The Most Delectable Bakeries in Philadelphia

A La Mousse

★★★★☆ 4.4 (822) • $$

"Such a cute little shop! I saw they had so many cute little cakes for sale. My friend got me a vanilla cake with strawberries inside tonight. The cake I got was super cute, and the cake was moist and delicious! The icing and cream wasn't too sweet, so it was perfect for me. However, the strawberries were frozen, so it did feel super hard and cold to bite into. The girls at the counter were quick with the service and very friendly. I can't comment on pricing, since it was purchased by a friend, but we all enjoyed the cake."

Isgro Pastries

★★★★☆ 4.3 (575) • $$

"One of our friends turned us on to this bakery, and it did not disappoint...FYI, getting to the bakery is definitely an adventure. There is nowhere to park and it's located in a busy area.We did get a little lucky, though...We went on a Saturday morning, very close to opening. This allowed us to find parking a few blocks away, but more importantly,  they were not busy yet. We weren't able to try the cakes, but the cannolis were so delicious.They offer four different style and all were so rich, creamy, and addictive. With crispy shells and decadence inside.... I had to force myself to stop eating them all at once!But the cookies were actually the best.Delicate , flavorful, nutty, scented, filled, rich and layered with flavorThese cookies made me rethink Italian pastry.I dont think I have ever had Italian cookies that good...in fact, I know I haven't.Each cookie was different,  but had the same magical quality...sweet but not too sweet.  Crunchy and smooth, a complicated concoction of what I am assuming is 100 years of trial and error, and hard work.I have never called a cookie well balanced,  or even considered such a thing....but these are....and it makes me so happy!Heavenly!"

Bittersweet Kitchen

★★★★★ 4.5 (518) • $$

"We waited leads thank 20 mins for out table by the windows.Made the crème brûlée pancakes with theirveggie omelette .2 cups for Joe.What is delight! What delicious fresh food. Service was good!!"

The Bakeshop on 20th

★★★★★ 4.6 (430) • $

"I'll say it: living in close proximity to The Bakeshop and trying to live a healthy lifestyle is hell. What's a girl to do when one of Yelp's top chocolate chip cookies in the COUNTRY is steps away, calling my name after any minor inconvenience I encounter? I am a mere cookie-loving mortal!Everything is so good here you're not gonna go wrong. There's probably going to be a line whenever you go (and there is a 100% chance of a line on weekend mornings) but don't let that deter you! It moves very quickly and you can even order online for pickup if you're looking for added ease. I tried their BEC for the first time, ordering it ahead and enjoying it on a park bench in the square, a course of action I highly recommend. The staff here is as sweet as the baked goods and truly nothing I've tried has missed.The classic chocolate chip is the star of the show but my underrated favorite is the gorgeous lemon ricotta cookie. Next on the must try list? Breakfast items like sticky buns and their lunchtime sandwiches. Thank you for existing, Bakeshop on 20th!"

J'aime French Bakery

★★★★★ 4.6 (422) • $$

"So happy I walked by this cute little Patisserie! It's in an old building with a few tables out front. The inside is modern and clean. The bakery case is filled with amazing pastries. I bought a slice of lemon pine cake for $1.50! The lemon flavor really brightens the cake. I also bought two chamoux. So light and airy! They also serve sandwiches and crepes. Both looked yummy. I already ate lunch but will def be back for try the sandwiches.As soon as I walked in the person behind the counter said hello and I'll be with you in a minute. So pleasant answering my questions."

The Sweet Life Bakeshop

★★★★★ 4.8 (386) • $$

"I was in town visiting and my friends and I did a day trip to Philly. After have a great lunch I needed to find a place perfect for desserts. I came across The Sweet Life Bakeshop. They certainly lived up to their hype via other reviews. The chocolate cake used for the cupcake was fantastic. I prefer a little more icing than what I had. But, that's preference. My favorite item was the banana pudding! It had the perfect texture! I understand all the rave about it. Service was wonderful and delivered with a smile!"

Sweet Box Cupcakes

★★★★☆ 4.3 (300)

"I did not even eat the cupcakes at Sweet Box Cupcakes and now I feel...foolish. However, I did try nearly everything else! Bring on the 5 star chocolate chip cookie (cakie, flakey salts, ribbons of chocolate), edible frozen cookie dough (goodbye my lover goodbye my friend I ate you for basically every meal across two days) and the amazing dirty jawn which is a brookie oreo creation (that I initially said I'd "freeze for later" but ended up eating much of...then ultimately throwing away because I feared it's power over me...you win this time, Dirty Jawn).Okay so now that that's out of the way, service here is amazing and I honestly didn't think prices were that bad, though I may be in the minority. The dough was only like $6 and you can't find that price in a grocery store so...support local for your edible raw dough needs. The service and vibes here are both excellent and it's hard to imagine going anywhere else for a sweet treat. Excited to grab treats for visitors and stop by anytime I find myself on that side of Broad."

Flying Monkey Bakery

★★★★☆ 3.7 (404) • $

"Butter cake is FANTASTIC here! I visited here while playing tourist with my tourist family members. This was my first time having butter cake. My family raves about butter cake and how good it is. So, I had to try it. It was the first time trying it so why not at a place inside the Reading Terminal Market! The whoopie pies, are no whoopie pies out of Maine, but they were still good. Customer service was great. They were helpful, and quick. I did read some of the other reviews and I am sorry those individuals low stars hurt Flying Monkey over something that could have been handled elsewhere and/or a little education about their products would have given a better understanding."

Cake Life Bake Shop

★★★★☆ 4.2 (286) • $

"Thoroughly enjoyed a slice of Campfire Cake and Red Velvet. While the Campfire was both flavorful and surprisingly light, the Red Velvet was a star for us. We'll be back!"

FRIEDA

★★★★☆ 4.3 (263)

"Did I slide past Frieda on the way to meet friends to grab one of those chai lattes they make so well? I sure did.Did I double back later on and grab a brisket sandwich to go?I sure did. Did they pack my sandwich so neat, that I didn't spill a single drop while walking and eating?They sure did.Will I be back sooner than later to vibe out with another latte?I sure will. :-)"

Cake

★★★★☆ 3.9 (302) • $$

"Hey, Yelp family!Now THIS review takes the cake! (pun intended) I can't begin to tell you how cozy and beautiful the ambiance here at Cake is.What impressed me the most is their intention of having windowpanes take up half of the space from the walls to the ceiling that radiate natural light. Top that off with beautiful large plants and a small water fountain in the middle of the cafe. That really makes you forget where you are in a good way. My favorite thing about the food was how well seasoned and crispy my potatoes were and how good the iced coffee was. My omelette was nice and fluffy and was just the right amount of food. Service was solid. I actually would be very interested to see how beautiful It would be in there while it's raining. I can't wait to come back and try some more of the dishes soon. Has anyone else been to Cake and what have you tried while there???"

The Night Kitchen

★★★★☆ 4.3 (235) • $

"Yesterday was my 50th birthday y'all. Yes, my big 5-0 just happened to land in the middle of a pandemic so of course I threw one hell of a house party. And I have to say that of all the good things I received my cake was the star of the show.I've had my eye on this cake for a few years ever since a friend posted a picture of hers on Instagram. I don't indulge in sweets because I have a milk allergy but for this occasion I made an exception and it was absolutely to die for. Sweet, tart, lemony and moist, if you like lemon bars or the like you will want this cake. You don't have to special order it because it's available daily but you should call ahead if you want an inscription. And don't be ridiculous and get the small one, just hand over your 30.00 for large and thank me later."

Ba Le Bakery

★★★★☆ 3.7 (314)

"The banh mi was pretty good. Bread was soft. The jalapeños were extremely spicy. I felt there could've been more pickled veggies added onto the sandwich. The grilled lemongrass pork spring rolls were to die for. Not many places add the crispy fried egg roll skin into the spring rolls but these had it included and makes it 10x more enjoyable. Fair priced and quick. Plenty of different food and drink items to purchase made to order or set out in the heat lamp areas or fridges to grab and go. There is nowhere to sit and eat so you'll want to plan to take this to go at the park or home. They do take card but will add a fee for electronic transactions so bring cash if you can. This will remain my go to stop for quick take out viet snacks. And parking is always a plus."

Center City Pretzel Co

★★★★★ 4.8 (163) • $

"They have a 100 year old, 50 feet oven. The pretzels taste proper here. Eat it with the nacho cheese."

Tartes Pastry Shop

★★★★☆ 4.2 (211) • $$

"I'm not a big fan or tart person (more a croissant person), BUT this tart is the BEST tart I've ever had in Philly (and my life)!!! This is how their tarts are good Food: the crust is so perfectly balanced between buttery crumbled & moist. Filling was so fresh that they definitely used the fresh peach. I was so impressed that they sweetened it on point that I can give them the perfect complement an Asian could say to a dessert: "It's not that sweet!" I'm 3000% sure will be back to here to try out their every single tart they bake!! Service: the front cashier lady was really nice to explain the flavors for a first timer like me :) Vibes: this is a dessert shop that you can't sit down/dine-in, it's a grab-go & enjoying your sweets at home/park for picnic events."

Frangelli's Bakery

★★★★☆ 4.4 (182)

"Just look at this heavenly creation known as the cannoli donut. And put the phone down and go get one. Holy schnikies this is amazing!"

The Dining Car & Market

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (277) • $$

"One of things I love about going home to Philly is going to neighborhood diners with my friends and family. My friends and I went to the Dining Car this past Sunday and were happy we did. The food was delicious, the staff were helpful and friendly. No one rushes you out which is awesome when you have catching up to do with your Besties :0) We all enjoyed the butter cake, I enjoyed the French toast, and my friends enjoyed the Apple Crepes - they were so happy they weren't made with canned apple pie filling. The wait staff are always going around to see if you want more coffee or tea. Next time, I want to try one (or more) of the tasty treats I saw in the bakery. It's a nice diner feel with plenty of conversation happening all around. Check them out!"

The Kettle Black

★★★★★ 4.6 (115) • $$

"My husband was the one who actually visited the shop but I was the one that enjoyed the food :) He got there around 7:40 to wait in line and was 3rd in line. We wanted to get their 4/20 special but $7 for a bagel and cream cheese was too much. What I ended up getting was the black everything bagel with scallion cream cheese which is $4. It was lightly toasted and warm. Next time I would ask for a double toast (not sure if they do that). What I believe is a normal amount of cream cheese is applied which might not be enough for some people but I loved it. The bagel was very flavorful and I would definitely get them again. There was a long line for at least an hour after opening on a Saturday. I think it's worth the hype!"

Velvet Sky Bakery

★★★★☆ 4 (151) • $

"I'm a big fan of Velvet Sky located in the heart of the oh so adorable town of Jenkintown for a bunch of reasons....1. They are much more than a bakery serving a good cup of Joe and quick lunch bites which include quiche and soup. (I recently had a vegan coconut curry soup to-go which was very tasty!)2. The cafe section of the shop makes for a nice quite place during the day to sit and catch up with a friend or get work done over a sweet treat. Scones, muffins, mini pies, brownies, buns, cookies or cheesecake are in the cases! 3. They offer a HUGE variety of cupcakes made with the freshest ingredients available in some truly unique flavors! Over 30 different kinds! Offerings change daily and some are only available seasonally. Most can be made gluten free and/or dairy free!!! Minis can also be made with a two day in advance order. You'll find the usual suspects here as well some show stoppers such as Mint Chocolate Chip, Bananas Foster, Peanut-butter Cup, Cookie Dough (a fan and my favorite), Chocolate Chip Pancake, Salted Caramel and Honey Lavender Vanilla, to name a few. They even have a Caprese flavor! Tomato cake with fresh basil buttercream and balsamic reduction drizzle. Have yet to try that one! The creativity here is second to none! 4. Their designs are flawless! Absolutely stunning! Whether it's a sculpted cake, wedding or birthday, fondant topped cupcakes or cupcake towers, they are all incredible individuals works of art! 5. They host adorable kids cupcake decorating birthday parties which are....get this...BYO! (Well, for the parents I mean) Score! 6. They are very vegan & gluten-free friendly!!Just ask! 7. They have a few tables outside to enjoy during nice weather! 8. The staff has always been super friendly and knowledgeable I mean really, what's not to love?! Fan for life over here!"

Vanilya

★★★★★ 4.6 (108) • $$

"Through the recommendation of a colleague, I contacted this place by e-mail during business hours. I got a response in 5-10 minutes- wow!! They didn't have what I was looking for for one of my event participants (gluten free and vegan). However, they were willing to share a recommendation with me. I think that is so awesome that they are willing to help out other local businesses if they don't do that kind of product themselves!By the pictures, this looks like a wonderful place to get a cake with specific art work."

Varallo Brothers Bakery

★★★★☆ 4.3 (117)

"The BEST cannolis in South Philly or anywhere for that matter! Highly recommend! The people that own this bakery are so friendly and helpful when choosing desserts. They truly make you feel like home!"

up-RYES Bagel & Deli

★★★★☆ 4 (129) • $

"Upping my review to 5 stars due to the wonderful customer service. This place is now a staple in Bryn Mawr and draws crowds daily. It still gets a bit hectic with the counter ordering system but the line moves pretty quick. No servers here, place your order and pick it up when called. I'm usually on a walk with the pup and we will order online for curbside pickup. Be sure to call them when you arrive so they know you are outside. They have plenty of tables inside and out. I usually grab one before I call for pickup and let them know where I am. It has been too crowded a few days and we would walk to the benches across the street in the post office parking lot. When dining in try to have one person secure a table while another orders. They have ice water dispensers against the wall which I always appreciate. Although most of the time I'm getting a breakfast sandwich, I've had their chicken salad and roast beef sandwich before, both of which were excellent. It's nice that they have a variety of breads to serve it on. This is a great stop for anyone waiting for the train and it gets a lot of foot traffic. On nice days there is generally a crowd with people enjoying coffee, bakery goods, breakfast, and lunch, inside and out. Pupper still recommends the bacon!"

Tiffany's Bakery

★★★★☆ 3.6 (152) • $$

"I passed by on Friday night and I saw slices of chocolate strawberry shortcake. The lady at the store told me that they are only available on Fridays. Just like the regular strawberry shortcake, each slice is huge. I without a doubt prefer the chocolate version because it's richer but not too sweet. I wish it is available during the whole weekend."

Soltane Cafe

★★★★★ 4.6 (91) • $

"Nice coffee shop with excellent coffee. I wish they had more offerings. Almost no cookies or anything else. I was a bit disappointed I wanted something besides my ice coffee. The cold brew was as good as it gets but it was almost $4 for a pretty small cup. The service was very good and the space is very pretty."

Tiffany Diner

★★★☆☆ 2.8 (193)

"BREAKFAST @ TIFFANY (Diner on the Boulevard)Happy New Year (2022) Everyone!My last Yelp of the old year was at this fine establishment in the Great Northeast, Philadelphia. It had been closed an extended period of time for renovations, and the effort appears to have been worthwhile. The facility has a new outer shell and the main dining hall is bright, attractively utilitarian and very clean. Staff from management to servers are courteous and helpful. The menu is a diner's long list of nearly infinite possibilities. But, I was there for a New Year's Eve Day breakfast, and while prepared to be tempted, knew what I wanted - French Toast & crisp bacon. There is a long counter along the back wall, and when I arrived it was unoccupied. I sidled down to the third from last spinner, past the last booth, and found myself in the perfect Covidly socially distance spot. No one with ten feet of me. I ordered coffee and my Frenchie. and perused my phone for the latest news while I waited. These days that is always a risky thing to do and expect to keep a good mood, but old habits die hard. (Good riddance 2021!)So, my plate was delivered with a warm smile. I beheld two slices of thickish bread well grilled and sided by four slices of heat curled bacon. Both good to the naked eye. First bites told the tale. Although described as "Challah" bread, the texture was more a yellowish thick slice with extra sugar baked in. It lacked the rougher consistency and swirl of true Challah. Okay. I'm being picky, but the mental image of the real deal had excited my tastebuds and I was a little disappointed. Too, it came with those industrial corn syrup sweeteners, that are just empty calories and not conducive to good health. No Log Cabin nor Mrs. Butterworth in the house. True, it was edible and the bacon was fine, but these days I have reservations about putting such ersatz materials in my body, and would gladly pay extra for pure Grade B maple syrup. I get that corners must be cut to stay ahead of the game, but I would prefer the choice. But, that's just me. Let's have a better 2022! Lord knows we need and deserve it."

Indian Hut Exton

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (145)

"Did fast take out with a friend a few weeks ago. The food here is Ok, not great. Samosas were a bit greasy and not as flaky as other ones I have tried. The biryani was again, ok and could have used a bit more spice. Portions were quite large for the price. The place could use a good cleaning."

A La Mousse

★★★★★ 4.5 (73)

"I've visited A La Mousse a couple more times since my first review and I can tell you that my opinion of their desserts has not changed. Their desserts are spot on! However, my Cherry Blossom Matcha Latte left a lot to be desired. The drink was too watery and not very sweet. For a bakery that claims to be all about sweet stuff, the drink was actually kind of bitter. I think they may have said that they didn't make enough of the cherry blossom part of it, I'm not sure, but if that's the case, maybe they should've made the drink again instead of giving it to me as it was. It wasn't very pleasant to drink at all, so I threw it out and feel I wasted my money on it. :("

Baker Street Bread

★★★★☆ 3.9 (97) • $$

"I love Baker Street Bread! Their breakfast sandwiches are served on soft brioche buns. Coffee and coffee drinks are really good. They are fast and friendly!"

Oui

★★★★☆ 4.3 (77) • $$

"Had a strawberry croissant and iced coffee. Loved both! Would definitely come back and try more."

Five Points Coffee

★★★★★ 4.5 (70) • $

"Wow, did I love this place! This area, at least to me is not one known for good coffee or breakfast. Based on a Yelp friend's enjoyment of this spot I ventured there. It's in the burbs and we burbites kinda expect parking but as it is in that huge circle known as 69th street Terminal area they do not have a lot. Do not let that dissuade you. I found a free spot in a residential neighborhood in back and there is municipal parking across the street for $.25. I visited on a very cold January day in search of breakfast with good coffee. As you enter you see the very comfortable and pretty seating to the left and right. Right in the center towards the back wall is where the magic happens. The baristas were friendly and knowledgeable. I had a wonderful breakfast sandwich and great coffee for under $8. They also had a very reasonable daily special posted. I decided to eat upstairs and wound up staying an hour in that beautifully paneled room that reminded me of a mansion library. What a calming place to relax. And a local newspaper has called Five points " A Jolt of Inspiration in Upper Darby " because they not only serve as a coffee house but they also aid in helping marginalized people. This is officially my new favorite coffee house."

Vanilla Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.4 (68)

"Food: The tea was presented in a beautiful glass tea pot on a matching tray with tea candle to keep it warm. The veggie omelette with mushroom sauce was fresh and delicious. A bit overpriced. Service: it's a very small cafe. There's one server who was very pleasant and happy. Ambience: If you're Eastern European or Russian you probably won't get the strange looks I received from patrons soon as I walked in. The decor is going for affluent garden cafe. The seats are comfy, the flatware was gold colored and heavy. A YouTube playlist of Enrique Iglesias and current rnb videos streamed on a large tv."

Coffee Cream & Dreams

★★★★★ 4.8 (52)

"Such a chic coffee shop/bakery. They have a work/meeting space in their downstairs area. Coffee was great. Love the staff and service."

Kaplan's New Model Bakery

★★★★☆ 3.9 (71)

"5 starts just for passing the 100-year mark! They must be found something right for that kind of longevity.They bake their bread fresh on site daily. Come here for rye (seeded or not), pumpernickel, challah, or old-fashioned white bread. They also have cookies, Danish, tea biscuits, knishes, coffee cake, and even a few slices of tomato pie.Staff are friendly. Cash is preferred."

Small Oven Pastry Shop

★★★★☆ 4.4 (54)

"Honestly very good! Interesting variety of pasteries, love that they're open late so I can go on my way home from work :) mortadella croissant, and dulce shortbread were favorites, cant wait to try more"

Country Club Diner

★★★☆☆ 3 (115)

"Had my grandkids for the weekend which is always fun. Since I didn't have any OJ on hand (hey, I thought that was a pretty good excuse!) we ordered from Country Club.What a happy accident. I swear, it was THE best french toast I've ever had and I really have made my share! I've made it with challah, regular white and with brioche but nothing compared with this. Sweet but not too sweet. Even the bacon that the kids ordered was awesome.We will definitely be looking at the rest of the menu more often!"