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The Best of New York · Eat · Bakeries

The best bakeries on the Upper East Side

Updated September 2026. 8 places.

As a long-time local, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some of the best bakeries on the Upper East Side. Excelling at most things, this upscale neighborhood brims with elegant brownstones, chic boutiques, fine dining, and great cafes. It’s no surprise that the area would be home to irresistible bakeries too.

Ever noticed that bold, colored letter in the window of restaurants? That’s the establishment’s official letter grade issued by New York City’s Health Department that correlates with their sanitary inspection. When a restaurant is inspected they are given points for each violation that adds up to their overall inspection score.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best bakeries on the Upper East Side, 2026

  1. Breads BakeryBakery · Upper East Side
  2. By the Way BakeryBakery · Upper East SideThe entire selection of toothsome baked goods is gluten-free, dairy free, certified kosher and so dang delicious.
  3. LaduréeBakery · Upper East SideThe decor at Ladurée is perfectly Parisian, which makes it a great pit stop for any Francophile.
  4. LevainBakery · Upper East SideTheir gooey chocolate chip walnut cookies have amassed a cult-like following that only sounds surprising until you try them for yourself.
  5. OrwashersBakery · Upper East SideOriginally founded in 1916, Orwashers is one of the oldest bakeries on the Upper East Side.
  6. William Greenberg DessertsBakery · Upper East SideTheir iconic black-and-white cookies consistently grace the top of award lists every year, so ordering one is non-negotiable.
  7. NogluBakery · Upper East SideThis the perfect spot to get a mid-day pick me up.
  8. Padoca BakeryBakery · Upper East Side

On the map

Where they are

All in Upper East Side.

Upper East Side

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 11 Delicious Upper East Side Bakeries (Local’s Guide).