Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Central Park West Historic District

Bakeries

A bakery that treats a cookie like a signature craft rather than an afterthought to the main display.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Levain Bakery image 1
Levain Bakery image 2
Levain Bakery image 3
View all

Small bakery with a minimalist setup and cramped interior creates a rushed atmosphere where customers mostly grab cookies to go. Freshly baked cookies fill the air with a warm, inviting scent, and a single bench outside offers limited seating for tasting.

Cookies here have a rich, thick texture and a gooey center that stands out. They taste fresh and indulgent, often described as the best ever tried.

Cookies stand out with their unique texture and rich flavor. The bakery also offers fresh baguettes with jam and maintains a small, cozy atmosphere at its original location.

People are saying

"I found the cookies to be amazing, crispy outside and soft inside."

"These enormous, warm desserts are heaven."

"The cookies at this bakery are huge, warm, and gooey."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers takeout only; there is no seating available.

2

Expect long lines, especially during peak hours.

3

Warm cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

02
Délice Macarons image 1

Traditional French patisserie with meticulously kept displays and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating accommodate a relaxed pace, often attracting those seeking authentic macarons and croissants. The space feels like a slice of Paris, blending charm with quality.

Chocolate chip cookies stand out with a rich, satisfying flavor. Other treats like kouign amann and Almond Croissant also deliver excellent texture and taste.

Offers traditional French pastries with a strong focus on gluten-free options. Pastries and cakes stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"These macarons are delicious with potent, satisfying flavor."

"I thought the croissant was the best I've ever had."

"You have to try the chocolate chip cookie; it's exceptional."

Good to know

1

You should go early to Délice Macarons because they sell out fast.

2

There is a line out the door every weekend morning.

3

The baguettes are only available on the weekend.

03
By the Way Bakery image 1

Small bakery offers gluten-free and dairy-free treats with flavorful desserts that often surprise with their richness. The space feels cute and well maintained, decorated with a festive and beautiful style. It attracts those seeking safe, tasty options without cross contamination.

Gluten-free and dairy-free options include almond cookies and chocolate chip cookies that are well decorated. Brownie cookies and coconut cake also stand out among the cookie selections.

Everything in the bakery is gluten-free, making it a go-to spot for special cakes and pastries. The bakery offers exceptional service and a cute selection of gluten-free goodies, including kosher options.

People are saying

"I loved their gluten-free cakes; they were so moist and flavorful."

"I found the best gluten-free bakery here."

"I found the gluten-free cookies to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The bakery is gluten free and dairy free.

2

You can find many gluten-free pastries, cakes, and sweets at this bakery.

3

There is no place to sit in the bakery.

04
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.

Chocolate chip cookies come out perfectly gooey and bursting with flavor. Madeline cookies offer a light and citrusy taste that stands out.

Fresh-made products stand out with unique, flavorful options. The bakery offers a family-owned feel and a notable chocolate chip cookie.

People are saying

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

"This cute French bakery has a bright, airy atmosphere."

"The chocolate chip cookie is large, flat, and chewy."

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.

05
Billy's Bakery - Upper West Side image 1

Spacious bakery with ample seating and free WiFi offers a variety of baked goods including cakes, cookies, and pastries. Atmosphere ranges from relaxing to somewhat dim and grimey, with a mix of energy levels. Prices vary, with some items considered well worth the cost.

Butter cream cookies stand out with their rich flavor and are a frequent choice. Cookie sandwiches, especially the chocolate chip/vanilla combo, offer a tasty option with a bit of sweetness that some might find slightly high.

Cakes here stand out for their rich flavor and crowd-pleasing appeal. The bakery makes even usually disliked cake types taste astonishingly good.

People are saying

"These cupcakes are truly delicious and taste like real vanilla."

"I loved the delicious chocolate chip and butter cream cookies."

"The bakery's cake is so moist and the buttercream is perfect."

Good to know

1

The establishment only accepts card payments.

2

The upper West side location is open until 10:00 p.m.

3

There is no parking available near the bakery.

06
Barachou Upper West Side image 1

Tiny bakery with cozy seating and aesthetic decor offers a charming atmosphere filled with the scent of fresh baked goods. Known for exceptional cream puffs and delicious pastries, it attracts those seeking quality and a cute spot to enjoy treats.

The creme brulee cookie stands out with a rich flavor that lingers. Chocolate chip cookies tend to be dry and inconsistent, sometimes disappointing.

Offers an authentic French bakery experience with a focus on cream puffs and wonderful tarts. Presents a cute, charming atmosphere typical of French bakeries.

People are saying

"These croissants are the best I've had, even better than in France."

"You have to try the passion fruit cream puff at this bakery; it's life-changing."

"I'd definitely try the flan cake again; it's a solid choice."

Good to know

1

Currently, there is only room for one party to sit down.

2

You need to visit at an off-time if you want to sit down.

3

Prices for cream puffs start at $3+, and tarts are $6-7.

07
Milk Bar image 1
Dessert shop

Small space offers a cozy atmosphere with great vibes and cute interior. Music plays well, enhancing the relaxed energy despite the uncomfortably hot and humid environment. Seating is present but not available for use, focusing attention on the desserts and social experience.

Cornflake cookie and corn cookie stand out with unique flavors. Cookies taste delicious and offer a variety of options.

Cakes here come with a higher price tag compared to others. The bakery offers a great variety but the texture and flavor don't match the quality of buttercream found at other spots.

People are saying

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

"The soft serve ice cream here is so creamy and delicious."

"I found this bakery to be the best in town."

Good to know

1

Coffee is 50% off after 2pm.

2

Milk Bar advertises a $1 soft serve on the 16th of every month.

3

Desserts are priced at $4 each.

08
Orwashers Bakery image 1

Bakery fills with fresh bakery aroma and offers seating by large windows plus outdoor terrace with limited seats. Atmosphere feels cool and lively, often noisy and crowded. Bread and pastries stand out for high quality and distinct flavors.

Black and white cookies stand out with a rich, sweet flavor and a very good texture. Other options include chocolate chip, banana bread, and oatmeal raisin cookies, with some mini cookies priced at $12.50 for six.

Fresh bakery aroma hits you right away. Almond chocolate croissants stand out alongside sourdough and rye bread. Offers a solid mix of sandwiches and baked goods with a nice atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bakery's pastries and breads are perfectly made and delicious."

"Their breads are freshly baked and taste wonderful."

"I found the chocolate chip cookie to be buttery, chewy, and awesome."

Good to know

1

On street parking is a challenge and a matter of luck if you have a car.

2

They only offer paper cups and no ceramic cups.

3

The large latte is overpriced.

09
Modern Bread and Bagel image 1

Gluten-free bakery with best gluten-free bagels and artisanal bread offers mostly outdoor seating with heated patio and benches. Atmosphere feels modern and inviting but indoor space lacks tables and is limited. Energy is slow with some inefficiencies in layout and service.

Black and white cookies stand out with a delish taste and generous portions, sometimes including extras for free. The rainbow cookie offers a delightful alternative with a sweet, colorful twist.

An entirely gluten-free bakery with a wide range of options for breakfast and lunch. Shelves are loaded with true bagels, donuts, and chocolate babka all made without gluten.

People are saying

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

"This bakery is amazing for gluten-free options."

"I can't believe how amazing these bagels are, even gluten-free!"

Good to know

1

Everything at this place is gluten free.

2

The entire restaurant is dedicated gluten-free, making it a must-visit for any Celiac or gluten-sensitive people.

3

You should order ahead and pick it up to avoid waiting in the long line.

10
Patis Bakery image 1
French restaurant

Small bakery with cozy seating and chic decor creates a warm, bright atmosphere that feels like a European coffee shop. Loud rap music fills the space, making it lively but sometimes hard to hear conversations. Friendly, considerate customers add to the cheerful, inviting vibe.

Chocolate toffee cookies stand out with their rich flavor. A nice selection of cookies and baked goods fills the display.

Savory tarts and full-size cheesecakes stand out here, offering items not found at other branches. Toasty dairy goods and coffee pair well, though the croissants often come stale and lack freshness.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee and lattes here."

"The bakery staff are so friendly and great at their jobs."

"I thought their chocolate chip cookies were soft and among the best."

Good to know

1

Credit cards are not accepted; cash only for payments.

2

The establishment closes at 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They charge an automatic 15% tip before service is provided.

11
William Greenberg Desserts image 1

Bakery offers authentic black and white cookies with traditional icing colors and a cakey texture that stands out from others. Pastries come at affordable prices and include a variety of desserts beyond the signature cookies. Gluten-free options receive positive attention for quality and flavor.

Black and white cookies here are super cakey with authentic flavor and traditional icing colors. Gluten-free options taste great and fill a big gap for those avoiding gluten.

Decadent cobblers with various fruits and moist raisin challah stand out here. The bakery offers an assortment of colorful treats beyond the classic Black and White cookies.

People are saying

"I came here for the iconic Black And White Cookie."

"Their chocolate seven-layer cake is insane, with pillowy cake."

"I came for the iconic black and white cookie."

Good to know

1

The shop has a good selection of gluten-free options.

2

Visitors can pop into the bakery while strolling along Amsterdam.

3

They offer a variety of baked goods beyond just cookies.

Discover more

Central Park West Historic District, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...