The best bakeries in America

What is it? A grand, sun-dappled, French-inspired bakery and café inside a historic La Brea landmark constructed by Charlie Chaplin. Here, laminated dough reigns supreme. Morning counters spill over with kouign-amann, croissants and tarts before segueing into stellar savory plates. The space hums with pastry cases, warm bread loaves and the clatter of espresso shots under soaring cathedral ceilings. Expect a Paris-by-way-of-LA energy—polished but lively, with an ever-tempting rotation of seasonal bakes.

Why we love it: With stellar brunch options, an award-winning pastry program and an always satisfying dinner menu, it’s hard to imagine a better Swiss army knife of a restaurant in L.A. than Walter and Margarita Manzke’s République. The pastry case is a greatest-hits album you’ll never want to end. The baking is exacting but never precious—comforting, elegant and deeply craveable. It’s the kind of place where a “quick pastry stop” becomes a full-on brunch—and you won’t be mad about it.

Time Out tip: Don’t sleep on the banana poppyseed loaf, and grab an extra baguette for later. 

Address: 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 8am–2pm, 5:30-10pm; Sun-Mon 8am-2pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $4–9; sandwiches $12–18

What is it? A beloved kosher bakery in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, where naturally leavened breads and rustic pastries pull a loyal crowd. Expect country loaves, rugelach, babka and seasonal stunners. The industrial-chic space doubles as a community hub, buzzing with regulars, artists and families. It’s proof that serious bread can still feel playful, from vivid fruit glazes to dazzling laminated layers.

Why we love it: The bread crumb game is unmatched—crackly crusts, chewy interiors—and the pastry lineup hits the sweet spot between classic and creative. There’s soul in every swirl of babka, and the concha has that signature Miami swagger. Even the simplest toast here tastes like a minor miracle. One bite and you’ll understand the line to order.

Time Out tip: Lines move quickly, but pre-order bread if you’re serious. They often sell out by afternoon.

Address: 295 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127

Opening hours: Sun–Fri 7am–5pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–7; loaves $8–12

What is it? James Beard–winning pastry icon Mindy Segal’s bakery-café that doles out killer bagels, layered cakes, cookies and breakfast sammies in Wicker Park. It’s equal parts neighborhood spot and destination, with a pastry case that’s perpetually photo-ready. The vibe is warmly Chicago: no fuss, all flavor and a coffee program that keeps pace with the baked goods.

Why we love it: Precision meets indulgence—think dialed-in textures, bold flavors and a nostalgic streak that never feels fussy. You taste technique in every crumb yet it never comes off as showy. The zaatar bagels snap, the cinnamon sugar donut hearts are swoon-worthy and the loaded chocolate chip cookie delivers that chewy-core magic—comfort food powered by pastry-chef superpowers.

Time Out tip: Four-legged family members aren’t left out at Mindy’s. You can pick up housemade dog biscuits there, so Rover isn’t left out. 

Address: 1623 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Wed–Fri 7:30am–3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; bagel sandwiches $8–14

What is it? A Taiwanese-American bake shop in East Williamsburg where scallion pancake sandwiches, pork fan tuan and milk bread collide with inventive pastries. It’s a bright, upbeat counter-service spot that treats breakfast like a playground. Expect familiar flavors refracted through buttery, flaky techniques and a few curveballs that just make sense.

Why we love it: It’s playful, craveable and deeply satisfying—savory and sweet both show up with swagger. The milk bread is cloud-level soft and the donuts are equal parts fun and finesse. This is the rare bakery where breakfast hits as hard as lunch. You’ll plan your next visit before you finish the first bite.

Time Out tip: The team recently dropped a new location in the East Village that doles out the hits—custard toasts and toffee chocolate chip cookies included.

Address: 164 Graham Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Opening hours: Mon 9am-3pm, Tue-Wed  9am-9pm, Thu-Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 9am-9pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; sandwiches $10–15

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What is it? Back in 2000, Joanne Chang's Flour put this then-desolate stretch of Washington Street on the culinary map—and "X" still marks the spot for seekers of fresh-baked treasures and delicious sandwiches.

Why we love it: Flour is one of our favorite stops for breakfast, whether you want something sweet or savory and filling. A star at the dessert counter is the highly addictive sticky bun, made with buttery brioche dough, drizzled with gooey caramel, and sprinkled with toasted pecans. Sweet lovers can also find a deliciously moist banana bread, lemon-ginger scones, and the TCHO chocolate chip cookie made with no less than three kinds of Scharffen Berger chocolate.

Time Out tip: Flour is popular, so expect wait times. The well-initiated know to order ahead so they can easily pop in to pick up their order to go.

Address: 1595 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 7am–7pm; Sat, Sun 8am–6pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; sandwiches $10–14

What is it? A charming river-adjacent bakery in Franklin that turns out artisan loaves, oversized laminated pastries and seasonal bakes with warmth and finesse. While it hails from Nevada, that infamous southern hospitality gives this bakeshop a whole different vibe. Expect elegant technique wrapped in small-town charm.

Why we love it: The almond croissant is a spiritual experience —ask for it warmed for the most transcendent results. The pastries are polished without losing their warmth, and the breads are deeply, properly fermented. Every visit brings a new favorite—usually something seasonal you’ll want to hoard. It’s Franklin at its tastiest.

Time Out tip: They’ve opened a second Tennessee location in Nashville that also doubles as its production facility—it’s worth the 20-minute drive to check out. 

Address: 94 E Main St, Franklin, TN 37064

Opening hours: Sun-Wed 7am-2:30pm, Thu-Sat 7am-2:30pm, 5-9pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; loaves $8–12

What is it? A polished bakery-café in downtown Nashville by pastry vet David Andrews, known for jaw-droppingly artistic confections, standout cakes, cookies and hearty lunch plates. The space is sleek but comfy, with glass cases showcasing impeccable pastry prowess along with sugary sweets. It’s the kind of bakery that does weekday breakfast and special-occasion cake with equal aplomb.

Why we love it: This James Beard-nominated patisserie’s creative confections and cakes spring to life with vibrant aplomb, like a white peach mousse topped with Pop Rocks, Biscoff cruffins and gorgeously flaky raspberry danishes. Savory offerings are just as delectable, making it a rare two-hander for meals and treats. 

Time Out tip: Biscuit breakfast sandwich, then a few macarons and pastries to go. Trust the process.

Address: 555 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 7am–2pm, Sat, Sun 8am–2pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; sandwiches/salads $10–14

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What is it? An adored bakery in The Mission where country loaves, morning buns and seasonal tarts still set the standard. Married baker duo Elisabeth Prueitt and Chad Robertson have racked up accolade after accolade, and the line out the door confirms the adoration: this is pilgrimage territory. Open cases brim with bronzed croissants and jewel-like fruit tarts, while the back turns out those fabled, deeply fermented loaves.

Why we love it: The bread that launched a thousand sourdough obsessions—and pastries that are equally iconic. Each bake is a master class in texture: shatter, chew, silk. The flavors are restrained and pure, letting butter, grain and peak produce shine. It’s the blueprint for modern American baking—and it still thrills.

Time Out tip: Go early for a warm morning bun and coffee, then snag a loaf when the bread drops. 

Address: Multiple venues inc. The Mission (SF), Inner Sunset (SF), Santa Monica (L.A.), and Silver Lake (L.A.)

Opening hours: Vary by location

Expect to pay: Pastries $4–9; loaves $10–14

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What is it? Ken Forkish opened Ken's Artisan Bakery in 2001, and it’s become Portland’s de facto spot for wood-fired breads, croissants and fruit tarts. It’s rustic baking with a thoroughly Northwest soul. Sunlit tables, flour-dusted counters and an aroma of caramelized crusts set the scene. It’s a neighborhood fixture that feels as timeless as the breads it bakes.

Why we love it: Even in a city as food-obsessed as Portland, this bakery stands out for its exemplary selection of French-influenced macarons, fruit tarts, rustic breads and more. Sweets-lovers will want to tuck into their seasonal fruit tarts and hazelnut butter cookies, while savory-seekers should dive into goat cheese and leek croissants, nutty walnut bread and egg salad sandwiches.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the Oregon berry galettes when in season. They taste like summer in a slice.

Address: 338 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Opening hours: Daily 8am–4pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; loaves $7–12

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What is it? Tucked away in beautiful coastal Portland, this charming bakery turns out far-ranging breads and pastries, including baguettes, vollkornbrot, focaccia and more. The tiny storefront turns out big flavors, with racks of golden pastry and crusty breads perfuming Commercial Street. It’s coastal New England comfort wrapped in French technique.

Why we love it: It’s unpretentious, wildly consistent and anchored by skill—every bake tastes like the work of steady hands. Butter and flour are treated with reverence, and you can taste the care in every fold. Customers rave, in particular, about the chocolate rye cookies, the chocolate chip financiers and the morning buns.

Time Out tip: Grab a baguette and a couple of canelés, then picnic on the pier.

Address: 75 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101

Opening hours: Daily 7:30am–5pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–5; loaves $5–10

What is it? A cult-favorite bakery in Atwater Village turning out meticulous croissants, scones, cookies and cakes. The minimalist room lets the pastry speak, and it speaks volumes. Expect clean flavors, elegant composition and a line that forms before the door opens.

Why we love it: Minimalist vibe, maximalist flavor—the croissants are the thing here, and one bite into Proof’s flaky masterclass of a pastry will tell you why. There’s no fluff, just expert lamination and balanced sweetness—the seasonal tarts are quietly perfect and even the chocolate chip cookie feels like a step above your average bakery shop. Proof is a spot for purists who still want to be surprised.

Time Out tip: The ham-and-cheese croissant sells out. Plan your morning accordingly.

Address: 3156 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat–Sun 8am–3pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; slices/tarts $5–8

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What is it? An all-day bakery, smokehouse and sprawling patio hangout from the Odd Duck team, known for laminated pastries, kolaches and wood-fired’d everything. It’s casual, kid (and pup) friendly and built for lingering over trays of treats under the Texas sun. Grab a coffee in the morning, or a local beer by afternoon, and enjoy it al fresco with the occasional vendor markets and live music Sour Duck hosts outside. 

Why we love it: It’s a choose-your-own-carb-adventure with Texas vibes—moist banana financiers and tahini s’more kouign amanns by morning, and stacked sandwiches like a mushroom pambazo by afternoon. The kolaches are legitimately destination-worthy, and the pastry case keeps the surprises coming. Smoke and flame show up in the best ways—from fillings to breads. It’s the laid-back Austin bakery of our dreams.

Time Out tip: Pop in for the daily happy hour between 3 and 6pm for reduced prices on both alcoholic and nonalcoholic bevvies. 

Address: 1814 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am–9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-10pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–6; sandwiches $10–15

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What is it? A neighborhood bakery and café in Over-the-Rhine baking serious sourdough, top-notch sandwiches, and a parade of seasonal pastries. The space is unfussy and warm, with bakers moving bread from oven to shelf in a steady rhythm. It’s as much a community staple as it is a carb destination.

Why we love it: Craft bread without the attitude—approachable, affordable and supremely tasty. The sourdough sings with tang and depth, and the sandwich program puts the bread in the spotlight. Seasonal bakes feel thoughtful, not trendy. It elevates the everyday breakfast and lunch into a special event.

Time Out tip: The bakery itself is a carryout operation, but you can take your goods to their cafe across the street to enjoy. 

Address: 1208 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Opening hours: Tues–Sat 8am–3pm

Expect to pay: Pastries $3–5; sandwiches $9–14

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What is it? A bakery and preserves shop run by the monks of Poorrock Abbey, tucked along M-26 beside Jacob’s Falls on the Keweenaw Peninsula. Inside, the air smells like butter, spice and pine, as Byzantine Catholic monks turn out booze-soaked fruitcakes, tender muffins, old-world cookies and shelves upon shelves of jewel-toned jams and jellies (thimbleberry is the crown jewel). It’s equal parts roadside curiosity and bona fide pilgrimage for pastry people.

Why we love it: Monk-made magic with Upper Peninsula soul. The thimbleberry jam hits bright and tart, the fruitcake is lush without being cloying, and the daily bakes feel handcrafted and generous—no gimmicks, just skill and devotion. Snag a muffin still warm from the oven, then chase it with a spoonful of jam and a breath of Lake Superior air. It’s rustic hospitality at its sweetest.

Time Out tip: Take your treats to the nearby waterfall for a scenic view with your snack. 

Address: 6500 M-26, Eagle Harbor, MI 49950

Opening hours: Thu-Sat 10am–5pm (May-October only)

Expect to pay: Pastries 3–6; jams $12-18; fruitcakes $20-45