TLDR
Iconic, travel-friendly babka and Parisian-quality croissants. A go-to NYC destination for top-tier Jewish and French-style baked goods.
Details
Renowned for its iconic babka and exceptional French-inspired pastries, this bakery has solidified its status as a must-visit destination in New York City [30], [31]. While the chocolate babka is frequently hailed as a 'life changing' treat [47], the bakery also offers a variety of high-quality items including croissants [60], [61], cheese sticks [75], and seasonal specialties like honey cake and hamantaschen [11], [84]. Although some diners have noted a decline in quality or concerns over pricing [36], [92], [94], it remains a staple for locals and visitors alike, with convenient kiosks in popular areas like Bryant Park [23], [49].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on Jewish and French-style pastries, with the chocolate babka serving as the most recommended item [12], [53], [55]. Other favorites include cheese sticks [75], croissants [60], [61], and rugelach [70], while items like the black and white cookie [7] and honey cake [12], [13] have received more mixed or unremarkable reviews.
Highlights / Recommended
"The chocolate and cinnamon babkas are the most frequently recommended items [32], [33], [47], alongside the highly praised cheese bread sticks [75], [76]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •babka(27)
- •chocolate babka(16)
- •chocolate rugelach(5)
- •cinnamon roll(3)
- •rugelach(3)
- •cinnamon babka(3)
- •croissants(2)
- •caprese sandwich(2)
- •chocolate banana bread(2)
Caveats
Some customers have noted that the pricing can be steep for certain items [12], [92], [94], and it may not be suitable for those with severe nut allergies [80], [81].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About BREADS BAKERY
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: 96th And Broadway To Columbus Circle A Walk With
"Mentioned in a list of food spots."
NeutralFrom post: Bangbang Recommendations For Parents Night Out
"Suggested as part of a bang-bang recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Need To Gift Desserts For A Family Friend From
"The bakery's babka is a reliable hit with Asian relatives and offers a good shelf life; a berry variety is suggested for those who prefer fruit over chocolate."
PositiveFrom post: Need To Gift Desserts For A Family Friend From
"An Asian user finds their babka enjoyable because it is not too sweet."
PositiveFrom post: Need To Gift Desserts For A Family Friend From
"The user considers the cinnamon babka to be the best flavor."
Positive