I’ve always wanted to try the cookies from Levain Bakery! So, when we were dining near by, we had to stop in and my God… it’s every thing you want in a cookie! They are huge, warm, and packed full of deliciousness!! I ordered a small box containing chocolate chip, chocolate/chocolate chip, and oatmeal raisin! I am a huge oatmeal raisin fan! Levains oatmeal raisin is everything you want, huge and full of oats and raisins, chewy and delicious! If you love sweets, I highly recommend stopping at any of their locations! You will be so happy you did!!!
Jun 11 · Maryann SavageBAKERY PROFILE
Levain Bakery
★ 4.03,110 recorded reviewsUS$1–10
340 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Directory information can change. Confirm current hours, prices, products, dietary needs, and custom-order requirements directly with the bakery.
PLAN THE VISIT
Essential details
- Address
- 340 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA
- Phone
- (917) 464-3746
- Website
- Visit official site
- Rating signal
- 4.0 from 3,110 recorded reviews
HOURS
Listed operating hours
- Monday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
About and visit notes
In the vibrant culinary landscape of New York City, where countless eateries compete for attention, some places manage to stand out and become true local legends. Levain Bakery is one such institution. Famed for its truly massive and utterly irresistible cookies, Levain has earned a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers and visitors alike. This article takes a closer look at what makes Levain Bakery a must-visit destination, particularly focusing on its location on Lafayette Street, its delightful offerings, and the reasons it has garnered such a loyal following.
Levain Bakery's story began in 1995 with two friends and a small Upper West Side storefront. Their goal was simple: to create the perfect chocolate chip cookie. What they developed was a cookie unlike any other—one that was famously thick, slightly crispy on the outside, and wonderfully gooey and underbaked in the center. The recipe was a hit, and it wasn't long before Levain Bakery became synonymous with cookie perfection in New York City. The brand has since expanded, with multiple locations now serving legions of fans across the city and beyond. However, each shop, including the one on Lafayette Street, maintains the same commitment to quality, a cozy atmosphere, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods that has defined Levain since its inception. Whether you're a lifelong New Yorker or just visiting, the appeal of a warm, giant cookie is universal, and Levain Bakery delivers on that promise every single time.
The Levain Bakery location we're highlighting is conveniently situated at 340 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA. This particular bakery is nestled in a prime area, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the city. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with several subway lines and bus routes stopping nearby. The Lafayette Street location is a perfect spot for a post-dinner treat if you are dining in the area, or a quick stop while walking through the lively neighborhoods of NoHo and the East Village. The accessibility makes it a popular destination for both local residents and tourists looking for an authentic New York City treat. The bakery's street-level presence is welcoming, inviting passersby to step inside and experience the magic. The area is known for its unique shops and bustling energy, and Levain Bakery fits right into this dynamic environment, offering a comforting and delicious respite from the city's fast pace. Finding the bakery is part of the fun, a little treasure hunt that ends with a perfect sweet reward.
The Lafayette Street location, while perhaps smaller than some of the others, still manages to exude a charming and welcoming atmosphere. The interior is often described as cozy and inviting, with the tantalizing smell of baking cookies filling the air. This location is a testament to the brand's enduring appeal, drawing in consistent crowds from the surrounding neighborhoods. The accessibility and visibility of this spot ensure that it remains a key destination for anyone with a sweet tooth in this part of New York City. The bustling nature of the neighborhood means that while you might find a line, the service is generally efficient, and the delicious reward is always worth the short wait. It's a place where the community gathers, creating a sense of camaraderie among fellow cookie enthusiasts waiting for their turn to indulge.
Levain Bakery offers a curated selection of baked goods, with a primary focus on their iconic cookies. Each item is crafted with high-quality ingredients and a dedication to the recipe that has made them famous. The menu is intentionally focused, ensuring that every item is a masterpiece. The core offerings are what have kept customers coming back for decades, and they are worth a special mention. While the cookie is the star, they also offer a few other items that are equally delightful.
- Signature Cookies: The star of the show. These cookies are famously large, weighing in at six ounces. The most popular flavors include the classic Chocolate Chip Walnut, Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, and Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip. Each one is a decadent experience, with a unique texture that is both crisp on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside.
- Other Baked Goods: While cookies are their specialty, Levain Bakery also offers other delectable treats. These can sometimes include things like brioche, rolls, or loaf cakes. These items are baked with the same care and attention to detail as their cookies, providing a fantastic option for those seeking a different kind of sweet treat.
- Breads: In addition to their sweets, Levain Bakery also bakes a variety of artisan breads. These are often made with a rustic, homemade feel and are a great addition to any meal. This further showcases the bakery's commitment to traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients.
- Coffee and Milk: What's a cookie without a perfect drink to go with it? The bakery offers a selection of coffee and cold milk, the perfect accompaniment to their rich, warm cookies. It’s the ultimate combination for a delightful break during a busy day.
The bakery's fame is not just due to the size of their cookies but also the quality and consistency of the product. The focus on a limited menu allows them to perfect each item, making every cookie a memorable experience. The list of offerings is short but sweet, demonstrating a philosophy of quality over quantity that has served them well.
There are several key features and highlights that make Levain Bakery stand out as a top-tier local business in New York City.
- Legendary Cookies: The main draw is undoubtedly the cookies. They are not just cookies; they are a culinary experience. The unique texture and generous size have become the stuff of legend, setting them apart from any other bakery in the city. The famous "crisp outside, gooey inside" texture is a consistent highlight mentioned in countless reviews.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Despite their fame and often long lines, the bakeries maintain a charming, almost humble, vibe. The Lafayette Street location, in particular, offers a warm and inviting space that makes you feel like you've stumbled upon a secret gem, even though it's a well-known establishment.
- High-Quality Ingredients: The bakery prides itself on using premium ingredients. This commitment to quality is evident in the rich, deep flavors of their chocolate and the fresh, wholesome taste of their other ingredients. This dedication to quality is a major reason for their widespread acclaim.
- Friendly and Efficient Service: Even during peak hours, the staff at Levain Bakery is known for being friendly and quick. This efficiency ensures that the line moves steadily, and customers are served with a smile, making the overall experience a pleasant one from start to finish.
For those looking to visit the Levain Bakery on Lafayette Street, here is the essential contact information:
Address: 340 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Phone: (917) 464-3746
Levain Bakery is more than just a place to grab a quick sweet; it is a true New York institution that has earned its reputation through years of consistent quality and a beloved product. The Lafayette Street location, in particular, serves as a beacon for locals seeking a perfect treat. Its accessibility and prime location make it an easy stop for a spontaneous craving or a planned indulgence. The friendly service, combined with the unparalleled quality of their cookies, makes every visit a special occasion. For New Yorkers, Levain Bakery represents a small slice of home-grown perfection, a reliable source of comfort and joy. It is the kind of place that embodies the spirit of the city—bustling, full of life, and always offering something extraordinary. Whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, a stop at Levain Bakery is an essential New York experience that will leave you with a warm, satisfied feeling and a sweet memory to savor. It's a place that continues to live up to the hype, one giant, delicious cookie at a time.
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
Offerings
- Coffee
Dining options
- Breakfast
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safe space
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid street parking
PHOTOS
See the bakery
VISITOR FEEDBACK
Reviews and recurring themes
Read individual comments as personal experiences, not verified guarantees.
chocolate chip walnut cookie 123oatmeal raisin 45double chocolate chip cookie 23dark chocolate peanut butter 18caramel coconut 14rocky road 14chocolate walnut cookie 12chocolate peanut butter cookie 11coconut chocolate chip cookie 10sour cream coffee cake 6
I finally got to try Levain Bakery and it completely lived up to the hype! The cookies are absolutely incredible — perfectly crisp on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and packed with rich flavors. I tried the classic Chocolate Chip Walnut — that was phenomenal. The portion size is generous, making each cookie feel like a little indulgent treat. The staff was friendly, the service was quick, and the bakery itself has a cozy, inviting vibe. Definitely a must-visit for any dessert lover!
Jun 17 · Pooja Kittanakere BalajiLevain Bakery is famous for its cookies—and for good reason. We tried several varieties, and they were rich, chewy, and deeply satisfying. However, I do wish they offered a few less sweet or lighter options, as the sugar load can get overwhelming after a few bites.It’s a place where quality is consistent, but portion size and sweetness levels make it better suited for sharing. Still, if you’re looking for a classic NYC cookie experience, Levain delivers.
Jun 26 · Ozge UstundagIf you need sugar for sure give it a try. I tried chocolate walnut cookies which is their signature and the quality of ingredients was top notch. We shared one cookie between three of us and it was enough for afternoon snack. Their cookies were delicious and big. We stayed in line but happy to get it a try.
May 28 · Azadeh RThis is a solid bakery. They have shops throughout the city. Some of the best cookies I’ve had. Lines could get long but that goes to shout you how good they are. Their friendly staff help move the people quickly. If you’re in the area or near one of their other locations stop in
Jul 2 · Ian EllisonNEARBY ALTERNATIVES
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