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Babka and cake in New York

A babka that stands up to the complexity of a fine cake instead of just being a dry, bready disappointment.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Cafe Aviva image 1
Cafe Aviva image 2
Cafe Aviva image 3
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Coffee shop

Small, beautifully decorated space offers a cozy atmosphere with chill vibes and relaxed, welcoming energy. Seating feels intimate and the music stays low, creating a pleasant environment. Unique touches include in-house nut milk and a variety of delicate, highly praised pastries.

Chocolate babka stands out as rich and freshly baked, pairing well with matcha. The cinnamon babka offers a delicious flavor, and the babkas overall are addicting and crave-worthy.

Cakes here are consistently excellent and pair well with the coffee. They share the spotlight with delicious breads, making the baked goods stand out.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best on the island."

"I found the chocolate babka to be amazing."

"I enjoyed the delicious cakes here."

Good to know

1

Cafe Aviva opens at 8am on weekdays, perfect for early risers.

2

Family-friendly atmosphere with a kids' menu available.

3

Healthy ingredients are prioritized in all food and drink options.

02
Sixteen Mill Bakeshop image 1

Minimalist bakery space offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with friendly energy. Gluten-free and refined sugar-free baked goods stand out for their quality and inventiveness. Regulars appreciate the gluten-free focus, refined sugar-free products, cozy vibe, and minimalist design.

Chocolate and Cinnamon Babka Muffins offer a buttery, classic flavor with a rich, gluten-filled texture. The chocolate babka stands out as incredibly delicious and satisfying when fresh from the oven.

Weekly cake flavors show a lot of creativity. Carrot cake comes in a small portion priced at $7.

People are saying

"The gluten free baked goods here have amazing flavor and texture."

"These gluten-free cakes are delicious by any standard."

"The babka here is soft, flavorful, and perfectly textured."

Good to know

1

All baked goods are gluten-free and refined sugar-free.

2

The bakery offers a variety of vegan options alongside gluten-free items.

3

Payment methods include credit cards and mobile payments.

03
La Farine Pâtisserie et Café image 1

Bright, elegant bakery offers a cozy Parisian vibe with natural light and comfy seating. Chocolate babka delights with thick swirls and rich taste. Lemon cake shines with a perfect sweet-tart balance, making it a sunny treat.

Chocolate babka features thick chocolate swirls throughout and looks more appealing than other desserts. It tastes delicious and is a heavenly treat that’s hard to resist.

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.

People are saying

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

"The chocolate babka is rich, chocolatey, and one of the best."

"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.

04
Little Red Kitchen Bake Shop image 1

Take-out bakery with wide selection of fresh, high-quality baked goods including exceptional cinnamon rolls and unique babka flavors. Warm, welcoming atmosphere with grab-and-go convenience near transit. Known for generous portions and distinctive treats not commonly found elsewhere.

Cinnamon babka stands out with its rich flavor. Herb and feta babka offers a savory twist. Blueberry yuzu babka combines fruit and citrus for a unique taste.

Almond cake comes in a gluten-free option and a regular version. Babka bun, coffee cake, and chocolate chip cookie offer a variety of sweet baked goods.

People are saying

"The herb and feta babka here is to die for."

"The hot chocolate is decadent with a toasted marshmallow."

"The herb and feta babka cake is to die for."

Good to know

1

Customers are encouraged to place their order without delay due to high demand.

2

Cookies come packaged by type, with two cookies per pack for freshness.

3

The cookies were featured on CBS Morning News, highlighting their popularity.

05
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 babka stands out with its moist texture, chocolate-y flavor, and a golden-brown flaky top. Black Sesame Babka features a generous filling of black sesame paste, offering a unique twist on the classic.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the chocolate babka to be the best I ever had."

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

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.

06
Make Believe Bakeshop image 1

Cozy coffee shop with adorable decor and a magical atmosphere invites relaxation and work. Loose leaf teas and in-house baked goods like legendary blueberry bars and best croissants create a distinct flavor experience. A cute kids' library adds a family-friendly touch.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, sweet layers. Other baked treats like the cinnamon cruffin and seasonal apple cider donut muffin add variety to the baked goods selection.

Offers a Gluten-Free Pistachio Rose Cardamom Cake that looks as good as it tastes. The cake pairs well with a dark Americano coffee and sits among other baked goods like cookies, scones, and focaccia.

People are saying

"I loved their coffee and ham and cheese croissant."

"You should not skip out on the babka or other baked treats."

"Their pistachio cake is one of the best sweets I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Everything is made in-house, ensuring freshness.

2

They serve breakfast, lunch, dessert, coffee, and teas.

3

Get there early for the bread pudding.

07
Modern Bread and Bagel image 1

Bakery offers 100% gluten-free options with vegan and dairy-free choices in a small, chic interior. The space feels crowded and chaotic, with tight seating and a confusing layout. Noise levels rise as the place fills, creating a busy atmosphere.

Chocolate babka stands out as a desserty bread that works well for gluten free diets. Gluten free babka and bagels offer good flavor and justify their price.

Gluten free options cover a wide range, including a blueberry loaf cake and a cinnamon bun slice. Pre-made cake and cupcake mixes are made in-house, and Lakte potato cakes stand out as well.

People are saying

"I thought the gluten-free bagels were the best I've ever had."

"I found the gluten-free babka to be the best I have ever had."

"I found the gluten-free bagels to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is entirely gluten-free, making it suitable for people with coeliac disease.

2

The grill is turned off daily around 3:00 PM, so arrive before then.

3

On Sundays, expect a lot of people at the bagel shop.

08
Breads Bakery - Union Square image 1

Bakery buzzes with a fresh bread aroma and lively locals. Chocolate babka offers rich, decadent flavor that impresses. Cakes like coconut and chocolate chip delight with divine taste. Outdoor seating and cozy industrial space complete the experience.

Chocolate babka stands out for its rich, decadent flavor and addictive quality. Loaves are breathtaking and consistently meet high expectations despite a higher price point.

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.

People are saying

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

"The chocolate Babka is rich, gooey, and incredibly chocolatey."

"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.

09
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.

Chocolate babka blends coffee and chocolate with a stronger coffee flavor, making it a good match for coffee. It sells out fast, so arriving early is key to get this popular item.

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.

People are saying

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

"You have to get here early for the chocolate babka; it sells out fast."

"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.

10
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.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, tasty flavor and soft texture. The bakery offers great babka alongside sponge cake, served by a friendly family.

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

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.

11
Country Boy Bakery image 1

Old fashioned bakery with kosher certification offers a wide array of pastries including rainbow cookies and babka. Atmosphere feels full of Long Island charm and stays clean and inviting. Fridays bring a line out the door, reflecting steady popularity.

Chocolate babka comes fresh out of the oven on Sunday mornings. It has a good flavor and often sells out quickly.

Cakes here have great taste and are never dry. Options include 7-layer chocolate, Black Forest, and carrot cake, with personalized messages available on request.

People are saying

"This bakery is the best I've ever visited."

"The chocolate cake here is creamy and delicious."

"I plan to visit again specifically for their delicious chocolate babka."

Good to know

1

The bakery is kosher certified for those who care.

2

There is usually a line out the door on Fridays.

3

The bakery mostly offers non-dairy options, but they also have dairy products.

12
Bad Roman image 1
Italian restaurant

Modern decor combines with a lively, energetic atmosphere that suits groups celebrating special occasions. Bold, Instagram-worthy cocktails and a vibrant, whimsical design create a fun vibe. Seating by windows offers views of Central Park and Columbus Circle, enhancing the experience.

Garlic babka stands out as a staple and pairs well with dishes like filet mignon meatballs. It features prominently alongside favorites such as wedge salad and chicken rigatoni.

Ricotta and tiramisu stand out as the only saviors on the cake menu. Desserts include lemon cheesecake and tiramisu ice cream cake.

People are saying

"The truffle pasta here is out of this world."

"The chocolate cake was genuinely the best I’ve ever had."

"The Roasted Garlic Babka is a must order."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at Bad Roman.

2

I recommend making a reservation at least a day in advance to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant is located on the third floor of a shopping center.

13
Lysée image 1
Dessert shop

Pastry boutique and café blends Korean and French aesthetics with a museum-like dessert gallery showcasing edible art. The space feels minimalist and intimate, with small tables and curved alcoves creating a private atmosphere. Desserts offer subtle, savory flavors and are presented with striking visual detail.

Crunchy exterior and soft interior define the chocolate babka, packed with a good amount of chocolate. The traditional Lysée babka offers a buttery, classic taste.

Cakes here stand out for their moist texture and unique flavors like smoky corn and delicate vanilla. Presentation is artful and iconic, with layers of mousse and crunchy elements adding depth.

People are saying

"The cakes here are beautifully crafted and delicately balanced."

"The desserts here are like edible art, so beautifully made."

"The babka here is buttery and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Expect to wait 2-3 hours for a table if you don't reserve.

3

The prices of desserts are high, with some items costing up to $17.

14
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.

Chocolate babka stands out for being moist, not too sweet, and addictive. Apple and black sesame coconut babkas offer unique, delicious variations. The babka is often considered world class and worth buying by the loaf.

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.

People are saying

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

"I loved the babka here; it's the best in the city."

"I found the cakes here to be 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.

15
Zabar's image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with old-world charm and an edgy omni-deli ambiance filled with the aroma of specialty cheeses and coffee. Crowded with serious shoppers, the atmosphere can feel tense but remains a local institution known for its unique bakery and extensive gourmet cookwear upstairs.

Chocolate and cinnamon babka come freshly made in house with a rich, soft texture. The babka pairs well with espresso grind coffee and stands out as a heavenly treat among other baked goods.

Cakes include cinnamon babka and crumb cake, with the babka standing out as amazing. Apple crumb cake is available but tends to be a little dry.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the greatest ever."

"The grocery store has a huge variety of specialty items and fresh food."

"The cake here is awesome and the service is friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.

16
Orwashers Bakery image 1

Artisanal bakery layout with a display case to the left creates a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. The space offers outdoor seating and fills with the aroma of fresh bread. Known for wide variety of baked goods including bagels, babkas, and croissants, it maintains a long-standing reputation for quality.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich flavor and consistent quality. Sticky Bun Babka earns a reputation for its unique sweetness. Nutella babka offers a milder taste but is less remarkable compared to others.

Wide variety of cakes and breads includes a notable Apple Honey Cake and crumb cake. The apple cake tastes nice and the crumb cake is very tasty.

People are saying

"I found the sourdough bread to be one of the best I'd ever tasted."

"I thought the babkas here were great."

"I found a wide variety of delicious cakes and baked goods."

Good to know

1

If you have an online pick-up order, have your confirmation email ready.

2

Customers should expect to wait a long time for their drinks.

3

There is no sitting area in the bakery; it's just take out.

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.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, decadent flavor and moist texture. Cheesecake babka offers a unique, creamy twist, while chocolate hazelnut babka adds a nutty depth. All babkas here are consistently delicious and well-crafted.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the chocolate babka here to be next level."

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

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
Martine's Fine Bake Shoppe image 1

Bakery offers a charming, cozy atmosphere with stunning display cases showcasing delicate pastries. Space feels spacious and bright with natural sunlight and wood accents. Regulars and friendly staff create a warm, welcoming vibe despite occasional busy chaos.

Chocolate babka stands out for its rich flavor and delicious texture. Options include cinnamon and Nutella babka, with delivery and shipping available for convenience.

Cakes here feature rich layers like the Royal with chocolate, hazelnut, and crunch. Options include marble cake, coconut cake, and a standout napoleon cake, all known for their buttery, decadent quality.

People are saying

"The pastries here are fresh, beautifully crafted, and bursting with flavor."

"I drove from NYC for their chocolate babka; it's the best I ever tasted."

"Their chocolate babka cake is the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The bakery is located close to the Metro-North Crestwood train station.

2

Waiting for a table is expected due to the bakery's popularity.

3

Customers should double-check that their orders are correct.

19
Thai Diner image 1
Thai restaurant

American diner setting blends with Thai-style decor featuring plants and art, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy, multi-season space that welcomes dogs and service animals. Crowd tends to be cool and lively, with dim lighting and a mix of indoor and outdoor areas.

Thai tea babka French toast stands out for its rich yet balanced flavor. It pairs well with other breakfast items like the Thai breakfast sandwich and offers a decadent twist on traditional babka.

Fluffy and satisfying, the monster cake stands out with a unique taste. Other options include Thai coffee cake, guava cake, and a light coffee monster cake similar to tiramisu.

People are saying

"The diner food here is flavorful, comforting, and perfectly executed."

"The Thai tea babka French toast was truly incredible."

"The pineapple cake is unique and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 1.5 hours during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for breakfast to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant serves brunch items daily before 5pm.

20
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

Cinnamon babka has a generous amount of cinnamon and a slightly underbaked texture that makes it similar to a cinnamon roll. Chocolate babka is also popular and often bought to take home.

Babka cake stands out with its rich, sweet layers. Buying a loaf is common for later enjoyment.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"I loved the New York Cheesecake; it was excellent and in abundant portions."

"The cinnamon babka was a standout item."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

21
Syrena Bakery image 1

Traditional bakery with clean, inviting interiors and a warm, festive atmosphere. Quiet energy encourages savoring authentic flavors, often attracting early visitors. Outdoor bench offers a spot to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee in a relaxed setting.

Fresh babka comes with just enough sweetness and a moist texture. Both plain and cheese babka stand out as authentic Polish comfort foods, often chosen for special occasions like Easter.

Traditional Polish cakes stand out with rich flavors like the rum cake that disappears quickly. Custom cakes come beautifully decorated and taste great, all at affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be delicious and still warm."

"I found their custom birthday cakes beautifully decorated and delicious."

"This babka is massive, it could feed a family of four."

Good to know

1

The bakery opens very early for morning customers.

2

Expect long lines during holidays due to high demand.

3

There is no indoor seating; a bench is available outside.

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