients."

"I found the cake here to be a great bakery."

Good to know

1

On Sundays, the bakery has a section on baked goods on sale for half price.

2

This bakery is fully kosher.

3

The price for two donuts is $10.

19
Elbow Bread image 1

Small bakery with rustic wooden accents and bright, airy lighting creates a cozy, friendly atmosphere. No seating inside encourages a grab-and-go experience amid a bustling vibe. Aromas of fresh bread and pastries fill the space, adding to its charm.

Cakes come in a wide selection with famous tarts featuring fillings like seasonal fruit and chocolate. The marble cake stands out as a delicious treat that offers a good energy boost.

Flaky, soft, and buttery textures define the challah croissant, which tastes unmistakably like challah. Varieties include a vanilla challah honey bun and a classic honey Challah Pullman.

People are saying

"You have to try their chocolate babka from the bakery; it sells out fast."

"I loved their challah croissant, it wasn't too sweet."

"I loved the marble cake; it was a delicious treat."

Good to know

1

A double pretzel costs $15, while a single pretzel usually costs $7.

2

Expect no line on Friday mornings around 9:45am.

3

The bakery does not start serving pretzels until later in the day.

20
Breads Bakery - Upper West Side image 1

Modern bakery with extensive covered outdoor seating and a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with the smell of fresh bread. Space feels busy and cozy, with a coffee shop vibe and friendly service. Outdoor area includes heaters and plugs, making it comfortable for longer stays.

Loaf cakes come in banana, lemon, and coconut chocolate chip flavors. The gluten-free coconut chocolate chip cake has a special taste and is delicious. The lemon cake tends to be dry and crumbly with a weak lemon flavor.

Offers an assortment of Challah with chocolate and cinnamon babka alongside spinach and feta burekas. The Challah bread has a taste that varies by personal preference and is not highly recommended.

People are saying

"The bakery's almond croissants are buttery, flaky, and so delicious."

"I found the cakes here to be the best I had ever tasted."

"I thought the challah here was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The bakery doesn't have seating options inside and has few tables outside.

2

If you go at the last hour, the cheesecakes are $5.

3

The price for two cups of tea is $10 plus tax.

21
Maison Pickle image 1
American restaurant

Small space with stylish layout and multiple bars creates a lively atmosphere. Noise levels rise with loud music and close seating, making conversation difficult. Both indoor and outdoor seating offer comfortable options despite crowding.

A 24-layer chocolate cake stands out with its decadent richness and wonderful flavor.

Fried chicken pairs with thick, fluffy Challah toast in several dishes. The Challah French toast options come in large portions and feature a honey fried chicken twist.

People are saying

"The American food here has huge portions, I had to take leftovers home."

"The 24-layer cake is seriously impressive."

"The challah French toast and chicken are huge and could be split."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for visiting on a Friday night.

2

The restaurant serves brunch every day.

3

Go on wine Wednesdays for the best deals.

22
Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Ridgewood image 1

Spacious cafe with ceramic-tiled walls creates a loud, energetic atmosphere that fills the space. Plenty of seating inside and on the patio supports a busy, bustling vibe. Stylish, modern design contrasts with the high noise level, making it a lively spot for those who enjoy vibrant settings.

Raspberry almond tea cake stands out with its fruity flavor and nutty crunch. Cakes come alongside latte and tea options.

Challah bread offers a subtle sweetness from honey and pairs well with simple dishes like eggs. It stands out alongside other breads like sourdough for its delicious flavor.

People are saying

"Their coffee and desserts were so delicious."

"The challah bread here is so delicious and subtly sweet."

"I think the cheesecake is the best."

Good to know

1

Parking in Ridgewood can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect small portions for the prices offered.

3

The cafe can get crowded, especially during peak hours.

23
Butterflake Bakeshop image 1

Dim lighting and slightly disheveled setup create a chaotic atmosphere. Regulars find artisanal bread and decorative cakes stand out, with exciting doughnut flavors adding variety. Despite some cleanliness concerns, the bakery maintains a long-standing handmade tradition.

Cakes come beautifully decorated with delicious chocolate on chocolate and a hint of orange flavor. Delivery is reliable, with cakes arriving on time and looking stunning as well as tasting great.

Challah here used to be delicious and consistent even through ownership changes. Recently, the recipe changed and now the challah is dry and bad.

People are saying

"I found this bakery to be terrific with different sweets each week."

"The cake here is delicious and looked stunning."

"I thought their challah was delicious and tip-top quality."

Good to know

1

Butterflake Bakeshop offers a huge variety of baked goods, including seasonal items.

2

The bakery is open early and late, making it convenient for all schedules.

3

They accommodate people with allergies, ensuring a safe experience for all customers.

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