Hummingbird cake, a delightful Southern classic, has blossomed into a beloved confection that captivates the taste buds of New Yorkers. This moist, fragrant cake, synonymous with bananas, pineapples, and a hint of spice, invites food lovers to experience a slice of nostalgia wrapped in a beautifully simplistic package. As you wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of New York, you’re bound to stumble upon a trove of bakeries and cafes offering their unique interpretations of this tantalizing treat. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey, exploring ten exceptional places to savor hummingbird cake across the city.
1. Magnolia Bakery
Address: 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 462-2572
Website: magnoliabakery.com
Renowned for their iconic banana pudding, Magnolia Bakery doesn’t disappoint with its hummingbird cake. This charming establishment exudes an irresistible warmth, and their slice of hummingbird cake is imbued with comforting flavors. Topped with a sumptuous cream cheese frosting, every bite feels like a picnic in the South. Venture in for a nostalgic experience amidst the delightful decor and delicious aromas wafting through the air.
2. Sweet Lady Jane
Address: 64 W 74th St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 580-7625
Website: sweetladyjane.com
Stepping into Sweet Lady Jane feels akin to entering a whimsical cake wonderland. Here, their hummingbird cake is a true standout. With layers infused with crushed pineapple and ripe bananas, this cake is artistically adorned with a plush cream cheese frosting that has just the right amount of sweetness. The intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for indulging in a quiet moment filled with flavors that never go out of style.
3. Flour Bakery & Café
Address: 114 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 476-8473
Website: flourbakery.com
This bakery has revolutionized the New York pastry scene, combining a creative flair with a passion for ingredients. Flour Bakery & Café’s hummingbird cake is a testament to their expertise, fusing a delightful array of spices that awaken the palate. The layers are consistently moist, enriched by banana and pineapple, making it a delightful experience worth savoring. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, and you’re in for a treat!
4. Momofuku Milk Bar
Address: 251 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 864-5590
Website: milkbarstore.com
Infusing a modern twist into traditional desserts, Momofuku Milk Bar presents a hummingbird cake that is anything but conventional. This establishment specializes in playful, imaginative flavors, and their take on hummingbird cake is no exception. Expect a delightful melding of flavors wrapped in whimsical layers that challenge perceptions of texture and taste. If you’re in the mood for the unexpected, this haven will engage your senses like no other.
5. Baked
Address: 359 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 222-0345
Website: bakednyc.com
Situated in the heart of Red Hook, Baked exudes a rustic charm. Their hummingbird cake is as visually stunning as it is appetizing, layered with decadent cream cheese frosting. Each bite seamlessly melds the sweetness of pineapple with the warmth of spices, creating a comforting embrace of flavors. This bakery is superior in not just flavor, but also in the experience, offering an inviting environment perfect for leisurely indulgence.
6. Dominique Ansel Kitchen
Address: 30-32 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 219-2773
Website: dominiqueansel.com
Dominique Ansel, a culinary innovator known for the Cronut, showcases his pastry prowess within his own kitchen. The hummingbird cake here is elevated to a new echelon, characterized by its unique flavor profile and artful presentation. Thoughtful touches ensure that each slice is an explosion of flavor. Prepared with the freshest ingredients, this cake stands as a testament to Ansel’s commitment to excellence and creativity in the pastry world.
7. Cake Man Raven
Address: 708 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 855-1500
Website: cakemanraven.com
For those seeking what feels like home, Cake Man Raven captures that essence splendidly. Their hummingbird cake is a reflection of joyful Southern cooking—hearty, rich, and unfailingly delicious. The nuanced combination of bananas, pineapple, and spices is perfectly balanced, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that feels wonderfully festive. The homey charm of the bakery perfectly complements the soul-satisfying nature of the cake.
8. Little Cupcake Bakeshop
Address: 30 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 431-3300
Website: littlecupcakebakeshop.com
Little Cupcake Bakeshop offers an inviting atmosphere, perfect for indulging in their delightful hummingbird cake. Celebrated for their commitment to sustainability, this bakeshop layers flavor with purpose. The cake, charmingly adorned with frosting and sprinkles of pecans, harmonizes the sweetness of bananas and tartness of pineapple beautifully. With every slice, you’re not only treating yourself but also delighting your conscience.
9. The Sweet Lobby
Address: 4 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 691-7000
Website: thesweetlobby.com
The Sweet Lobby brings forth an interpretation of the hummingbird cake that is irresistibly delightful. Their culinary artistry shines through every layer, ensuring moistness and flavor resonate throughout. Carefully crafted with the perfect blend of tropical fruits and spices, this cake is a literal slice of paradise. Take your time to enjoy it in their cozy surroundings, and let their attention to detail elevate your experience.
10. A Piece of Cake
Address: 701 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 586-3000
Website: apieceofcake.com
A Piece of Cake is a hidden gem boasting an array of flavors, but their hummingbird cake truly shines. Their meticulous craftsmanship results in a lush, moist cake that bursts with flavor. Well-balanced spices and a rich cream cheese icing embellish the layers, making it an unforgettable indulgence. It’s a perfect stop for those who seek solace in a delightful slice of cake amid the hustle and bustle of the city.
New York City’s culinary landscape is enriched by the advent of hummingbird cake—an exploration of culture, flavor, and nostalgia. Each of the bakeries mentioned provides a unique take that delights the senses and fulfills cravings, inviting you to indulge in a delicious slice of Southern charm. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or a curious visitor, step into these delightful establishments to revel in the enchanting world of hummingbird cake. You might discover a new favorite treat, one that piques your curiosity and invites you to return time and again.
