8 Best Philadelphia Bakeries and Bakery Shops

A Baker's Dozen: Finding the Best Bakeries in Philadelphia

South Philly's Italian Classics

South Philadelphia is the heart of the city's Italian-American culture, and its bakeries have been perfecting their craft for generations.

• Termini Bros. Bakery: A Philadelphia institution since 1921, Termini Bros. is famous for its authentic Italian pastries. The line often stretches out the door for their cannoli, which are filled to order with a creamy ricotta mixture. The bakery is also a go-to for traditional cookies, cakes, and other confections. Their enduring reputation is built on consistency and a deep respect for tradition.
• Isgro Pastries: Founded in 1904, Isgro Pastries is another cornerstone of South Philly's bakery scene. Known for its artistry and quality, Isgro excels in everything from flaky sfogliatelle to elaborate wedding cakes. Their butter cookies and biscotti are a must-try, and the shop’s vintage charm transports you back in time.

Center City and Rittenhouse Square

The city's central neighborhoods are home to a vibrant mix of modern and European-inspired bakeries.

• Metropolitan Bakery: As a pioneer in Philadelphia's artisanal bread movement, Metropolitan Bakery has been a favorite since the 1990s. They are celebrated for their handcrafted breads, including flavorful sourdoughs, rye, and baguettes. Their commitment to using high-quality, local ingredients has made them a staple in the city's culinary landscape.
• Lost Bread Co.: Located in the Brewerytown neighborhood, Lost Bread Co. has quickly earned a reputation for its rustic, naturally leavened breads and creative pastries. Their focus on local grains and a lengthy fermentation process yields loaves with exceptional flavor and texture. It's a perfect example of the new generation of Philadelphia bakers pushing the boundaries of their craft.

Northern Liberties and Fishtown's Artisanal Scene

These neighborhoods are hubs for innovative bakeries that cater to a modern palate while honoring classic techniques.

• Philly Bread: While not a retail storefront, Philly Bread is a key player in the city's baking scene, supplying many of the top restaurants. Their sourdough bread and other loaves are renowned for their consistently high quality and delicious crust. You can often find their products at local farmers' markets and specialty stores.
• High Street on Market: A nationally recognized restaurant, High Street on Market is equally celebrated for its in-house bakery. They offer an array of rustic breads and unique pastries, many of which incorporate seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Their breakfast sandwiches on house-made rolls are particularly popular.

Beyond the City Center

• Essen Bakery: Tucked away in South Philly, Essen Bakery is a small but mighty Jewish-style bakery known for its incredible challah and traditional Eastern European treats. Their babka, rugelach, and black-and-white cookies are considered some of the best in the city.
• Federal Donuts: While known for its fried chicken, Federal Donuts is just as famous for its delicious, inventive donuts. They offer both "hot fresh" donuts, made to order and tossed in flavored sugars, and "fancy" donuts with creative glazes and toppings.

Conclusion: A City Defined by Its Bakeries

From the old-world charm of a century-old Italian bakery to the cutting-edge creations of a new artisanal shop, Philadelphia’s bakeries tell a story of tradition, passion, and community. The city's rich history and diverse culture are perfectly reflected in its baked goods, making a tour of its bakeries a truly authentic and delicious way to experience Philadelphia.