I don’t have much of a sweet tooth, I’m all about the savory. When I do find something sweet that tickles my fancy, I tend go back for more eventually, because there usually is nothing that even compares . Over the years of me living in New York, I found a few spots that I frequent for desserts for holidays and birthdays, which I consider a cut above the rest. Here are a few places I know you won’t be able to resist!
Veniero’s
For over 100 years, this Italian bakery has made some of the best pastries in New York City. I have bought my kids about a dozen of Strawberry Shortcake birthday cakes here. It’s seriously the best, light and sweet, but not too sweet, topped with the freshest strawberries. If you need a quick fix, they also come in pastry size. You’re welcome.
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Becco
This Italian restaurant right on Restaurant Row on 46th Street is owned by Lidia Bastianich, and serves the most delicious Italian food. My very favorite cheesecake is made here in their very own kitchen. It’s super light and fluffy, and made with ricotta cheese. It’s a must-try!
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Pelham Delite
After moving to the Bronx in the year 2000, the new birthday cake flavor for my twins was Red Velvet cake, which is actually my personal favorite. I have tried Red Velvet cake in numerous cafes and bakeries, but absolutely nothing compares to the cake made at Pelham Delite, a European bakery in Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx. I know it’s a trek from the city, but it’s well worth it.
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Junior’s
Junior’s has great Cheesecake, we all know that. I used to live on Albee Square in Brooklyn in the late 80’s (don’t ask), a 5 minute walk from the original Junior’s diner. At the time, that was their only location, but I was aware of their amazing cheesecake then. They have since become a huge business, but their delicacy has stayed as delicious as usual. My favorite of their cakes is the Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake. It’s decadent to say the least….
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Sugar Sweet Sunshine
Banana Pudding. Need I say more? I don’t know about you, but it’s one of the few desserts I can’t get enough of. It’s not made by many bakeries here up north, but Sugar Sweet Sunshine not only makes this treat, but they make it marvelous. This down to earth bakery, which is also known for their top notch cupcakes, is located on the Lower Eastside, and their treats can also be ordered online.
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Ferrara
I mean we know that European pastries are the best. The Italians are up there with their goodies, so naturally you wanna go to Little Italy to find some of the best in the city. Ferrara on Grand Street is just what you’re looking for, and while you’re there, do pick up a Lobster Tail or two. Theirs are hands down the best in the New York. No, not real lobster of course, it’s a sfogliatella, a cream filled puff pastry, shell shaped and topped with powdered sugar. OMG.
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Little Pie Company
When it comes to holidays, I can whip up a meal you won’t soon forget. But once it comes to baking, I’m kind of lost. So I go buy a pie. Coconut Cream Pie, Pecan Pie, Apple Pie, I love them all, and no Thanksgiving or Christmas is complete without one, if you ask me. Naturally I want the best for my family and loved ones, and the best, in my humble opinion, is the Little Pie Company. My absolute favorite there is the Sour Cream Apple Pie. It’s heaven in a pan. Treat yourself. And yes, you can order online.
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