Beard Papa's

For New Yorkers with a serious sweet tooth, the search for a truly exceptional dessert can lead to some wonderful discoveries. On the Upper West Side, one such discovery is Beard Papa's, a bakery that proudly claims to serve the "World's Best Cream Puffs." This bold statement is backed by a loyal following of customers who are captivated by the bakery's delicious and unique offerings. With its adorable logo and reputation for quality, Beard Papa's has become a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. This article will provide a comprehensive and factual look at what makes this Japanese bakery a local favorite, from its signature cream puffs to its welcoming atmosphere.

The core of Beard Papa's appeal is, without a doubt, its cream puffs. These aren't your average, run-of-the-mill pastries. Customers consistently describe them as "delicious and HUGE," a rare and welcome combination in a city where portions can sometimes be small. The cream puffs are made with a double-layered choux pastry, which is filled with a rich, creamy custard only when you order, ensuring the puff remains crispy and fresh. This commitment to quality is what prevents the pastry from becoming soggy and is a key reason for its popularity. While an individual puff may seem pricey at around $3.50, the size and flavor justify the cost for many. The bakery also offers a discount for purchasing multiple puffs, with a $1 discount on a half-dozen and a $3 discount on a dozen, making it an excellent option for sharing or for stocking up on these beloved treats.

Beyond the original vanilla-filled puffs, Beard Papa's offers a wide array of flavors to explore. Regulars and first-time visitors alike are eager to try different options, from the classic chocolate to more unique seasonal fillings. While the green tea cream puff is a highly sought-after flavor, it can sometimes be sold out, which can be disappointing for some. However, this scarcity only highlights its popularity and encourages a return visit. Other flavors, such as the blueberry cheesecake, have also received high praise. The bakery also sells assorted mini puffs, which are perfect for tasting a variety of flavors or for a smaller treat. This extensive menu of cream puffs, éclairs, and other desserts, like cheesecakes and warm fondant au chocolat, ensures there's always something new and exciting to try.

The atmosphere and service at Beard Papa's also contribute to its charm. The establishment is described as clean, and the wait time is generally not very long, even during busy periods. The staff is efficient and polite, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ordering process. The store and logo themselves are "adorable," adding to the overall experience and making it a fun place to visit. For New Yorkers who have enjoyed Beard Papa's in other cities, the familiarity and consistent quality are a major draw, though some have noted that the cream puffs in New York may be slightly smaller than those they've had elsewhere. Despite this minor observation, the overwhelming consensus is that they are "still freakin delicious," and a visit is always a worthwhile indulgence. This combination of great food, a clean environment, and a fun brand identity makes Beard Papa's a unique and enjoyable bakery experience.

Location and Accessibility

Beard Papa's is located at 2167 Broadway, New York, NY 10024, USA. This address places it in the vibrant and well-trafficked Upper West Side neighborhood of Manhattan. The bakery's location on Broadway makes it highly accessible for a wide variety of New Yorkers. For those who rely on public transportation, the shop is situated near several key subway stations. It is just a short walk from the 79th Street station, which serves the 1 train, and not far from the 86th Street station, which serves the 1, 2, and 3 trains. This easy subway access makes Beard Papa's a convenient stop for commuters, students, and residents from all over the city.

The bakery is also well-served by numerous bus routes that run along Broadway and other major streets in the area, providing even more options for getting there. As with most of Manhattan, street parking can be a challenge. However, the abundance of public transportation and the highly walkable nature of the Upper West Side mean that a car is not necessary. The store's visible storefront and easy ground-level access make it a simple and welcoming destination for anyone in the neighborhood looking for a delicious treat.

Services Offered

Beard Papa's specializes in freshly baked cream puffs but also offers a variety of other desserts and beverages to round out the experience.

• Fresh Cream Puffs: The main service is the preparation and sale of their signature cream puffs. These are baked fresh daily and filled with a choice of custard cream, including vanilla, chocolate, and seasonal flavors, at the time of order.
• Variety of Flavors: The menu includes a rotating selection of flavors for both the puff shells and the fillings, such as green tea, churro, cookies & cream, and more. This variety encourages repeat visits to try new combinations.
• Mini Puffs and Éclairs: In addition to the large cream puffs, they also offer bite-sized mini puffs and éclairs, providing options for different appetites and preferences.
• Beverages: While the primary focus is on pastries, the bakery also serves a selection of beverages, which are a great complement to the sweet treats.
• Discounts and Bulk Orders: The bakery offers discounts for purchasing multiple cream puffs, with special pricing for half-dozen and dozen boxes, making it easy to buy treats for a group.

Features / Highlights

Beard Papa's has several key features that contribute to its status as a beloved local spot.

• High-Quality, Freshly Made Puffs: The most significant highlight is the quality and freshness of the cream puffs. The fact that the custard is added upon ordering ensures a crispy shell and a deliciously creamy filling every time.
• Large Portion Sizes: Customers consistently note that the cream puffs are "huge," which makes the price feel more than justified and provides a satisfying, filling dessert.
• Variety of Flavors: The wide range of available flavors, including unique options like green tea and ube, is a major draw for customers who enjoy trying new things.
• Clean Establishment: The bakery is noted for being a clean and well-maintained place, which is a crucial factor for a food-service business and enhances the customer experience.
• Adorable Branding: The store's branding and logo are considered "adorable," adding a fun and memorable element to the visit.

Contact Information

For those who wish to visit Beard Papa's or get in touch, the following contact information is available.

Address: 2167 Broadway, New York, NY 10024, USA

Phone: (212) 799-3770

It is always a good idea to check their hours of operation or to inquire about the availability of specific flavors, as they can sometimes sell out of popular items.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Beard Papa's is a fantastic choice for locals in the New York region, especially those on the Upper West Side, for a variety of compelling reasons. Its core appeal lies in its commitment to a single, iconic product: the cream puff. By focusing on making a high-quality, freshly filled, and generously sized cream puff, the bakery has carved out a special niche for itself. For a New Yorker looking for a unique and delicious dessert, Beard Papa's offers an experience that is hard to replicate. The variety of flavors and the availability of bulk discounts make it a great option for both a solo treat and a party dessert.

The bakery's location is a major benefit, as its proximity to major subway lines and its spot on Broadway make it easily accessible to a wide audience. The clean, friendly environment ensures a positive experience from start to finish. While some may note a difference in size compared to other locations, the consensus remains that the taste and quality are exceptional. Ultimately, Beard Papa's provides a perfect combination of a high-quality, delicious product in a convenient location, making it a well-deserved favorite and a recommended stop for anyone in the area looking for a truly great dessert.

Beard Papa's

2167 Broadway, New York, NY 10024, USA