In the heart of New York City, an aromatic paradise awaits: the bakery. A place where flour meets creativity, and sugar blends with tradition, the bakery scene thrives on the passion of its proprietors. Yet, as the city boasts a myriad of options, a delightful challenge arises: how well do you know the Black-owned bakers who elevate the culinary landscape? To lend a hand in your delectable quest, here’s a curated list of 10 Black-owned bakeries that not only tantalize the palate but also share stories of resilience, culture, and community in their neighborhoods.
1. Sugar Hill Creamery
Address: 2260 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 531-1000
Website: sugarhillcreamery.com
Located in Harlem, Sugar Hill Creamery marries classic and innovative flavors to create extraordinary ice creams. Their artisanal ice cream is crafted in small batches, using premium, locally sourced ingredients. With a commitment to community engagement and a menu that highlights historical flavors—from lavender to peach cobbler—this creamery is well worth the visit.
2. The Bake Shoppe
Address: 911 E 10th St, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contact: (718) 377-9000
Website: thebakeshoppe.com
Nestled in Flatbush, The Bake Shoppe offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying fresh pastries and cakes. Known for their buttery croissants and decadent cakes, this bakery combines Southern flair with New York hustle. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it an essential stop for any sweet tooth.
3. Sweet Potatoes Bakery
Address: 2484 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10030
Contact: (212) 234-6360
Website: sweetpotatoesbakery.com
Sweet Potatoes Bakery specializes in crafting Southern-style cakes that honor familial heritage. They are especially famous for their sweet potato pie, a must-try if you’re craving a taste of home. This Harlem gem serves not only delicious desserts but also stories and memories that are baked into every slice.
4. Baked by Melissa
Address: 5 locations across NYC
Contact: (212) 260-3000
Website: bakedbymelissa.com
While this bakery is now recognized across the nation, its roots begin with the entrepreneurial spirit of Black women. The mini cupcake connoisseur offers whimsical flavors and colorful presentations. With locations scattered throughout the city, it’s impossible to resist the temptation of indulging in their bite-sized wonders.
5. Cake Man Raven
Address: 272 Carribean Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233
Contact: (718) 774-1500
Website: cakemanraven.com
A cultural icon in the heart of Brooklyn, Cake Man Raven is revered for its rainbow cake and signature flavors that have garnered celebrity attention. This bakery represents the vibrant culture of the community with bold colors and even bolder tastes. Raven’s creations are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, making it a must-visit.
6. The Good Batch
Address: 193 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 665-1601
Website: thegoodbatch.com
Located in the Village, The Good Batch specializes in artisanal cookies and ice creams that evoke nostalgia. A celebration of all things sweet, this bakery emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients and clever combinations. With an inviting atmosphere, The Good Batch beckons you to try their ice cream cookie sandwiches on a sunny day.
7. Melba’s Bakery
Address: 300 W 114th St, New York, NY 10026
Contact: (212) 864-7777
Website: melbasrestaurant.com
Melba’s Bakery is a snug corner of sweetness in Harlem, offering a selection of classic American pastries with a Southern twist. Known for their cornbread muffins and signature banana pudding, Melba’s celebrates roots and flavors that create a comforting environment for all. This bakery passionately embraces heritage while encouraging exploration of new tastes.
8. Patisserie by pastry chef Gregory M. Pomeroy
Address: 391 Stanhope St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Contact: (347) 405-0538
Website: patisseriebygregory.com
Innovative and artful, Gregory M. Pomeroy’s bakery features a fusion of traditional French patisserie and local ingredients. Each pastry is uniquely designed, often inspired by the seasons and current trends. A wander here is akin to an art exhibit, marrying visual elegance with culinary flair. Prepare for a feast that delights every sense.
9. Melt Bakery
Address: 16th St & 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 533-6500
Website: meltbakery.com
Specializing in gourmet ice cream sandwiches, Melt Bakery offers a playful take on nostalgia. They use artisan cookies and rich, flavorful ice creams to create unique combinations that will satiate the most discerning sweet tooth. A visit here evokes the delight of childhood summers spent enjoying treats on a sunny afternoon.
10. One Girl Cookies
Address: 68 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 855-4955
Website: onegirlcookies.com
An adorable bakery that champions artisan cookies and delicious cakes, One Girl Cookies marries the charm of Brooklyn with exceptional quality. This bakery emphasizes sustainability and ethical sourcing, crafting treats that not only taste great but feel good to enjoy. Their commitment extends from the ingredients to their community involvement.
As you meander through your next neighborhood, why not take up the challenge of visiting one—or all—of these exceptional bakeries? Picture yourself savoring a croissant while seated in a quaint café or indulging in a slice of rainbow cake that transports your taste buds somewhere spectacular. In this melting pot of culinary talent, each bakery is a vibrant expression of the community it serves. Are you ready to embark on this delectable adventure and support the vibrant tapestry of Black-owned businesses in New York City?
