32 Best Dessert Places In New York City

2 min read 31-12-2024

New York City, a culinary capital, boasts an incredible array of dessert destinations. From classic bakeries to innovative pastry shops, the city offers a sweet treat for every palate. This list compiles 32 of the best dessert places, categorized for easier navigation. Whether you crave a classic slice of cheesecake or an avant-garde creation, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings here.

Classic Confections:

Junior's Restaurant: Famous for its legendary cheesecake, a New York institution.
Eileen's Special Cheesecake: Another cheesecake powerhouse, known for its creamy texture and diverse flavor options.
Magnolia Bakery: Home of the iconic banana pudding and equally delicious cupcakes.
Lady Mendl's: Celebrated for their exquisite mille crêpes, a delicate and layered dessert.
Dominique Ansel Bakery: The creator of the Cronut, a revolutionary pastry that combines a croissant and a donut. Expect long lines, but it’s worth the wait.

International Indulgences:

Ladurée: Experience the elegance of French macarons in this Parisian-inspired patisserie.
Mille-feuille Bakery: A haven for those seeking authentic French pastries and tarts.
Venchi: This Italian chocolatier offers a delightful selection of chocolates, gelato, and other sweet treats.
Taiyaki NYC: Enjoy unique fish-shaped waffles filled with sweet custards and ice cream.
Momi Ramen & Noodle Bar (Dessert): While known for ramen, their mochi ice cream is a delightful surprise.

Modern & Innovative:

Momofuku Milk Bar: Known for its inventive desserts, including the Compost Cookie and Crack Pie.
François Payard Bakery: A sophisticated patisserie offering beautifully crafted French pastries.
Dessert Goals: Instagram-worthy creations and unique flavor combinations.
Black Seed Bagels: While known for bagels, their unique dessert bagels are a must-try.
Sugar and Plumm: A charming bakery with creative cakes and cupcakes.

Ice Cream & Frozen Delights:

Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream: Artisan ice cream with unique and unexpected flavor profiles.
Ample Hills Creamery: Creative and playful ice cream flavors with a focus on local ingredients.
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams: Known for its innovative and high-quality ice cream.
Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: Offers a wide range of unique flavors, including vegan options.
Grom: Italian gelato with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Chocolate Heaven:

Jacques Torres Chocolate: A chocolatier's paradise, offering a vast selection of handmade chocolates.
Max Brenner Chocolate Bar: A fun and interactive chocolate experience, great for groups.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop: A classic American chocolate shop with a wide variety of treats.
Dylan's Candy Bar: A colorful and whimsical candy store with a massive selection of chocolates.
Vosges Haut-Chocolat: Artisan chocolates with exotic and unique flavor combinations.

Cakes & Cupcakes:

Butter Lane: A popular cupcake shop with a wide variety of flavors.
Crumbs Bake Shop: Another cupcake chain known for its large and decadent cupcakes.
Cakewalk: A bakery specializing in beautiful and delicious custom cakes.
Sylvia's: Famous for its soul food, but don't miss their delectable desserts.
aroomwithaview: A stylish bakery with beautifully decorated cakes and pastries.

Other Notable Mentions:

Levain Bakery: Known for their enormous, gooey oatmeal raisin cookies. (Though technically a cookie, it's a dessert experience in itself!)
Chelsea Market: This marketplace houses several dessert vendors, offering a wide range of choices in one location.

This list provides a starting point for your New York City dessert adventures. Remember that tastes are subjective, so explore and discover your own personal favorites! Enjoy!