Scrumptious Sweets Shops in New York City Featuring Amazing Cake Selections

Text by Christine Dantz

If there’s one thing New York City takes as seriously as its skyline, it’s dessert. The cake is kingly in a city where diversity and indulgence go hand in hand. And as confection connoisseurs, we’ve sleuthed out three delightful destinations brimming with baked bounty just for you. Each cake display is a masterpiece, and the indulgence reaches new heights. In the city that never sleeps, sweets are big business, and boy, do we have some top contenders for you.

Betty Bakery: A Retro Haven in Brooklyn

Ascending the subway steps in Brooklyn is like time travel when you step into Betty Bakery. The pastel hues and chrome countertops whisper of a bygone era, making it the go-to for any cake-loving hipster. But it’s not just the ambiance that’s a throwback—it’s the cakes themselves — each slice a delicate monument to the art of baking.

Trying to pick a favorite from Betty Bakery is like trying to decide on the best season. You’ve got your classic red velvet, rich and velvety, and the lemon bundt cake, fit for any modern royal affair. Our recommendation? The Sacher Torte. A decadent chocolate almond cake with a rum-soak filling, sweet apricot jam, and a blanket of dark chocolate ganache.

Silver Moon Bakery: Artisanal Elegance on the Upper West Side

Picture this: it’s Saturday morning, Central Park is a few blocks away, and you find yourself at Silver Moon Bakery. The freshly baked bread perfume mixes with the sweetness of their cake display. It’s a heady experience — almost cinematic. This is where the Upper West Side’s sweet tooth is sated with artisan bread and artisanal cakes; each slice is a masterpiece of tortured elegance.

Thanks to its flawless cream cheese frosting, its carrot cake has achieved legendary status locally. Don’t forget to inquire about their cakelettes—single-serving cakes ideal for a personal treat or as delightful party favors.

From Lucie: Exquisite French Cakes in the Heart of Manhattan

Complete with a French accent, From Lucie brings the sophistication of Paris to the palates of Manhattan. Here, the cakes aren’t slices—they’re art. From macarons to éclairs, every offering is a testament to the precision of French pastry work. But their cakes, the pièce de résistance, truly steal the show.

Their flower-inspired cakes come in various sizes, each a delightful treat. The Vegan Citrus Cake, topped with elderflower icing and raspberry jam, offers a refreshing twist. While the Carrot Cake with Fromage Frais Buttercream, adorned with edible flowers, is a sight to behold.

Comparing the Sweet Stops

Each of these sweet stops brings something unique to the table. Betty Bakery is the visual treat, with cakes that taste as good as they look, wrapped in retro charm. Silver Moon keeps it classic and comforting with cakes celebrating pure flavors and traditional techniques. The chic, elegant extraordinaire from Lucie is dishing out patisserie dreams with a French twist.

For the traditionalist, Silver Moon Bakery is the way to go. For the style-seeker, Betty Bakery’s Instagram-worthy delights are the draw. And for those with a cosmopolitan sweet tooth, Lucie’s Parisian-infused inspirations won’t disappoint.

Engage and Indulge

Now that your cake cravings are in high gear, why not hit the streets to sample these delights yourself? Interact with us and other readers by sharing your experiences and recommendations in the comments. It’s not just about eating cake—it’s about celebration, community, and supporting the local businesses that keep New York City’s sweet scene vibrant. Go on, take a bite out of the Big Apple’s immense dessert repertoire.