4. Restaurants

Aceluck Thai Cuisine

530 9th Ave, New York, NY, 10018
  • (212) 594-7083
  • Store is closed

Aceluck Thai Cuisine Menu

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  • Bonnie T.

    I thought I made a review for this place but I guess not. This review is based on my experiences from a few months ago when I had to come here and purchase a some focaccia for my research paper. This bakery is super tiny but always crowded which may have been a good sign at first but it was so crowded, I could barely even move. Especially when I'm short and "smelling armpits" lol not exactly but anyways... When I finally made my way through to the counter, the staff who helped me were extremely helpful and told me they didn't have plain focaccia but did have goat cheese w/ some tomatoes and herbs. It look and sounded delicious so I bought one. Again, I made my way through to the cashier, still pleased with my order, the cashier decides to give me this nasty attitude like "ew, what are you doing in here" sort of look. Yes, I know I'm tiny and look super young but really now? You should be fired lady. My order came out to be... roughly around $5-6? I forgot how much it was but I'm pretty sure I handed her a $10 bill. She proceeds to mark it, looks at it, then holds it high up in the air, marks it again, and keeps on checking the bill to see if it was fake. COME ON. REALLY NOW? TERRIBLE. *NOTE* The man before me handed her a $20 bill and she just threw it in her till. What sense does that make? Im done raging :)

    (3)

  • Helga T.

    As a retail slave in SoHo, I love that their cup of coffee is reasonably priced. I once splurged and got a sticky bun and it was great. I like everyone who works here and their uniforms.

    (4)

  • Helene K.

    NOTE: This review is only for the bakery, as I have not had a chance to visit the restaurant yet. The bakery is a cramped little Parisian corner on the block, with swarms of loyals (and tourists alike) waiting in line for the delectable pastries on display. The service is efficient, with orders being fulfilled within 1-2 minutes of arriving at the bakery. I went twice yesterday, once in the early morning to get a large order of donuts and croissants, and then again in the afternoon to get loaves of bread. Both times were just as busy, so I would have to say there's no "right" time to go; just go when you feel like it and you'll still get what you need! I tried these from the bakery: Plain donut - light and crispy with a hint of sugar; a good petite size. Chocolate donut - very fresh with just the right amount of frosting on the top layer. Appparently these are the best chocolate donuts around, according to my family here in New York. Almond croissant - heavenly! There's as bit of almond sugar filling inside the croissant, which is a delicious surprise to an already well-made croissant. Plain croissant - not bad; just the right amount of butter, but I've heard that it never hurts to top it off with a little more butter... Boule bread - fresh and goes well with any toppings for a crisp sandwich. In terms of price, the items are on a "steeper" side, but then again, where else can you find fine French pastries (it's a matter of opinion, I suppose)? Although I haven't been to France yet, my family has said that Balthazar's pastries are as close to Paris as one can get. That's a pretty confident note to add.

    (4)

  • Faris H.

    When attempts at gobbling up Torrisi's divine turkey sandwich go pear shaped, head over to Balthazar to cheer up. Not necessarily the restaurant, as the crowds are just as crazy, but the bakery. The madelines here are endearingly unique. Concave and recessed, they don't bulge in the scalloped fashion one is accustomed to. Offered in pistachio or chocolate, the latter is a concave petit four with a delicate chocolate profile that is not too brash, all the while retaining the splendid buttery quality of a madeline. With a freshly pulled espresso that's marked with foam, your unresolved frustrations with Torrisi will melt away, like the freshly-made madeline in your mouth.

    (4)

  • Stephane B.

    Every time I go to New York with the family or friends we always pass by Baltazar, it is really a ritual. They have amazing food and service and the personnel are very incredibly nice.

    (5)

  • Ina L.

    Sad, I know, but I haven't tried a single pastry from the oh-so-highly praised Balthazar until a few weeks ago with my bff who recently moved out to the city from Chicago. We shared an almond biscuit and a slice of red velvet cake and it was heavenly. Oh me, oh my! It's very hard, imo, to perfect any type of cake because a lot of bakeries tend to overdo on the sugar and icing, but Balthazar has mastered theirs. I will never be able to revert back to Martha's, Melissa's, Crumbs', or Sprinkles' red velvet anything. I went back a few days afterwards and treated myself to a cannelle and iced coffee. Who says I couldn't get a head start on my winter weight gain?

    (5)

  • Mimi D.

    Hum, I think I tried almost everything here. Thank God for a real french bakery, always fresh and baked to perfection. Can't wait for the holidays menu! A MUST if you're in the city, you will not be disappointed

    (5)

  • Amanda C.

    Their hot chocolate might just be the best I've ever had. I ordered it with soy milk and despite its lack of fat from any type of cream, it was still thick, rich, warm and DELICIOUS. There must have been loads of incredible chocolate in there. I was extremely pleased. I almost went back to order another one a few hours later..fortunately my self control won that time (or unfortunately??) I also tried the orange brioche, which I thought was just okay. It wasn't light and fluffy like I would have liked and I was overall not impressed. Next time, I will just stick with my soy hot chocolate and die happy.

    (4)

  • Jason P.

    The flourless chocolate almond cake, the almond croissant, and the cannele are great too! Is there anything they can't do?!

    (4)

  • Anna K.

    acclaimed bakery in quaint, cobblestoned SoHo restaurant on left, to-go bakery on right. breakfast: almond croissant with a cup of hot stumptown coffee. buttery, flaky yet denser croissant with generous portion of almond paste with more toasted almond slivers inside and out the pastry. planned to wander the streets and do some eye shopping with breakfast in hand. but plans got deterred when the last bite and sip prompted a frantic maze back to the bakery just to purchase a pound of coffee to take back west.

    (5)

  • Pinky And The B.

    I chose this for my 700th review. Believe it or not I have never been here. I don't know why. But I am here now. It is hard to rate a place you have only been to once. This is my birthday month and yes we celebrate all month long. I will be 48 this month. Unlike many women who hide their age I don't, it is what it is! Plus I had an aggressive form of breast cancer from 2008-2010 and really should not be alive. I am alive so I am celebrating life! So this was the first place I chose for my birthday month. I read on one of the reviews that they have some of the best fruit tarts and that is why I chose it. I also read that they have good short bread cookies. So I called first to see what time they close. They said 8 PM. We got there around 5 PM. They were completely sold out of fruit tarts and everything else I wanted! The space was really cramped. I had a brunch scheduled for Sunday but canceled once I peeked in to the restaurant side to see miniature sized tables. So back to the bakery ,they were sold out of everything I wanted and it was only around 5 PM. The only thing they had that was tempting to me was chocolate covered strawberry's. It was really good. I am pretty picky about fruit and it was high quality and red and juicy inside. I hope the next time I go the selection will be better and that they will make enough pastries. So we went to eat dinner and I had a chocolate cake and ice cream for dessert to make up for my disappointment at Balthazar!

    (3)

  • Jenny H.

    I got 2 croissants and 2 pain de raisins and a apricot brioche bread, everything just tasted OK, I've definitely had better baked goods elsewhere. The croissants weren't as buttery and flaky as I would have liked them to be and the pain de raisins seemed dry.

    (3)

  • Y V.

    The mini pistachio doughnuts cost 2 dollars. I can not afford to shop here but the stuff is good and the staff is always alert and friendly! The shop is a super tight squeeze, one time my order was missed because the person behind me jumped in front of me (they didnt see me *wink*) before my order was processed. The staff noticed my order was missed and my order was comped that day. Good peeps and good foods.

    (4)

  • Kwame J.

    Very small inside, but its filled with many delights. I've had almost everything in the bakery at least once. I can remember back in 2001-2003 i tried my very first panini here. I was like what the heck is a panini.. This place is well worth the indulgence!!!!!!!!

    (5)

  • Munezza D.

    HAZELNUT HOT CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!!! a mustttt! the most amazzzingly deliciousness you will ever experience. The bakery is fantastic. The restaurant was way too chaotic. The wait was ridiculous. good luck even getting in through the door. But definitely check out the bakery. HAZELNUT HOT CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!!!

    (4)

  • Freya C.

    $3.75 for a (divine) croissant aux amandes... and $3.50 for a (beautifully smooth and practically flawless) latte/cappuccino... makes for a slightly expensive quotidian breakfast but it is one darn tasty treat when I let my inner marzipan meter steer myself down the "Spring-Street-route-to-work". It's still a tough toss-up between spending that $3.75 here or on a Ceci-Cela chocolate-almond croissant... so often it depends which traffic light lets me cross first (north on Mulberry or west on Kenmare).... Delicious way to start the day...

    (4)

  • Wendy C.

    One of my fav. pastry bakery in the city! While I used to work upstairs from Balthazar, I'd always look forward to my afternoon treat of a cup of "Hazelnut" Hot Chocolate, with an almond Croissant!

    (5)

  • Ken H.

    They have great donut but its not the type that i would go all the way over for it ( at least not again). There are lots great foods/desserts/pastry in NYC but I just don't think this is really ALL that.

    (3)

  • Julie B.

    I'm sure it is totally unnecessary to point out how wonderful this bakery is, but it really is revelatory. Beautiful scones, perfect light and buttery little tarts, terrific sourdough boule - everything was a masterpiece. Yum. Wonderful sweet stop on an afternoon stroll.

    (5)

  • Sharon T.

    Great atmosphere! Cool, young with a vibe of Soho. I ate with a friend on a Wednesday evening at the bar. It was jam packed and we had to wait a while at 6.30pm to get a seat at the bar. The woman behind the bar was very friendly and attentive which I think is so important in any restaurant. The steak was delectable and the molten chocolate cake very delicious. It is a great place in Soho and I highly recommend it for a romantic couple, friends or even when you are alone.

    (5)

  • Taylor T.

    Amazing French bistro that made me feel like I stepped into a little Parisian cafe. The wait for two on a Sunday morning was quoted at an hour plus, but my friend and I snagged two bar seats within 10 minutes and enjoyed our meal there. Shrimp cocktail and goat cheese tarts were standouts. French toast was above-average, but quite heavy. The service is impeccable and they don't make you feel rushed at all. Try some of the specialty brunch cocktails and the French onion soup. Then, walk off your brunch by window shopping in soho. Pretty much a perfect day in the city if you ask me!

    (4)

  • Stephanie B.

    I'd give 4.5 stars if I could. I had an hour to kill before going in to sign papers at work around the corner, so I popped into this tiny upscale bakery for a to-go bite. When I heard their soundtrack (Mozart horn concerto 2) I knew I was in for a treat. Asked for a pesto on focaccia but they were out (first bummer), but the guy working was so sweet about it and very helpful, I couldn't be upset. He suggested the tomato & brie on focaccia, but they only had a half sandwich available (second bummer). Again, the guy was too nice for me to be upset. I got the half sandwich and wanted nothing more, but they had no way of inputting JUST a half sandwich into their cash register. Apparently i HAD to get a cup of soup with it, which i didn't want (third bummer). All the little inconveniences aside, the sandwich was fantastic, there are benches lined outside, and the service was friendly (which I'm a stickler for). I will definitely be back again. This lunch put me in a great mood for the rest of the afternoon.

    (4)

  • Amy L.

    Delicious! We got: -lemon and the chocolate madeleines -flourless chocolate almond cake -almond croissant -baguette Because it was between 7:30 pm and 8 pm when they close, everything was half off! So all of this was $9.40 (including a dollar tip). Great quality and flavor... the only caveat is that it's kind of expensive... the "half off" price is probably close to other places' regular prices, so full price would make this a rare indulgence. Would definitely come back!

    (4)

  • Betty B.

    always loved it. always will. going on 20 years of love here :)

    (5)

  • Mark L.

    I was here with my cousin and his fiance at the time and we tried to get a table but the wait was just so nuts. So they decided to do some shopping around SoHo and I went to the bakery. I have to say the inside of this place is really nice. Really cool looking bar. Anyway I went to their bakery next door and got some of their pastries. Man were they amazing. I am definitely wanting to come back here next time I'm in SoHo and I actually want to try the restaurant. I also had a some yummy what appeared to be donut holes from here.

    (5)

  • Sandra S.

    Very french, very decadent!! and very pricey lol Had banana nut donuts and pistachio donuts as well ( $2.50) and some ice tea...good, yummy and fattening lol Crowd is very snobby but i guess thats expected...the staff is pretty friendly... will be coming back for my sweet fix :)

    (4)

  • Riley M.

    The Desserts#1 This bakery is very delicious with it's many types of desserts. I tried the chocolate cake and the fruit tart and I should had bought more than just one each. The chocolate cake wasn't so sweet like a block of sugar and I like that. It was a bit crunchy on and moist inside with some powder sugar on top of it. It's a simple cake but very good and as for the fruit tart its even better. The fruits consists of blue berries, strawberries and kiwis probably dip in sweet sauce for it to taste sweet but it's just perfect. The egg cream was thick and creamy. The Price #2 The price for both the chocolate cake and fruit tart was about $5. It was very good but for such a small quantity no bigger than my fist it's expensive. The Bakery #3 The bakery is right next to Balthazar's restaurant but it is extremely tiny as in the ordering area. It's probably 6 by 5 feet in there and it takes no more then 5 average people to covered the entire area. It's even more awful on rainy days when you have to wait outside

    (4)

  • Heather M.

    Today: counter help moving slow as molasses, oatmeal only warm instead of hot, and surprise: maple syrup when I asked for none. There must have been ten times this year I wanted to comment on the slowing service at the bakery in the morning. But each of these times the place has been packed so I felt maybe I could justify waiting 8 minutes for a cup of coffee. But today, I was pleasantly surprised to discover only 4 people online so I eagerly went in. Something has happened this year to the service there. The counter help is not eager and bustling. They're easily distracted by each other's jokes, the phone, and noises outside. They don't hop to the next customer after fulfilling an order. They linger and do some busy work and then consider the next customer. I'm utterly disappointed. There's a good reason my coffee budget has stayed low this year. At least I'm saving money I guess.

    (2)

  • Randy S.

    Hands down my favorite fruit tart in NYC, chock full of fruit and berries and a luscious vanilla custard, not drenched in super sweet glaze. They also make a great chocolate chip cookie, definitely my top 5 in NYC. Their croissants are also good.

    (5)

  • Anvy N.

    Best banana walnut cake donut I've ever had .. I'm not even a fan of banana nor cake donuts .. they normally crumble and fall apart when I bite into them .. this donut was moist and soft and didn't fall apart at all! it was small for $2.50, wish I bought a second one!

    (4)

  • Amber K.

    Seriously the best donuts in New York. Get the banana walnut or the pistachio.

    (5)

  • Jeff L.

    Speaking specifically about the doughnuts here, I had some pistachio doughnuts a while back which I had to ask for, because I'd read they had doughnuts and did not see them immediately. They were really fantastic doughnuts -- fresh and soft and despite the unique flavoring really very simple -- but at $2.50 its hard to stomach the price. I realize we're talkin' SoHo here, but really, that's way too expensive given that the doughnuts were pretty small even for cake doughnuts. It looks really great and "french" in there too, which is a good thing if you're there to look around. I had mine outside on a bench and watched the actual French people walking around instead.

    (4)

  • Ned J.

    Amazing croissants. Great donuts. Good Iced Lattes. Expensive, but for an occasional splurge, totally worth it.

    (4)

  • Valery C.

    Its been a long time since I've visited Balthazar Bakery (or the restaurant), but with fond memories on hand, it was an easy addition to our eating itinerary. Besides, what can beat fresh-baked French pastries first thing in the morning? The bakery is located adjacent to the restaurant, both easily spotted by the eye-catching red awnings. Decor is as classic French bistro/cafe as you can get. Not much space in the bakery as its strictly a take-out affair. Chalkboard menus, with breads and pastries tightly lined everywhere. I picked a cinnamon roll and my friend tried a plain croissant and coffee. Fitting with the theme, they have several benches out front both for those waiting on the restaurant and bakery patrons like ourselves. We settled in and munched on breakfast. Lovely cinnamon roll, freshly baked, a bit flaky, nicely laced with restrained sweetness. The croissant also got a thumbs up from my friend. Quite yummy, I really should pick up a snack more often.

    (4)

  • Yosub K.

    If you go an hour before closing, everything is half off. You're welcome.

    (5)

  • Michael B.

    There is always a wait. If you are ok with that then this place is a must try for SoHo. The line for Sunday brunch is actually offensive. Now on to the good. The food and pastries here are amazing. Brunch is delish. This is a great place to come if you are on the no carbs left behind diet. I am always on that diet... I had the eggs in the puff pastry and my friend had an omelet. Both were great. Food is really 4 stars here. The wait and overpriced bread will cost a point though.

    (3)

  • Jaimee A.

    The bread is amazing! The little sandwiches are delicious if you want a quick bite. The coffee is pretty good too. Be sure not to go there too late because after a while they stop replenishing the baked goods and there will literally be nothing left.

    (4)

  • Ginny L.

    Hmmm.....ok...Am i the only one who thought it was ok?! It was a nice afternoon, and my gf who was visiting from upstate came to NYC, and since we were shopping in SOHO, I thought i should take her to Balthazar for a quick dessert and catch up...We got the cheese cake, Mango passion tart and Tart du Jour.. The way the desserts were presented was lovely....you would assume it would taste the same, but seriously it was mediocre...the cheese cake was a bit soggy..and the fruit tarts were ok.... For the price and the reviews..i thought i was ready to be floored..=/

    (3)

  • Emily C.

    Go to the restaurant. The sandwiches here are hard.

    (3)

  • Ji P.

    Standard French pastries and bread. Nothing inventive or exciting but still delicious.

    (3)

  • N T.

    Balthazar has the best croissants and fruit tarts, line can be long but it moves fast. Their pastries are perfectly sweeten, best bakery in Soho.

    (4)

  • Echo W.

    I bought a loaf of bread and mille feuille from Balthazar. It was around 6:30pm so the selections were limited. But mille feuille was light and delightful. It was a little expensive though - $6.50 per piece. The bread (levain boule) was very good - very crispy on the outside and nice texture (soft and chewy) on the inside.

    (5)

  • Audrey K.

    Can't let myself give a full 5 stars because, regretfully, I didn't eat at the restaurant - I was only able to raid the bakery.. Regardless!! What a treasure! My mom and I needed a sugar break while shopping and popped over to Balthazar for a treat, and WOW! We shared the most amazing blackberry pear tart I've ever tasted, in addition to their cranberry and walnut, and chocolate bread loaves... I was so impressed. In a squishy little closet of a bakery, the people answered the 45 questions my plumpy little mother had and laid out samples. I will definitely make my way to the restaurant half and will, 99%, update this review with a full 5 stars.

    (4)

  • Mei M.

    If you come here at 7:30 pm, the pastries, bread, sandwiches and salads are all half off. Be prepared for a line! People go crazy for this deal. If you're lucky, go for the almond crossiant, its flaky light and filled with marizapan in the middle. I am salivating as I am thinking about this. Another standout item that I love is the sticky buns. They actually slice it for you so you don't gorge yourself on this magical item, there is a sweet buttery caramel glaze with walnuts covering the bread that is laced with cinnamon, walnuts and raisins. The opera cake (6.50) was a little pricey and tasted like your standard tiramisu. Must get the croissants and sticky buns..drool

    (4)

  • ANASTASSIA B.

    I Love everything that ever came out of their Bakery. It is truly amazing, mouth-watering, buttery goodness! Can't.... Get... .... Enough.......

    (4)

  • Amanda C.

    I've only tried the bakery (not sure why they're the same Yelp listing), but what I tried was pretty damn amazing. It's hard to say much more other than... go there. Now. I usually compare bakeries by their baguettes and Balthazar has one of the best in the city. Their pastries looked even better! And unlike the crowded restaurant, you can pop in and out of the bakery quickly.

    (4)

  • Zoe P.

    My review is for the Balthazar Bakery only, which is located in a very small space right next to the restaurant. Usually there is a looooooong line the leads all the way outside of the bakery entrance, but if you go early enough in the morning (which is definitely the best time to score freshly baked goods) there is basically no line at all. I have to say, I'm a huge fan of their breads, and since I'm not a huge carbs person that says alot. They offer several different kinds of breads: baguette, multigrain, ciabatta (plain and rosemary), levain, walnut, pain de seigle, brioche, olive, chocolate and cranberry raisin. When I asked one of the very friendly and helpful servers which of their breads he recommended, he said that their signature pane de seigle (like a sourdough) was their most popular, but their multigrain is by far the greatest - crisp exterior with a soft interior filled with whole grains and with a rich, nutty taste. Mmmm...even better when WARM...

    (4)

  • R T.

    My family and I have been coming to this bakery for years. I have yet to go to the restaurant but it is definitely in my plans to do so. It is pricey, but completely worth it. Everything I have ever had at this bakery is delicious. Keep in mind this Bakery is take out only, no seating. During the holiday season they make a Pumpkin Cheese cake that is one of the most delicious things I have ever had. All of their other cheesecakes are great too. Their coffee is amazing! The lattes....ooooooh sooo good! YOU MUST HAVE THEIR LEMONADE. It is the best lemonade I have ever had, hands down. No one can top it in my opinion. Whenever I get their lemonade I have it with their shortbread cookies, who would think in a bakery with so many mouth watering options, a simple looking little cookie could be so good? The chocolate bread is just sinful. It is not sweet and you should definitely have a beverage with it, perhaps a latte? :) Very, very yummy. I could go on and on. The lines speak for themselves, you have to try it for yourself.

    (5)

  • Alex H.

    I'm sorry, how have I never reviewed this? NoLita coffee standby. I used to get off a subway stop early and walk down to work around City Hall just so I could have my requisite iced latte and banana doughnut (the doughnuts...oh the doughnuts). Every salad/sandwich I've had has been lovely as well, we all know how good the bread is, and though I always seem to be here on days when I'm not feeling particularly indulgent (except for the doughnuts), the pastries look fantastic.

    (4)

  • Ashley K.

    It was raining the day I stepped into the bakery. I was a tad overwhelmed as I looked into the copious amounts of bread and baked confections. It took me a while to decide what else I wanted to eat because I ate mexican corn only 30 mins previous to my visit here. I decided to get the French Onion Soup togo and a Canele. Both were great. The soup was not salty which is always a good thing. It had lots of melted Gruyère ( melted cheese is always messy but so worth it). And then the canele was the perfect sweet dessert to end my lunch. For those who have never tried it, go and get one immediately. They are little brown cake that is slightly chewy and sweet and spongy. Im not describing it well, but do yourself a favor and eat it. :)

    (4)

  • Michael O.

    a very cosy small bakery. good take-away coffee. worth to visit!

    (4)

  • Catherine S.

    Small room, lots of choices, quick & delicious! Delicious Cappuccino & coffee too. Can't wait to go back!

    (5)

  • Shawn Y.

    It was the cutest little French restaurant. Expensive, but well worth the money.

    (5)

  • Carrie T.

    Definitely some of the best pastries I've had. Its not cheap but not too expensive either. Definitely worth the price though. Can't wait to go back!

    (5)

  • Emma C.

    One of my favorite places in Soho - definitely a classic. Please, please go to the bakery next door and try their pastries, especially the chocolate bread. It's simply superb! I have been to this establishment a few times and each time I went, it's been a consistently fabulous experience. Once, I wanted to eat the chocolate bread in the restaurant, and the waiter went out of his way to get the chocolate bread from the bakery next door (they don't serve pastries in the restaurant) just so I could eat it with my meal! The bar steak with fries is pretty good and the fois gras mousse was a great appetizer! However, I must say I love the desserts the best. Absolutely try the Profiteroles and Carmelized Banana Ricotta Tart - who can say no to banana ice cream? Balthazar is a great place to get a drink also - they serve you lots of scrumptious snacks while you sip on your drink at the bar. Service is not the best, so that takes this place down one star... but worth checking out, especially if you are from out of town!

    (4)

  • Anais B.

    4 stars for the delicate and sophisticated dressing on my salad! Very hard to find a good truffle oil and fresh salad tasting so good. Definetely a great choice for a healty lunch!

    (4)

  • Michael P.

    Review is only for the Bakery: In need of a quick bite to curb my hunger pains, I stepped in here at 6pm to grab a Sticky Bun to-go. I paid $3.75 expecting a warm, sweet gooey sticky bun, but all I got was a cold...dry...sticky... lump of sadness. It was more like a stale muffin actually. I probably ordered one of the last sticky buns left sitting out since the morning. Aside from that however, the flavors in the sticky bun were pretty delightful. Not overwhelmingly sweet with a pizazz of nuts. Be sure to go earlier in the day to order such baked goods because for the price that you're paying, you darn well should have it served in it's best shape/form possible! =)

    (2)

  • John R.

    Seems there should be a separate listing for the Bakery next door to Balthazar's restaurant, no? Anyway, I recently discovered this list of best donuts in NYC: newyork.seriouseats.com/… As a donut glutton, I've embarked on a mission to try to each and every one. This morning was my first and it started w/ a banana pecan donut at Balthazar. It did not disappoint. Highly recommended. Aside from the donut, every other visit to this place has been top notch, well deserving of 5 stars.

    (5)

  • Jon B.

    In a word, "Excellent". Had the strawberry cheese cake.. Fantastic! Great little place to grab a pastry and coffee and sit out front.. Looks like a small pastry shop would have 100 years ago.

    (5)

  • Izac H.

    I was wandering past on Sunday morning and not entirely content with the pink vanilla cupcake that I had scoffed for breakfast, I decided to sample something from the bakery. The range of sweet pastries and tarts was so very tempting, fighting the sugar siren I realised that a cupcake and tart was probably not what they had in mind when they coined the phrase "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" and opted for a savoury focaccia. Rustic and strewn with crisp brown onion, roasted red and yellow tomatoes, and soft crumbly goats cheese, it really was a dream, texturally perfect and pleasing to the eye. At $4.50, buy one and smile.

    (4)

  • Lauren W.

    This review is just for the bakery--I haven't eaten in the restaurant (yet). I did bookmark because I've wanted to try it ever since I stumbled upon the Topshop party there a few months back. Admittedly, after seeing Julie and Julia this past weekend, I was dying for some french croissant goodness. So, I was a few blocks away with a friend last night and decided to forgo dinner in favor of some buttery flaky goodness. I went in to the tiny quaint bakery and found that apres (that's after in french, lol) 7 pm, everything is discounted. So, I got my heavenly pain au chocolate for just over $1. And it was phenomenal. I'm a devoted fan now

    (5)

  • Ellen C.

    hands down one of my favorite bakeries in the city. you can never go wrong with their pastries, salads and sandwiches. the coffee and hazelnut hot chocolate are AMAZE!

    (5)

  • Jenny S.

    Not my favorite pastry place, but they may have a redeeming quality I havnt eaten yet haha. The pastries are decently filling and they hold back on the sugar which is gd sometimes. I thought my sandwich was just fine. This is a really tight space where only a handful of people can squeeze in and get an order to go. I will update after a few more tries.

    (3)

  • Christie K.

    After an arduous day of shopping, I decided to stop by Balthazar Bakery for a few dessert treats. The bakery is very small, so be prepared to be pressed up against some handsome European customers (meowww). Mmmmmm~ I bought: lemon & chocolate madeleines, walnut/raisin minced pie, and a banana walnut donut. Everything was reasonably delicious, but the banana walnut donut made my taste buds squeal in girlish delight!!! If you stop by half an hour (7:30) before closing, everything is 1/2 off!!!

    (4)

  • Grace C.

    I am a daily customer of the Bakery section. Every morning - I can't live without their coffee with soy. Their bread quality is above average. It is not cheap but you pay for what you get.

    (4)

  • H. W.

    Overpriced, always out of stock. Breads are too hard. Sandwiches are nothing special and very sparse. Croissants are bready. Chocolate bread is just a weird concoction. Nothing else is worth trying.

    (1)

  • Morgan E.

    I ordered a Panini, I believe a simple ham and cheese (this was a couple weeks ago), and they pretty much forgot about me. I understand that it was busy and hectic, and maybe i'm not super memorable due to an unfortunate invisible ink accident but I still took offense to it and wasted a good chunk of time (six or so minutes) politely assuming they had remembered me. Then I was like, oh no wait, this is New York, of course they didn't, and spoke up. At that point the lady behind the counter looked very distressed and genuinely upset that she had forgotten my order and apologized profusely. Unfortunately she then proceeded to rush through the sandwich creation-process and didn't give it enough time to toast fully. This appears to be one of the only bad reviews so I will chalk it up to a bad day and attempt "operation sandwich ordering" once again.

    (3)

  • Joey R.

    This location is very small but excellent. Probably my favourite iced coffee in the city. (Sorry Starbucks you still have my Iced Tea vote.) The foccacia bread is fantastic but beware the veggie has olives! Their pastries are good I would recommend getting something seasonal like a pumpkin cheesecake. My only complaint, besides the olives, is that there really isn't any order to who gets served next, although there is tons of staff working, so the crowd remains somewhat controlled.

    (4)

  • Andrea H.

    I checked out this bakery on a fine weekday evening to see what the hype is all about. Tried the almond croissant ($3.25), while it was not bad ... it wasn't mind blowing great either. It's just OK, there's nothing special with Balthazar's croissants. I guess I expect something much better, after reading all the positive reviews on Yelp about their croissants. I prefer my croissants to be a bit more flaky, although I have to admit the almond crusts on top of the croissants is good, not too sweet and crunchy.

    (3)

  • Ian A.

    Great food but so it should be at those prices. Mad insane prices

    (4)

  • Audrey W.

    I must rant about the croissants purchased at the bakery. They have many great fine baked goods sold here but the only thing great about their croissants is that they are perfect for bread pudding BECAUSE they are super dry. For $2.75 a piece, you would think it would be like an ideal croissant: buttery, flaky, and soft. Unfortunately the only thing ideal for the ten croissants I purchased for a brunch is that they will be used for a dessert. The chocolate bread, the brownies, and other items fare much better.

    (3)

  • Mary Q.

    Yum! Love this place. The front door is a portal to Paris minus the language barrier. Yes it's small and cramped but good things come in small packages. I've had the shortbread cookies and several of their fruit tarts. The shortbread cookies were perfect, not too dry or sweet and full of buttery goodness. The passion fruit tart is probably my favorite tart there, perfect balance of sweet and tart topped with a small cape gooseberry. The filling portion is a bit more runny than I expected but the flavor was absolutely wonderful. Everything was packed nicely into small bags and boxes since there is no seating inside and you have to take it out to eat.

    (4)

  • Fat T.

    Must try the Cannelle and Almond Croissant. The Cannelle is heavenly, got 20 my last trip there to bring home.

    (5)

  • E A.

    wonderful scones. i just wish there were another quieter, less crowded location. their scones are also sold in markets around the city. so instead of waiting in line at the soho location and ordering everything to go, you might want to find their scones in a quieter spot with seating.

    (4)

  • Olivia N.

    Popped into the Balthazar Bakery after a disappointing experience at a nearby cafe (waited 30 min without food before figuring out that the waitress had forgotten to put our order in, walked out in a huff...) Their focaccia pizzas were just the right pick-me-up, and their charming decor and friendly staff calmed our nerves and put us in a great mood. Will definitely be back to try their other treats.

    (5)

  • Natasha M.

    True caneles! Finally!

    (5)

  • Jessica N.

    I have been to NYC countless times since I was a kid, but I discovered this little gem only in the past year, when one of my co-workers (from NYC) who loves sweets as much as I, told me that I just had to stop by. It's a little narrow shop that you could easily pass by if not paying attention, but your nose would help guide the way. The pastries are to die for. My coworker loves the sticky buns, but I really loved their other pastries more. Croissants were light, flaky, buttery, just a touch of crunch without being firm or crunchy. Loved their fruit tarts. When I was there, I bought as much as was reasonably not-too-unhealthy to consume within the short life-span of pastries. And, when I was done, I only wanted more...

    (5)

  • Sara G.

    Really amazing. Great food. Great pastries at the bakery next door--the pan au chocolat is to die for as are the foccacias, quiches and goat cheese tarts for a quick lunch. Go!

    (5)

  • Vi V.

    I have become a bread lady. The latest object of my obsession is BREAD. Good bread. While I'm holding out writing reviews on other bread stores as I want to try out most, if not all, of their bread offerings before giving recommendations, I am ready to talk about Balthazar. And that is not really a positive thing. Well, my review is only for the Chocolate bread and baguette, cos thats all I got from them. I've been doing a whole lotta research about breads, where and what, and I've heard enough about the chocolate bread from Balthazar. And I got it. while it actually is quite good, it just isn't "bread" bread to me. It's like "cake" bread. Its too sweet and rich to be a bread, but not sweet and rich enough to be a cake. But then again, this is just a matter of taste. I like my bread to be firm and relatively tasteless. The baguette is only ok at best - its prettier than it tastes. And what I didn't like is how cramped the bakery is! There's hardly any space to move. You should know what you want, get in line, order, pay, take your food and get out of there! thankfully there are some benches outside if you want to drink the coffee and eat the croissant you just bought.

    (3)

  • Tamara D.

    Mmmm. Best bakery in town. Love their raisin pecan bread and all of their tarts! If you get there an hour before closing everything is half off.

    (5)

  • Jennifer G.

    Hazelnut hot chocolate = liquified nutella. Rich, creamy and oh so delicious.

    (5)

  • Gerard B.

    (Jan/ 2007) If you don't have time to sit down and enjoy a great meal at Balthazar, then definitely stop by the Balthazar bakery. The long line says it all! Do not miss out on the banana nut donut. O M G ! The most delicious and satisfying donut I have ever had.. and I don't even really like donuts, so that says a lot.

    (5)

  • ChristinA S.

    Let's all take a moment and thank the existence of Balthazar. Went to the bakery one day (the restaurant was completely packed, with at least 10 people waiting) to try out their famous desserts. had a rich and dense (in a good way) dark chocolate fudge with raspberry sauce.Cost me almost 6 bucks, but it was really, really good. Looks just like the desserts they save at high-end restaurants. Had Melissa's afterwards and it tasted disgusting (okay, maybe not gross, but definitely not as good). I will definitely come back and try other types of desserts though. Hate to say it, but I really expected a bigger bakery and more selections.

    (3)

  • Fiona B.

    I can't speak for the restaurant but the Balthazar bakery is oo la la. While the space is tight, which can make it difficult to place an order during lunchtime, the smells and classic french design keep you entertained. I'm hoping to try more of their food (speciality breads and pastries most importantly) but have so far been very satisfied with their roasted turkey sandwich (also includes avocado, sharp cheddar, lettuce, lemon mayo on grilled bread, the smokiness is amazing). In terms of quantity it seems small for $10 but the ingredients are fresh and the flavors excellent. I should mention that if you're not able to make it to the bakery or don't want to spend that amount of cash on a sandwich, it's easy enough to make at home. Great on crostini as well!

    (4)

  • Cynthia k.

    this is purely for the bakery. 99% of the time, i'm pleased to be a left coaster. the 1% of the "other" time occurs when i eat things like balthazar's potato zucchini foccacia or normandy apple tart, served up to me by efficient and friendly servers in a (admittedly) cramped but charming bakery setting.

    (5)

  • Po L.

    The bakery is amazing. We ordered the sampler plate of baked goods and boy was it delicious. The raw bar was fresh. This place is pricey, but go at least once. You could tape the baked goods right to your ass, but then you wouldn't get to enjoy it.

    (4)

  • Scott P.

    Balthazar bakery is great! Love the coffee and the pastries are delicious. Reccomend the cookies: especially the oatmeal and the chocolate walnut. The sandwiches and salads are overpriced though. Still recommend.

    (4)

  • Melanie M.

    Seconds after paying for my croissant I rip it open to reveal the inner perfectly formed honeycomb - the mark of an excellently crafted croissant. The first rich, buttery bite takes my breath away. I've searched long and hard for flaky, buttery satisfaction and finally I've emerged victorious. Where am I? A breezy parisian cafe? A rustic Austrian bakery? You might be surprised to find out that this sublime croissant comes not from overseas, but from Soho's Balthazar Bakery. It is just one of many flaky buttery treasures available in this pastry loving city's best bakery, that is proving that France no longer holds a monopoly on artisan croissants. You walk through the red awninged door and are instantly engulfed by french patisserie atmosphere as it should be. Workers in all white spin around making lattes and bagging up all of the glorious treasures in sight: dark, hearty breads, delicate scones and tarts, and of course the golden croissants. Balthazar's almond croissants are so good that they've inspired poetic haikus. There is always a line out of door, and nowhere to sit let alone stand, but none of that will matter the second that you bite into this exquisite indulgence filled with smooth frangipane (almond cream) who's nuttyness compliments the layered pastry beautifully, with a hint of sweetness, which, paired with a cafe au lait, makes this the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

    (5)

  • NewportBeach F.

    Loved coming here, for years. Doughnuts are still delicious and quiche is an easy snack to grab. But other items are hit or miss, service has become indifferent (sometimes surly!), and they've eliminated some good sandwich options. Better idea to wait for a table at the full restaurant next door, if you have the time...

    (2)

  • Anne H.

    The bread and rolls are great. The croissants are fantastic. I will honestly spend an extra hour on the treadmill to justify stopping over at Balthazar for a breakfast croissant.

    (5)

  • Brittnee C.

    their coffee is overrated and they screwed up my order more than once so I stopped going. but still I'm giving them 2 stars rather than 1 because their pastries are really good. if you're in soho and you want good coffee you're better off going to La Colombe on Lafayette.

    (2)

  • Sara S.

    Delicious pastries and breads. I love this place. The fruit tart is unbelievably good.

    (5)

  • Brianna S.

    I went to the bakery before a long day of adventures and I have to say that although everything was rich, the food was seriously delicious. My only complaint is that the space is so tiny it makes it hard to wait in line and therefore even harder to enjoy your food on a cold day.

    (4)

  • Liz E.

    I'm giving the bakery a three star rating because I have only tried their "Brownie Performance," something that curiously, isn't listed on the menu. I was served by an obviously tired and rude girl with piercing coming out of every corner of her face, another strange aspect of the bakery that didn't seem to fit. There were many things that looked good, like the bread pudding, but I'll admit that I'm not too crazy about French pastries and desserts. Regardless, my brownie, laden with walnuts and dusted with cocoa, seems dry at first but very quickly becomes soft, fudgy, and very dark. If anything, another trip is worth it simply for the variety of breads, which are expensive but look divine; the sandwiches seem a bit paltry though for the price, so I probably will skip them. ---------------------------------- UPDATE********** A better customer experience due to a kinder cashier and a less crowded area made me raise the rating a star. This was also due to the absolutely fantastical bread pudding I had which, for four dollars, is a dense, heavy little sucker made with the bakery's own fruit focaccia. Creamy, cold, and still firm enough to be eaten like a muffin, it ranks with Serendipity's bread pudding as the best I've ever had, trumping even my own. Now that's saying something.

    (4)

  • Alwyn A.

    I'm addicted to the ham and cheese croissant. I got my boss addicted to the ham and cheese croissant. Your life will be changed by this ham and cheese croissant. The chocolate sables and the tartine (brie with jam and butter) are also very good. The hot coffee isn't incredible, but the iced coffee is exceptional -- and highly caffeinated! Yes, there is a wait. Yes, it is often long. Get over it. This is SoHo, one of the busiest shopping districts in one of the largest cities in the world. Other people want coffee too. Even with all the traffic, the staff is generally friendly. I will absolutely give any exceptions the benefit of the doubt, given the size (tiny) and volume (high) of the space. Also, if you go at closing (seven o'clock), pastries are half-off. But get out your rapiers and dueling pistols, because the regulars are not kidding around.

    (4)

  • Liz M.

    I haven't tried the restaurant, but everyone needs to go next door to the bakery and try their chocolate bread and sticky buns with dried fruit. I actually had these at Schiller's in a bread basket they offered at brunch. Well, after I dreamed of this bread, I hunted down their origin and bliss ensued. I would call ahead to see what they are making before going over because the last time I went, I found they only make the chocolate bread on the weekends.

    (4)

  • missy l.

    3.5 stars for the bakery. a friend and i popped in on a random wed morning to find the bakery packed full of customers. the good thing is that it is a well-oiled machine - they really know how to deliver customer service and get people in and out quickly. we had croissants and iced coffees and both were as expected from what you would get at balthazar - pricey but delicious. we had the almond and also the goat cheese croissant and i absolutely LOVED my almond croissant. it was lighty, airy, fluffy and just perfect. the disappointing part was that they made a fuss in toasting our croissants. really?

    (3)

  • Anne L.

    Their bakery has the best ice coffee in the city. It's strong with a good coffee aroma to it. They could do something about the snooty attitute though.

    (4)

  • G. R.

    its my birthday this week and they are willing to custom make my favorite mixed berry galette even though it not on their menu for this winter season.. i love them!! no french bakery has come this close to the pastries i tasted in Paris!!!

    (5)

  • Lolo M.

    If you are on a budget, don't sit at the restaurant. Order instead from the bakery which is right next door. I am not a sandwich gal but let me tell you, the bread is to die for, which makes any sandwich irresistible.

    (4)

  • Jill N.

    Eggplant Parm Sandwich from the Bakery side was alright, but I expect more for a $9 sandwich.

    (3)

  • John Chase M.

    OMG!! The take away bakery counter is nirvana. The best baked goods I've ever had. I was in NY for 9 days and found myself walking into Balthazar nearly everyday. The aroma is to die for. Seriously, you have to go to this establishment and eat some baked goods!! Pastries are irresistible.

    (5)

  • L C.

    My general plan of action in bakeries where everything looks delicious is to point at the first thing that stands out to me, ask what it is, and if it sounds even remotely yummy, taking a risk (hey, some people sky dive, some people wrestle alligators, I eat unknown bakery goods). The pastry I pointed at happened to be a small bread pudding, and I basically didn't hear anything else the lovely person behind the counter said after that because my stomach drowned out her voice. "GIVE IT TO ME," it said. So the bread pudding it was. She packed it up in a beautiful Balthazar box, placed it in a beautiful Balthazar bag, and I toted it back to my meeting where the box alone inspired moans of jealousy. A crowd of people gathered around me as I opened it, necks straining to see what was inside. I was asked for a play-by-play of my first bite into the delicacy (I'm only mildly exaggerating). Simply put, it was perfect, creamy and fluffy but dense at the same time, but not too heavy like some bread pudding tends to be. It also had cherries in it, which I thought added a sweet tang. Wish I had tried more, but there's too much good food in this neighborhood-- I'll be back to hopefully upgrade my rating (since I usually don't give 5 stars to places I've only tried once).

    (4)

  • Cara A.

    Take-away from the little bakery is the way to go. I find myself wishing for one of their scones and a big coffee this Friday morning. Aah.

    (4)

  • CE C.

    Wish I knew about the half off deal near closing time!! I was starving and stopped by the bakery right before closing. Got their pain au chocolate, a little disappointing, it was towards the end of the day and there was no crispness and flakiness in the pastry. Will have to give it a shot when the pastries are fresher in the morning

    (3)

  • Marilyn M.

    This is about the bakery. I don't care for the restaurant. The food is good, but the ambiance is not. Very noisy. You not only hear everyone's conversation, you hear their glasses and forks and knives clinking. Terrible accoustics. Not a relaxing eating experience. But the bakery is a different story. A recommendation. The walnut brownie is to die for. I am a walnut brownie freak and this was absolutely the best I ever had. Light with great texture and the most divine powder cocoa topping. $3,00.

    (4)

  • C M.

    Disclaimer: This review is solely meant for the bakery portion of Balthazar as I have yet to be subjected to an actual meal @ this fine establishment. Furthermore, the proceeding review will be solely based on a delightful sweet derived from the bakery... The Donut! Special Thanks to Susan Y. for the recommendation on Balthazar Bakery! My ventures into the discovery of the Best Donut in NY has led me to the second establishment in my journey. Balthazar Bakery is modeled after that of a French Pastry Shop commonly found in, well... You know where! The entry / ordering area has limited spacing for approximately 10 people. At the counter, a luscious display of confectioneries ranging from the Chocolate Pot de Creme to Profiteroles are at a consumers disposal, for a price of course. Each of these delectable treats contains within them a certain element of intrigue and unique presentation that can only be comprehended through consumption. Sadly, my ventures to this establishment was to discover the essence of the donut that's manufactured from their baking facilities. Perhaps another visitation in the late future shall grant me such luxuries, but until then, Donuts Only!!! Upon being serviced by the wait staff, I indulged my inner sinful consumption desires by ordering both the Pistachio and the Chocolate Covered Donut. I opted not to get the basic cake glazed donut as my intentions were to test the multiversity of Balthazar's ability to enrich the taste of such a good. Pistachio: The first bite into the Pistachio donut generated a slight disillusion between the frosting and the base. The cake donut base provided a soft and moistened inspired creation with limited hints of over application of either butter or sugar. Unfortunately, the amount of pistachio used in the application was mild and subtle, thus creating an imbalance between the frosting and the base. With each bite of the donut, any consumer will state that the Pistachio Nut flavor of the frosting is hinder nevertheless present, but once incorporated with the cake donut, all signs of the Pistachio disappear and all that's left is the base. The seemingly overwhelming contrast and conquering of flavors by the donut base takes away from the harmonious balance that was originally intended through this creation. There are two basic solutions that would aid in the correction of such a talented creation. The first being, add more pistachio nuts (perhaps incorporate them in the baking process such that pistachios are found within the cake base). Secondly, add pistachio spice to the cake donut batter for enhancement of the effervescent vapors. Chocolate Covered: Surprisingly, this was the donut I preferred over the Pistachio. Unlike the the Pistachio sprinkled confection, the Chocolate Covered Donut produced a seemingly well balanced taste of both chocolate and golden yellow cake. What gave this donut a preferred mark over its counterpart is that the emphasized frosting of this dessert was not slacking, thus providing both a vibrant chocolate and cake flavor. The chocolate in it's own right was done with proper execution. From conversations with the Master Pastry Chef @ Balthazar, it was understood that the chocolate used in the application of this donut was a 65% cocoa base. The 65% cocoa in nature is a dark chocolate, that's mildly sweet but bitter in both body and structure. The application of such a chocolate to this donut produced a bitter, but bold taste giving the donut enhanced sternness, of which was its original intension. Overall, the donuts created by the Balthazar Bakery were tasty and delightful but not invigorating nor captivating. One thing that was noticed about the Balthazar confectionery was that there was only a mild presence of butter and sugar. Perhaps this was intended to favor the pretentious weight management crowd of SOHO. Be that as it may, the donut was still perfectly done in both texture, composition and of course, taste!

    (3)

  • Jen S.

    We only had a ham & cheese croissant from the take-out bakery. It was very very yummy. I hope to go back again one day when I have more time and sample the restaurant. Or, maybe have a hotel nearby and get bread to go...

    (4)

  • Kitrena Y.

    Got a Passionfruit-Mango Cake for my cousin's birthday after seeing and article about it on serious eats. Thought I'd give it a chance and it was fantastic. The passion-fruit was explicit. The cake was soft and the cream on top was not too sweet. Overall not a very sweet cake which I like. The lady fingers were very soft surprisingly, I expected them to be hard as rock. Too bad Otto's cake service requirement (got 6 gelatos, one for each person at the table) distracted the flavor of the cake a little. I would definitely come back to try other desserts/baked goods.

    (4)

  • Laura G.

    Went into the bakery part to get a quick sandwich. I was practically drooling over the turkey sandwich - too bad they were out. I opted for the curry chicken sandwich instead. Not very flavorful and the chicken was dry for at least $7. Everything else looked delicious though, and my friend enjoyed her panini.

    (3)

  • sally w.

    Their pastries are to die for. They have a lot of variety here but it is the mango cheesecake and the fruit puff pastry (forgot the name) is my favorite. The puff pastry desert has different fruit toppings on certain days like apricot and I think blueberries. I swear I think I ate the whole thing (it's pretty big) in one sitting..it was that delicious! Their baguettes are really good too..perfect for dipping sauces. The place is really small, no sitting room except the little bench outside. I don't normally like pastries but the ones here aren't too sweet. I guess the trade off would be having a lot of butter in it I'm sure!

    (4)

  • Alicia K.

    Yummy!!! Lost a star because the store is really small and overcrowded.

    (4)

  • Stephanie W.

    My favorite stop for a snack while shopping in Soho is the bakery. Yummy-licious sweet and savory treats...bread pudding, pumpkin cheesecake, cookies, apple tartin, sandwiches and salads... enjoy them all with a hot latte. Ohh. Get your treats to go and sit outside on the benches and watch the world go by.

    (5)

  • Melody H.

    I only go to the bakery because they have perfectly sized salads and lovely soups to-go and for delivery. I have yet to indulge in the pastries but they do look mighty tasty. The baguette was good enough, but not great, which has made me hesitant to buy bread on the way home from work. I swear by the Mediterranean salad, though, and one of these days I am going to figure out how they make that lemon-mint-basil? dressing...

    (4)

  • N T.

    This review is for the takeout bakery, not the restaurant (Yelp should split it up). I rate it 5 stars for the pastries -- they are among the best I've ever had. But I rate it 1 star for the ridiculously small amount of space. There's simply not enough room. It's really insulting to Balthazar Bakery's customers. It's so unpleasant I no longer go. Instead, I just wait for the few occasions when we decide to order a bunch of pastries for an office function.

    (3)

  • Colleen C.

    i like to pop into the bakery for the delicious chicken curry sandwich on wheat WITH GRAPES! mmm... i never have the patience or desire to go to the restaurant personally. i'd rather jump in, grab a gourmet sammie to go & get on my merry way. plus the counter people are always so nice :)

    (4)

  • Jono T.

    The seen and be seen scene on Spring Street from inside and out can't get any better...but the coffee in the bakery could be. Convenient place to catch a cab...and be dropped off. Naming this popular place after 1 of the 3 Magi was a wise move. Celebrities go there and lots of business is done there too.

    (4)

  • david y.

    the pastry basket is a must. the constant long waits are a drag. so if you're in a rush go next door to their bakery and grab a few pastries on the go!

    (5)

  • Carol L.

    I dropped in to the bakery section, and ordered one apple berry tart. The guy asked if my friend and i wanted a cookie. we said we were too full. He replied "you're going to pass on a cookie that's on the house??" =) We immediately reneged our decision. It gets better. We thought we'd get ONE free cookie. Instead, the guy gave each of us a huge chocolate chip cookie! how nice is that?!!

    (4)

  • Joy C.

    I'm only basing my review of their savory scone, as I only had time to stop by their adjoining bakery. It was horrid. The texture was dry and flaky. I had to drink some liquids in order to not choke on the parched dough. The flavor was also sucked... I expected the olives and the rosemary and the cheese to shine, but they were dull and bland. I heard from a friend who actually ate dinner there that it was really good... I'll have to try their restaurant sometime. Avoid scones at Balthazar!

    (1)

  • Jenn R.

    The Balthazar Bakery was the first stop on a tour of NYC's pastry shops. Its a cute little stop with just beautiful treats. I had a passion fruit tarte and a petite four. The petite four was a bite of heaven and the tarte was awesome.

    (4)

  • Ilias K.

    Besides the mouth-watering pastries, Balthzar Bakery offers the best iced cappucino!

    (4)

  • Bengie A.

    My head is still spinning. I stepped into this tiny bakery not knowing what to expect. I was broke and not looking to buy anything, just keeping someone company. Then I saw their big ass cookies. My mouth started watering as I quickly calculating my change. I whispered "how much is that cookie?" And that is when I heard an angel come from the heavens and said "1.50". I thought my ears where deceiving me. A cookie that big for one fifty!!! I quickly ordered two and ran out the store before he changed his mind. As I was stuffing my face, I realized that the angle gave me four cookies for the price of two. I felt like Sara Cruz...I decided to share and gave one to a friend. The gift that keeps giving. I can't wait to go back there for more swag, I will remember to smile and bat my eyes. I believed an Olsen Twin left a little before I got there, but I was too busy eyeing the delicious treats to care.

    (5)

  • Mariangela S.

    Stopped by the bakery for a morning croissant, and was underwhelmed by the presentation and taste. The croissant was nice and flakey, but just didn't wow me like I expected.

    (2)

  • D B.

    The Balthazar Bakery (directly next to the restaurant) carries some very tasty doughnuts - as well as a whole bunch of other delicious things.

    (4)

  • Josh K.

    The best almond croissant in Manhattan, in my opinion, is here at Balthazar. The line inside the store can look daunting and cramped, but you'll never wait in it for more than 5 minutes. The service is fast and friendly. Pastries run from about $1.50 to $5 and above (usually the realm of sandwiches and such.)

    (5)

  • Rob C.

    I do love their banana walnut doughnut. I wish they'd do more flavors more often though. Their other pastries and breads are also very good, but my preference for those will always lie a few blocks away at Francois Payard on Houston st.

    (4)

  • Ming K L.

    I always pass by this place and didn't know how famous this place was until my friend took a selfie with the Beckhams next door for breakfast. I tried the hot cholocate, chocolate croissant and almond croissant. Hot chocolate and almond croissant were average. Chocolate croissant was pretty good but pricey and small. I've heard great things about their muffins and would definitely love to try it next time! Just warning though, you will either be in a long line, or you will be pressurized to order fast.. No waiting around. I had to do two transactions because how annoyed the workers and the people behind of me were. Luckily there wasn't a long line around 11am so I had the chance to buy more without waiting too long

    (4)

  • Alicia G.

    10 years ago Balthazar was my JAM. After 6pm all pastries were half off. Then they moved the hours later and later...until it got crazy and then got discontinued. Whomp. I still come here when I'm in the neighborhood to get their chocolate chip cookies. They are huge and made with an amazing semi sweet chips and are soooo good. You can't really go wrong with any of the choices really. They have mini versions of popular items and you can never go wrong with the full sized items like tarts, croissants, etc. They also have bread and people are crazy for their coffee (which I don't drink). The customer service is almost always on point and everyone is so friendly. Their other food, sandwiches, salads, etc. are soooo good. And expensive. If you want tasty food (and if there isn't a line), I highly suggest this spot.

    (4)

  • Katherine Z.

    Got the fruit tart today and it was magnificent. Normally, fruit tarts are way too sweet for me, but this one was perfectly flavored. The fruits were fresh as well. And the crust...the crust was amazing. Crust is always my favorite part of a tart (and the part by which I evaluate the tart the most), and Balthazar perfected it. Not too dry, not too mushy. It was delicious.

    (5)

  • Harry H.

    Dropped by on a Wednesday at 10:30 and it was slammed, but the $3.75 (card OK) pecan sticky bun was worth the small wait. Could see myself returning for their Croissants, brioche, seasonal tarts, and puff pastry.

    (4)

  • Christina P.

    Balthazar was the first nice restaurant I went to the very first time I ever saw NYC, so it always holds a sentimental place in my head when I think of classy New York-y places even years later. That also extends to the tiny little bakery next door to the restaurant, which cranks out some of the most gorgeous breads in the area. Personally, I have a weakness for pastries so I'll treat myself to a coffee or almond Chai latte and one of their delicate, classic pastries. You're not going to see anything too off the wall, but they nail those classics. The almond croissant is a favorite; I love the crusty brown buttery shell that forms at the top. It's not cheap - I think we're hovering around $5 for a pastry, maybe something similar for an espresso drink. But I think $10 is pretty worth it for an indulgent treat once in a while!

    (4)

  • Kevin L.

    Mini lemon meringue tart was on point!! Friendly staff that are willing to answer your obviously noob questions "what is a gallete" (face palm) (jk). Anyway, nice place, nice people, and the important part; nice pastries.

    (4)

  • Danielle V.

    The prices here may be higher than I'd like, but I can't help loving this little bakery. I generally treat myself once a week to a coffee and pastry before work. The coffee is strong and they have most kinds of milk available, which is always nice. They don't always have the same pastries available, so if you see something you'd like, snap it up! I highly recommend the banana donut, which has a delightful crumb topping. One morning they served small croissants with goat cheese and chopped tomato - I still daydream about that! Because there's limited space inside this bakery, the line sometimes goes out the door, or everyone crams together inside. I highly recommend visiting at an "off" time; 9 AM is packed, but at 8:30 it's usually empty!

    (5)

  • Hannah C.

    J'adore Balthazar Boulangerie... this is my poor attempt at sounding like I know French. My only wish was that it was bigger so that people could actually sit and enjoy their treats and the ambiance (this boulangerie is separate from their restaurant by the way). Anyway, if you're into cakes, try their coconut cake -- it's out of this world!! I bought it for an office party and wasn't sure if everyone would like it because coconut is just one things you love or hate, but it was such a great hit with everyone.

    (4)

  • Michelle Y.

    If I closed my eyes, I could picture myself in a quaint bakery in Paris. Balthazar is truly a piece of Paris on Spring Street. A great assortment of cookies, pastries, and bread. I got a chocolate croissant and a chocolate chip walnut cookie. The croissant was wonderful, of course, but I wasn't in love with the cookie. The chocolate chips were just too bitter. Perhaps it's just a personal preference.

    (4)

  • stacey s.

    My daughter and I have been finding all the places downtown that carry Balthazar so we thought we'd schlep up to THE place itself. Much smaller than I expected given the volume they do - but just as quaint as I thought it would be. I adore their almond croissants and was not disappointed. Nice to have them so fresh. Only thing that would have made it perfect would have been a touch more crunch in the outside and a tad more almond paste on the inside. We are going to try something new each time we try a bakery, so today it was a banana donut. It was moist and warm, with the right amount of icing and nuts. Not overwhelmingly banana-ish and not too sweet. Reminds me of a banana coffee cake. I am realizing, however, that I am partial to yeast donuts. For that... It's doughnut plant!

    (5)

  • May M.

    Only came here for dessert. I got a couple of the mini tarts which has lemon, chocolate, and vanilla filling. All very delicious. $3.00 each.

    (3)

  • Hannah S.

    This bakery caught my eye on my way to Dominique Ansel's bakery further down Spring St. Let me paint the scene: it's 15 degrees on a cold Manhattan night and I'm on a mission to get to the other famous bakery and this small bakery with it's rustic bread and tart pastry display lured me in. A quick look on yelp told me that they are known for their almond croissants so I quickly stop in to get one. The croissant looks so amazing that I sit outside in the freezing cold and devour the entire thing then go back in for more. The outside was crispy and caramelized and the inside was soft, chewy, and flaky. It had such a nice aroma and wonderful smell and taste and generally just really hits the spot. The people working there were so nice and helpful and looked at me with knowing smiles as I ordered more croissants and an apple gallete as well because everything looked so yummy that I couldn't resist. In summary: nice people, great breads, amazing almond croissants - get them!

    (4)

  • Linda R.

    Hands down, I think this is the best French bakery in NYC. Love their almond croissant, crunchy and flavorful crust and yet not overly sweet.

    (5)

  • Ming T.

    I came in here after 2pm looking for an almond croissant. I was expecting a "sorry, we're out" but I was able to get one. Buttery and great almond paste filling. There was also a nice sugary almondy crust baked on top with some extra slices of almonds. Went great with my coffee. For $3.25, it was a bit much but well worth it.

    (4)

  • Maho K.

    When I found this cute little store,I got really excited.i ordered hot chocolate and lemon raspberry cake,which was so flavoury and moist.

    (5)

  • Monica T.

    Alot to offer. Im overwhelmed. Oh hi again almond croissant, my old friend! They are very attentive behind the counter. Everything looks like it does in a fancy food mag.

    (5)

  • Michael P.

    Very cool little place, we had the chocolate mousse dessert ( cant quite recall the exact name) which was a very nice combo of sweet and bitter. If i am in soho again i will go try another treat , it was worth it.

    (4)

  • Ella T.

    I used to eat in the restaurant a lot. And their bread is the best, I was raised in Europe, so I know when there is a excellent bread. I had a dinner party and woke up early just to get their Boule bread. Perfect for cheese and charcuterie, or just a sandwich. It is worth it to come here and get the delicious bread.

    (5)

  • Annei B.

    I've always come back to this place just to savor their oatmeal raisin cookies. The staff are pretty decent but the place is so tiny it couldn't hold a long line. The price are terrific too!

    (4)

  • Roman V.

    First time I came here was five years ago when I just moved back to Manhattan. Oh! What a place, it's tiny and always packed, staff is very fast and caring, orchestral music, fresh bread, little sweets and pastires, the whole place feels so french and classy. There were only two things that bothered me - once they didnt let me in because i was walking my dog and they werent quite polite more like screaming GO AWAY NO DOGS NONONONO and when they charged me for cafe au lait (which is basically coffee with milk en francais #duuuh) twice as more as they charged my friend for an actual coffee with milk. I just think french place should not be making difference between these two! Here is my advice - take coffee to go (i dont drink coffee now, but i used to, damn I miss those pale yellow cups with lids that close!) with any pastry of your choice and go one block east to the Petrosino square park - this used to be my favorite morning routine!:)

    (5)

  • Haman D.

    I like that place. But they started to put berry jelly under their tartes. It makes too sugary.

    (4)

  • Customer X.

    The shop is beautiful and clean. This review is only for their French baguettes, as I haven't try the rest of their offering yet. The crust of the French baguettes were too hard.

    (3)

  • Jenny K.

    this bakery is located right next door to balthazar restaurant. we were looking for some pastries to grab and go. came to the right place. cannele - texture was perfect. a hard, glazed outer layer with a soft, custard-like inside. Mmm...just the way it should be. orange brioche - fluffy with orange flavor and some crystal sugar on top. they also had chocolate flourless cake, almond croissants, etc...but i can't eat all of them in one sitting. definitely a french bakery!!

    (4)

  • Dawn W.

    We had heard a lot of hype on this restaurant so our expectations were high. The restaurant was very nice and wait staff were very good, unfortunately the food was just ok. We had the steak au poivre which was recommended by the waiter but the meat was very tough. My husband had the skate and it was very disappointing. We wil not return

    (3)

  • Kimberly K.

    Delicious. Super packed. The bakery is right beside the restaurant. It's a small shop. I love that the AC is on full blast when it's really hot outside. Employees are sweet and quick. They pack your goodies neatly. There is no seating in here. Just grab and go. Pistachio doughnut was cakey and really flavorful. The consistency was a bit heavier than I would have liked. The Sticky Bun was ooey gooey goodness. Just the right amount of sweetness. Pastry had a nice consistency. Loads of chopped pecans on top. Yum! Overall, tasty bakery.

    (4)

  • Lisa G.

    I love Balthazar's baked goods, my favorites being the baguette, chocolate croissant, and the blueberry muffins. They're all delicious! I have tried the donuts, but they're not really my thing. While I am thrilled that they have Stumptown coffee, I am not thrilled with their milk. I have been known to grab a cold brew here, and bring it back to the office to use some nice organic milk from our office fridge, rather than use what they have at Balthazar. Yeah, I know I'm super picky. But if I'm spending $3+ on iced coffee, I want it to taste its best! Other than that, this is a great place to bring out of town coworkers and friends for a sweet pick-me-up! Don't forget to leave your claustrophobic friends at home; this place is TINY.

    (4)

  • An N.

    I kind of just feel fancy when I go to this place. They have this "hazelnut hot chocolate" that is basically liquified Nutella, but it's delicious and great on a freezing winter day. It's a hit with kids, obviously. I've also had the canelé here, because I heard it was the best, but maybe it wasn't fresh, so it was a bit soggy, no contrast between inside/outside crust. Delicious and custardy anyway. Kind of like a handheld flan. Anyway - this place is too far and too pricey for me to frequent often, but I like popping in when I'm around Soho, grab a shopping snack! You'll feel like you're in Paris for 15 minutes.

    (3)

  • Pomander B.

    Amazing pastries!!! Wow! I come here for traditional french pastry - galette, profiteroles, etc. They also make a perfect little raspberry-lemon pound cake. I skip the croissants, as I like Ceci et Cela down the block. However, every single item I have purchased from this bakery is top notch. Staff is very friendly, too. I am not a coffee drinker, but people line up for coffee constantly here. They also have a few lunch items (salad & sandwiches) and packaged goods (sable cookies, granola). Delicious!!!!

    (5)

  • Felisa F.

    Not the best bread pudding I've ever eaten. However, for $6 and considering how big it was, it was worth it. I found the bread pudding to be a little dry, or at least not as moist as other bread puddings I've had. I enjoyed the bits of cherries scattered throughout. I had somewhat of a sugar rush after though. The bakery itself is super cute and I imagine this is what a French bakery in Paris looks like. The breads look absolutely delicious. There's no seating besides the benches outside. I sacrificed my body to the cold New York weather and enjoyed my pastry outside providing myself with a wonderful New York Moment. I'd come back to try other things as well as Balthazar Restaurant next door!

    (4)

  • Agustin K.

    Upon entering the bakery, I knew I was at the right place. At night, they do run out of most things. I wanted to get the wheat or chocolate croissant but no more at around 7pm. Everyone was super friendly and happy to help you decide when you are trying to avoid bringing home the entire bakery. The butter croissant and the sticky bun were both so good after we toasted them a bit the next morning. For a bit I thought I was in Paris :) And their baguette is only for $3!! Next time I'll definitely come here since other places charge $5 or more for Balthazar's baguette!

    (4)

  • Liliana R.

    The Pumpkin Donut that they have in the Fall is delicious. Their Sticky Bun is tasty. It was a little too crunchy for my liking, but it was very flavorful. I still need to go back to try the croissant and the Banana Donut.

    (4)

  • Hit U.

    I do like their almond croissants, and the butter ones are just fine. The baguettes were a bit too firm but lasted me a week.

    (4)

  • Amy D.

    Wow, I've eaten an embarrassingly large number of things here in an embarrassingly small amount of time, so I'll just make a list, from best to worst: Croissant with ham and gruyere - OMG! So good. I think they served this exact croissant at Pastis for breakfast, actually, before they closed...(pausing here to gather myself. I loved that place!) One of the only savory things I've gotten here, but by far the best out of all of these. Coconut cake - soft, fluffy layers with a delicious coconut custard in between, and a slightly less yummy (too buttery) vanilla buttercream on top. All in all, though, it was a nice coconut cake, much less dry than any other I've had. And not some huge behemoth slice like you get at other places. Though it was pretty expensive, now that I think about it, at almost $7. Cheese danish - good but I wish I'd asked them to warm it up. Not too buttery, and the perfect size for nibbling on as I walked through SoHo. Hazelnut opera cake - not quite as good as Patisserie Claude's rendition, but nice and soft nevertheless. The top, with chocolate dusted over a layer of ganache, was very good. The layers were spongey and slightly greasy. Chocolate donut - I actually didn't like this at all. It reminded me EXACTLY of the Dunkin Donuts I used to have, years ago, as a kid...down to the coating. This is nowhere near as good as Doughnut Plant's blackout or triple chocolate...now those are chocolate doughnuts. This was very porous, dry, and artificial tasting--almost metallic. Not recommended.

    (4)

  • M L.

    I've worked in Soho for many years. My office has traditionally ordered from Olive's or Café Clementine, which we love, but occasionally we'll order from Balthazar. We've been on a Balthazar kick lately and loving it. The salads and sandwiches are great and delivery is prompt. I love the Mediterranean salad and the salmon salad. The quiche with salad is also very good. My boss loves the turkey breast sandwich and the French onion soup. The Balthazar salad is also a favorite. The ingredients are top notch and everything is made with care. High point: Today, they threw in some cookies with our order!! Low point: They used to discount everything for the last hour that they were open. If I was at the office late I would stop on my way home and get a relatively cheap dinner. I miss that.

    (5)

  • Stella S.

    I had just bought whole cheesecake for my friend's birthday less than twenty minutes ago. Have not tasted yet i do not think i can even give it to her as a present because the counter ladies ruined the cake! When the lady was trying to put the cake in the box, she was struggling so the lady with darker skin next to her aggressively put the cake in the bag. I carried it like a baby to the closest starbucks and when i opened it three minutes later to see if the cake was okay, guess what, it was all squashed to the corner. Strawberries all fell off. I do not know which lady did it, I am assuming the first one because she was holding the box half-open & slanted. All the counterladies probably remember the last customer because it took me awhile to choose the cake. It was too late to change it because i bought it right before the store was closing. Very upsetting and there goes my $37 birthday present. Wish i could give less than a star. Never going to this place again.

    (1)

  • Gary R.

    When you go to New York, Balthazar's is a must. It's just silly not to make Balthazar's a necessary pit stop. Popped in on a Friday afternoon for a little pastry. My poison? I chose the Apple Galette, a wondrous puff pastry treat made of fresh apples and brown sugar. Manna from heaven, really. That's what it felt like as I sat on a filthy bench and consumed the bastard. Oh, it went down so easy and so fast. I wanted another one, but wasn't willing to pay the $5 and change. In hindsight I kick myself because I think, "How often am I in New York?" My miser sensibilities, at times, arrest my urges. Perhaps that's a good thing. I still haven't been to Balthazar's for dinner. Next time.

    (5)

  • Sharyn D.

    Almond croissant was delicious. I have to go back after walking a block to buy a couple more since i dont live close by. Tried their sugar donut and the chocolate variety. Both donuts were dry and not worth the 2$ a piece. Sad to say, DD cake donuts tasted way better. Ill come back for the croissants though!

    (3)

  • Z B.

    If anyone knows where to get good bread in NY, please let me know. Balthazar is clearly not that place. Bought stale bread from them for a dinner, completely unacceptable. Rubbery plasticky bread. Damn it. Well, the 'patisseries' were awesome. So 3 stars for that. But save your time regarding the bread.

    (3)

  • Jacqueline L.

    Scooped up at baguette, a regular cappuccino and a butter croissant post-interview. The area was super cramped, but it's because the people in there were terribly configured! The staff was super sweet and moved rather quickly. Baguette - as good as any baguette I could expect Cappuccino - same ^ Butter croissant - oh my god. maybe it was because I hadn't eaten all day, maybe it was because it was 4pm, maybe it was because it was the best croissant ever, but dang it was good! I ate it on the train home, SHAMELESSLY shoveling it into my face. Yum! No regrets.

    (4)

  • sophie d.

    Polite attentive staff. Excellent quality. Cranberry pecan bread and sliced sticky buns...

    (5)

  • Lisa K.

    Apparently my main memory is that there was really good quality chocolate on the doughnut I had. Overall I found the shop a bit on the small side and there wasn't an awful lot I was interested in, but I think this was more a reflection on how many bakeries I'd visited that day, and less on Balthazar itself.

    (4)

  • Pedro O.

    Had lunch with my wife. Ordered the foi gras terrine, loved it, large portion too. Then had the cock au vin and my wife had the stake frittes and both where amazing. Then had a mascarpone rasberry dessert that ended a perfect meal. The place is beautiful. I took out a star because the staff kind of gave preferential treatment to a table next to us, maybe because they where New Yorkers with suits and we looked like casual tourist. Anyway, would go again.

    (4)

  • Leah H.

    Mmmm almond croissant. Popped in here for a mid-day snack. The long line moved quickly and the staff seemed efficient. The almond croissant was super flaky and tender. We also enjoyed profiteroles filled with a chocolate cream. They serve Stumptown "Balthazar Blend" for their coffee. Nothing like visiting a city and finding a little bit of home.

    (4)

  • Regina D.

    Nothing special about their almond croissants other than the presentation: surrounded by other glamorous French desserts. Extremely buttery.

    (2)

  • Mike S.

    I wanted to back twice in the same day. It was that good. I had a mixed berry tart and my wife had a chocolate croissant. Awesome coffee too. Definitely worth it.

    (5)

  • Tsa Y.

    Good place for fresh baguette and other baked goods. Their donuts were kinda disappointing. I will just stick with their breads. You can sit in their restaurant or just make it to go. I usually grab something to eat from here after shopping in Soho!

    (3)

  • Chloe Z.

    You won't understand why Baltzhar is a NYC staple until you get the experience Right now it is hidden under layers of scafoldings (hey may not be a bad thing to be missed by out-of-towners- it could shortern your wait!) once you stepped inside the no-seating, hard-to-turn-your-eyeball tiny bakery, you will be submerged in the old school charm of Balthazar Cozy lightening and creamy paint on the wall accentuate the warm greetings of the staff. The bread is all O SO FRESH! Love Love the **whole wheat croissant*! Their bread loafs are apparently very popular too. I came around 2pm on a weekday, but all whole wheat loafs were gone :( Also try the petit salmon lunch sandwiches. You won't be disappointed! I have to write a review to praise this classic NYC establishment, but I won't give out any tips on how to find the place.... really need to secure my next bread loaf. Sorry folks!

    (5)

  • Virginia T.

    I made a last minute decision to pick up an assortment of pastries from Balthazar before a date with some girlfriends and I am SO glad I did. Even though I meant to give the treats to my dear friend who's got her own bun in the oven, the three of us could not resist tearing the desserts apart. I was really excited for the canele, but surprisingly, it wasn't as delicious as the other pastries. The crust could have been chewier and more caramelized. No sweat though, Balthazar quickly redeemed itself with its mille-feuille which features fresh raspberries and layers of pastry so perfectly crisp and flaky that it could make three grown women weep (and weep we did...after we realized it was demolished in a matter of seconds). But this was before we dug into the berries tart which was absolutely legendary. Hands down, the best any of us have ever eaten in our lives. The crust was buttery and tender with a layer of jam underneath the silky pastry cream. And unlike other fruit tarts that are stingy with their congealed fruits, this one was piled high with fresh strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries. No skimping whatsoever. I hate to admit it, but I will probably be back before this week is over to get my greedy gluttonous hands on another one of those tarts. Trust me, you'll want to break your New Year's resolution for this too.

    (5)

  • Alexandra K.

    Next to their brasserie lies this quaint little boulangerie for take-out only. It truly is a little French gem with so many baked goods and fresh bread stamped with a "B." It's really neat actually. There are a lot of people working there and they take care of you pretty quickly. I can't wait to come back to NYC to sit down for breakfast at the brasserie. -Hazelnut Hot Cocoa: AMAZING. Not only is the aroma wonderful, but the hot chocolate is so flavorful and tastes like liquid Nutella--what could be better? But seriously. -Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake: WOW!!! This is extremely moist and decadent. I tried to only eat a ¼ of it but whoops it was all gone in a matter of minutes. FINAL VERDICT: Yup, this is a winner.

    (5)

  • Raul R.

    One of the most popular, tiniest, most expensive bakeries in New York City. Every time we walk by there's a long line. I've been meaning to try their apple danish for a long time. It was good, not great and for more than $4, a long wait in a crowded tiny area, I may have to try something else next time. As you walk in the line USUALLY FORMS to the right. You're reading this right, I would probably go back.

    (3)

  • Susing Y.

    Bought a mini strawberry cheesecake from the Boulangerie and loved it! It was the right texture and consistency. I've also bought crossaints from here in the past and always liked them.

    (5)

  • Cassie C.

    Very authentic canele and rich flavored almond croissant!

    (5)

  • Tiffany L.

    i've had 2 items here. chocolate flourless cake & hazelnut opera cake. skip the slice. reject the small tart things. get the real deal. whole pie. cake it.

    (5)

  • Sandra S.

    Too bad I'm in love with the almond croissants here or I wouldn't bother. The people who work here kill me. Not all the time but most. Young kids who just can't be bothered to serve you and work painfully slow. The other day the cashier ignored us while it took him several minutes to attempt to refill a stapler. We attempted to order, asked questions about what stuff was and he ignored us while we watched him struggle and then spill staples everywhere - they went flying into the food! And he was unfazed. Didn't even take the food away. He didn't even say hang on a minute or anything. Just didn't talk to us. So weird! And rude. After asking him what something was like 5x, he never answered. My sister offered to fill the stapler for him so he could take our orders. Lol. It's not rocket science kid! The coffee is ok. Nothing amazing. But the almond croissant might be worth the annoying service. Maybe. You could try an O'Rens coffee place too, instead. Sometimes they sell them.

    (2)

  • Lily H.

    I used to get croissants or other portable pastries at Balthazar's bakery before walking around Soho. It's an affordable luxury, compared to the many overpriced things I'd see in the boutiques afterwards. The place is a shoebox but it is done in a way that you get a feeling of plenty. Kind of like how if you put your food on a smaller plate it can make it look like you have more. At some point the NYT ran an article about Balthazar--I've seen a couple actually-- and I think it made me want to eat there less. The first one was about how they make the croissants, and I realized how much butter is in a croissant. The second one was about the restaurant next door and what a well oiled machine it is. I just felt bad that there is some guy who peels potatoes all day, to meet the demands of the restaurant.

    (4)

  • Dan G.

    If you have a sweet tooth, you have to visit Balthazar. The restaurant also looks nice, but we just wanted to get some afternoon "snacks" from a bakery and this place knocked it out of the park. I don't even remember what the name of the chocolatey thing I ordered was, but I'll just call it "UNFORGETTABLE." Delicious.

    (5)

  • Tuan T.

    I was told Balthazar had the best sticky buns in the city. Since we were close by, we decided to take that recommendation. True to its name, the sticky bun was really sticky. It was super sweet and a bit chewy. I'm not sure I want to know how much sugar they used, but it was just ok for us. Next time, I'll try to save room for their other pastries. Recommendation: Ask for them to cut up the sticky bun

    (3)

  • Fiona C.

    Probably the most awesome mixed berry galette/fruit tart I've ever had - great for bringing over or as gifts. Not too sweet and had the most spot on flaky crust I could ask for.

    (5)

  • Angel W.

    go in for a croissant and a coffee. walk out and enjoy. savor the buttery aroma and crispy baked croissant exterior with chewy, light inside. ponder if this is the meaning of life. take a few sips of that delicious coffee. continue wandering soho.

    (5)

  • Ido W.

    Bottom line: overpriced American bakery set in a fancy shop claiming to be French. Service is friendly. The pros: the ambience, the selection (of American pastries dressed up as French pastries), the service The cons: the pastries are disappointing. We had a chocolate croissant, almond croissant and apple galet. All were mediocre. We decided the galet was not even worth the calories. Items were overpriced.

    (2)

  • Tammy P.

    Miss this place. Delicious croissants, sticky buns, and caneles made to perfection!!! The best baked goods year round with a cup of coffee in your other hand... Mmm! We used to buy a bunch just to bring back home for family out of town too. Can't wait to be reunited one day with these pastries. Till then, I'll just daydream about them!

    (5)

  • Christie Y.

    Reminds me of a cute bakery in paris but with 5648 pastries and croissants inside I loved the chocolate croissant here; reminded me of Paris and all of the croissants I ate there.... Super soft, fresh, not too flake-y and not that sweet!! Perfection! I also had the blueberry muffin which was also amazing! I thought it was going to be super sweet but no! It was packed with fresh blueberries and barely had any sugar taste to it; just how i like it! Will def come back when I'm in the area!

    (4)

  • Lars H.

    The baked goods here are certainly decent, but they are not first in their leagues. The croissants are better at Café Fabiane or even at Dean and DeLuca, the rye bread is better at Lafayette or the Old Poland bakery and the baguette is better at Fairway. The name Balthazar calls for improvements.

    (3)

  • Gabby P.

    We were going to have dessert at the restaurant but it was chock full of tourists with a long line so we decided to hit the bakery store next door and a local bench to chill out. Tiny space, barely enough standing room for four customers. We had the chocolate mousse creampuffs (four tiny ones), one chocolate flourless tart and one cappuccino for $20. It was good, hit the spot, but a bit pricey. It's one of those things where you're like, okay I have been to the famous Balthazar...been there, done that.

    (3)

  • Laura T.

    My hopes we so high but this was definitely a let down. The almond croissant was so dry and tough that it almost tasted stale. The almonds on top were also candied, rather than toasted. I didn't even finish it. I want to give it another shot, and maybe try a donut or scone, which people rave about.

    (2)

  • Kim C.

    Best croissants ever. I came in simply for one butter croissant and left with a butter croissant and a free almond one! The cashier asked if I had ever tried their almond croissant and when I answered no, he stuffed an extra croissant in my bag and said "now you will!". And now I'll never be able to NOT purchase an almond croissant here. It was life changing...

    (5)

  • Fred H.

    Got the raspberry chocolate dessert - the first bite was excellent! The second contained a live bug. Granted, it was a small bug (some sort of mite, probably), but it was alive and it was gross. I was extremely disappointed, this bakery did not look like the type of place where I would encounter something like this.

    (1)

  • Vivian K.

    YES. DO try the cherry clafoutis... mmmm..... I haven't been there for awhile, but I remember the place looking like an illustrated children's book interpretation of a bakery-- whimsical !!!

    (4)

  • Valdemar N.

    If you're serving coffee you need to know how to actually make coffee. On a good day their latte is tasteless. Most of the time they burn the milk. If the you put the name "Balthazar" above your door, please make sure what ever you serve actually meets that bar.

    (1)

  • Thom H.

    Butter scone on a Saturday morning. I expected better, and have had better (Bouchon Bakery comes to mind). But it was still good, like Balthazar baked goods I've had before, and we all know how I love baked goods. Before going in, I had a feeling I'd be giving Balthazar Bakery four stars. So be it.

    (4)

  • E M.

    Yes. This place is so beautiful and excels in breads and sweets. I love the banana walnut donut especially, and the baguettes and croissants are delicious. The servers are competent and warm. The lines can be a bit long but they move quickly and are filled with people about to eat the baked goods there, so everyone seems happy and friendly. No seating except out front, but that makes for some great people-watching slash reading while eating a cute little croissant on a bench. No complaints here.

    (5)

  • Danan R.

    LOVE the Mediterranean salad with the roasted curry caluflower, pignoles, feta, and golden raisins. The cauliflower is cooked to perfection and the raisins give it the perfectly amount of sweetness. The roasted chicken salad with brussels sprouts, pumpkin seeds, and roasted butter squash on kale and romaine is delish as well.I you are getting catering for an event,ask for Jessie Altamonte. She's fantastic about making sure that your order is just the way you want it,as well as putting in special requests.

    (4)

  • Alexandra C.

    Surprising -- Croissants were pretty terrible! Same with pain au chocolat. A much less expensive/much better pain au chocolate sold down the street. Still good brioche.

    (2)

  • Kris H.

    Pour lulu et edi....... If you are not able to get into the restaurant next door because the line is insanely long, the bakery is the next best thing. Get everything. You will thank me when you die from your diabetic shock. I kid. It's not that sweet. It's really butter heaven. And speaking of heaven, get the hazeltnut hot chocolate. C'est EPIC!!! The croissants are superbly flaky. The chocolate ones are just sweet enough. The mango tarts are well....formidable! The pastries are pricy but well worth it.

    (5)

  • Ella B.

    There's lots to say about Balthazar's bakery that has already been said. It quite simply is a great bakery. Delicious, well executed loaves of bread, with a number of varieties to choose from. It's a little bit of trip downtown (at least for me) so if you do not have someone to send for the bread, I would recommend using their delivery service.

    (4)

  • Nicole H.

    Good place for a good brunch! The eggs benedict was good and the eggs were poached perfectly. They have a legit English breakfast.

    (4)

  • Tekwar T.

    Balthazar Bakery is a claustrophobic space full of great pastries (and some not so great), all expensive. I'm picky about all things sweet and although Balthazar gets most things right, there's still some items that are just mediocre. The customers seem to be mostly tourists or snotty Soho types (you know that skinny model is going to spit up that almond croissant). The staff are not overly friendly but at least they keep the crowd moving. I still prefer Bruno Bakery (in the Village) over this place.

    (3)

  • Sarah Z.

    The BEST and I mean BEST Pecan Sticky Bun EVER! I make it a mission to go to soho just for their sticky bun. I only buy 1 or I will be a million lbs! Seriously, the BEST. Last time I ate one I had to stop after the first bite, and I literally did a happy dance. Then I continued to eat :) Their pecan, raisin, cranberry bread is also really good.

    (5)

  • S I.

    One of the best oatmeal raisin cookies I have ever had. I found it to be on par with my favorite oatmeal raisin from levians. I also had the sticky bun and almond croissant. Both of them were amazing. I can't wait to go back here

    (5)

  • Hong D.

    Butter croissant is wonderful! I got the last one when I arrived there! It doesn't smell very strong, but it tastes rich since it has many layers. I think it may taste better if it is hot.

    (5)

  • Rach W.

    The croissants and baguettes were dry and hard. Not moist and fresh tasting, seems like they've been sitting there all day long even though I went there at 3pm. It's dim and dark and you cant see the entire selection of baked goods. Will not return again. If you love fresh bread and pastries, try Maison Kayser.

    (2)

  • Char Y.

    the line was out the door! beautiful shop with pastries piled high. i ordered almon croissant - ok, very flaky but nothing special donut - just ok, not comparable to donut plant

    (2)

  • Ed U.

    It only makes sense for a world-class Parisian boulangerie to sit next to a world-class Parisian brasserie... if you live in Paris. Or on Spring Street in SoHo where Balthazar holds court. What's nice about the little bakery storefront is that you don't have to wait an hour and a half to be served. Walk in and you are overtaken by the aroma of their freshly baked breads, pastries, tarts, cookies, and donuts. Yes, I said donuts. My friend Carlos is a master at finding the hidden jewel in a bakery and bypassing the gawkers who need to peruse everything before considering an order. In this case, the jewel turned out to be the $2.50 Banana Walnut Donut, a perfectly baked cake-style donut generously covered with a light glaze peppered with grated walnuts and enriched with fresh bananas (see photo). Everything else looked sinfully good, but we were sated by the amazing Sunday brunch we just had next door. It's a closet of a place (see photo), but do enter at your own risk. The risk of enlarging your hips. I can only dream of such a wonderful boulangerie in my 'hood back in San Francisco. DONUT - 5 stars...frickin' good donut...tres bon AMBIANCE - 4 stars...charming and awfully crowded SERVICE - 4 stars...grab n' go, 'nuff said TOTAL - 5 stars...Parisian boulangeries like Balthazar are not to be ignored, mon ami

    (5)

  • Lisa S.

    Great food. Not a fan of the employees' attitudes.

    (3)

  • Jennifer K.

    French Bakery! Carbs! Croissants! Visiting Balthazar Bakery on a rainy Sunday remind me of my visit to Paris.. from the store front, the cramped interior and the rustic deco. The only thing missing is a goodlooking French man greeting me in French "bonjour ma chère!" A takeout place, so we decided to have a quick bite! I was dying for a coffee...since nothing beat having a good coffee on a rainy morning with just 4 hours of sleep the previous night! Plain Croissant ($2.75) is always my choice as a breakfast pastries. Balthazar Bakery's one was not too butter, not too flaky, not too doughy... which I really enjoyed!! Cappuccino ($4.25) not bad for an non espresso coffee shop. The milk has this velvet consistency... and was not over whelming milky.. My friend's Cinnamon Bun ($3.25) which I forced her to share with me (she should have pick a Pain Au Raisin!) was A-OK too! And it made a more interesting photo! Sipping my coffee at the bench at the storefront was a good start for my morning.. as we ready to hit the road again for our next Eating spot!

    (4)

  • Jacinda E.

    One of the best almond croissants I've had in NYC. Their scones (particularly the oatmeal current) is spec-ta-cular! I know people rave about the baguettes but I can't say it's the best. That vote currently goes to bien cuit. Closest to France's baguettes I have found so far.

    (4)

  • Claire F.

    Stop in and grab a few petit fours -- if they're not out, ask for them. They have seasonal designs and are perfect moist cake covered with a buttercream fondant, heaven in one inch cubed. And my boy yosub informs that an hour before closing things are half off ... #winning!

    (5)

  • Velina L.

    While it does look like a cute little French bakery, the products themselves were a huge disappointment. The cannele was too soft and didn't have the caramelized outer layer that characterizes this bordelais pastry; the madeleine was too dry and I had trouble swallowing each bite; and the chocolate eclair, although texturally acceptable, tasted like sugar without the slightest hint of chocolate. Save your money. Dominique Ansel, just a few blocks away, serves much better versions of all three.

    (1)

  • Lucy E.

    OMG, What happened with your Croissant!? Did you have any changing of it? Balthazar's croissant was not too buttery and good balance of chewy,and flakey. My No.1 croissant in NYC was here,,,so sooo disappointed,,, Left it over time after baked??? And! Changed prices??? to $ 3 !?!? OMG,please,please RECONSIDER about these,Barthazar. If keep NEW CHANGING, I'd prefer Ceci-Cela(Everytime Fresh & Cheaper) which is my No.2.

    (2)

  • Laura P.

    I was underwhelmed. There are better bakeries in Manhattan. Bouchon and Levain spring to mind. I had the following: 1) Coffee. Boring. 2) Banana-walnut donut. Good flavor, very dense, wouldn't go out of my way fo rit. 3) Sugar donut. Way too dense and dry, maybe good if it was dunked, but not good for eating solo. 4) Brownie. Very moist and fudge-y, yet not at all decadent. It wasn't sweet. It was bizarre, actually. 5) Apricot frangipane. Good fruit on top, good filling, but it just wasn't wowing me. 6) Raspberry petit fours. They were alright. Balthazar gets points for serving frangipane and petit fours. Don't get me wrong - I respect that, and I wish more places would serve financiers, tarts, and all the other tasty things that dwell of the Isle of Forgotten Pastries. However, they didn't really do anything for me. I would never tell anyone to go out of their way to hit up Balthazar Bakery. I went at 3 PM so maybe it's better at breakfast time when things are fresh. Two small coffees and all those baked goods was $26. It adds up fast!

    (3)

  • Amrita R.

    Wandered in here with friends after brunch elsewhere. It was my last day in NYC and I wanted some fun baked goods to take back with me. My friend had been looking for a good cannele for the entire trip and found them here. I opted for a chocolate croissant to remind me of my Paris days, and a petit four. They were all so amazing! The petit four wasn't too sweet at all (although I have a bit of a sweet tooth so I may not be the ideal person to ask). Another friend got the lemon souffle tart and after sampling his, I had to run in and buy one of those. Took them all to a park later that day and finished them off with friends. So much for saving them to bring home! I haven't been able to stop thinking about the lemon souffle tart ever since. I'll just have to make my own version! As for the other baked goods, every single item was delicious and so authentically French. My friend loved her canele, while the chocolate croissant was just right. The place is pricy but most definitely worth the price. I'm glad I don't live near this place because I'd be stopping in every day!

    (5)

  • Michelle T.

    Overpriced and super tiny storefront. The lemon tart that I had was just okay. It was a lot flakier than I would've liked and wasn't very tart-y at all. I think I'll stick to Bouchon or Panya for my occasional sweet.

    (3)

  • Cecelia O.

    HEAVENLY. The only problem with Balthazar Bakery is that it's just so cramped, but EVERYTHING else was AMAZING. We were in NYC with two college-aged nieces whose palettes are ruined by college pizza, bad coffee, and McDonalds. Exposing them to the extraordinary food of NYC was pure joy. They literally walked out of Balthazar after a hazelnut mocha and a butter scone with their mouths hanging open and their eyes wide, "Like, OMG!!" It was a joy to watch;) GO.

    (5)

  • Rahul J.

    Looks like a tourist trap - the kind of place I usually hate ("the first XYZ place" 20 years ago now crap because there are so many better options..case in point of such a crap place Magnolia) packed with tourists at all times but the coffee, breads and pastries are solid.

    (4)

  • Boogie N.

    Can't understand how everything here is always so amazing. Brunch, lunch, dinner -- even after-dinner dessert/wine with friends never disappoints. Brunch is a hidden gem, just make sure to get a booth :-)

    (5)

  • Carla C.

    Yes, ah-mazing! So glad I trekked to visit the 'mother ship' that is Balthazar Bakery. Drooled over the luscious baked goods displays...used immense willpower to buy only a loaf of rye-wheat. This is a rye bread that is unlike any other...I'm a super-fan! Such pleasant staff, happy customers...it's a feel-good visit!

    (5)

  • Shradha A.

    I had a really good mozzarella panini but all their desserts look really yummy too!!

    (4)

  • Valerie L.

    A few things to note: it's about the size of a walk-in closet, it's very "Soho," and the pastries are scrumptious. I work one block away, and over the past few months I've been able to sample several things, but I consistently order the almond croissant and their oatmeal. The croissant has the right amount of almond paste and is flaky and buttery and everything a croissant should be. The oatmeal, though ridiculously priced at $6.50, is really really filling and sprinkled with raisins and bananas, all the good things in life. The donuts aren't bad - on the small side, try the pistachio. There are some fancier, pricier desserts I haven't tried, but they all look tasty. A good place to grab coffee/dessert if you're shopping (or working) in the area, but there's nowhere to eat except outside on the benches.

    (4)

  • Katie W.

    Best iced coffee and chocolate croissants south of Houston!

    (5)

  • Sonia V.

    first time having their products at the actual bakery and not imported somewhere else. Good array of options extending past the usual things you see at each bakery. Got a red currant tart - AMAZING. not too fruity or sour, moussey smooth, perfect balance of flavors. Look forward to the next time I'm around there.

    (5)

  • sasha h.

    Desserts are yummy. This place is great when you are on the go and need to get in and get out quickly. My only issues with this place are that it is very tiny and they run out of a lot of salads / sandwiches later in the day.

    (4)

  • Nikki P.

    ** Review is from 1/27/12 Just now logging into Yelp to post it. The French... They know pastries and croissants. This little bakery does them right. The croissant was amazing. Never thought I'd enjoy a croissant as much as a fruit tart or any dessert for that matter. It was perfection! You must try the croissants here. Desserts were just the right amount of sweet. Fruit tarts are delish. This little bakery gets packed but the line moves quick. Staff was very knowledgeable about the bread and very friendly. Hope you love it as much as I do! Bon apetit!

    (5)

  • Alexander X.

    Oatmeal raisin cookie. Thats all that needs to be said here and they will take care of the rest. Simply amazing and worth the trip out.

    (5)

  • Fancypants X.

    It was that in-between time...after lunch, but before dinner...it had stopped drizzling, but the air & ground were nowhere near dry. Not having the patience or desire to wait for a table at Balthazar the restaurant, we opted to grab a bite to-go next door at Balthazar Bakery. The postage-stamp sized, but efficiently-packed space, was just as bustling as its big brother; Having a reputable name definitely draws in crowds! Coffee was so-so. I had saved my almond croissant for later in the afternoon & I remember thinking, 'I waited in line for this?!' I felt betrayed by its averageness, its mediocrity. Everything was in place...Almond paste. Check. Flakey croissant. Check. But it could've been from XYZ Anytown Bakery, not what I'd hoped for in a Balthazar product. My ham & gruyere sandwich was much more impressive to the tastebuds. Buttered, crusty/chewy bread was a winner. A thin sandwich, but filling-to-bread ratio was perfection. Even though the bakery was a bit of a snooze-fest, I'm still excited to try the restaurant (believe me, I'm itchin' to--after all the references made in 'Will & Grace' & other awesome manhattan-based shows & movies--I'm makin' my way over there, believe me!) Don't let the name in fancy lettering & big, bright lights lure you; there are better bakeries in the city.

    (3)

  • Joyce K.

    My friend and I were walking down the streets of SoHo and saw a Victoria's Secret Model lugging a baguette from Balthazar back home (i suppose). Well if a model is about to eat carbs those carbs must be damn good! We headed straight there for some coffee and pastries. The pastries, in true french form are very buttery and rich....and consequently pretty tasty. The people who work there are helpful in the decision making process if you give them a chance. The most impressive thing, however, are the lids of the coffee cups. You know how when you go to Starbucks they give you a plugger to "plug" the top of your coffee while you transport it to work? And it spills all over the place anyway? Well they have an INGENIOUS coffee cup lid here where you can just close the spout. Yup, you just close it. Simple and ingenious, you gotta see it to believe it.

    (5)

  • Lauren A.

    Try the hazelnut hot cocoa. It's like you're drinking Nutella!

    (5)

  • Theresa T.

    Another fabulous bakery in Soho. Nice Gourmet treats and coffee. My fav :)

    (4)

  • Food E.

    Came by late afternoon and the little shop wasn't too packed as I had feared. There is a wide selection if items to choose from so deciding was hard! I went with a tartine - baguette with butter and apricot preserves (different flavors available). The apricot preserves were the standout - great flavor. The bread was good - I've gotten the baguettes before at citerella (not sure if they still carry them from Balthazar there - as this was a while back). I also had a heart shaped flaky pastry thing which was ok. I'd try a different pastry/dessert next time. For anyone hoping for the 50% off after 7:30pm, you're SOL, it's been discontinued (they had a sign).

    (4)

  • Jennie W.

    Tiny bustling spot in Soho, always packed. Great pastries, nice staff. The stuffed croissants and vegetable focaccia are excellent. Expensive but nice for a treat!

    (3)

  • Amber K.

    This adorable TINY spot is bustling in SoHo. This review is strictly for the MOST amazing chai I've had in a while - but I could tell by the awesome menu that if I had ordered food I would have been in heaven. Asparagus mushroom croissant?! YES. Yes, please.

    (5)

  • joseph h.

    I have only had the almond croissants here, and they are the best I have had. The price was the most expensive of any place in NYC, though - $3.50, if memory serves. Most other places charge well below $3, a lot in the $2 range. So I only rarely stop here.

    (4)

  • Debra T.

    Yummy bakery! Love their Café Au Lait!

    (4)

  • Darwin G.

    I can even begin with how I want a bite of every single carb delight in this place. It is a very small bakery, but has an old French feel to it, including the "Tirez" posted on the door as you enter. The walls are loaded with baguettes, breads, pastries, croissants, cakes, quiches, focaccia, or basically everything delicious in the world. The first time I went, I grabbed a simple baguette and rocked my bread sword around the streets of SoHo like I was a real Parisian. It was later used as a pregame to dinner while waiting on the line for Kenka. A fantastic baguette by the way, though I would try to find out their baking schedule. If I learn anything from Paris, a baguette is only as good as how fresh it is. I returned next week for a croissant and an iced Americano. The croissant there is fabulous, though could possibly be a bit flakier. Other than that, the real thing and just buttery bliss. The best part of it all is hanging out with the hipsters out front on the benches while they blast their music from a boom box. Oh you hipsters. Croissants wouldn't be as good without you. And last, but not least, their currant scone. My god, one of the best pastries I've had in my life. It's hearty and substantial because of the oats, but not the sweet. The citrus and currants give such a vibrant flavor to the scone. Just get it if they have it.

    (5)

  • Alisa L.

    Some things are AMAZING, some things just eh. And for the price, I give it four stars. The passionfruit cake was delicious ($6.50), perhaps the best cake I've ever had. The cake was extremely moist (tons of butter I'm guessing), and the frosting was creamy but not thick, sweet but not saccharine. And the ladyfingers that lined outside of the cake were really, really good. The mango-passionfruit tart was equally amazing, with a creamy filling and a solid crust. Solid croissant also (perhaps not as good as Ceci-Cela's, but still very good). The much-raved about doughnut ($2), however, was not that great. I don't like cake doughnuts in general, but this doughnut was still far from Doughnut Plant-caliber, albeit better than the Dunkin Donuts doughnut (duh). The place, as expected, is pretty expensive. I have yet to try their bread but it's very raved about, so I guess I ought to soon. It's a cutesy shop right next to Balthazar Restaurant, and it's tiny so sometimes, the line will go out the door. There are benches outside to sit on and savor your food while people watching, which almost makes up for the lack of space inside.

    (4)

  • Monique R.

    I wanted a cookie. While roaming the streets of SoHo i walked up to this picturesque place and saw a platter of the biggest oatmeal cookies i have ever seen. I sampled one then bought it immediately. Before i left i noticed a plate of quiche and my friend had highly recommended it... so I asked for a slice of that too... Went home and had a party in my mouth. The crust of the quiche was buttery, the innards were a plenty. I was sad I didnt grab another slice of quiche (but at $5 a slice- one is enough). I proclaimed this quiche my babys daddy. Its crazy good... and i recently discovered everything is 50% off at 7pm. SCORE! btw, my oatmeal cookie? Foodgasmic. I stopped by today at lunch time for some bread... line was out the door! (they lose a point for being pricey - womp womp)

    (4)

  • Philip L.

    Pricey but good * plum frangipane pasty was outstanding. Tart and bold plum flavor with perfectly done buttery pastry * strawberry cheesecake is well done with a unique strawberry filling but not a wow piece, probably would not get in a 2nd time * Lemon souffle tart had a very good tart lemon flavor, wife enjoyed it altho probably would not get it a 2nd time three pastries came out to $18...no complaint as everything was very well done, just not sustainable as an everyday place for a local

    (4)

  • Evan H.

    In order to quickly escape the outside world and grab a quick pastry, we ducked into Balthazar, and definitely will come back to the cafe soon. I got a chocolate chip and walnut cookie. This was an incredible cookie. Crisp and crunchy around the outside and soft, moist and packed full of chocolate and walnuts. The perfect mix between them. All crunchy cookies, not a fan. Also tasted the pumpkin cheesecake. It decedent and delicious. Also the best chai (so my wife says). Definitely some great pastries and coffee drinks. Need to try their restaurant.

    (4)

  • Lia L.

    Best breakfast, best food downtown. The food is great, the clientele amazing, can't wait to get there on the weekend. Glad I could copycats all over the country.

    (5)

  • Asuka N.

    I came here yesterday to grab a cookie and see how Balthazar stacked up against some of the other places I've been to. I was sorely disappointed...maybe it was because I came later on in the day (around 6 PM on a Sunday), but the chocolate chip walnut cookie was almost as bad as eating a very crunchy brick. It was extremely dry, and even though the chocolate was decent, the dough (which seemed to have an oatmeal composition) was way too crumbly, and the taste of the walnuts was virtually nonexistent. It was marginally better when I microwaved it myself, but it hardened up very fast, and it was back to crunch brick-eating time again. I also had a shortbread cookie, which was a bit mediocre (considering that the sugar that was sprinkled on barely added any sweetness at all). The price was okay, but I was expecting better. I've heard good things about the restaurant, so I'll probably be back to sample the full menu at some point...but the bakery was a sore disappointment.

    (2)

  • Andrea C.

    My favorite chocolate chip cookie and coffee, ever. It just doesnt get better than this. Also, I love ordering from here. The girl and somtimes guy that answers the phone are LEGIT. Never have to repeat myself and they take the card number fast. Most people are annoying to call but they rock. Balthazar changed my life

    (5)

  • Bill S.

    Balthazar bakery rocks! Its very very small inside and they have all their baked goods all in front for your choosing. This morning I had a large latte with their signature croissant. Not too buttery and oh so flaky. (I also chased it with their itty bitty Banana donut) If you want to impress out of towners, Baltazar is where you go for your bread, cakes and donuts. mmm..

    (5)

  • Chris L.

    Yum! This place is small, but packs a lot of punch. Busy, efficient and quick! Had the raspberry financier and a fresh-squeezed lemonade. We sat on a bench outside facing the Moma store and enjoyed our sweets.

    (5)

  • Kiera D.

    Really good pastries! Can get a tad crowded and sometimes touristy, but it's worth it. Great if you can't get into the actual restaurant.

    (5)

  • Barbie L.

    I'm a regular. Get the shortbread cookie. It will kill you. Wash it down with a mint leaf topped Arnold Palmer (it's off menu but they will always make it). Also good: sticky bun (pecan topped), cinnamon-sugar donut, butter OR whole wheat croissants. Sure it's all expensive, but whatcha gonna do? It's fake France in New York; fork it over. BOTTOMLINE: Stick with the sweets, the savory offerings are a mixed bag.

    (4)

  • Tom G.

    Stopped in to grab a quick bite after wandering around the neighborhood. The Niçoise salad was pedestrian but the croissants were excellent. They were big, flaky, and exquisitely layered. Top-notch, even though I was buying them late in the day. Ideal place to pick up a quick croissant and coffee.

    (5)

  • Dave H.

    Balthazar's patisserie has its own entrance, separate from the restaurant. At a friend's urging, I got a cinnamon iced cappuccino ($3.50 - totally worth it), which was expertly prepared: especially soothing, it was warm on top, and tasty. It was so outstanding I was thinking about it hours later! Maybe it was the caffeine? I've yet to visit the actual restaurant, but if the bakery's top-notch service and coffee are any indicaton, I'm in for a treat.

    (5)

  • Syl F.

    Yum, yum yum.. Rich, decadent, buttery everythings! I'm so thankful that Manhattan is a walking city bc that makes up for the 1000 gazillion calories of goodness I can consume all over the city. This has always been one of my favorite stops when living in the city. Especially in the winter, I love their their ginger tea and almond croissants. Everything else is to be expected at Balthazar's - delicious.

    (5)

  • Jae C.

    It is a small and well run operation that clearly takes advantage of its reputation with its pricing. Located right next to its restaurant, this shop rotates a healthy selection of loaves and pastries which are all freshly made and turned over quickly. Selections will vary based on what people ahead of you purchase. They have Stumptown beans and even a variety in their name but don't order coffee here since they don't do the beans justice. They are a bakery that happens to have good beans on hand, not a cafe.

    (4)

  • Viviana A.

    Best banana walnut and chocolate donuts ever!!! The croissant is my 3rd favorite in the city. Beware though, because they run out by the end of the day.

    (5)

  • Mia H.

    Amazing - from the tasty bread and sandwiches (I recommend the vegetarian one with goat cheese and an array of grilled vegetables on focaccia, or any sandwich, really) to the sweet items like the awesome Mixed Berry Tart or the sugar donut, beautiful and delicious... Love it!

    (5)

  • Mandy B.

    Yes, it's expensive, but they make fantastic pastries. My absolute favorite is the choco croissants and sticky buns... yum. I would avoid peak hours since the cramped space can be a huge pain. Try it at least once!

    (4)

  • Jennifer G.

    Hazelnut hot chocolate = liquified nutella. Rich, creamy and oh so delicious.

    (5)

  • Gerard B.

    (Jan/ 2007) If you don't have time to sit down and enjoy a great meal at Balthazar, then definitely stop by the Balthazar bakery. The long line says it all! Do not miss out on the banana nut donut. O M G ! The most delicious and satisfying donut I have ever had.. and I don't even really like donuts, so that says a lot.

    (5)

  • ChristinA S.

    Let's all take a moment and thank the existence of Balthazar. Went to the bakery one day (the restaurant was completely packed, with at least 10 people waiting) to try out their famous desserts. had a rich and dense (in a good way) dark chocolate fudge with raspberry sauce.Cost me almost 6 bucks, but it was really, really good. Looks just like the desserts they save at high-end restaurants. Had Melissa's afterwards and it tasted disgusting (okay, maybe not gross, but definitely not as good). I will definitely come back and try other types of desserts though. Hate to say it, but I really expected a bigger bakery and more selections.

    (3)

  • Fiona B.

    I can't speak for the restaurant but the Balthazar bakery is oo la la. While the space is tight, which can make it difficult to place an order during lunchtime, the smells and classic french design keep you entertained. I'm hoping to try more of their food (speciality breads and pastries most importantly) but have so far been very satisfied with their roasted turkey sandwich (also includes avocado, sharp cheddar, lettuce, lemon mayo on grilled bread, the smokiness is amazing). In terms of quantity it seems small for $10 but the ingredients are fresh and the flavors excellent. I should mention that if you're not able to make it to the bakery or don't want to spend that amount of cash on a sandwich, it's easy enough to make at home. Great on crostini as well!

    (4)

  • Cynthia k.

    this is purely for the bakery. 99% of the time, i'm pleased to be a left coaster. the 1% of the "other" time occurs when i eat things like balthazar's potato zucchini foccacia or normandy apple tart, served up to me by efficient and friendly servers in a (admittedly) cramped but charming bakery setting.

    (5)

  • Po L.

    The bakery is amazing. We ordered the sampler plate of baked goods and boy was it delicious. The raw bar was fresh. This place is pricey, but go at least once. You could tape the baked goods right to your ass, but then you wouldn't get to enjoy it.

    (4)

  • Scott P.

    Balthazar bakery is great! Love the coffee and the pastries are delicious. Reccomend the cookies: especially the oatmeal and the chocolate walnut. The sandwiches and salads are overpriced though. Still recommend.

    (4)

  • Melanie M.

    Seconds after paying for my croissant I rip it open to reveal the inner perfectly formed honeycomb - the mark of an excellently crafted croissant. The first rich, buttery bite takes my breath away. I've searched long and hard for flaky, buttery satisfaction and finally I've emerged victorious. Where am I? A breezy parisian cafe? A rustic Austrian bakery? You might be surprised to find out that this sublime croissant comes not from overseas, but from Soho's Balthazar Bakery. It is just one of many flaky buttery treasures available in this pastry loving city's best bakery, that is proving that France no longer holds a monopoly on artisan croissants. You walk through the red awninged door and are instantly engulfed by french patisserie atmosphere as it should be. Workers in all white spin around making lattes and bagging up all of the glorious treasures in sight: dark, hearty breads, delicate scones and tarts, and of course the golden croissants. Balthazar's almond croissants are so good that they've inspired poetic haikus. There is always a line out of door, and nowhere to sit let alone stand, but none of that will matter the second that you bite into this exquisite indulgence filled with smooth frangipane (almond cream) who's nuttyness compliments the layered pastry beautifully, with a hint of sweetness, which, paired with a cafe au lait, makes this the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

    (5)

  • NewportBeach F.

    Loved coming here, for years. Doughnuts are still delicious and quiche is an easy snack to grab. But other items are hit or miss, service has become indifferent (sometimes surly!), and they've eliminated some good sandwich options. Better idea to wait for a table at the full restaurant next door, if you have the time...

    (2)

  • Anne H.

    The bread and rolls are great. The croissants are fantastic. I will honestly spend an extra hour on the treadmill to justify stopping over at Balthazar for a breakfast croissant.

    (5)

  • Brittnee C.

    their coffee is overrated and they screwed up my order more than once so I stopped going. but still I'm giving them 2 stars rather than 1 because their pastries are really good. if you're in soho and you want good coffee you're better off going to La Colombe on Lafayette.

    (2)

  • Sara S.

    Delicious pastries and breads. I love this place. The fruit tart is unbelievably good.

    (5)

  • Brianna S.

    I went to the bakery before a long day of adventures and I have to say that although everything was rich, the food was seriously delicious. My only complaint is that the space is so tiny it makes it hard to wait in line and therefore even harder to enjoy your food on a cold day.

    (4)

  • Jacqueline L.

    Scooped up at baguette, a regular cappuccino and a butter croissant post-interview. The area was super cramped, but it's because the people in there were terribly configured! The staff was super sweet and moved rather quickly. Baguette - as good as any baguette I could expect Cappuccino - same ^ Butter croissant - oh my god. maybe it was because I hadn't eaten all day, maybe it was because it was 4pm, maybe it was because it was the best croissant ever, but dang it was good! I ate it on the train home, SHAMELESSLY shoveling it into my face. Yum! No regrets.

    (4)

  • sophie d.

    Polite attentive staff. Excellent quality. Cranberry pecan bread and sliced sticky buns...

    (5)

  • Lisa K.

    Apparently my main memory is that there was really good quality chocolate on the doughnut I had. Overall I found the shop a bit on the small side and there wasn't an awful lot I was interested in, but I think this was more a reflection on how many bakeries I'd visited that day, and less on Balthazar itself.

    (4)

  • Pedro O.

    Had lunch with my wife. Ordered the foi gras terrine, loved it, large portion too. Then had the cock au vin and my wife had the stake frittes and both where amazing. Then had a mascarpone rasberry dessert that ended a perfect meal. The place is beautiful. I took out a star because the staff kind of gave preferential treatment to a table next to us, maybe because they where New Yorkers with suits and we looked like casual tourist. Anyway, would go again.

    (4)

  • Leah H.

    Mmmm almond croissant. Popped in here for a mid-day snack. The long line moved quickly and the staff seemed efficient. The almond croissant was super flaky and tender. We also enjoyed profiteroles filled with a chocolate cream. They serve Stumptown "Balthazar Blend" for their coffee. Nothing like visiting a city and finding a little bit of home.

    (4)

  • Regina D.

    Nothing special about their almond croissants other than the presentation: surrounded by other glamorous French desserts. Extremely buttery.

    (2)

  • Mike S.

    I wanted to back twice in the same day. It was that good. I had a mixed berry tart and my wife had a chocolate croissant. Awesome coffee too. Definitely worth it.

    (5)

  • Tsa Y.

    Good place for fresh baguette and other baked goods. Their donuts were kinda disappointing. I will just stick with their breads. You can sit in their restaurant or just make it to go. I usually grab something to eat from here after shopping in Soho!

    (3)

  • Chloe Z.

    You won't understand why Baltzhar is a NYC staple until you get the experience Right now it is hidden under layers of scafoldings (hey may not be a bad thing to be missed by out-of-towners- it could shortern your wait!) once you stepped inside the no-seating, hard-to-turn-your-eyeball tiny bakery, you will be submerged in the old school charm of Balthazar Cozy lightening and creamy paint on the wall accentuate the warm greetings of the staff. The bread is all O SO FRESH! Love Love the **whole wheat croissant*! Their bread loafs are apparently very popular too. I came around 2pm on a weekday, but all whole wheat loafs were gone :( Also try the petit salmon lunch sandwiches. You won't be disappointed! I have to write a review to praise this classic NYC establishment, but I won't give out any tips on how to find the place.... really need to secure my next bread loaf. Sorry folks!

    (5)

  • Virginia T.

    I made a last minute decision to pick up an assortment of pastries from Balthazar before a date with some girlfriends and I am SO glad I did. Even though I meant to give the treats to my dear friend who's got her own bun in the oven, the three of us could not resist tearing the desserts apart. I was really excited for the canele, but surprisingly, it wasn't as delicious as the other pastries. The crust could have been chewier and more caramelized. No sweat though, Balthazar quickly redeemed itself with its mille-feuille which features fresh raspberries and layers of pastry so perfectly crisp and flaky that it could make three grown women weep (and weep we did...after we realized it was demolished in a matter of seconds). But this was before we dug into the berries tart which was absolutely legendary. Hands down, the best any of us have ever eaten in our lives. The crust was buttery and tender with a layer of jam underneath the silky pastry cream. And unlike other fruit tarts that are stingy with their congealed fruits, this one was piled high with fresh strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries. No skimping whatsoever. I hate to admit it, but I will probably be back before this week is over to get my greedy gluttonous hands on another one of those tarts. Trust me, you'll want to break your New Year's resolution for this too.

    (5)

  • Alexandra K.

    Next to their brasserie lies this quaint little boulangerie for take-out only. It truly is a little French gem with so many baked goods and fresh bread stamped with a "B." It's really neat actually. There are a lot of people working there and they take care of you pretty quickly. I can't wait to come back to NYC to sit down for breakfast at the brasserie. -Hazelnut Hot Cocoa: AMAZING. Not only is the aroma wonderful, but the hot chocolate is so flavorful and tastes like liquid Nutella--what could be better? But seriously. -Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake: WOW!!! This is extremely moist and decadent. I tried to only eat a ¼ of it but whoops it was all gone in a matter of minutes. FINAL VERDICT: Yup, this is a winner.

    (5)

  • Raul R.

    One of the most popular, tiniest, most expensive bakeries in New York City. Every time we walk by there's a long line. I've been meaning to try their apple danish for a long time. It was good, not great and for more than $4, a long wait in a crowded tiny area, I may have to try something else next time. As you walk in the line USUALLY FORMS to the right. You're reading this right, I would probably go back.

    (3)

  • Susing Y.

    Bought a mini strawberry cheesecake from the Boulangerie and loved it! It was the right texture and consistency. I've also bought crossaints from here in the past and always liked them.

    (5)

  • Cassie C.

    Very authentic canele and rich flavored almond croissant!

    (5)

  • Tiffany L.

    i've had 2 items here. chocolate flourless cake & hazelnut opera cake. skip the slice. reject the small tart things. get the real deal. whole pie. cake it.

    (5)

  • Sandra S.

    Too bad I'm in love with the almond croissants here or I wouldn't bother. The people who work here kill me. Not all the time but most. Young kids who just can't be bothered to serve you and work painfully slow. The other day the cashier ignored us while it took him several minutes to attempt to refill a stapler. We attempted to order, asked questions about what stuff was and he ignored us while we watched him struggle and then spill staples everywhere - they went flying into the food! And he was unfazed. Didn't even take the food away. He didn't even say hang on a minute or anything. Just didn't talk to us. So weird! And rude. After asking him what something was like 5x, he never answered. My sister offered to fill the stapler for him so he could take our orders. Lol. It's not rocket science kid! The coffee is ok. Nothing amazing. But the almond croissant might be worth the annoying service. Maybe. You could try an O'Rens coffee place too, instead. Sometimes they sell them.

    (2)

  • Lily H.

    I used to get croissants or other portable pastries at Balthazar's bakery before walking around Soho. It's an affordable luxury, compared to the many overpriced things I'd see in the boutiques afterwards. The place is a shoebox but it is done in a way that you get a feeling of plenty. Kind of like how if you put your food on a smaller plate it can make it look like you have more. At some point the NYT ran an article about Balthazar--I've seen a couple actually-- and I think it made me want to eat there less. The first one was about how they make the croissants, and I realized how much butter is in a croissant. The second one was about the restaurant next door and what a well oiled machine it is. I just felt bad that there is some guy who peels potatoes all day, to meet the demands of the restaurant.

    (4)

  • Dan G.

    If you have a sweet tooth, you have to visit Balthazar. The restaurant also looks nice, but we just wanted to get some afternoon "snacks" from a bakery and this place knocked it out of the park. I don't even remember what the name of the chocolatey thing I ordered was, but I'll just call it "UNFORGETTABLE." Delicious.

    (5)

  • Tuan T.

    I was told Balthazar had the best sticky buns in the city. Since we were close by, we decided to take that recommendation. True to its name, the sticky bun was really sticky. It was super sweet and a bit chewy. I'm not sure I want to know how much sugar they used, but it was just ok for us. Next time, I'll try to save room for their other pastries. Recommendation: Ask for them to cut up the sticky bun

    (3)

  • Fiona C.

    Probably the most awesome mixed berry galette/fruit tart I've ever had - great for bringing over or as gifts. Not too sweet and had the most spot on flaky crust I could ask for.

    (5)

  • Angel W.

    go in for a croissant and a coffee. walk out and enjoy. savor the buttery aroma and crispy baked croissant exterior with chewy, light inside. ponder if this is the meaning of life. take a few sips of that delicious coffee. continue wandering soho.

    (5)

  • Ido W.

    Bottom line: overpriced American bakery set in a fancy shop claiming to be French. Service is friendly. The pros: the ambience, the selection (of American pastries dressed up as French pastries), the service The cons: the pastries are disappointing. We had a chocolate croissant, almond croissant and apple galet. All were mediocre. We decided the galet was not even worth the calories. Items were overpriced.

    (2)

  • Tammy P.

    Miss this place. Delicious croissants, sticky buns, and caneles made to perfection!!! The best baked goods year round with a cup of coffee in your other hand... Mmm! We used to buy a bunch just to bring back home for family out of town too. Can't wait to be reunited one day with these pastries. Till then, I'll just daydream about them!

    (5)

  • Christie Y.

    Reminds me of a cute bakery in paris but with 5648 pastries and croissants inside I loved the chocolate croissant here; reminded me of Paris and all of the croissants I ate there.... Super soft, fresh, not too flake-y and not that sweet!! Perfection! I also had the blueberry muffin which was also amazing! I thought it was going to be super sweet but no! It was packed with fresh blueberries and barely had any sugar taste to it; just how i like it! Will def come back when I'm in the area!

    (4)

  • Lars H.

    The baked goods here are certainly decent, but they are not first in their leagues. The croissants are better at Café Fabiane or even at Dean and DeLuca, the rye bread is better at Lafayette or the Old Poland bakery and the baguette is better at Fairway. The name Balthazar calls for improvements.

    (3)

  • Gabby P.

    We were going to have dessert at the restaurant but it was chock full of tourists with a long line so we decided to hit the bakery store next door and a local bench to chill out. Tiny space, barely enough standing room for four customers. We had the chocolate mousse creampuffs (four tiny ones), one chocolate flourless tart and one cappuccino for $20. It was good, hit the spot, but a bit pricey. It's one of those things where you're like, okay I have been to the famous Balthazar...been there, done that.

    (3)

  • Laura T.

    My hopes we so high but this was definitely a let down. The almond croissant was so dry and tough that it almost tasted stale. The almonds on top were also candied, rather than toasted. I didn't even finish it. I want to give it another shot, and maybe try a donut or scone, which people rave about.

    (2)

  • Kim C.

    Best croissants ever. I came in simply for one butter croissant and left with a butter croissant and a free almond one! The cashier asked if I had ever tried their almond croissant and when I answered no, he stuffed an extra croissant in my bag and said "now you will!". And now I'll never be able to NOT purchase an almond croissant here. It was life changing...

    (5)

  • Fred H.

    Got the raspberry chocolate dessert - the first bite was excellent! The second contained a live bug. Granted, it was a small bug (some sort of mite, probably), but it was alive and it was gross. I was extremely disappointed, this bakery did not look like the type of place where I would encounter something like this.

    (1)

  • Vivian K.

    YES. DO try the cherry clafoutis... mmmm..... I haven't been there for awhile, but I remember the place looking like an illustrated children's book interpretation of a bakery-- whimsical !!!

    (4)

  • Valdemar N.

    If you're serving coffee you need to know how to actually make coffee. On a good day their latte is tasteless. Most of the time they burn the milk. If the you put the name "Balthazar" above your door, please make sure what ever you serve actually meets that bar.

    (1)

  • Thom H.

    Butter scone on a Saturday morning. I expected better, and have had better (Bouchon Bakery comes to mind). But it was still good, like Balthazar baked goods I've had before, and we all know how I love baked goods. Before going in, I had a feeling I'd be giving Balthazar Bakery four stars. So be it.

    (4)

  • E M.

    Yes. This place is so beautiful and excels in breads and sweets. I love the banana walnut donut especially, and the baguettes and croissants are delicious. The servers are competent and warm. The lines can be a bit long but they move quickly and are filled with people about to eat the baked goods there, so everyone seems happy and friendly. No seating except out front, but that makes for some great people-watching slash reading while eating a cute little croissant on a bench. No complaints here.

    (5)

  • Danan R.

    LOVE the Mediterranean salad with the roasted curry caluflower, pignoles, feta, and golden raisins. The cauliflower is cooked to perfection and the raisins give it the perfectly amount of sweetness. The roasted chicken salad with brussels sprouts, pumpkin seeds, and roasted butter squash on kale and romaine is delish as well.I you are getting catering for an event,ask for Jessie Altamonte. She's fantastic about making sure that your order is just the way you want it,as well as putting in special requests.

    (4)

  • Alexandra C.

    Surprising -- Croissants were pretty terrible! Same with pain au chocolat. A much less expensive/much better pain au chocolate sold down the street. Still good brioche.

    (2)

  • Kris H.

    Pour lulu et edi....... If you are not able to get into the restaurant next door because the line is insanely long, the bakery is the next best thing. Get everything. You will thank me when you die from your diabetic shock. I kid. It's not that sweet. It's really butter heaven. And speaking of heaven, get the hazeltnut hot chocolate. C'est EPIC!!! The croissants are superbly flaky. The chocolate ones are just sweet enough. The mango tarts are well....formidable! The pastries are pricy but well worth it.

    (5)

  • Ella B.

    There's lots to say about Balthazar's bakery that has already been said. It quite simply is a great bakery. Delicious, well executed loaves of bread, with a number of varieties to choose from. It's a little bit of trip downtown (at least for me) so if you do not have someone to send for the bread, I would recommend using their delivery service.

    (4)

  • Nicole H.

    Good place for a good brunch! The eggs benedict was good and the eggs were poached perfectly. They have a legit English breakfast.

    (4)

  • Tekwar T.

    Balthazar Bakery is a claustrophobic space full of great pastries (and some not so great), all expensive. I'm picky about all things sweet and although Balthazar gets most things right, there's still some items that are just mediocre. The customers seem to be mostly tourists or snotty Soho types (you know that skinny model is going to spit up that almond croissant). The staff are not overly friendly but at least they keep the crowd moving. I still prefer Bruno Bakery (in the Village) over this place.

    (3)

  • Sarah Z.

    The BEST and I mean BEST Pecan Sticky Bun EVER! I make it a mission to go to soho just for their sticky bun. I only buy 1 or I will be a million lbs! Seriously, the BEST. Last time I ate one I had to stop after the first bite, and I literally did a happy dance. Then I continued to eat :) Their pecan, raisin, cranberry bread is also really good.

    (5)

  • S I.

    One of the best oatmeal raisin cookies I have ever had. I found it to be on par with my favorite oatmeal raisin from levians. I also had the sticky bun and almond croissant. Both of them were amazing. I can't wait to go back here

    (5)

  • Hong D.

    Butter croissant is wonderful! I got the last one when I arrived there! It doesn't smell very strong, but it tastes rich since it has many layers. I think it may taste better if it is hot.

    (5)

  • Rach W.

    The croissants and baguettes were dry and hard. Not moist and fresh tasting, seems like they've been sitting there all day long even though I went there at 3pm. It's dim and dark and you cant see the entire selection of baked goods. Will not return again. If you love fresh bread and pastries, try Maison Kayser.

    (2)

  • Char Y.

    the line was out the door! beautiful shop with pastries piled high. i ordered almon croissant - ok, very flaky but nothing special donut - just ok, not comparable to donut plant

    (2)

  • Ed U.

    It only makes sense for a world-class Parisian boulangerie to sit next to a world-class Parisian brasserie... if you live in Paris. Or on Spring Street in SoHo where Balthazar holds court. What's nice about the little bakery storefront is that you don't have to wait an hour and a half to be served. Walk in and you are overtaken by the aroma of their freshly baked breads, pastries, tarts, cookies, and donuts. Yes, I said donuts. My friend Carlos is a master at finding the hidden jewel in a bakery and bypassing the gawkers who need to peruse everything before considering an order. In this case, the jewel turned out to be the $2.50 Banana Walnut Donut, a perfectly baked cake-style donut generously covered with a light glaze peppered with grated walnuts and enriched with fresh bananas (see photo). Everything else looked sinfully good, but we were sated by the amazing Sunday brunch we just had next door. It's a closet of a place (see photo), but do enter at your own risk. The risk of enlarging your hips. I can only dream of such a wonderful boulangerie in my 'hood back in San Francisco. DONUT - 5 stars...frickin' good donut...tres bon AMBIANCE - 4 stars...charming and awfully crowded SERVICE - 4 stars...grab n' go, 'nuff said TOTAL - 5 stars...Parisian boulangeries like Balthazar are not to be ignored, mon ami

    (5)

  • Lisa S.

    Great food. Not a fan of the employees' attitudes.

    (3)

  • Jennifer K.

    French Bakery! Carbs! Croissants! Visiting Balthazar Bakery on a rainy Sunday remind me of my visit to Paris.. from the store front, the cramped interior and the rustic deco. The only thing missing is a goodlooking French man greeting me in French "bonjour ma chère!" A takeout place, so we decided to have a quick bite! I was dying for a coffee...since nothing beat having a good coffee on a rainy morning with just 4 hours of sleep the previous night! Plain Croissant ($2.75) is always my choice as a breakfast pastries. Balthazar Bakery's one was not too butter, not too flaky, not too doughy... which I really enjoyed!! Cappuccino ($4.25) not bad for an non espresso coffee shop. The milk has this velvet consistency... and was not over whelming milky.. My friend's Cinnamon Bun ($3.25) which I forced her to share with me (she should have pick a Pain Au Raisin!) was A-OK too! And it made a more interesting photo! Sipping my coffee at the bench at the storefront was a good start for my morning.. as we ready to hit the road again for our next Eating spot!

    (4)

  • Carol L.

    I dropped in to the bakery section, and ordered one apple berry tart. The guy asked if my friend and i wanted a cookie. we said we were too full. He replied "you're going to pass on a cookie that's on the house??" =) We immediately reneged our decision. It gets better. We thought we'd get ONE free cookie. Instead, the guy gave each of us a huge chocolate chip cookie! how nice is that?!!

    (4)

  • Joy C.

    I'm only basing my review of their savory scone, as I only had time to stop by their adjoining bakery. It was horrid. The texture was dry and flaky. I had to drink some liquids in order to not choke on the parched dough. The flavor was also sucked... I expected the olives and the rosemary and the cheese to shine, but they were dull and bland. I heard from a friend who actually ate dinner there that it was really good... I'll have to try their restaurant sometime. Avoid scones at Balthazar!

    (1)

  • Jenn R.

    The Balthazar Bakery was the first stop on a tour of NYC's pastry shops. Its a cute little stop with just beautiful treats. I had a passion fruit tarte and a petite four. The petite four was a bite of heaven and the tarte was awesome.

    (4)

  • Ilias K.

    Besides the mouth-watering pastries, Balthzar Bakery offers the best iced cappucino!

    (4)

  • Bengie A.

    My head is still spinning. I stepped into this tiny bakery not knowing what to expect. I was broke and not looking to buy anything, just keeping someone company. Then I saw their big ass cookies. My mouth started watering as I quickly calculating my change. I whispered "how much is that cookie?" And that is when I heard an angel come from the heavens and said "1.50". I thought my ears where deceiving me. A cookie that big for one fifty!!! I quickly ordered two and ran out the store before he changed his mind. As I was stuffing my face, I realized that the angle gave me four cookies for the price of two. I felt like Sara Cruz...I decided to share and gave one to a friend. The gift that keeps giving. I can't wait to go back there for more swag, I will remember to smile and bat my eyes. I believed an Olsen Twin left a little before I got there, but I was too busy eyeing the delicious treats to care.

    (5)

  • Mariangela S.

    Stopped by the bakery for a morning croissant, and was underwhelmed by the presentation and taste. The croissant was nice and flakey, but just didn't wow me like I expected.

    (2)

  • D B.

    The Balthazar Bakery (directly next to the restaurant) carries some very tasty doughnuts - as well as a whole bunch of other delicious things.

    (4)

  • Liz E.

    I'm giving the bakery a three star rating because I have only tried their "Brownie Performance," something that curiously, isn't listed on the menu. I was served by an obviously tired and rude girl with piercing coming out of every corner of her face, another strange aspect of the bakery that didn't seem to fit. There were many things that looked good, like the bread pudding, but I'll admit that I'm not too crazy about French pastries and desserts. Regardless, my brownie, laden with walnuts and dusted with cocoa, seems dry at first but very quickly becomes soft, fudgy, and very dark. If anything, another trip is worth it simply for the variety of breads, which are expensive but look divine; the sandwiches seem a bit paltry though for the price, so I probably will skip them. ---------------------------------- UPDATE********** A better customer experience due to a kinder cashier and a less crowded area made me raise the rating a star. This was also due to the absolutely fantastical bread pudding I had which, for four dollars, is a dense, heavy little sucker made with the bakery's own fruit focaccia. Creamy, cold, and still firm enough to be eaten like a muffin, it ranks with Serendipity's bread pudding as the best I've ever had, trumping even my own. Now that's saying something.

    (4)

  • Alwyn A.

    I'm addicted to the ham and cheese croissant. I got my boss addicted to the ham and cheese croissant. Your life will be changed by this ham and cheese croissant. The chocolate sables and the tartine (brie with jam and butter) are also very good. The hot coffee isn't incredible, but the iced coffee is exceptional -- and highly caffeinated! Yes, there is a wait. Yes, it is often long. Get over it. This is SoHo, one of the busiest shopping districts in one of the largest cities in the world. Other people want coffee too. Even with all the traffic, the staff is generally friendly. I will absolutely give any exceptions the benefit of the doubt, given the size (tiny) and volume (high) of the space. Also, if you go at closing (seven o'clock), pastries are half-off. But get out your rapiers and dueling pistols, because the regulars are not kidding around.

    (4)

  • Liz M.

    I haven't tried the restaurant, but everyone needs to go next door to the bakery and try their chocolate bread and sticky buns with dried fruit. I actually had these at Schiller's in a bread basket they offered at brunch. Well, after I dreamed of this bread, I hunted down their origin and bliss ensued. I would call ahead to see what they are making before going over because the last time I went, I found they only make the chocolate bread on the weekends.

    (4)

  • missy l.

    3.5 stars for the bakery. a friend and i popped in on a random wed morning to find the bakery packed full of customers. the good thing is that it is a well-oiled machine - they really know how to deliver customer service and get people in and out quickly. we had croissants and iced coffees and both were as expected from what you would get at balthazar - pricey but delicious. we had the almond and also the goat cheese croissant and i absolutely LOVED my almond croissant. it was lighty, airy, fluffy and just perfect. the disappointing part was that they made a fuss in toasting our croissants. really?

    (3)

  • Anne L.

    Their bakery has the best ice coffee in the city. It's strong with a good coffee aroma to it. They could do something about the snooty attitute though.

    (4)

  • G. R.

    its my birthday this week and they are willing to custom make my favorite mixed berry galette even though it not on their menu for this winter season.. i love them!! no french bakery has come this close to the pastries i tasted in Paris!!!

    (5)

  • Lolo M.

    If you are on a budget, don't sit at the restaurant. Order instead from the bakery which is right next door. I am not a sandwich gal but let me tell you, the bread is to die for, which makes any sandwich irresistible.

    (4)

  • Jill N.

    Eggplant Parm Sandwich from the Bakery side was alright, but I expect more for a $9 sandwich.

    (3)

  • John Chase M.

    OMG!! The take away bakery counter is nirvana. The best baked goods I've ever had. I was in NY for 9 days and found myself walking into Balthazar nearly everyday. The aroma is to die for. Seriously, you have to go to this establishment and eat some baked goods!! Pastries are irresistible.

    (5)

  • L C.

    My general plan of action in bakeries where everything looks delicious is to point at the first thing that stands out to me, ask what it is, and if it sounds even remotely yummy, taking a risk (hey, some people sky dive, some people wrestle alligators, I eat unknown bakery goods). The pastry I pointed at happened to be a small bread pudding, and I basically didn't hear anything else the lovely person behind the counter said after that because my stomach drowned out her voice. "GIVE IT TO ME," it said. So the bread pudding it was. She packed it up in a beautiful Balthazar box, placed it in a beautiful Balthazar bag, and I toted it back to my meeting where the box alone inspired moans of jealousy. A crowd of people gathered around me as I opened it, necks straining to see what was inside. I was asked for a play-by-play of my first bite into the delicacy (I'm only mildly exaggerating). Simply put, it was perfect, creamy and fluffy but dense at the same time, but not too heavy like some bread pudding tends to be. It also had cherries in it, which I thought added a sweet tang. Wish I had tried more, but there's too much good food in this neighborhood-- I'll be back to hopefully upgrade my rating (since I usually don't give 5 stars to places I've only tried once).

    (4)

  • Cara A.

    Take-away from the little bakery is the way to go. I find myself wishing for one of their scones and a big coffee this Friday morning. Aah.

    (4)

  • CE C.

    Wish I knew about the half off deal near closing time!! I was starving and stopped by the bakery right before closing. Got their pain au chocolate, a little disappointing, it was towards the end of the day and there was no crispness and flakiness in the pastry. Will have to give it a shot when the pastries are fresher in the morning

    (3)

  • Marilyn M.

    This is about the bakery. I don't care for the restaurant. The food is good, but the ambiance is not. Very noisy. You not only hear everyone's conversation, you hear their glasses and forks and knives clinking. Terrible accoustics. Not a relaxing eating experience. But the bakery is a different story. A recommendation. The walnut brownie is to die for. I am a walnut brownie freak and this was absolutely the best I ever had. Light with great texture and the most divine powder cocoa topping. $3,00.

    (4)

  • C M.

    Disclaimer: This review is solely meant for the bakery portion of Balthazar as I have yet to be subjected to an actual meal @ this fine establishment. Furthermore, the proceeding review will be solely based on a delightful sweet derived from the bakery... The Donut! Special Thanks to Susan Y. for the recommendation on Balthazar Bakery! My ventures into the discovery of the Best Donut in NY has led me to the second establishment in my journey. Balthazar Bakery is modeled after that of a French Pastry Shop commonly found in, well... You know where! The entry / ordering area has limited spacing for approximately 10 people. At the counter, a luscious display of confectioneries ranging from the Chocolate Pot de Creme to Profiteroles are at a consumers disposal, for a price of course. Each of these delectable treats contains within them a certain element of intrigue and unique presentation that can only be comprehended through consumption. Sadly, my ventures to this establishment was to discover the essence of the donut that's manufactured from their baking facilities. Perhaps another visitation in the late future shall grant me such luxuries, but until then, Donuts Only!!! Upon being serviced by the wait staff, I indulged my inner sinful consumption desires by ordering both the Pistachio and the Chocolate Covered Donut. I opted not to get the basic cake glazed donut as my intentions were to test the multiversity of Balthazar's ability to enrich the taste of such a good. Pistachio: The first bite into the Pistachio donut generated a slight disillusion between the frosting and the base. The cake donut base provided a soft and moistened inspired creation with limited hints of over application of either butter or sugar. Unfortunately, the amount of pistachio used in the application was mild and subtle, thus creating an imbalance between the frosting and the base. With each bite of the donut, any consumer will state that the Pistachio Nut flavor of the frosting is hinder nevertheless present, but once incorporated with the cake donut, all signs of the Pistachio disappear and all that's left is the base. The seemingly overwhelming contrast and conquering of flavors by the donut base takes away from the harmonious balance that was originally intended through this creation. There are two basic solutions that would aid in the correction of such a talented creation. The first being, add more pistachio nuts (perhaps incorporate them in the baking process such that pistachios are found within the cake base). Secondly, add pistachio spice to the cake donut batter for enhancement of the effervescent vapors. Chocolate Covered: Surprisingly, this was the donut I preferred over the Pistachio. Unlike the the Pistachio sprinkled confection, the Chocolate Covered Donut produced a seemingly well balanced taste of both chocolate and golden yellow cake. What gave this donut a preferred mark over its counterpart is that the emphasized frosting of this dessert was not slacking, thus providing both a vibrant chocolate and cake flavor. The chocolate in it's own right was done with proper execution. From conversations with the Master Pastry Chef @ Balthazar, it was understood that the chocolate used in the application of this donut was a 65% cocoa base. The 65% cocoa in nature is a dark chocolate, that's mildly sweet but bitter in both body and structure. The application of such a chocolate to this donut produced a bitter, but bold taste giving the donut enhanced sternness, of which was its original intension. Overall, the donuts created by the Balthazar Bakery were tasty and delightful but not invigorating nor captivating. One thing that was noticed about the Balthazar confectionery was that there was only a mild presence of butter and sugar. Perhaps this was intended to favor the pretentious weight management crowd of SOHO. Be that as it may, the donut was still perfectly done in both texture, composition and of course, taste!

    (3)

  • Jen S.

    We only had a ham & cheese croissant from the take-out bakery. It was very very yummy. I hope to go back again one day when I have more time and sample the restaurant. Or, maybe have a hotel nearby and get bread to go...

    (4)

  • Kitrena Y.

    Got a Passionfruit-Mango Cake for my cousin's birthday after seeing and article about it on serious eats. Thought I'd give it a chance and it was fantastic. The passion-fruit was explicit. The cake was soft and the cream on top was not too sweet. Overall not a very sweet cake which I like. The lady fingers were very soft surprisingly, I expected them to be hard as rock. Too bad Otto's cake service requirement (got 6 gelatos, one for each person at the table) distracted the flavor of the cake a little. I would definitely come back to try other desserts/baked goods.

    (4)

  • Laura G.

    Went into the bakery part to get a quick sandwich. I was practically drooling over the turkey sandwich - too bad they were out. I opted for the curry chicken sandwich instead. Not very flavorful and the chicken was dry for at least $7. Everything else looked delicious though, and my friend enjoyed her panini.

    (3)

  • sally w.

    Their pastries are to die for. They have a lot of variety here but it is the mango cheesecake and the fruit puff pastry (forgot the name) is my favorite. The puff pastry desert has different fruit toppings on certain days like apricot and I think blueberries. I swear I think I ate the whole thing (it's pretty big) in one sitting..it was that delicious! Their baguettes are really good too..perfect for dipping sauces. The place is really small, no sitting room except the little bench outside. I don't normally like pastries but the ones here aren't too sweet. I guess the trade off would be having a lot of butter in it I'm sure!

    (4)

  • Alicia K.

    Yummy!!! Lost a star because the store is really small and overcrowded.

    (4)

  • Stephanie W.

    My favorite stop for a snack while shopping in Soho is the bakery. Yummy-licious sweet and savory treats...bread pudding, pumpkin cheesecake, cookies, apple tartin, sandwiches and salads... enjoy them all with a hot latte. Ohh. Get your treats to go and sit outside on the benches and watch the world go by.

    (5)

  • Melody H.

    I only go to the bakery because they have perfectly sized salads and lovely soups to-go and for delivery. I have yet to indulge in the pastries but they do look mighty tasty. The baguette was good enough, but not great, which has made me hesitant to buy bread on the way home from work. I swear by the Mediterranean salad, though, and one of these days I am going to figure out how they make that lemon-mint-basil? dressing...

    (4)

  • N T.

    This review is for the takeout bakery, not the restaurant (Yelp should split it up). I rate it 5 stars for the pastries -- they are among the best I've ever had. But I rate it 1 star for the ridiculously small amount of space. There's simply not enough room. It's really insulting to Balthazar Bakery's customers. It's so unpleasant I no longer go. Instead, I just wait for the few occasions when we decide to order a bunch of pastries for an office function.

    (3)

  • Colleen C.

    i like to pop into the bakery for the delicious chicken curry sandwich on wheat WITH GRAPES! mmm... i never have the patience or desire to go to the restaurant personally. i'd rather jump in, grab a gourmet sammie to go & get on my merry way. plus the counter people are always so nice :)

    (4)

  • Jono T.

    The seen and be seen scene on Spring Street from inside and out can't get any better...but the coffee in the bakery could be. Convenient place to catch a cab...and be dropped off. Naming this popular place after 1 of the 3 Magi was a wise move. Celebrities go there and lots of business is done there too.

    (4)

  • david y.

    the pastry basket is a must. the constant long waits are a drag. so if you're in a rush go next door to their bakery and grab a few pastries on the go!

    (5)

  • Josh K.

    The best almond croissant in Manhattan, in my opinion, is here at Balthazar. The line inside the store can look daunting and cramped, but you'll never wait in it for more than 5 minutes. The service is fast and friendly. Pastries run from about $1.50 to $5 and above (usually the realm of sandwiches and such.)

    (5)

  • Rob C.

    I do love their banana walnut doughnut. I wish they'd do more flavors more often though. Their other pastries and breads are also very good, but my preference for those will always lie a few blocks away at Francois Payard on Houston st.

    (4)

  • Ming K L.

    I always pass by this place and didn't know how famous this place was until my friend took a selfie with the Beckhams next door for breakfast. I tried the hot cholocate, chocolate croissant and almond croissant. Hot chocolate and almond croissant were average. Chocolate croissant was pretty good but pricey and small. I've heard great things about their muffins and would definitely love to try it next time! Just warning though, you will either be in a long line, or you will be pressurized to order fast.. No waiting around. I had to do two transactions because how annoyed the workers and the people behind of me were. Luckily there wasn't a long line around 11am so I had the chance to buy more without waiting too long

    (4)

  • Alicia G.

    10 years ago Balthazar was my JAM. After 6pm all pastries were half off. Then they moved the hours later and later...until it got crazy and then got discontinued. Whomp. I still come here when I'm in the neighborhood to get their chocolate chip cookies. They are huge and made with an amazing semi sweet chips and are soooo good. You can't really go wrong with any of the choices really. They have mini versions of popular items and you can never go wrong with the full sized items like tarts, croissants, etc. They also have bread and people are crazy for their coffee (which I don't drink). The customer service is almost always on point and everyone is so friendly. Their other food, sandwiches, salads, etc. are soooo good. And expensive. If you want tasty food (and if there isn't a line), I highly suggest this spot.

    (4)

  • Katherine Z.

    Got the fruit tart today and it was magnificent. Normally, fruit tarts are way too sweet for me, but this one was perfectly flavored. The fruits were fresh as well. And the crust...the crust was amazing. Crust is always my favorite part of a tart (and the part by which I evaluate the tart the most), and Balthazar perfected it. Not too dry, not too mushy. It was delicious.

    (5)

  • Harry H.

    Dropped by on a Wednesday at 10:30 and it was slammed, but the $3.75 (card OK) pecan sticky bun was worth the small wait. Could see myself returning for their Croissants, brioche, seasonal tarts, and puff pastry.

    (4)

  • Christina P.

    Balthazar was the first nice restaurant I went to the very first time I ever saw NYC, so it always holds a sentimental place in my head when I think of classy New York-y places even years later. That also extends to the tiny little bakery next door to the restaurant, which cranks out some of the most gorgeous breads in the area. Personally, I have a weakness for pastries so I'll treat myself to a coffee or almond Chai latte and one of their delicate, classic pastries. You're not going to see anything too off the wall, but they nail those classics. The almond croissant is a favorite; I love the crusty brown buttery shell that forms at the top. It's not cheap - I think we're hovering around $5 for a pastry, maybe something similar for an espresso drink. But I think $10 is pretty worth it for an indulgent treat once in a while!

    (4)

  • Kevin L.

    Mini lemon meringue tart was on point!! Friendly staff that are willing to answer your obviously noob questions "what is a gallete" (face palm) (jk). Anyway, nice place, nice people, and the important part; nice pastries.

    (4)

  • Danielle V.

    The prices here may be higher than I'd like, but I can't help loving this little bakery. I generally treat myself once a week to a coffee and pastry before work. The coffee is strong and they have most kinds of milk available, which is always nice. They don't always have the same pastries available, so if you see something you'd like, snap it up! I highly recommend the banana donut, which has a delightful crumb topping. One morning they served small croissants with goat cheese and chopped tomato - I still daydream about that! Because there's limited space inside this bakery, the line sometimes goes out the door, or everyone crams together inside. I highly recommend visiting at an "off" time; 9 AM is packed, but at 8:30 it's usually empty!

    (5)

  • Hannah C.

    J'adore Balthazar Boulangerie... this is my poor attempt at sounding like I know French. My only wish was that it was bigger so that people could actually sit and enjoy their treats and the ambiance (this boulangerie is separate from their restaurant by the way). Anyway, if you're into cakes, try their coconut cake -- it's out of this world!! I bought it for an office party and wasn't sure if everyone would like it because coconut is just one things you love or hate, but it was such a great hit with everyone.

    (4)

  • Michelle Y.

    If I closed my eyes, I could picture myself in a quaint bakery in Paris. Balthazar is truly a piece of Paris on Spring Street. A great assortment of cookies, pastries, and bread. I got a chocolate croissant and a chocolate chip walnut cookie. The croissant was wonderful, of course, but I wasn't in love with the cookie. The chocolate chips were just too bitter. Perhaps it's just a personal preference.

    (4)

  • stacey s.

    My daughter and I have been finding all the places downtown that carry Balthazar so we thought we'd schlep up to THE place itself. Much smaller than I expected given the volume they do - but just as quaint as I thought it would be. I adore their almond croissants and was not disappointed. Nice to have them so fresh. Only thing that would have made it perfect would have been a touch more crunch in the outside and a tad more almond paste on the inside. We are going to try something new each time we try a bakery, so today it was a banana donut. It was moist and warm, with the right amount of icing and nuts. Not overwhelmingly banana-ish and not too sweet. Reminds me of a banana coffee cake. I am realizing, however, that I am partial to yeast donuts. For that... It's doughnut plant!

    (5)

  • May M.

    Only came here for dessert. I got a couple of the mini tarts which has lemon, chocolate, and vanilla filling. All very delicious. $3.00 each.

    (3)

  • Hannah S.

    This bakery caught my eye on my way to Dominique Ansel's bakery further down Spring St. Let me paint the scene: it's 15 degrees on a cold Manhattan night and I'm on a mission to get to the other famous bakery and this small bakery with it's rustic bread and tart pastry display lured me in. A quick look on yelp told me that they are known for their almond croissants so I quickly stop in to get one. The croissant looks so amazing that I sit outside in the freezing cold and devour the entire thing then go back in for more. The outside was crispy and caramelized and the inside was soft, chewy, and flaky. It had such a nice aroma and wonderful smell and taste and generally just really hits the spot. The people working there were so nice and helpful and looked at me with knowing smiles as I ordered more croissants and an apple gallete as well because everything looked so yummy that I couldn't resist. In summary: nice people, great breads, amazing almond croissants - get them!

    (4)

  • Linda R.

    Hands down, I think this is the best French bakery in NYC. Love their almond croissant, crunchy and flavorful crust and yet not overly sweet.

    (5)

  • Ming T.

    I came in here after 2pm looking for an almond croissant. I was expecting a "sorry, we're out" but I was able to get one. Buttery and great almond paste filling. There was also a nice sugary almondy crust baked on top with some extra slices of almonds. Went great with my coffee. For $3.25, it was a bit much but well worth it.

    (4)

  • Maho K.

    When I found this cute little store,I got really excited.i ordered hot chocolate and lemon raspberry cake,which was so flavoury and moist.

    (5)

  • Monica T.

    Alot to offer. Im overwhelmed. Oh hi again almond croissant, my old friend! They are very attentive behind the counter. Everything looks like it does in a fancy food mag.

    (5)

  • Michael P.

    Very cool little place, we had the chocolate mousse dessert ( cant quite recall the exact name) which was a very nice combo of sweet and bitter. If i am in soho again i will go try another treat , it was worth it.

    (4)

  • Ella T.

    I used to eat in the restaurant a lot. And their bread is the best, I was raised in Europe, so I know when there is a excellent bread. I had a dinner party and woke up early just to get their Boule bread. Perfect for cheese and charcuterie, or just a sandwich. It is worth it to come here and get the delicious bread.

    (5)

  • Annei B.

    I've always come back to this place just to savor their oatmeal raisin cookies. The staff are pretty decent but the place is so tiny it couldn't hold a long line. The price are terrific too!

    (4)

  • Roman V.

    First time I came here was five years ago when I just moved back to Manhattan. Oh! What a place, it's tiny and always packed, staff is very fast and caring, orchestral music, fresh bread, little sweets and pastires, the whole place feels so french and classy. There were only two things that bothered me - once they didnt let me in because i was walking my dog and they werent quite polite more like screaming GO AWAY NO DOGS NONONONO and when they charged me for cafe au lait (which is basically coffee with milk en francais #duuuh) twice as more as they charged my friend for an actual coffee with milk. I just think french place should not be making difference between these two! Here is my advice - take coffee to go (i dont drink coffee now, but i used to, damn I miss those pale yellow cups with lids that close!) with any pastry of your choice and go one block east to the Petrosino square park - this used to be my favorite morning routine!:)

    (5)

  • Haman D.

    I like that place. But they started to put berry jelly under their tartes. It makes too sugary.

    (4)

  • Customer X.

    The shop is beautiful and clean. This review is only for their French baguettes, as I haven't try the rest of their offering yet. The crust of the French baguettes were too hard.

    (3)

  • Jenny K.

    this bakery is located right next door to balthazar restaurant. we were looking for some pastries to grab and go. came to the right place. cannele - texture was perfect. a hard, glazed outer layer with a soft, custard-like inside. Mmm...just the way it should be. orange brioche - fluffy with orange flavor and some crystal sugar on top. they also had chocolate flourless cake, almond croissants, etc...but i can't eat all of them in one sitting. definitely a french bakery!!

    (4)

  • Dawn W.

    We had heard a lot of hype on this restaurant so our expectations were high. The restaurant was very nice and wait staff were very good, unfortunately the food was just ok. We had the steak au poivre which was recommended by the waiter but the meat was very tough. My husband had the skate and it was very disappointing. We wil not return

    (3)

  • Kimberly K.

    Delicious. Super packed. The bakery is right beside the restaurant. It's a small shop. I love that the AC is on full blast when it's really hot outside. Employees are sweet and quick. They pack your goodies neatly. There is no seating in here. Just grab and go. Pistachio doughnut was cakey and really flavorful. The consistency was a bit heavier than I would have liked. The Sticky Bun was ooey gooey goodness. Just the right amount of sweetness. Pastry had a nice consistency. Loads of chopped pecans on top. Yum! Overall, tasty bakery.

    (4)

  • Lisa G.

    I love Balthazar's baked goods, my favorites being the baguette, chocolate croissant, and the blueberry muffins. They're all delicious! I have tried the donuts, but they're not really my thing. While I am thrilled that they have Stumptown coffee, I am not thrilled with their milk. I have been known to grab a cold brew here, and bring it back to the office to use some nice organic milk from our office fridge, rather than use what they have at Balthazar. Yeah, I know I'm super picky. But if I'm spending $3+ on iced coffee, I want it to taste its best! Other than that, this is a great place to bring out of town coworkers and friends for a sweet pick-me-up! Don't forget to leave your claustrophobic friends at home; this place is TINY.

    (4)

  • An N.

    I kind of just feel fancy when I go to this place. They have this "hazelnut hot chocolate" that is basically liquified Nutella, but it's delicious and great on a freezing winter day. It's a hit with kids, obviously. I've also had the canelé here, because I heard it was the best, but maybe it wasn't fresh, so it was a bit soggy, no contrast between inside/outside crust. Delicious and custardy anyway. Kind of like a handheld flan. Anyway - this place is too far and too pricey for me to frequent often, but I like popping in when I'm around Soho, grab a shopping snack! You'll feel like you're in Paris for 15 minutes.

    (3)

  • Pomander B.

    Amazing pastries!!! Wow! I come here for traditional french pastry - galette, profiteroles, etc. They also make a perfect little raspberry-lemon pound cake. I skip the croissants, as I like Ceci et Cela down the block. However, every single item I have purchased from this bakery is top notch. Staff is very friendly, too. I am not a coffee drinker, but people line up for coffee constantly here. They also have a few lunch items (salad & sandwiches) and packaged goods (sable cookies, granola). Delicious!!!!

    (5)

  • Felisa F.

    Not the best bread pudding I've ever eaten. However, for $6 and considering how big it was, it was worth it. I found the bread pudding to be a little dry, or at least not as moist as other bread puddings I've had. I enjoyed the bits of cherries scattered throughout. I had somewhat of a sugar rush after though. The bakery itself is super cute and I imagine this is what a French bakery in Paris looks like. The breads look absolutely delicious. There's no seating besides the benches outside. I sacrificed my body to the cold New York weather and enjoyed my pastry outside providing myself with a wonderful New York Moment. I'd come back to try other things as well as Balthazar Restaurant next door!

    (4)

  • Agustin K.

    Upon entering the bakery, I knew I was at the right place. At night, they do run out of most things. I wanted to get the wheat or chocolate croissant but no more at around 7pm. Everyone was super friendly and happy to help you decide when you are trying to avoid bringing home the entire bakery. The butter croissant and the sticky bun were both so good after we toasted them a bit the next morning. For a bit I thought I was in Paris :) And their baguette is only for $3!! Next time I'll definitely come here since other places charge $5 or more for Balthazar's baguette!

    (4)

  • Liliana R.

    The Pumpkin Donut that they have in the Fall is delicious. Their Sticky Bun is tasty. It was a little too crunchy for my liking, but it was very flavorful. I still need to go back to try the croissant and the Banana Donut.

    (4)

  • Hit U.

    I do like their almond croissants, and the butter ones are just fine. The baguettes were a bit too firm but lasted me a week.

    (4)

  • Amy D.

    Wow, I've eaten an embarrassingly large number of things here in an embarrassingly small amount of time, so I'll just make a list, from best to worst: Croissant with ham and gruyere - OMG! So good. I think they served this exact croissant at Pastis for breakfast, actually, before they closed...(pausing here to gather myself. I loved that place!) One of the only savory things I've gotten here, but by far the best out of all of these. Coconut cake - soft, fluffy layers with a delicious coconut custard in between, and a slightly less yummy (too buttery) vanilla buttercream on top. All in all, though, it was a nice coconut cake, much less dry than any other I've had. And not some huge behemoth slice like you get at other places. Though it was pretty expensive, now that I think about it, at almost $7. Cheese danish - good but I wish I'd asked them to warm it up. Not too buttery, and the perfect size for nibbling on as I walked through SoHo. Hazelnut opera cake - not quite as good as Patisserie Claude's rendition, but nice and soft nevertheless. The top, with chocolate dusted over a layer of ganache, was very good. The layers were spongey and slightly greasy. Chocolate donut - I actually didn't like this at all. It reminded me EXACTLY of the Dunkin Donuts I used to have, years ago, as a kid...down to the coating. This is nowhere near as good as Doughnut Plant's blackout or triple chocolate...now those are chocolate doughnuts. This was very porous, dry, and artificial tasting--almost metallic. Not recommended.

    (4)

  • M L.

    I've worked in Soho for many years. My office has traditionally ordered from Olive's or Café Clementine, which we love, but occasionally we'll order from Balthazar. We've been on a Balthazar kick lately and loving it. The salads and sandwiches are great and delivery is prompt. I love the Mediterranean salad and the salmon salad. The quiche with salad is also very good. My boss loves the turkey breast sandwich and the French onion soup. The Balthazar salad is also a favorite. The ingredients are top notch and everything is made with care. High point: Today, they threw in some cookies with our order!! Low point: They used to discount everything for the last hour that they were open. If I was at the office late I would stop on my way home and get a relatively cheap dinner. I miss that.

    (5)

  • Stella S.

    I had just bought whole cheesecake for my friend's birthday less than twenty minutes ago. Have not tasted yet i do not think i can even give it to her as a present because the counter ladies ruined the cake! When the lady was trying to put the cake in the box, she was struggling so the lady with darker skin next to her aggressively put the cake in the bag. I carried it like a baby to the closest starbucks and when i opened it three minutes later to see if the cake was okay, guess what, it was all squashed to the corner. Strawberries all fell off. I do not know which lady did it, I am assuming the first one because she was holding the box half-open & slanted. All the counterladies probably remember the last customer because it took me awhile to choose the cake. It was too late to change it because i bought it right before the store was closing. Very upsetting and there goes my $37 birthday present. Wish i could give less than a star. Never going to this place again.

    (1)

  • Gary R.

    When you go to New York, Balthazar's is a must. It's just silly not to make Balthazar's a necessary pit stop. Popped in on a Friday afternoon for a little pastry. My poison? I chose the Apple Galette, a wondrous puff pastry treat made of fresh apples and brown sugar. Manna from heaven, really. That's what it felt like as I sat on a filthy bench and consumed the bastard. Oh, it went down so easy and so fast. I wanted another one, but wasn't willing to pay the $5 and change. In hindsight I kick myself because I think, "How often am I in New York?" My miser sensibilities, at times, arrest my urges. Perhaps that's a good thing. I still haven't been to Balthazar's for dinner. Next time.

    (5)

  • Sharyn D.

    Almond croissant was delicious. I have to go back after walking a block to buy a couple more since i dont live close by. Tried their sugar donut and the chocolate variety. Both donuts were dry and not worth the 2$ a piece. Sad to say, DD cake donuts tasted way better. Ill come back for the croissants though!

    (3)

  • Z B.

    If anyone knows where to get good bread in NY, please let me know. Balthazar is clearly not that place. Bought stale bread from them for a dinner, completely unacceptable. Rubbery plasticky bread. Damn it. Well, the 'patisseries' were awesome. So 3 stars for that. But save your time regarding the bread.

    (3)

  • Jacinda E.

    One of the best almond croissants I've had in NYC. Their scones (particularly the oatmeal current) is spec-ta-cular! I know people rave about the baguettes but I can't say it's the best. That vote currently goes to bien cuit. Closest to France's baguettes I have found so far.

    (4)

  • Claire F.

    Stop in and grab a few petit fours -- if they're not out, ask for them. They have seasonal designs and are perfect moist cake covered with a buttercream fondant, heaven in one inch cubed. And my boy yosub informs that an hour before closing things are half off ... #winning!

    (5)

  • Velina L.

    While it does look like a cute little French bakery, the products themselves were a huge disappointment. The cannele was too soft and didn't have the caramelized outer layer that characterizes this bordelais pastry; the madeleine was too dry and I had trouble swallowing each bite; and the chocolate eclair, although texturally acceptable, tasted like sugar without the slightest hint of chocolate. Save your money. Dominique Ansel, just a few blocks away, serves much better versions of all three.

    (1)

  • Lucy E.

    OMG, What happened with your Croissant!? Did you have any changing of it? Balthazar's croissant was not too buttery and good balance of chewy,and flakey. My No.1 croissant in NYC was here,,,so sooo disappointed,,, Left it over time after baked??? And! Changed prices??? to $ 3 !?!? OMG,please,please RECONSIDER about these,Barthazar. If keep NEW CHANGING, I'd prefer Ceci-Cela(Everytime Fresh & Cheaper) which is my No.2.

    (2)

  • Laura P.

    I was underwhelmed. There are better bakeries in Manhattan. Bouchon and Levain spring to mind. I had the following: 1) Coffee. Boring. 2) Banana-walnut donut. Good flavor, very dense, wouldn't go out of my way fo rit. 3) Sugar donut. Way too dense and dry, maybe good if it was dunked, but not good for eating solo. 4) Brownie. Very moist and fudge-y, yet not at all decadent. It wasn't sweet. It was bizarre, actually. 5) Apricot frangipane. Good fruit on top, good filling, but it just wasn't wowing me. 6) Raspberry petit fours. They were alright. Balthazar gets points for serving frangipane and petit fours. Don't get me wrong - I respect that, and I wish more places would serve financiers, tarts, and all the other tasty things that dwell of the Isle of Forgotten Pastries. However, they didn't really do anything for me. I would never tell anyone to go out of their way to hit up Balthazar Bakery. I went at 3 PM so maybe it's better at breakfast time when things are fresh. Two small coffees and all those baked goods was $26. It adds up fast!

    (3)

  • Amrita R.

    Wandered in here with friends after brunch elsewhere. It was my last day in NYC and I wanted some fun baked goods to take back with me. My friend had been looking for a good cannele for the entire trip and found them here. I opted for a chocolate croissant to remind me of my Paris days, and a petit four. They were all so amazing! The petit four wasn't too sweet at all (although I have a bit of a sweet tooth so I may not be the ideal person to ask). Another friend got the lemon souffle tart and after sampling his, I had to run in and buy one of those. Took them all to a park later that day and finished them off with friends. So much for saving them to bring home! I haven't been able to stop thinking about the lemon souffle tart ever since. I'll just have to make my own version! As for the other baked goods, every single item was delicious and so authentically French. My friend loved her canele, while the chocolate croissant was just right. The place is pricy but most definitely worth the price. I'm glad I don't live near this place because I'd be stopping in every day!

    (5)

  • Michelle T.

    Overpriced and super tiny storefront. The lemon tart that I had was just okay. It was a lot flakier than I would've liked and wasn't very tart-y at all. I think I'll stick to Bouchon or Panya for my occasional sweet.

    (3)

  • Cecelia O.

    HEAVENLY. The only problem with Balthazar Bakery is that it's just so cramped, but EVERYTHING else was AMAZING. We were in NYC with two college-aged nieces whose palettes are ruined by college pizza, bad coffee, and McDonalds. Exposing them to the extraordinary food of NYC was pure joy. They literally walked out of Balthazar after a hazelnut mocha and a butter scone with their mouths hanging open and their eyes wide, "Like, OMG!!" It was a joy to watch;) GO.

    (5)

  • Rahul J.

    Looks like a tourist trap - the kind of place I usually hate ("the first XYZ place" 20 years ago now crap because there are so many better options..case in point of such a crap place Magnolia) packed with tourists at all times but the coffee, breads and pastries are solid.

    (4)

  • Boogie N.

    Can't understand how everything here is always so amazing. Brunch, lunch, dinner -- even after-dinner dessert/wine with friends never disappoints. Brunch is a hidden gem, just make sure to get a booth :-)

    (5)

  • Carla C.

    Yes, ah-mazing! So glad I trekked to visit the 'mother ship' that is Balthazar Bakery. Drooled over the luscious baked goods displays...used immense willpower to buy only a loaf of rye-wheat. This is a rye bread that is unlike any other...I'm a super-fan! Such pleasant staff, happy customers...it's a feel-good visit!

    (5)

  • Shradha A.

    I had a really good mozzarella panini but all their desserts look really yummy too!!

    (4)

  • Valerie L.

    A few things to note: it's about the size of a walk-in closet, it's very "Soho," and the pastries are scrumptious. I work one block away, and over the past few months I've been able to sample several things, but I consistently order the almond croissant and their oatmeal. The croissant has the right amount of almond paste and is flaky and buttery and everything a croissant should be. The oatmeal, though ridiculously priced at $6.50, is really really filling and sprinkled with raisins and bananas, all the good things in life. The donuts aren't bad - on the small side, try the pistachio. There are some fancier, pricier desserts I haven't tried, but they all look tasty. A good place to grab coffee/dessert if you're shopping (or working) in the area, but there's nowhere to eat except outside on the benches.

    (4)

  • Katie W.

    Best iced coffee and chocolate croissants south of Houston!

    (5)

  • Sonia V.

    first time having their products at the actual bakery and not imported somewhere else. Good array of options extending past the usual things you see at each bakery. Got a red currant tart - AMAZING. not too fruity or sour, moussey smooth, perfect balance of flavors. Look forward to the next time I'm around there.

    (5)

  • sasha h.

    Desserts are yummy. This place is great when you are on the go and need to get in and get out quickly. My only issues with this place are that it is very tiny and they run out of a lot of salads / sandwiches later in the day.

    (4)

  • Nikki P.

    ** Review is from 1/27/12 Just now logging into Yelp to post it. The French... They know pastries and croissants. This little bakery does them right. The croissant was amazing. Never thought I'd enjoy a croissant as much as a fruit tart or any dessert for that matter. It was perfection! You must try the croissants here. Desserts were just the right amount of sweet. Fruit tarts are delish. This little bakery gets packed but the line moves quick. Staff was very knowledgeable about the bread and very friendly. Hope you love it as much as I do! Bon apetit!

    (5)

  • Alexander X.

    Oatmeal raisin cookie. Thats all that needs to be said here and they will take care of the rest. Simply amazing and worth the trip out.

    (5)

  • Fancypants X.

    It was that in-between time...after lunch, but before dinner...it had stopped drizzling, but the air & ground were nowhere near dry. Not having the patience or desire to wait for a table at Balthazar the restaurant, we opted to grab a bite to-go next door at Balthazar Bakery. The postage-stamp sized, but efficiently-packed space, was just as bustling as its big brother; Having a reputable name definitely draws in crowds! Coffee was so-so. I had saved my almond croissant for later in the afternoon & I remember thinking, 'I waited in line for this?!' I felt betrayed by its averageness, its mediocrity. Everything was in place...Almond paste. Check. Flakey croissant. Check. But it could've been from XYZ Anytown Bakery, not what I'd hoped for in a Balthazar product. My ham & gruyere sandwich was much more impressive to the tastebuds. Buttered, crusty/chewy bread was a winner. A thin sandwich, but filling-to-bread ratio was perfection. Even though the bakery was a bit of a snooze-fest, I'm still excited to try the restaurant (believe me, I'm itchin' to--after all the references made in 'Will & Grace' & other awesome manhattan-based shows & movies--I'm makin' my way over there, believe me!) Don't let the name in fancy lettering & big, bright lights lure you; there are better bakeries in the city.

    (3)

  • Joyce K.

    My friend and I were walking down the streets of SoHo and saw a Victoria's Secret Model lugging a baguette from Balthazar back home (i suppose). Well if a model is about to eat carbs those carbs must be damn good! We headed straight there for some coffee and pastries. The pastries, in true french form are very buttery and rich....and consequently pretty tasty. The people who work there are helpful in the decision making process if you give them a chance. The most impressive thing, however, are the lids of the coffee cups. You know how when you go to Starbucks they give you a plugger to "plug" the top of your coffee while you transport it to work? And it spills all over the place anyway? Well they have an INGENIOUS coffee cup lid here where you can just close the spout. Yup, you just close it. Simple and ingenious, you gotta see it to believe it.

    (5)

  • Lauren A.

    Try the hazelnut hot cocoa. It's like you're drinking Nutella!

    (5)

  • Theresa T.

    Another fabulous bakery in Soho. Nice Gourmet treats and coffee. My fav :)

    (4)

  • Food E.

    Came by late afternoon and the little shop wasn't too packed as I had feared. There is a wide selection if items to choose from so deciding was hard! I went with a tartine - baguette with butter and apricot preserves (different flavors available). The apricot preserves were the standout - great flavor. The bread was good - I've gotten the baguettes before at citerella (not sure if they still carry them from Balthazar there - as this was a while back). I also had a heart shaped flaky pastry thing which was ok. I'd try a different pastry/dessert next time. For anyone hoping for the 50% off after 7:30pm, you're SOL, it's been discontinued (they had a sign).

    (4)

  • Jennie W.

    Tiny bustling spot in Soho, always packed. Great pastries, nice staff. The stuffed croissants and vegetable focaccia are excellent. Expensive but nice for a treat!

    (3)

  • Amber K.

    This adorable TINY spot is bustling in SoHo. This review is strictly for the MOST amazing chai I've had in a while - but I could tell by the awesome menu that if I had ordered food I would have been in heaven. Asparagus mushroom croissant?! YES. Yes, please.

    (5)

  • joseph h.

    I have only had the almond croissants here, and they are the best I have had. The price was the most expensive of any place in NYC, though - $3.50, if memory serves. Most other places charge well below $3, a lot in the $2 range. So I only rarely stop here.

    (4)

  • Debra T.

    Yummy bakery! Love their Café Au Lait!

    (4)

  • Darwin G.

    I can even begin with how I want a bite of every single carb delight in this place. It is a very small bakery, but has an old French feel to it, including the "Tirez" posted on the door as you enter. The walls are loaded with baguettes, breads, pastries, croissants, cakes, quiches, focaccia, or basically everything delicious in the world. The first time I went, I grabbed a simple baguette and rocked my bread sword around the streets of SoHo like I was a real Parisian. It was later used as a pregame to dinner while waiting on the line for Kenka. A fantastic baguette by the way, though I would try to find out their baking schedule. If I learn anything from Paris, a baguette is only as good as how fresh it is. I returned next week for a croissant and an iced Americano. The croissant there is fabulous, though could possibly be a bit flakier. Other than that, the real thing and just buttery bliss. The best part of it all is hanging out with the hipsters out front on the benches while they blast their music from a boom box. Oh you hipsters. Croissants wouldn't be as good without you. And last, but not least, their currant scone. My god, one of the best pastries I've had in my life. It's hearty and substantial because of the oats, but not the sweet. The citrus and currants give such a vibrant flavor to the scone. Just get it if they have it.

    (5)

  • Alisa L.

    Some things are AMAZING, some things just eh. And for the price, I give it four stars. The passionfruit cake was delicious ($6.50), perhaps the best cake I've ever had. The cake was extremely moist (tons of butter I'm guessing), and the frosting was creamy but not thick, sweet but not saccharine. And the ladyfingers that lined outside of the cake were really, really good. The mango-passionfruit tart was equally amazing, with a creamy filling and a solid crust. Solid croissant also (perhaps not as good as Ceci-Cela's, but still very good). The much-raved about doughnut ($2), however, was not that great. I don't like cake doughnuts in general, but this doughnut was still far from Doughnut Plant-caliber, albeit better than the Dunkin Donuts doughnut (duh). The place, as expected, is pretty expensive. I have yet to try their bread but it's very raved about, so I guess I ought to soon. It's a cutesy shop right next to Balthazar Restaurant, and it's tiny so sometimes, the line will go out the door. There are benches outside to sit on and savor your food while people watching, which almost makes up for the lack of space inside.

    (4)

  • Monique R.

    I wanted a cookie. While roaming the streets of SoHo i walked up to this picturesque place and saw a platter of the biggest oatmeal cookies i have ever seen. I sampled one then bought it immediately. Before i left i noticed a plate of quiche and my friend had highly recommended it... so I asked for a slice of that too... Went home and had a party in my mouth. The crust of the quiche was buttery, the innards were a plenty. I was sad I didnt grab another slice of quiche (but at $5 a slice- one is enough). I proclaimed this quiche my babys daddy. Its crazy good... and i recently discovered everything is 50% off at 7pm. SCORE! btw, my oatmeal cookie? Foodgasmic. I stopped by today at lunch time for some bread... line was out the door! (they lose a point for being pricey - womp womp)

    (4)

  • Joey R.

    This location is very small but excellent. Probably my favourite iced coffee in the city. (Sorry Starbucks you still have my Iced Tea vote.) The foccacia bread is fantastic but beware the veggie has olives! Their pastries are good I would recommend getting something seasonal like a pumpkin cheesecake. My only complaint, besides the olives, is that there really isn't any order to who gets served next, although there is tons of staff working, so the crowd remains somewhat controlled.

    (4)

  • Andrea H.

    I checked out this bakery on a fine weekday evening to see what the hype is all about. Tried the almond croissant ($3.25), while it was not bad ... it wasn't mind blowing great either. It's just OK, there's nothing special with Balthazar's croissants. I guess I expect something much better, after reading all the positive reviews on Yelp about their croissants. I prefer my croissants to be a bit more flaky, although I have to admit the almond crusts on top of the croissants is good, not too sweet and crunchy.

    (3)

  • Ian A.

    Great food but so it should be at those prices. Mad insane prices

    (4)

  • Audrey W.

    I must rant about the croissants purchased at the bakery. They have many great fine baked goods sold here but the only thing great about their croissants is that they are perfect for bread pudding BECAUSE they are super dry. For $2.75 a piece, you would think it would be like an ideal croissant: buttery, flaky, and soft. Unfortunately the only thing ideal for the ten croissants I purchased for a brunch is that they will be used for a dessert. The chocolate bread, the brownies, and other items fare much better.

    (3)

  • Mary Q.

    Yum! Love this place. The front door is a portal to Paris minus the language barrier. Yes it's small and cramped but good things come in small packages. I've had the shortbread cookies and several of their fruit tarts. The shortbread cookies were perfect, not too dry or sweet and full of buttery goodness. The passion fruit tart is probably my favorite tart there, perfect balance of sweet and tart topped with a small cape gooseberry. The filling portion is a bit more runny than I expected but the flavor was absolutely wonderful. Everything was packed nicely into small bags and boxes since there is no seating inside and you have to take it out to eat.

    (4)

  • Fat T.

    Must try the Cannelle and Almond Croissant. The Cannelle is heavenly, got 20 my last trip there to bring home.

    (5)

  • E A.

    wonderful scones. i just wish there were another quieter, less crowded location. their scones are also sold in markets around the city. so instead of waiting in line at the soho location and ordering everything to go, you might want to find their scones in a quieter spot with seating.

    (4)

  • Olivia N.

    Popped into the Balthazar Bakery after a disappointing experience at a nearby cafe (waited 30 min without food before figuring out that the waitress had forgotten to put our order in, walked out in a huff...) Their focaccia pizzas were just the right pick-me-up, and their charming decor and friendly staff calmed our nerves and put us in a great mood. Will definitely be back to try their other treats.

    (5)

  • Natasha M.

    True caneles! Finally!

    (5)

  • Jessica N.

    I have been to NYC countless times since I was a kid, but I discovered this little gem only in the past year, when one of my co-workers (from NYC) who loves sweets as much as I, told me that I just had to stop by. It's a little narrow shop that you could easily pass by if not paying attention, but your nose would help guide the way. The pastries are to die for. My coworker loves the sticky buns, but I really loved their other pastries more. Croissants were light, flaky, buttery, just a touch of crunch without being firm or crunchy. Loved their fruit tarts. When I was there, I bought as much as was reasonably not-too-unhealthy to consume within the short life-span of pastries. And, when I was done, I only wanted more...

    (5)

  • Sara G.

    Really amazing. Great food. Great pastries at the bakery next door--the pan au chocolat is to die for as are the foccacias, quiches and goat cheese tarts for a quick lunch. Go!

    (5)

  • Vi V.

    I have become a bread lady. The latest object of my obsession is BREAD. Good bread. While I'm holding out writing reviews on other bread stores as I want to try out most, if not all, of their bread offerings before giving recommendations, I am ready to talk about Balthazar. And that is not really a positive thing. Well, my review is only for the Chocolate bread and baguette, cos thats all I got from them. I've been doing a whole lotta research about breads, where and what, and I've heard enough about the chocolate bread from Balthazar. And I got it. while it actually is quite good, it just isn't "bread" bread to me. It's like "cake" bread. Its too sweet and rich to be a bread, but not sweet and rich enough to be a cake. But then again, this is just a matter of taste. I like my bread to be firm and relatively tasteless. The baguette is only ok at best - its prettier than it tastes. And what I didn't like is how cramped the bakery is! There's hardly any space to move. You should know what you want, get in line, order, pay, take your food and get out of there! thankfully there are some benches outside if you want to drink the coffee and eat the croissant you just bought.

    (3)

  • Tamara D.

    Mmmm. Best bakery in town. Love their raisin pecan bread and all of their tarts! If you get there an hour before closing everything is half off.

    (5)

  • Philip L.

    Pricey but good * plum frangipane pasty was outstanding. Tart and bold plum flavor with perfectly done buttery pastry * strawberry cheesecake is well done with a unique strawberry filling but not a wow piece, probably would not get in a 2nd time * Lemon souffle tart had a very good tart lemon flavor, wife enjoyed it altho probably would not get it a 2nd time three pastries came out to $18...no complaint as everything was very well done, just not sustainable as an everyday place for a local

    (4)

  • Evan H.

    In order to quickly escape the outside world and grab a quick pastry, we ducked into Balthazar, and definitely will come back to the cafe soon. I got a chocolate chip and walnut cookie. This was an incredible cookie. Crisp and crunchy around the outside and soft, moist and packed full of chocolate and walnuts. The perfect mix between them. All crunchy cookies, not a fan. Also tasted the pumpkin cheesecake. It decedent and delicious. Also the best chai (so my wife says). Definitely some great pastries and coffee drinks. Need to try their restaurant.

    (4)

  • Lia L.

    Best breakfast, best food downtown. The food is great, the clientele amazing, can't wait to get there on the weekend. Glad I could copycats all over the country.

    (5)

  • Asuka N.

    I came here yesterday to grab a cookie and see how Balthazar stacked up against some of the other places I've been to. I was sorely disappointed...maybe it was because I came later on in the day (around 6 PM on a Sunday), but the chocolate chip walnut cookie was almost as bad as eating a very crunchy brick. It was extremely dry, and even though the chocolate was decent, the dough (which seemed to have an oatmeal composition) was way too crumbly, and the taste of the walnuts was virtually nonexistent. It was marginally better when I microwaved it myself, but it hardened up very fast, and it was back to crunch brick-eating time again. I also had a shortbread cookie, which was a bit mediocre (considering that the sugar that was sprinkled on barely added any sweetness at all). The price was okay, but I was expecting better. I've heard good things about the restaurant, so I'll probably be back to sample the full menu at some point...but the bakery was a sore disappointment.

    (2)

  • Andrea C.

    My favorite chocolate chip cookie and coffee, ever. It just doesnt get better than this. Also, I love ordering from here. The girl and somtimes guy that answers the phone are LEGIT. Never have to repeat myself and they take the card number fast. Most people are annoying to call but they rock. Balthazar changed my life

    (5)

  • Bill S.

    Balthazar bakery rocks! Its very very small inside and they have all their baked goods all in front for your choosing. This morning I had a large latte with their signature croissant. Not too buttery and oh so flaky. (I also chased it with their itty bitty Banana donut) If you want to impress out of towners, Baltazar is where you go for your bread, cakes and donuts. mmm..

    (5)

  • Chris L.

    Yum! This place is small, but packs a lot of punch. Busy, efficient and quick! Had the raspberry financier and a fresh-squeezed lemonade. We sat on a bench outside facing the Moma store and enjoyed our sweets.

    (5)

  • Kiera D.

    Really good pastries! Can get a tad crowded and sometimes touristy, but it's worth it. Great if you can't get into the actual restaurant.

    (5)

  • Barbie L.

    I'm a regular. Get the shortbread cookie. It will kill you. Wash it down with a mint leaf topped Arnold Palmer (it's off menu but they will always make it). Also good: sticky bun (pecan topped), cinnamon-sugar donut, butter OR whole wheat croissants. Sure it's all expensive, but whatcha gonna do? It's fake France in New York; fork it over. BOTTOMLINE: Stick with the sweets, the savory offerings are a mixed bag.

    (4)

  • Tom G.

    Stopped in to grab a quick bite after wandering around the neighborhood. The Niçoise salad was pedestrian but the croissants were excellent. They were big, flaky, and exquisitely layered. Top-notch, even though I was buying them late in the day. Ideal place to pick up a quick croissant and coffee.

    (5)

  • Dave H.

    Balthazar's patisserie has its own entrance, separate from the restaurant. At a friend's urging, I got a cinnamon iced cappuccino ($3.50 - totally worth it), which was expertly prepared: especially soothing, it was warm on top, and tasty. It was so outstanding I was thinking about it hours later! Maybe it was the caffeine? I've yet to visit the actual restaurant, but if the bakery's top-notch service and coffee are any indicaton, I'm in for a treat.

    (5)

  • Syl F.

    Yum, yum yum.. Rich, decadent, buttery everythings! I'm so thankful that Manhattan is a walking city bc that makes up for the 1000 gazillion calories of goodness I can consume all over the city. This has always been one of my favorite stops when living in the city. Especially in the winter, I love their their ginger tea and almond croissants. Everything else is to be expected at Balthazar's - delicious.

    (5)

  • Jae C.

    It is a small and well run operation that clearly takes advantage of its reputation with its pricing. Located right next to its restaurant, this shop rotates a healthy selection of loaves and pastries which are all freshly made and turned over quickly. Selections will vary based on what people ahead of you purchase. They have Stumptown beans and even a variety in their name but don't order coffee here since they don't do the beans justice. They are a bakery that happens to have good beans on hand, not a cafe.

    (4)

  • Viviana A.

    Best banana walnut and chocolate donuts ever!!! The croissant is my 3rd favorite in the city. Beware though, because they run out by the end of the day.

    (5)

  • Mia H.

    Amazing - from the tasty bread and sandwiches (I recommend the vegetarian one with goat cheese and an array of grilled vegetables on focaccia, or any sandwich, really) to the sweet items like the awesome Mixed Berry Tart or the sugar donut, beautiful and delicious... Love it!

    (5)

  • Mandy B.

    Yes, it's expensive, but they make fantastic pastries. My absolute favorite is the choco croissants and sticky buns... yum. I would avoid peak hours since the cramped space can be a huge pain. Try it at least once!

    (4)

  • Bonnie T.

    I thought I made a review for this place but I guess not. This review is based on my experiences from a few months ago when I had to come here and purchase a some focaccia for my research paper. This bakery is super tiny but always crowded which may have been a good sign at first but it was so crowded, I could barely even move. Especially when I'm short and "smelling armpits" lol not exactly but anyways... When I finally made my way through to the counter, the staff who helped me were extremely helpful and told me they didn't have plain focaccia but did have goat cheese w/ some tomatoes and herbs. It look and sounded delicious so I bought one. Again, I made my way through to the cashier, still pleased with my order, the cashier decides to give me this nasty attitude like "ew, what are you doing in here" sort of look. Yes, I know I'm tiny and look super young but really now? You should be fired lady. My order came out to be... roughly around $5-6? I forgot how much it was but I'm pretty sure I handed her a $10 bill. She proceeds to mark it, looks at it, then holds it high up in the air, marks it again, and keeps on checking the bill to see if it was fake. COME ON. REALLY NOW? TERRIBLE. *NOTE* The man before me handed her a $20 bill and she just threw it in her till. What sense does that make? Im done raging :)

    (3)

  • Helga T.

    As a retail slave in SoHo, I love that their cup of coffee is reasonably priced. I once splurged and got a sticky bun and it was great. I like everyone who works here and their uniforms.

    (4)

  • Helene K.

    NOTE: This review is only for the bakery, as I have not had a chance to visit the restaurant yet. The bakery is a cramped little Parisian corner on the block, with swarms of loyals (and tourists alike) waiting in line for the delectable pastries on display. The service is efficient, with orders being fulfilled within 1-2 minutes of arriving at the bakery. I went twice yesterday, once in the early morning to get a large order of donuts and croissants, and then again in the afternoon to get loaves of bread. Both times were just as busy, so I would have to say there's no "right" time to go; just go when you feel like it and you'll still get what you need! I tried these from the bakery: Plain donut - light and crispy with a hint of sugar; a good petite size. Chocolate donut - very fresh with just the right amount of frosting on the top layer. Appparently these are the best chocolate donuts around, according to my family here in New York. Almond croissant - heavenly! There's as bit of almond sugar filling inside the croissant, which is a delicious surprise to an already well-made croissant. Plain croissant - not bad; just the right amount of butter, but I've heard that it never hurts to top it off with a little more butter... Boule bread - fresh and goes well with any toppings for a crisp sandwich. In terms of price, the items are on a "steeper" side, but then again, where else can you find fine French pastries (it's a matter of opinion, I suppose)? Although I haven't been to France yet, my family has said that Balthazar's pastries are as close to Paris as one can get. That's a pretty confident note to add.

    (4)

  • Faris H.

    When attempts at gobbling up Torrisi's divine turkey sandwich go pear shaped, head over to Balthazar to cheer up. Not necessarily the restaurant, as the crowds are just as crazy, but the bakery. The madelines here are endearingly unique. Concave and recessed, they don't bulge in the scalloped fashion one is accustomed to. Offered in pistachio or chocolate, the latter is a concave petit four with a delicate chocolate profile that is not too brash, all the while retaining the splendid buttery quality of a madeline. With a freshly pulled espresso that's marked with foam, your unresolved frustrations with Torrisi will melt away, like the freshly-made madeline in your mouth.

    (4)

  • Stephane B.

    Every time I go to New York with the family or friends we always pass by Baltazar, it is really a ritual. They have amazing food and service and the personnel are very incredibly nice.

    (5)

  • Ina L.

    Sad, I know, but I haven't tried a single pastry from the oh-so-highly praised Balthazar until a few weeks ago with my bff who recently moved out to the city from Chicago. We shared an almond biscuit and a slice of red velvet cake and it was heavenly. Oh me, oh my! It's very hard, imo, to perfect any type of cake because a lot of bakeries tend to overdo on the sugar and icing, but Balthazar has mastered theirs. I will never be able to revert back to Martha's, Melissa's, Crumbs', or Sprinkles' red velvet anything. I went back a few days afterwards and treated myself to a cannelle and iced coffee. Who says I couldn't get a head start on my winter weight gain?

    (5)

  • Mimi D.

    Hum, I think I tried almost everything here. Thank God for a real french bakery, always fresh and baked to perfection. Can't wait for the holidays menu! A MUST if you're in the city, you will not be disappointed

    (5)

  • Amanda C.

    Their hot chocolate might just be the best I've ever had. I ordered it with soy milk and despite its lack of fat from any type of cream, it was still thick, rich, warm and DELICIOUS. There must have been loads of incredible chocolate in there. I was extremely pleased. I almost went back to order another one a few hours later..fortunately my self control won that time (or unfortunately??) I also tried the orange brioche, which I thought was just okay. It wasn't light and fluffy like I would have liked and I was overall not impressed. Next time, I will just stick with my soy hot chocolate and die happy.

    (4)

  • Jason P.

    The flourless chocolate almond cake, the almond croissant, and the cannele are great too! Is there anything they can't do?!

    (4)

  • Anna K.

    acclaimed bakery in quaint, cobblestoned SoHo restaurant on left, to-go bakery on right. breakfast: almond croissant with a cup of hot stumptown coffee. buttery, flaky yet denser croissant with generous portion of almond paste with more toasted almond slivers inside and out the pastry. planned to wander the streets and do some eye shopping with breakfast in hand. but plans got deterred when the last bite and sip prompted a frantic maze back to the bakery just to purchase a pound of coffee to take back west.

    (5)

  • Pinky And The B.

    I chose this for my 700th review. Believe it or not I have never been here. I don't know why. But I am here now. It is hard to rate a place you have only been to once. This is my birthday month and yes we celebrate all month long. I will be 48 this month. Unlike many women who hide their age I don't, it is what it is! Plus I had an aggressive form of breast cancer from 2008-2010 and really should not be alive. I am alive so I am celebrating life! So this was the first place I chose for my birthday month. I read on one of the reviews that they have some of the best fruit tarts and that is why I chose it. I also read that they have good short bread cookies. So I called first to see what time they close. They said 8 PM. We got there around 5 PM. They were completely sold out of fruit tarts and everything else I wanted! The space was really cramped. I had a brunch scheduled for Sunday but canceled once I peeked in to the restaurant side to see miniature sized tables. So back to the bakery ,they were sold out of everything I wanted and it was only around 5 PM. The only thing they had that was tempting to me was chocolate covered strawberry's. It was really good. I am pretty picky about fruit and it was high quality and red and juicy inside. I hope the next time I go the selection will be better and that they will make enough pastries. So we went to eat dinner and I had a chocolate cake and ice cream for dessert to make up for my disappointment at Balthazar!

    (3)

  • Jenny H.

    I got 2 croissants and 2 pain de raisins and a apricot brioche bread, everything just tasted OK, I've definitely had better baked goods elsewhere. The croissants weren't as buttery and flaky as I would have liked them to be and the pain de raisins seemed dry.

    (3)

  • Y V.

    The mini pistachio doughnuts cost 2 dollars. I can not afford to shop here but the stuff is good and the staff is always alert and friendly! The shop is a super tight squeeze, one time my order was missed because the person behind me jumped in front of me (they didnt see me *wink*) before my order was processed. The staff noticed my order was missed and my order was comped that day. Good peeps and good foods.

    (4)

  • Kwame J.

    Very small inside, but its filled with many delights. I've had almost everything in the bakery at least once. I can remember back in 2001-2003 i tried my very first panini here. I was like what the heck is a panini.. This place is well worth the indulgence!!!!!!!!

    (5)

  • Munezza D.

    HAZELNUT HOT CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!!! a mustttt! the most amazzzingly deliciousness you will ever experience. The bakery is fantastic. The restaurant was way too chaotic. The wait was ridiculous. good luck even getting in through the door. But definitely check out the bakery. HAZELNUT HOT CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!!!

    (4)

  • Freya C.

    $3.75 for a (divine) croissant aux amandes... and $3.50 for a (beautifully smooth and practically flawless) latte/cappuccino... makes for a slightly expensive quotidian breakfast but it is one darn tasty treat when I let my inner marzipan meter steer myself down the "Spring-Street-route-to-work". It's still a tough toss-up between spending that $3.75 here or on a Ceci-Cela chocolate-almond croissant... so often it depends which traffic light lets me cross first (north on Mulberry or west on Kenmare).... Delicious way to start the day...

    (4)

  • Wendy C.

    One of my fav. pastry bakery in the city! While I used to work upstairs from Balthazar, I'd always look forward to my afternoon treat of a cup of "Hazelnut" Hot Chocolate, with an almond Croissant!

    (5)

  • Ken H.

    They have great donut but its not the type that i would go all the way over for it ( at least not again). There are lots great foods/desserts/pastry in NYC but I just don't think this is really ALL that.

    (3)

  • Julie B.

    I'm sure it is totally unnecessary to point out how wonderful this bakery is, but it really is revelatory. Beautiful scones, perfect light and buttery little tarts, terrific sourdough boule - everything was a masterpiece. Yum. Wonderful sweet stop on an afternoon stroll.

    (5)

  • Sharon T.

    Great atmosphere! Cool, young with a vibe of Soho. I ate with a friend on a Wednesday evening at the bar. It was jam packed and we had to wait a while at 6.30pm to get a seat at the bar. The woman behind the bar was very friendly and attentive which I think is so important in any restaurant. The steak was delectable and the molten chocolate cake very delicious. It is a great place in Soho and I highly recommend it for a romantic couple, friends or even when you are alone.

    (5)

  • Taylor T.

    Amazing French bistro that made me feel like I stepped into a little Parisian cafe. The wait for two on a Sunday morning was quoted at an hour plus, but my friend and I snagged two bar seats within 10 minutes and enjoyed our meal there. Shrimp cocktail and goat cheese tarts were standouts. French toast was above-average, but quite heavy. The service is impeccable and they don't make you feel rushed at all. Try some of the specialty brunch cocktails and the French onion soup. Then, walk off your brunch by window shopping in soho. Pretty much a perfect day in the city if you ask me!

    (4)

  • Stephanie B.

    I'd give 4.5 stars if I could. I had an hour to kill before going in to sign papers at work around the corner, so I popped into this tiny upscale bakery for a to-go bite. When I heard their soundtrack (Mozart horn concerto 2) I knew I was in for a treat. Asked for a pesto on focaccia but they were out (first bummer), but the guy working was so sweet about it and very helpful, I couldn't be upset. He suggested the tomato & brie on focaccia, but they only had a half sandwich available (second bummer). Again, the guy was too nice for me to be upset. I got the half sandwich and wanted nothing more, but they had no way of inputting JUST a half sandwich into their cash register. Apparently i HAD to get a cup of soup with it, which i didn't want (third bummer). All the little inconveniences aside, the sandwich was fantastic, there are benches lined outside, and the service was friendly (which I'm a stickler for). I will definitely be back again. This lunch put me in a great mood for the rest of the afternoon.

    (4)

  • Amy L.

    Delicious! We got: -lemon and the chocolate madeleines -flourless chocolate almond cake -almond croissant -baguette Because it was between 7:30 pm and 8 pm when they close, everything was half off! So all of this was $9.40 (including a dollar tip). Great quality and flavor... the only caveat is that it's kind of expensive... the "half off" price is probably close to other places' regular prices, so full price would make this a rare indulgence. Would definitely come back!

    (4)

  • Betty B.

    always loved it. always will. going on 20 years of love here :)

    (5)

  • Mark L.

    I was here with my cousin and his fiance at the time and we tried to get a table but the wait was just so nuts. So they decided to do some shopping around SoHo and I went to the bakery. I have to say the inside of this place is really nice. Really cool looking bar. Anyway I went to their bakery next door and got some of their pastries. Man were they amazing. I am definitely wanting to come back here next time I'm in SoHo and I actually want to try the restaurant. I also had a some yummy what appeared to be donut holes from here.

    (5)

  • Sandra S.

    Very french, very decadent!! and very pricey lol Had banana nut donuts and pistachio donuts as well ( $2.50) and some ice tea...good, yummy and fattening lol Crowd is very snobby but i guess thats expected...the staff is pretty friendly... will be coming back for my sweet fix :)

    (4)

  • Riley M.

    The Desserts#1 This bakery is very delicious with it's many types of desserts. I tried the chocolate cake and the fruit tart and I should had bought more than just one each. The chocolate cake wasn't so sweet like a block of sugar and I like that. It was a bit crunchy on and moist inside with some powder sugar on top of it. It's a simple cake but very good and as for the fruit tart its even better. The fruits consists of blue berries, strawberries and kiwis probably dip in sweet sauce for it to taste sweet but it's just perfect. The egg cream was thick and creamy. The Price #2 The price for both the chocolate cake and fruit tart was about $5. It was very good but for such a small quantity no bigger than my fist it's expensive. The Bakery #3 The bakery is right next to Balthazar's restaurant but it is extremely tiny as in the ordering area. It's probably 6 by 5 feet in there and it takes no more then 5 average people to covered the entire area. It's even more awful on rainy days when you have to wait outside

    (4)

  • Heather M.

    Today: counter help moving slow as molasses, oatmeal only warm instead of hot, and surprise: maple syrup when I asked for none. There must have been ten times this year I wanted to comment on the slowing service at the bakery in the morning. But each of these times the place has been packed so I felt maybe I could justify waiting 8 minutes for a cup of coffee. But today, I was pleasantly surprised to discover only 4 people online so I eagerly went in. Something has happened this year to the service there. The counter help is not eager and bustling. They're easily distracted by each other's jokes, the phone, and noises outside. They don't hop to the next customer after fulfilling an order. They linger and do some busy work and then consider the next customer. I'm utterly disappointed. There's a good reason my coffee budget has stayed low this year. At least I'm saving money I guess.

    (2)

  • Randy S.

    Hands down my favorite fruit tart in NYC, chock full of fruit and berries and a luscious vanilla custard, not drenched in super sweet glaze. They also make a great chocolate chip cookie, definitely my top 5 in NYC. Their croissants are also good.

    (5)

  • Anvy N.

    Best banana walnut cake donut I've ever had .. I'm not even a fan of banana nor cake donuts .. they normally crumble and fall apart when I bite into them .. this donut was moist and soft and didn't fall apart at all! it was small for $2.50, wish I bought a second one!

    (4)

  • Amber K.

    Seriously the best donuts in New York. Get the banana walnut or the pistachio.

    (5)

  • Jeff L.

    Speaking specifically about the doughnuts here, I had some pistachio doughnuts a while back which I had to ask for, because I'd read they had doughnuts and did not see them immediately. They were really fantastic doughnuts -- fresh and soft and despite the unique flavoring really very simple -- but at $2.50 its hard to stomach the price. I realize we're talkin' SoHo here, but really, that's way too expensive given that the doughnuts were pretty small even for cake doughnuts. It looks really great and "french" in there too, which is a good thing if you're there to look around. I had mine outside on a bench and watched the actual French people walking around instead.

    (4)

  • Ned J.

    Amazing croissants. Great donuts. Good Iced Lattes. Expensive, but for an occasional splurge, totally worth it.

    (4)

  • Valery C.

    Its been a long time since I've visited Balthazar Bakery (or the restaurant), but with fond memories on hand, it was an easy addition to our eating itinerary. Besides, what can beat fresh-baked French pastries first thing in the morning? The bakery is located adjacent to the restaurant, both easily spotted by the eye-catching red awnings. Decor is as classic French bistro/cafe as you can get. Not much space in the bakery as its strictly a take-out affair. Chalkboard menus, with breads and pastries tightly lined everywhere. I picked a cinnamon roll and my friend tried a plain croissant and coffee. Fitting with the theme, they have several benches out front both for those waiting on the restaurant and bakery patrons like ourselves. We settled in and munched on breakfast. Lovely cinnamon roll, freshly baked, a bit flaky, nicely laced with restrained sweetness. The croissant also got a thumbs up from my friend. Quite yummy, I really should pick up a snack more often.

    (4)

  • Yosub K.

    If you go an hour before closing, everything is half off. You're welcome.

    (5)

  • Michael B.

    There is always a wait. If you are ok with that then this place is a must try for SoHo. The line for Sunday brunch is actually offensive. Now on to the good. The food and pastries here are amazing. Brunch is delish. This is a great place to come if you are on the no carbs left behind diet. I am always on that diet... I had the eggs in the puff pastry and my friend had an omelet. Both were great. Food is really 4 stars here. The wait and overpriced bread will cost a point though.

    (3)

  • Jaimee A.

    The bread is amazing! The little sandwiches are delicious if you want a quick bite. The coffee is pretty good too. Be sure not to go there too late because after a while they stop replenishing the baked goods and there will literally be nothing left.

    (4)

  • Ginny L.

    Hmmm.....ok...Am i the only one who thought it was ok?! It was a nice afternoon, and my gf who was visiting from upstate came to NYC, and since we were shopping in SOHO, I thought i should take her to Balthazar for a quick dessert and catch up...We got the cheese cake, Mango passion tart and Tart du Jour.. The way the desserts were presented was lovely....you would assume it would taste the same, but seriously it was mediocre...the cheese cake was a bit soggy..and the fruit tarts were ok.... For the price and the reviews..i thought i was ready to be floored..=/

    (3)

  • Emily C.

    Go to the restaurant. The sandwiches here are hard.

    (3)

  • Ji P.

    Standard French pastries and bread. Nothing inventive or exciting but still delicious.

    (3)

  • N T.

    Balthazar has the best croissants and fruit tarts, line can be long but it moves fast. Their pastries are perfectly sweeten, best bakery in Soho.

    (4)

  • Echo W.

    I bought a loaf of bread and mille feuille from Balthazar. It was around 6:30pm so the selections were limited. But mille feuille was light and delightful. It was a little expensive though - $6.50 per piece. The bread (levain boule) was very good - very crispy on the outside and nice texture (soft and chewy) on the inside.

    (5)

  • Audrey K.

    Can't let myself give a full 5 stars because, regretfully, I didn't eat at the restaurant - I was only able to raid the bakery.. Regardless!! What a treasure! My mom and I needed a sugar break while shopping and popped over to Balthazar for a treat, and WOW! We shared the most amazing blackberry pear tart I've ever tasted, in addition to their cranberry and walnut, and chocolate bread loaves... I was so impressed. In a squishy little closet of a bakery, the people answered the 45 questions my plumpy little mother had and laid out samples. I will definitely make my way to the restaurant half and will, 99%, update this review with a full 5 stars.

    (4)

  • Mei M.

    If you come here at 7:30 pm, the pastries, bread, sandwiches and salads are all half off. Be prepared for a line! People go crazy for this deal. If you're lucky, go for the almond crossiant, its flaky light and filled with marizapan in the middle. I am salivating as I am thinking about this. Another standout item that I love is the sticky buns. They actually slice it for you so you don't gorge yourself on this magical item, there is a sweet buttery caramel glaze with walnuts covering the bread that is laced with cinnamon, walnuts and raisins. The opera cake (6.50) was a little pricey and tasted like your standard tiramisu. Must get the croissants and sticky buns..drool

    (4)

  • ANASTASSIA B.

    I Love everything that ever came out of their Bakery. It is truly amazing, mouth-watering, buttery goodness! Can't.... Get... .... Enough.......

    (4)

  • Amanda C.

    I've only tried the bakery (not sure why they're the same Yelp listing), but what I tried was pretty damn amazing. It's hard to say much more other than... go there. Now. I usually compare bakeries by their baguettes and Balthazar has one of the best in the city. Their pastries looked even better! And unlike the crowded restaurant, you can pop in and out of the bakery quickly.

    (4)

  • Zoe P.

    My review is for the Balthazar Bakery only, which is located in a very small space right next to the restaurant. Usually there is a looooooong line the leads all the way outside of the bakery entrance, but if you go early enough in the morning (which is definitely the best time to score freshly baked goods) there is basically no line at all. I have to say, I'm a huge fan of their breads, and since I'm not a huge carbs person that says alot. They offer several different kinds of breads: baguette, multigrain, ciabatta (plain and rosemary), levain, walnut, pain de seigle, brioche, olive, chocolate and cranberry raisin. When I asked one of the very friendly and helpful servers which of their breads he recommended, he said that their signature pane de seigle (like a sourdough) was their most popular, but their multigrain is by far the greatest - crisp exterior with a soft interior filled with whole grains and with a rich, nutty taste. Mmmm...even better when WARM...

    (4)

  • R T.

    My family and I have been coming to this bakery for years. I have yet to go to the restaurant but it is definitely in my plans to do so. It is pricey, but completely worth it. Everything I have ever had at this bakery is delicious. Keep in mind this Bakery is take out only, no seating. During the holiday season they make a Pumpkin Cheese cake that is one of the most delicious things I have ever had. All of their other cheesecakes are great too. Their coffee is amazing! The lattes....ooooooh sooo good! YOU MUST HAVE THEIR LEMONADE. It is the best lemonade I have ever had, hands down. No one can top it in my opinion. Whenever I get their lemonade I have it with their shortbread cookies, who would think in a bakery with so many mouth watering options, a simple looking little cookie could be so good? The chocolate bread is just sinful. It is not sweet and you should definitely have a beverage with it, perhaps a latte? :) Very, very yummy. I could go on and on. The lines speak for themselves, you have to try it for yourself.

    (5)

  • Alex H.

    I'm sorry, how have I never reviewed this? NoLita coffee standby. I used to get off a subway stop early and walk down to work around City Hall just so I could have my requisite iced latte and banana doughnut (the doughnuts...oh the doughnuts). Every salad/sandwich I've had has been lovely as well, we all know how good the bread is, and though I always seem to be here on days when I'm not feeling particularly indulgent (except for the doughnuts), the pastries look fantastic.

    (4)

  • Ashley K.

    It was raining the day I stepped into the bakery. I was a tad overwhelmed as I looked into the copious amounts of bread and baked confections. It took me a while to decide what else I wanted to eat because I ate mexican corn only 30 mins previous to my visit here. I decided to get the French Onion Soup togo and a Canele. Both were great. The soup was not salty which is always a good thing. It had lots of melted Gruyère ( melted cheese is always messy but so worth it). And then the canele was the perfect sweet dessert to end my lunch. For those who have never tried it, go and get one immediately. They are little brown cake that is slightly chewy and sweet and spongy. Im not describing it well, but do yourself a favor and eat it. :)

    (4)

  • Michael O.

    a very cosy small bakery. good take-away coffee. worth to visit!

    (4)

  • Catherine S.

    Small room, lots of choices, quick & delicious! Delicious Cappuccino & coffee too. Can't wait to go back!

    (5)

  • Shawn Y.

    It was the cutest little French restaurant. Expensive, but well worth the money.

    (5)

  • Carrie T.

    Definitely some of the best pastries I've had. Its not cheap but not too expensive either. Definitely worth the price though. Can't wait to go back!

    (5)

  • Emma C.

    One of my favorite places in Soho - definitely a classic. Please, please go to the bakery next door and try their pastries, especially the chocolate bread. It's simply superb! I have been to this establishment a few times and each time I went, it's been a consistently fabulous experience. Once, I wanted to eat the chocolate bread in the restaurant, and the waiter went out of his way to get the chocolate bread from the bakery next door (they don't serve pastries in the restaurant) just so I could eat it with my meal! The bar steak with fries is pretty good and the fois gras mousse was a great appetizer! However, I must say I love the desserts the best. Absolutely try the Profiteroles and Carmelized Banana Ricotta Tart - who can say no to banana ice cream? Balthazar is a great place to get a drink also - they serve you lots of scrumptious snacks while you sip on your drink at the bar. Service is not the best, so that takes this place down one star... but worth checking out, especially if you are from out of town!

    (4)

  • Anais B.

    4 stars for the delicate and sophisticated dressing on my salad! Very hard to find a good truffle oil and fresh salad tasting so good. Definetely a great choice for a healty lunch!

    (4)

  • Michael P.

    Review is only for the Bakery: In need of a quick bite to curb my hunger pains, I stepped in here at 6pm to grab a Sticky Bun to-go. I paid $3.75 expecting a warm, sweet gooey sticky bun, but all I got was a cold...dry...sticky... lump of sadness. It was more like a stale muffin actually. I probably ordered one of the last sticky buns left sitting out since the morning. Aside from that however, the flavors in the sticky bun were pretty delightful. Not overwhelmingly sweet with a pizazz of nuts. Be sure to go earlier in the day to order such baked goods because for the price that you're paying, you darn well should have it served in it's best shape/form possible! =)

    (2)

  • John R.

    Seems there should be a separate listing for the Bakery next door to Balthazar's restaurant, no? Anyway, I recently discovered this list of best donuts in NYC: newyork.seriouseats.com/… As a donut glutton, I've embarked on a mission to try to each and every one. This morning was my first and it started w/ a banana pecan donut at Balthazar. It did not disappoint. Highly recommended. Aside from the donut, every other visit to this place has been top notch, well deserving of 5 stars.

    (5)

  • Jon B.

    In a word, "Excellent". Had the strawberry cheese cake.. Fantastic! Great little place to grab a pastry and coffee and sit out front.. Looks like a small pastry shop would have 100 years ago.

    (5)

  • Izac H.

    I was wandering past on Sunday morning and not entirely content with the pink vanilla cupcake that I had scoffed for breakfast, I decided to sample something from the bakery. The range of sweet pastries and tarts was so very tempting, fighting the sugar siren I realised that a cupcake and tart was probably not what they had in mind when they coined the phrase "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" and opted for a savoury focaccia. Rustic and strewn with crisp brown onion, roasted red and yellow tomatoes, and soft crumbly goats cheese, it really was a dream, texturally perfect and pleasing to the eye. At $4.50, buy one and smile.

    (4)

  • Lauren W.

    This review is just for the bakery--I haven't eaten in the restaurant (yet). I did bookmark because I've wanted to try it ever since I stumbled upon the Topshop party there a few months back. Admittedly, after seeing Julie and Julia this past weekend, I was dying for some french croissant goodness. So, I was a few blocks away with a friend last night and decided to forgo dinner in favor of some buttery flaky goodness. I went in to the tiny quaint bakery and found that apres (that's after in french, lol) 7 pm, everything is discounted. So, I got my heavenly pain au chocolate for just over $1. And it was phenomenal. I'm a devoted fan now

    (5)

  • Ellen C.

    hands down one of my favorite bakeries in the city. you can never go wrong with their pastries, salads and sandwiches. the coffee and hazelnut hot chocolate are AMAZE!

    (5)

  • Jenny S.

    Not my favorite pastry place, but they may have a redeeming quality I havnt eaten yet haha. The pastries are decently filling and they hold back on the sugar which is gd sometimes. I thought my sandwich was just fine. This is a really tight space where only a handful of people can squeeze in and get an order to go. I will update after a few more tries.

    (3)

  • Christie K.

    After an arduous day of shopping, I decided to stop by Balthazar Bakery for a few dessert treats. The bakery is very small, so be prepared to be pressed up against some handsome European customers (meowww). Mmmmmm~ I bought: lemon & chocolate madeleines, walnut/raisin minced pie, and a banana walnut donut. Everything was reasonably delicious, but the banana walnut donut made my taste buds squeal in girlish delight!!! If you stop by half an hour (7:30) before closing, everything is 1/2 off!!!

    (4)

  • Grace C.

    I am a daily customer of the Bakery section. Every morning - I can't live without their coffee with soy. Their bread quality is above average. It is not cheap but you pay for what you get.

    (4)

  • H. W.

    Overpriced, always out of stock. Breads are too hard. Sandwiches are nothing special and very sparse. Croissants are bready. Chocolate bread is just a weird concoction. Nothing else is worth trying.

    (1)

  • Morgan E.

    I ordered a Panini, I believe a simple ham and cheese (this was a couple weeks ago), and they pretty much forgot about me. I understand that it was busy and hectic, and maybe i'm not super memorable due to an unfortunate invisible ink accident but I still took offense to it and wasted a good chunk of time (six or so minutes) politely assuming they had remembered me. Then I was like, oh no wait, this is New York, of course they didn't, and spoke up. At that point the lady behind the counter looked very distressed and genuinely upset that she had forgotten my order and apologized profusely. Unfortunately she then proceeded to rush through the sandwich creation-process and didn't give it enough time to toast fully. This appears to be one of the only bad reviews so I will chalk it up to a bad day and attempt "operation sandwich ordering" once again.

    (3)

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Aceluck Thai Cuisine

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