Épices Bakery

In a city as fast-paced as New York, there is a special kind of magic found in a "gem of a bakery" that makes time feel like it has slowed down. Épices Bakery, located in the heart of the Upper West Side, is exactly that kind of sanctuary. This cozy, French-inspired bakeshop has become a cornerstone of the neighborhood, occupying a space with a rich culinary history. For over thirty years, this storefront was home to the legendary Soutine Bakery, and today, Épices Bakery carries on that legacy of artisanal excellence. From the moment you approach the shop, the "delectable array of goodness" can be smelled from the street, drawing in locals and visitors alike with the irresistible scent of high-quality butter, fresh fruit, and warm sugar.

The atmosphere at Épices Bakery is described by many as "warm and cozy," a stark and welcome contrast to the towering glass and steel of Midtown. It is a tiny, intimate space where every square inch is dedicated to the craft of baking. The shop is helmed by a team that prioritizes quality above all else, using fresh ingredients to create a menu that bridges the gap between classic French patisserie and comforting American favorites. Whether you are a regular stopping in for your morning baguette or a traveler who has "stumbled upon" this adorable spot, the attentive staff and the visual feast of "pastries like jewels" in the glass cases ensure a memorable experience. It is the kind of place where the quality of the product is matched only by the friendliness of the service, making every customer feel like a lucky find.

Location and Accessibility

Épices Bakery is perfectly situated at 104 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023, tucked away on a charming side street between Broadway and Columbus Avenue. This prime Upper West Side location makes it an ideal destination for a variety of Manhattan outings. It is just a single block away from the lush, shady benches of Central Park, specifically near the Strawberry Fields and the lake, making it the perfect stop for a morning pastry before a park recline. Furthermore, its proximity to Lincoln Center makes it a favorite for theater-goers looking for a sophisticated treat before or after a performance.

For those using public transportation, the bakery is exceptionally accessible. It is a short walk from the 72nd Street subway station, which serves the 1, 2, and 3 lines, as well as the B and C lines at the 70th Street-Central Park West station. The neighborhood is highly walkable and bike-friendly, and the shop’s welcoming chalkboard sign acts as a beacon for those strolling through the district. While the shop itself is "very tiny" and lacks indoor seating—meaning there is "no space to stay and eat"—its location near several public plazas and park benches ensures that you are never more than a few steps away from a perfect place to enjoy your purchase.

Services Offered

• Daily Fresh Baking: The bakers arrive early every morning to ensure that every croissant, baguette, and tart is made fresh on the premises.
• Custom Cake Orders: Known for reliable and exquisite special orders for birthdays, weddings, and special events, including their famous chocolate mousse cakes.
• Savory Breakfast and Lunch: A selection of savory items such as ham and cheese croissants, broccoli and cheese quiches, and artisanal sandwiches.
• Holiday and Seasonal Specials: The shop is beautifully decorated for holidays like Valentine’s Day and offers themed treats that make for perfect gifts.
• Gluten-Free Options: A thoughtful inclusion of gluten-free desserts, such as the Opéra cake, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy premium sweets.
• Pickup and Pre-Orders: Customers can call ahead for pickup, which is highly recommended for larger items like whole fruit tarts or catering needs.
• Specialty Retail: Beyond pastries, the bakery offers unique items like homemade harissa and assorted homemade jams.

Features and Highlights

• Artisanal Quality: The bakery focuses on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques, resulting in textures that are "perfectly balanced" and not overly sweet.
• European Flair: A "taste of Paris in the hood," featuring French staples like Madeleines, Paris-Brest, and authentic buttery croissants.
• Visual Display: The glass cases are famously compared to jewelry boxes, with each tart and eclair sitting "like a jewel" on the shelf.
• Attentive Service: The staff, including the well-known Susan behind the counter, are frequently praised for being "kind, attentive, and knowledgeable" about ingredients.
• Aromatic Experience: The shop is famous for its inviting scent that can be detected from down the block, described by customers as a "delicious scent of butter."
• Variety in a Small Space: Despite its "tiny tiny" footprint, the shop manages to house an impressive variety of sweet breads, cookies, pastries, pies, and cakes.

Contact Information

Address: 104 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023, USA

Phone: (646) 692-3226

Mobile Phone: +1 646-692-3226

What is Worth Choosing

When it comes to selecting a treat at Épices Bakery, the **Rainbow Cookie Chocolate Mousse Cake** is a standout recommendation for celebrations. Customers describe it as "magical" and "one of the best things" they’ve ever had, specifically noting the perfect balance of richness and sweetness. For those seeking a classic French pastry, the **Croissants** are a "must-try"—they feature a crunchy exterior with a light, airy, and incredibly buttery interior. The **Ham and Cheese Croissant**, loaded with Gruyere and Swiss cheese, is widely considered a meal in itself and well worth the trip.

If you prefer fruit-based desserts, the **Apple Tart** and the **Lemon Meringue Tart** are exceptional choices. The lemon meringue is praised for its buttery short crust and perfectly tart cream. Another neighborhood favorite is the **Thumbprint Cookies** filled with homemade jam, which have a texture that is "perfect in every way." For something truly indulgent, look for the **Délice**, an almond-covered creation that combines meringue, buttercream, and ganache. Whether you are picking up a **Paris-Brest** for a dessert at home or a simple, fluffy **Madeleine** for a quick snack, Épices Bakery offers a level of quality that satisfies even those who "usually do not enjoy baked goods at all."

Would you like me to help you check their latest seasonal quiche flavors or perhaps help you draft a request for a custom birthday cake quote?

Épices Bakery

104 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023, USA