As autumn descends upon New York, the air fills with the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples, coaxing residents and visitors alike into cozy corners of the city where apple crisp reigns supreme. This beloved dessert harnesses the essence of the season, providing not just comfort, but also a sense of nostalgia. In this article, we venture into ten neighborhoods to discover where you can savor the best apple crisps in the city. Each venue not only serves delightful interpretations of this classic dish but also highlights the rich culture of its surrounding community.
1. The Orchard House – Upper West Side
Address: 120 W 81st St, New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 864-4600
Website: theorchardhouse.nyc
The Orchard House epitomizes cozy dining, adorned with wooden beams and vintage decor that evoke a farm-to-table ethos. The apple crisp here is made with a blend of local Empire and Granny Smith apples, topped with a crunchy oat streusel. Their philosophy of using seasonal ingredients not only bolsters the crisp’s flavor but also supports local farmers.
2. Pie Corps – Greenpoint
Address: 16 Bleecker St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: (718) 599-2999
Website: piecorps.com
Nestled in Greenpoint, Pie Corps specializes in artisanal pies, including their renowned apple crisp, made with cinnamon and nutmeg-infused apples. The delightful dish comes nestled in a buttery, flaky crust and is served with house-made vanilla bean ice cream. The ambiance channels warmth, reminiscent of family gatherings, making every bite a fragrant memory.
3. Baked – Red Hook
Address: 359 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 222-0345
Website: bakednyc.com
Baked, a charming bakery in Red Hook, presents an exquisite rendition of apple crisp that reflects the heart of its neighborhood—a mix of traditional and eccentric. Their dish features a bottom layer of spiced apples, topped generously with a crunchy layer of pecans and oats. This juxtaposition creates a texture that elevates the classic taste, leaving an indelible impression on the palate.
4. Sweet Corner – East Village
Address: 384 E 11th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 228-1900
Website: sweetcorner.com
Sweet Corner is revered for its artisanal desserts. Their apple crisp is a marvel; the use of organic honeycrisp apples complements the robust oat topping. The quaint café’s inviting ambiance, complete with eclectic artwork, creates a perfect spot for leisurely indulgence. Patrons often savor it with whipped cream or a scoop of gelato, amplifying the richness of this autumnal delight.
5. Amy’s Bread – Multiple Locations
Address: 250 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014 (West Village)
Contact: (212) 462-4338
Website: amysbread.com
From its inception, Amy’s Bread has championed quality baking, offering an apple crisp that’s universally adored. It’s crafted using tart apples paired with a perfectly crisp topping infused with hints of cardamom. The bakery’s West Village location provides a community-oriented space where patrons can explore a blend of fresh bread and delectable sweets, encouraging social interactions over baked goods.
6. Milk Bar – Williamsburg
Address: 382 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 218-7690
Website: milkbarstore.com
A culinary marvel known for its innovative takes on American classics, Milk Bar’s apple crisp is a delightful deconstruction of tradition. Utilizing a compote of seasonal apples spiced to perfection, their crisp is served in a minimalist bowl, accompanied by a dollop of their signature soft serve. The playful approach draws in a younger crowd looking to experience nostalgia in a modern context.
7. The Smith – East Village
Address: 55 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 420-9800
Website: thesmithnyc.com
The Smith serves up a homestyle apple crisp that resonates with diners seeking comfort. Made from a blend of tart and sweet apples, it’s topped with a hearty oat and pecan crumble. The rustic decor and bustling atmosphere encapsulate the essence of urban dining, making it a go-to for neighbors craving a warm, fulfilling dessert after a long day.
8. Levain Bakery – Upper West Side
Address: 351 A West 74th St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 874-6080
Website: levainbakery.com
Famous for their cookies, Levain also offers a surprisingly delightful apple crisp. With generous portions of cinnamon-spiced apples and a caramelized topping, this dessert is a perfect post-lunch treat. The iconic bakery’s loyal customer base has cultivated a community around their delectable offerings, turning every visit into a jubilant event.
9. Serafina – Various Locations
Address: 1063 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022 (Upper East Side)
Contact: (212) 486-2020
Website: serafinarestaurant.com
Serafina’s Italian twist on apple crisp incorporates unique flavors such as anisette, delivering a fusion of tastes that excites the palate. This Italian eatery’s ambiance speaks to authenticity, serving as a bridge between cultural heritages and culinary traditions, making their dessert a must-try.
10. Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse – New Jersey (Close to NYC)
Address: 69 Mielke Rd, Milford, NJ 08848
Contact: (908) 996-7421
Website: bobolinkdairy.com
A short jaunt from New York, Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse is famous for their rustic apple crisp, crafted with heirloom apples from their own orchards. The dedication to sustainable farming practices reinforces a deeper appreciation for the flavors on your plate. This bakery exemplifies the charm of countryside baking while remaining close enough to the vibrant city life.
In New York’s abundant culinary landscape, apple crisp transcends its status as merely a dessert to become a vessel of tradition, community, and nostalgia. Each establishment not only serves this classic dish but also fosters connections among patrons, creating a richer experience that lingers long after the last bite. So, as the leaves change and the crispness of autumn envelops the streets, these ten venues are well worth a visit. Explore and enjoy the warmth of apple crisp—an emblem of the season and a testament to the city’s vibrant food culture.
