Best black and white cookies in New York, 2026.

Breads Bakery is undoubtedly one of the best bakeries in all of New York City. Gaining popularity for their award-winning chocolate babka, their excellence extends beyond the loaf of bread to include uniquely flavorful black and white cookies.

These cookies, featuring a croissant-like texture from laminated dough, boldly redefine tradition. There’s also a surprise chocolate layer that adds a really good touch of sweetness. My only complaint is that this beloved New York City black and white cookie is that it’s only sold at Breads’ Upper East Side location. But trust me when I tell you the trek is worth the treat.

Established in 1916, Orwashers has remained a beloved institution in New York City, serving generations of locals. Renowned for their commitment to traditional baking techniques honed over a century, the Orwasher family brought their recipes from Hungary to the Upper East Side.

With their expertise in baking, it’s no surprise that Orwashers crafts some of the best black and white cookies in NYC. Blurring the line between cake and cookie, these treats have a fluffy, pancake-like texture. The frosting perfectly complements the cookie’s soft texture, offering a treat that melts in your mouth.

Famous for churning out some of the best bagels in New York City, Russ & Daughters may not be your first. Thought for a black and white cookie in NYC, but adding one to your order is a choice you won’t regret. Differing from the soft texture of Orwashers’ cookie, Russ & Daughters’ version tends to be firmer.

With subtle hints of almond and vanilla, accompanied by just a touch of lemon, this cookie distinguishes itself with a unique flavor profile. Breaking it in half reveals a satisfying snap, creating the ideal complement to their incredible bagels.

The kind of place you’ll tell friends about, and then wish you hadn’t.

Founded in 1934 and serving New Yorkers for 80+ years, Zabar’s is quite possibly the most beloved grocery store in New York City. It’s hard to imagine a more old-fashioned, family run grocery store in the Big Apple. But I’m not here to tell you where to do your grocery shopping. I’m filling you in on a not-so well kept secret. Zabar’s makes one of the best black. And white cookies in NYC. Not too big and not too sweet, the cookie at Zabar’s is expertly balanced. It’s a great introduction to NYC black and white cookies since it’s traditional and tasty.

Located a mere two blocks from the High Line (one of the best parks in New York City) is Empire Cake, one of the best bakeries in Chelsea. Although Empire Cake’s fame comes from their homemade twinkies and cupcakes, they also make one of the best black and white cookies in NYC. It’s spongy and soft, and completely dipped in chocolate. Unlike other black and white cookies in New York City that only ice the top, the chocolate dip makes this one of the sweetest black and white cookies in New York City.

Unpopular opinion. I’ll die on this hill. NYC’s cookie scene is better than its cupcake scene ever was.

Since 1946, William Greenberg Desserts has been a revered bakery in the Upper East Side, earning its place as one of the oldest and best in NYC. With a successful second location in the Upper West Side, this iconic establishment’s NYC black and white cookies consistently top award lists.

Unlike other bakeries where black and white cookies are secondary, they shine as William Greenberg’s main attraction. Known as the quintessential and most iconic in NYC, these cookies offer a burst of originality.

Beyond black and white, the bakery also crafts a variety of colorful cookies. A visit to William Greenberg Desserts is not complete without indulging in one of these delights, sure to leave you dreaming for more.