Byen Bakeri

Introduction / Overview

For those of us in the Washington region seeking a truly unique and comforting culinary experience, a visit to Byen Bakeri offers an authentic slice of Scandinavia right here in Seattle. More than just a local bakery, Byen Bakeri—which translates to “The Town Bakery” in Norwegian—is a beloved neighborhood gem that operates as a full-service coffee shop, pastry shop, takeout restaurant, and Scandinavian-inspired eatery. They specialize in crafting traditional Nordic pastries, artisan breads, and savory lunch options, all made from scratch and by hand. Since opening their doors in 2013, they have become a destination for locals who appreciate the delicate balance of rich tradition and high-quality ingredients, often incorporating classic Scandinavian flavors like cardamom, marzipan, and lingonberry into their extensive menu. From a quick morning coffee run paired with a perfectly flaky pastry to a satisfying, cozy lunch, Byen Bakeri embodies the spirit of 'hygge'—the Danish concept of comfortable conviviality and cozy well-being.

The current ownership, which proudly identifies the business as women-owned and family-run, has thoughtfully blended the original Scandinavian foundation with a modern sensibility, emphasizing a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. The appreciation for authentic international flavors is evident in the heartfelt testimonials from local patrons, who often highlight the friendly service and the delightful surprise of finding such specific Scandinavian treats as marzipan pastries, semlor (a traditional Swedish sweet roll), and the intricate Princess Cake right in their own city. They have made a genuine impact on Seattle's diverse food landscape, contributing an international flair that makes the local dining scene even more special.

Location and Accessibility

Byen Bakeri is conveniently situated in a bustling and accessible part of Seattle, making it an easy spot for residents across the Washington region to visit. Their physical address is 15 Nickerson St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA. Located in the North Queen Anne neighborhood near Seattle Pacific University, the location offers a perfect stop for daily commuters, students, and neighborhood residents alike. The business understands the importance of accessibility for all patrons in the Washington community, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance. For those driving, finding a spot is made simple with the provision of free street parking nearby, which is a welcome convenience in an urban setting like Seattle.

Furthermore, the bakery has adapted to the needs of the modern consumer by offering several flexible service options, ensuring that whether you're hurrying to work or planning a relaxed weekend treat, your visit can be tailored to your schedule. The ability to quickly grab your order or have it delivered means this taste of Scandinavia is never far, no matter where you are in the Seattle area.

Services Offered

Byen Bakeri provides a comprehensive range of services and products, catering to various daily needs and special occasions. Their offerings extend far beyond a standard bakery counter, establishing them as a versatile neighborhood hub:

• Bakery and Pastry Shop: Daily baking of artisan Scandinavian pastries, including items like Cardamom Rolls, Kringle, Boller, Croissants, and various Danish. They also offer a wide selection of cookies, like the classic chocolate chip or more specific Scandinavian pinches and folds.
• Coffee Shop: Serving a full range of coffee beverages to accompany their baked goods, perfect for the morning rush or a leisurely Fika (the Swedish tradition of a coffee break with a treat).
• Savory Food Service: Providing a substantial menu of savory items, including breakfast items (like the Pesto Breakfast Sandwich and Quiche), gourmet sandwiches, and traditional Scandinavian open-faced sandwiches called Smørrebrød.
• Celebration Cakes and Desserts: Specializing in custom cakes for events, including the famous green marzipan-covered Princess Cake and the traditional Norwegian celebration cake, Kransekage. They also offer cake slices and mini-tarts for single-serve enjoyment.
• Takeout and Delivery: Offering convenient service options including Curbside pickup, Delivery, In-store pickup, and general Takeout for all menu items.
• Catering: Providing Scandinavian pastries, cookies, desserts, and sandwich platters for meetings, parties, and large events.

Features / Highlights

This local Washington business distinguishes itself through a variety of unique features and a dedicated focus on community and quality:

• Scandinavian Specialization: A true rarity in the area, offering a vast assortment of authentic Nordic baked goods, breads (like Swedish Rye and Dark Rye), and regional specialties that bring a genuine taste of Northern Europe to Seattle.
• Identifies as Women-Owned: A proud local business led by women, contributing to the diversity and strength of Washington's entrepreneurial landscape.
• Commitment to Scratch-Made Quality: All products, from the sweet pastries to the hearty breads, are made from scratch, by hand, reflecting a deep respect for artisanal baking techniques.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: The business is openly LGBTQ+ friendly, cultivating an atmosphere where everyone in the Washington community feels welcome and comfortable.
• Savory Scandinavian Lunch: Beyond sweets, they offer filling and unique lunch options, such as the Scandi Turkey sandwich with lingonberry jam and cardamom mayo, or traditional Salmon Smørrebrød.
• Flexible Payment Options: Accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and modern NFC mobile payments for customer convenience.
• Cozy and Cute Atmosphere: Patrons frequently comment on the charming interior, which enhances the overall 'hygge' experience—perfect for a quick, restorative visit.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or place an order, the following contact information is provided:

• Address: 15 Nickerson St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
• Phone: (206) 218-1000

What is Worth Choosing

For Washington residents, choosing Byen Bakeri means opting for an establishment that offers exceptional quality, authenticity, and a welcoming community focus. It's not just a place to buy bread; it's a culinary journey to Scandinavia without leaving the city. The commitment to using traditional recipes and scratch-made methods ensures every item—from the rich, buttery Boller to the savory Jalapeño Cheddar Baguette—is of the highest standard. Customer testimonials consistently praise both the incredible quality of the pastries and the always friendly service, indicating a business that genuinely cares about the patron experience. Whether you’re a Scandinavian food enthusiast seeking nostalgic flavors like semla and marzipan, a Seattle coffee lover needing a quality morning stop, or simply looking for a wonderful, women-owned local business to support, Byen Bakeri stands out. The combination of its authentic Nordic fare, easy accessibility (including free street parking and a wheelchair accessible entrance), and diverse service options makes it an excellent choice for a quick visit, a catered event, or a cozy breakfast or lunch in the Queen Anne area.

Byen Bakeri

15 Nickerson St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA