TLDR
Must-try croissants & laminated baguette. Known for focaccia that sells out. Previously a Chelsea Market go-to, now permanently closed.
Details
A beloved bakery known for its exquisite croissants and unique laminated baguette [1]. While many rave about items like the lemon brioche and focaccia [2], [3], some patrons have unfortunately found pastries to be stale and overpriced [4]. The bakery was also recognized as a good spot for takeaways and a convenient lunch option within Chelsea Market [5], [6].
Food Overview
ALF Bakery was celebrated for its exceptional pastries, particularly its croissants and a unique laminated baguette. The lemon brioche and focaccia were also highly recommended and often sold out quickly [1], [2]. While most feedback was positive, a recent negative review described a pastry as stale and overpriced [3]. The bakery also offered savory options like potato danishes and ham and cheese croissants [4].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended dishes include the croissants, laminated baguette, lemon brioche, and focaccia, though availability could be an issue as items often sold out [1], [2]. Savory options like the potato danish were also popular [3]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •potato danish(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customer feedback is largely positive, with many praising the bakery's croissants and baguettes. However, a few recent reviews indicate disappointment with stale and overpriced items [1].
Caveats
ALF Bakery has permanently closed as of December. There is information suggesting a potential reopening in Astoria under a new name, Gordon Shumway's Bakery [1], [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ALF BAKERY
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where Can I Get Some Sort Of Good Chocolate Bread
"This user provides information that ALF Bakery is reopening in Astoria under a new name, Gordon Shumway's Bakery."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Get Some Sort Of Good Chocolate Bread
"This user expresses sadness about the closure of ALF Bakery."
NegativeFrom post: Where Can I Get Some Sort Of Good Chocolate Bread
"This user mentions getting chocolate bread at ALF Bakery, noting its closure and expressing sadness."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter hoped Alf Bakery would reopen in a bigger place after resolving its issues."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter explained that Alf Bakery closed due to its basement location not being prime for traffic, rising rent, and personal family matters."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter provided details about Alf Bakery's closure, mentioning potential future plans for a new spot and family matters."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter expressed sadness upon learning Alf Bakery had closed."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter also confirmed that Alf Bakery closed in December."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter informed others that Alf Bakery had closed in December."
NegativeFrom post: Im Going To Chelsea Market This Week Can I Ask
"This commenter listed Alf Bakery as a place to try, but later learned it had closed."
NeutralFrom post: Savory Croissants
"Commenter seconded the praise for the potato danish at Alf and also mentioned the mushroom one rules."
PositiveFrom post: Savory Croissants
"Commenter listed Alf as a place with good savory options and recalled having the ham and cheese croissant and potato danish."
NeutralFrom post: The 25 Essential Pastries To Eat In New York City
"The author mentioned trying the Laminated Baguette at ALF Bakery."
NeutralFrom post: Itinerary Review For 4day Birthday Visit
"Alf Bakery is mentioned as an option within Chelsea Market for a quick lunch."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Best Patisserie In Manhattan
"A list of bakeries was provided, including ALF."
PositiveFrom post: What Deli Sandwich Shop Am I Missing
"ALF was listed among several other sandwich spots and bakeries."
PositiveFrom post: One Dishrestaurant You Had To Go Back To The Next
"The focaccia at ALF Bakery in Chelsea Market is a highly sought-after item, often selling out quickly. The commenter found a warm slice to be excellent."
PositiveFrom post: Afternoon Baked Treat
"This commenter expressed their love for ALF Bakery's lemon brioche."
PositiveFrom post: Afternoon Baked Treat
"This user recommended ALF Bakery in Chelsea Market, highlighting the Lemon Brioche and laminated baguette as exceptional."
PositiveFrom post: Whats One Food Spot In Nyc Thats Actually Gotten
"Alf bakery is listed as a restaurant that has potentially improved."
Neutral