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The Best of New York · Eat · Desserts

The best desserts in New York.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 12 places.

I’ve been known to plan entire afternoons around a single dessert. A crosstown subway ride for a cronut? Done it. A 45-minute wait for banana pudding? Multiple times. These iconic New York City desserts have earned their reputations for a reason, and I’ve personally verified every single one. Stretchy pants recommended.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide

Best desserts in New York, 2026

  1. Bibble & SipBakeryBibble & Sip has garnered a reputation for making the most heavenly cream puffs in New York City.
  2. Dominique Ansel BakeryBakery · SoHoThe best way to describe this popular New York City bakery would be.Michelin-star quality at a fraction of the price.
  3. Keki Modern CakesBakeryKeki’s Bouncy Cheesecake (light and silky) is like nothing you’ve ever had before.
  4. Levain BakeryBakery · Upper West SideConsistently ranking among the best desserts in New York City, their gooey chocolate chip walnut cookies have amassed a cult-like following.
  5. Magnolia BakeryBakery · West VillageLayered with vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and sweet whipped cream, this banana pudding is rich and creamy, making it a great treat year-round.
  6. Supermoon BakehouseBakery · Lower East SideIntricate layers of airy doughy goodness entangled with a soft and creamy nutella center.
  7. Breads BakeryBakery · Upper West SideDark chocolate ribbons of Nutella delicately folded into layers of airy dough, Bread’s babka was named the best in New York City.
  8. Doughnut PlantBakery · Lower East Side
  9. Maison PickleRestaurant · Upper West SideThe mile-high cake is massive, which means you should plan to have leftovers for a few days.
  10. Petee's Pie CompanyBakery · Lower East SideSo if you’re exploring the Lower East Side, swing by for some of the best desserts New York City has to offer.
  11. Pinklady Cheese TartBakery · ChinatownPerfectly salty and sweet, the cheese tarts are made with a blend of three types of rich cheeses and creams.
  12. Van Leeuwen Ice CreamCafe · DUMBOCharacterized by rich flavors, this artisanal ice cream is all about creativity.

On the map

Where they are.

6 neighborhoods, Upper West Side and Lower East Side most of all.

Lower East Side

Upper West Side

Chinatown

DUMBO

SoHo

West Village

Best desserts in New York, 2026

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Best desserts in New York, New York Dearest, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 14 Iconic New York City Desserts (Worth the Wait).