BAKERY PROFILE

Breads Bakery

★ 4.02,326 recorded reviewsUS$10–20

18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

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Breads Bakery
PLAN THE VISIT

Essential details

Address
18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Phone
(212) 633-2253
Website
Visit official site
Rating signal
4.0 from 2,326 recorded reviews
HOURS

Listed operating hours

  • Monday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
About and visit notes

In a city as dynamic and diverse as New York, a truly great neighborhood bakery can feel like a rare and cherished find. For many locals, that place is Breads Bakery. With its flagship location in the bustling Union Square neighborhood, Breads Bakery has established itself as a premier destination for exceptional baked goods, from sweet to savory. The moment you step inside, you are greeted by the irresistible aroma of fresh butter, chocolate, and yeast, a sensory experience that promises a delicious journey. It’s a place where traditional baking techniques meet modern tastes, creating a menu that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, Breads Bakery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it feel like a true community hub. It's a place where people gather to start their day with a coffee and a pastry, grab a quick but delicious lunch, or pick up a special treat to share with family and friends. The bakery's commitment to quality and the art of baking is evident in every item, from the perfectly flaky croissants to the hearty, rustic loaves of bread. The founders' passion for baking shines through in the details, making Breads Bakery not just a place to buy food, but a place to experience the joy of freshly made goods. This commitment has earned them a loyal following and critical acclaim, particularly for their legendary chocolate babka. But the magic of Breads Bakery extends far beyond this single item, encompassing a wide array of pastries, sandwiches, and other culinary delights that cater to every palate. The bakery’s success is built on a foundation of using high-quality ingredients and a dedication to craft that is increasingly hard to find. It’s a taste of Europe right here in the heart of New York City, with an emphasis on both Jewish and French baking traditions. This unique blend results in a menu that is both familiar and surprising, always offering something new to discover. The bustling energy of the city seems to melt away once you are inside, replaced by a sense of comfort and a genuine appreciation for good food.

The flagship location of Breads Bakery is a vibrant part of the Union Square neighborhood, conveniently situated at 18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA. This prime spot makes it incredibly accessible for people throughout the city. The bakery is just a short walk from the Union Square subway station, which serves a multitude of train lines including the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, and W. This central location means that whether you're coming from uptown, downtown, or Brooklyn, getting to Breads Bakery is simple and straightforward. For those who prefer to travel by bus, numerous routes stop nearby, making it an easy addition to your daily commute or weekend plans. The neighborhood itself is a destination, known for its iconic greenmarket and lively atmosphere, which adds to the overall experience of visiting the bakery. The accessibility of the location is a key factor in its popularity, as it allows people from all walks of life to drop in and enjoy a treat. Whether you’re a professional heading to work, a student in a nearby school, or a tourist exploring the city, Breads Bakery is right on your path. The storefront is welcoming, with large windows that showcase the tempting array of breads and pastries inside, drawing you in from the street. The bakery’s presence contributes to the vibrant street life of the area, providing a welcoming spot for people to meet, relax, and refuel. The Union Square location is not just a store; it’s a destination that is deeply integrated into the fabric of the neighborhood, serving as a landmark for delicious food and a friendly face. The proximity to parks and other local attractions means you can easily grab a sandwich or pastry to enjoy outside on a nice day. The strategic placement of this location reflects a deep understanding of New York City life and the needs of its residents, making it a truly local institution.

Breads Bakery offers a wide range of services and products that cater to various needs throughout the day. The menu is a testament to their dedication to quality and variety, ensuring there is something for everyone. From breakfast to lunch and everything in between, you can find a delicious option to satisfy your craving. A hallmark of the bakery is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, which is evident in the taste of all their offerings. They have also expanded their services to include catering, making their celebrated baked goods available for special events, office meetings, and family gatherings. Their online ordering and delivery options are also a huge plus for those who can't make it to the store. The bakery also prides itself on having a menu that is conscious of different dietary needs, with both vegetarian and some non-dairy options available. Their range of products is a reflection of a rich blend of culinary traditions, offering a taste of both French and Israeli baking. The menu is thoughtfully designed to provide a comprehensive experience, covering everything from simple, perfect coffee to elaborate, celebratory desserts. This attention to detail and variety is what keeps customers coming back, knowing they can always find something new and delicious to try. The bakers work tirelessly throughout the day, ensuring that every product is as fresh as possible, a feature that distinguishes Breads Bakery from many other establishments. The smell of freshly baked bread and pastries is a constant presence, a reminder of the passion and skill that goes into every item. This approach to freshness is a major part of their identity and a reason for their immense popularity.

Some of the services offered include:

  • Freshly baked artisan breads, including sourdough, challah, and rye.
  • A wide selection of pastries, such as croissants, cinnamon rolls, and various puff pastries.
  • Savory items including sandwiches, lunch salads, soups, and traditional Middle Eastern fare like shakshuka and sabich.
  • A full-service espresso bar with a variety of coffee and tea options.
  • Catering services for both small and large events.
  • Online ordering for pickup and local delivery services.

Breads Bakery is a standout in the New York City food scene, and its reputation is built on several key features and highlights that set it apart. The bakery's most celebrated item is undoubtedly its chocolate babka, a pastry that has garnered citywide acclaim and is a must-try for any visitor. Made with a combination of Nutella and dark chocolate, it’s a decadent and deeply satisfying treat that has been called the best in America by some food critics. Another highlight is the bakery's commitment to baking throughout the day, which means you can always find a fresh, warm item, no matter what time you stop by. This practice ensures the highest quality and freshness for every customer. The diverse menu, which blends French and Jewish baking traditions, is another significant feature, offering a unique and broad appeal. From flaky, buttery croissants to traditional challah and burekas, the range of options is impressive. The atmosphere of the bakery itself is a highlight; with its high ceilings and sunlit space, it’s a pleasant place to linger, whether you're grabbing a quick coffee or meeting a friend for a meal. The open layout of the bakery often allows customers to catch a glimpse of the bakers at work, creating an engaging and transparent experience that fosters a sense of trust and appreciation for the craft. The seasonal and holiday specials are another fantastic feature, with the bakery creating unique treats for events like Rosh Hashanah and Purim, offering locals a taste of tradition and seasonal flavors. Their savory options also deserve a special mention, as they provide a welcome alternative to the typical baked goods, with flavorful sandwiches and salads that make for a perfect lunch. The bakery has earned numerous awards and positive reviews for these features, solidifying its place as a top-tier establishment in New York City. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience and making every visit a pleasure. The dedication to not only creating delicious food but also providing a great customer experience is a core highlight of Breads Bakery.

Here are some of the key highlights that make Breads Bakery a local favorite:

  • Award-winning chocolate babka, widely considered a signature item and a must-have for any pastry lover.
  • Freshness guaranteed by baking throughout the day, ensuring warm bread and pastries are always available.
  • A unique menu that masterfully combines French and Jewish baking traditions.
  • A variety of savory lunch options, including sandwiches, salads, and soups.
  • A welcoming, sunlit space with a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.
  • Seasonal and holiday-specific baked goods that celebrate traditions and flavors.
  • High-quality ingredients are a top priority, evident in the taste and texture of every item.
  • Friendly and professional staff who enhance the overall customer experience.

For those looking to visit or get in touch with Breads Bakery, the main Union Square location can be found at the following address and phone number. The bakery’s central presence makes it a convenient and well-known spot for locals. The information below will help you easily find your way and connect with the staff for any inquiries. The bakery is a bustling place, but the team is always ready to assist customers with questions about their products, catering options, or anything else you might need to know. The provided phone number is a direct line to the main bakery, ensuring you can get the information you need in a timely manner. The address is also very specific and easy to locate, right in the heart of the neighborhood, making it a stress-free trip. Whether you're planning a visit or just want to confirm their hours, this information is your go-to resource. The bakery’s online presence also provides additional details, but for a direct and personal connection, the phone number is the best option. Their staff is knowledgeable about all the products and can provide excellent recommendations, especially if you are new to the bakery and want to try something special. They can also assist with placing large orders or answering specific questions about ingredients and allergens, making sure your experience is both delicious and safe. It's clear that Breads Bakery values direct communication with its customers, which is a great quality for a local business to have. The ease of access to this contact information reflects a commitment to serving the community effectively and professionally, further cementing its role as a trusted local institution.

Contact Information:

Address: 18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (212) 633-2253

Breads Bakery is a truly suitable spot for New York locals for a multitude of reasons, chief among them its deep integration into the rhythm of city life. The bakery is more than just a place to buy bread; it’s a cornerstone of the community. Its central location in Union Square, with easy access to major subway lines, makes it a convenient stop for a daily coffee, a quick lunch break, or an end-of-day treat. The consistent quality and variety of its offerings mean that it can cater to all moods and occasions, whether you need a celebratory babka or a simple, satisfying sandwich. The dedication to baking throughout the day ensures that locals can always find a fresh, warm item, a small but significant luxury in a fast-paced city. The bakery's blend of French and Jewish baking traditions creates a unique and diverse menu that reflects the city's multicultural palate, offering something familiar and something new all at once. For those living or working in the area, Breads Bakery feels like a trusted neighbor, a reliable source of comfort and high-quality food. It's the kind of place where the staff remembers your face and your usual order, making the experience feel personal and welcoming. Beyond the products themselves, the atmosphere of the bakery is a draw; it provides a momentary escape from the urban hustle, a sunlit space where you can pause, enjoy a good meal, and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. The bakery also contributes to the neighborhood's vitality by being a gathering spot and a point of pride for locals who can proudly recommend it to friends and visitors. The ability to cater to diverse needs, from a quick grab-and-go meal to a leisurely coffee break, makes it a versatile and essential part of the local landscape. In a city of countless choices, Breads Bakery has carved out a special place for itself by consistently delivering exceptional quality, a friendly experience, and a genuine passion for the art of baking. It is a true local treasure, and its continued success is a testament to its role as a beloved institution in the heart of New York.

VISIT FEATURES

Services and accessibility

These attributes come from the directory record and should be confirmed when essential.

Service options

  • Delivery
  • In-store pick-up
  • In-store shopping
  • On-site services
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

  • Coffee

Dining options

  • Breakfast

Amenities

  • Gender-neutral toilets
  • Toilet
  • Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi

Crowd

  • LGBTQ+ friendly

Planning

  • Quick visit

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
PHOTOS

See the bakery

VISITOR FEEDBACK

Reviews and recurring themes

Read individual comments as personal experiences, not verified guarantees.

babka 294rugelach 67challah 50almond croissant 26israeli 14cheese sticks 14addictive 12olive bread 9hamantaschen 8muesli 7
★ 4.0

Very tempting butter aroma, the croissant was really good, with almond filling inside and a cookie-like crispy outside. Maybe the croissant was so good that the cinnamon roll looked ordinary. The store also sells sandwiches, lunch salads and soups, with a lot of choices. It is a bakery that has won many awards, I will come back to buy croissants and try other foods.

Jun 12 · Louise (FareFortuna)
★ 1.0

Total waste of money. Insane you buy an almond croissant and you get neither of the distinctive traits that makes a pastry an almond croissant: the studded almond crust on top, and the almond filling inside. My crust had literally two tiny flakes of an almond. That’s it. 2 shavings. And absolutely nothing inside. Even as a basic croissant this sucked, it was flat and had no lift or air inside. Staff were nice but they can’t save this total disappointment of a pastry.Edit: In response to the reply, there was nothing inside. Zoom in on the pics and judge for yourself.

Jul 7 · Mick Yang
★ 5.0

The petite croissant is nice. Not crunchy but softy. You can sit there for a while to have a good time.I don’t like the eyesight that the staffs look at me. Like I did some mistakes there.

Feb 11 · C C
★ 5.0

Initially visited this bakery because my dad, who was visiting me from Michigan, saw it on a news segment and wanted to try the chocolate babka. I remember thinking, "great, another tourist trap to visit while he's here." However, I was greatly mistaken. The chocolate babka was amazing and I've returned to buy it for myself and for friends, birthday parties, and other occasions. I now visit quite often when in the area and have tried other specialties, such as the coffee cake babka and the Jerusalem bagel. The Jerusalem bagel is worth noting--very delicious for a bagel and quite sizable too. Breads Bakery offers a variety of other baked goods and has another counter with coffee and other things in the back. Very nice place, always great service at the register. They've become one of my go-tos whenever I'm in the Union Square Park area.

Jun 6 · Cliff Jones
★ 4.0

Cute little coffee shop and bakery. I had the latte, and it was very good. Also got the feta and spinach quiche, and that again was very good. Although it was extremely tiny in size. You also tried the strawberry tart, which again was very good, but again was very small in size. The interiors are very compact and has an industrial feel. Might not be the best place for you, if you’re looking for a relaxed and brunchy vibe. All the food was great, but my main complain was around how expensive it was given the portion size.

Jul 6 · Suman Hazra
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About this listing

This page combines directory records, available business details, submitted photos, and visitor feedback. Information may be incomplete or change without notice. For corrections, contact server@heavenlydelightsbakery.com.

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