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TLDR: Dominique Ansel Bakery offers a unique New York City pastry experience, most famous for the Cronut. Expect inventive flavors, potential crowds, and a price tag that reflects the craft, but it's often worth a visit for something different.
I'll admit it: I visited Dominique Ansel Bakery because of the Cronut hype. Everyone was talking about this croissant-donut hybrid that people were lining up for at dawn, and I had to see what the fuss was about.
Several visits later, I've learned that while the Cronut is genuinely impressive, it's actually the DKA and Cookie Shot that keep me coming back to this unassuming corner of SoHo.
What is the story behind Dominique Ansel Bakery?
Imagine a quiet street in SoHo back in 2011. That's where French pastry chef Dominique Ansel, fresh from top kitchens in Paris and New York, opened his first bakery. He arrived in the city with a vision and not much else. Early on, his DKA (Dominique's Kouign Amann) – a caramelized croissant with tender, flaky layers – was already a local favorite.
Then came May 2013, and everything changed. Ansel spent two months perfecting a new idea, a hybrid between a croissant and a doughnut. Each one still takes three days to prepare. This creation, the Cronut, instantly drew block-long lines and landed on TIME Magazine's "25 Best Inventions." His commitment to fresh ideas and quality over mass production really defines the place.
What is Dominique Ansel Bakery famous for?
Beyond that game-changing Cronut, which unveils a brand new, non-repeating flavor each month, the bakery is known for other playful, delicious creations.
Have you heard of the Cookie Shot? It’s a warm, pliable chocolate chip cookie, shaped like a shot glass, filled with cold milk – a delightful combination of textures. Then there are the Frozen S'mores, a toasted marshmallow exterior giving way to a cool, creamy center. Of course, the DKA, with its signature caramel crunch, remains a star.
Back when Cronuts first launched, the crowds were so thick, they even needed people to manage the queues, sometimes offering waiting customers warm drinks in winter or lemonade in summer.
How much does a Cronut usually cost?
The Cronut, that sought-after croissant-doughnut hybrid, comes with a specific price tag. If you pre-order for pick-up at the bakery, you'll pay around $8.44, including New York City sales tax. Considering the three days of meticulous preparation that goes into each one, it's a specialty item.
If you opt for local delivery through services like DoorDash, two Cronuts might run you $20, meaning about $10 each. For those looking to share or send them nationwide, a four-pack shipped costs about $39.50, plus shipping, making each approximately $9.88. Remember, the flavor is unique every month and never repeats, so what you try today won't be there next time.
Where is Dominique Ansel located?
The original and most famous Dominique Ansel Bakery sits right in the heart of SoHo, at 189 Spring Street, New York, NY 10012. It’s an easy spot to get to; the C and E subway trains stop at Spring Street, and the N, R, and W trains are just a few blocks away at Prince Street.
This neighborhood location puts you among distinctive 19th-century cast-iron buildings and plenty of shops. Inside the bakery, the space itself is often lively, but if you look carefully, you might find one of their "secret" outdoor patio areas for a quieter moment with your pastry and coffee.
How many Dominique Ansel Bakery locations are there?
Currently, there are five Dominique Ansel Bakery locations. The original, which gained worldwide attention for the Cronut, is still right here in SoHo, New York. Beyond that, you'll find Dominique Ansel Workshop in Flatiron, which focuses on croissants and gives you a peek into the production kitchens.
A new concept called Papa d'Amour, opening in Greenwich Village soon, plans to explore Asian bread culture. Away from New York, if you're visiting Las Vegas, you can find two more spots: one at Caesars Palace and another at Paris Las Vegas. So, while the SoHo store is iconic, you have a few choices depending on what you're looking for.
Can you order online from Dominique Ansel?
Absolutely, if you want to skip the line or enjoy these treats from home, you have options. For local pick-up at the SoHo bakery, you can place pre-orders through their New York website. If you're within New York City and prefer delivery, select items, including Cronuts, are available via third-party apps like Caviar or DoorDash.
And for those outside the city, or sending a gift, many signature pastries like Cronuts, DKAs, and Cookie Shots can be shipped nationwide directly from their kitchens. A practical tip: if you're set on a Cronut, pre-orders for pick-up open promptly at 11 am EST every Monday for items two weeks out.
Is it worth visiting Dominique Ansel Bakery?
Deciding if a visit is "worth it" really depends on what you seek. If you're an adventurous foodie eager to taste a globally recognized, innovative pastry like the Cronut, or enjoy seeing culinary artistry, then yes, it offers a unique experience. The creations are visually appealing and often delicious.
However, be prepared for potential downsides. The bakery can get very crowded, especially on weekends, making the small interior feel a bit tight. Prices are on the higher side for pastries, and some find the Cronut, while interesting, a little too sweet or perhaps overhyped for their personal taste.
If you're short on time, sensitive to crowds, or on a tight budget, you might weigh your options. Pre-ordering online or visiting early on a weekday morning can significantly improve the experience by avoiding the longest queues.
What else can I do in New York?
Once you've had your fill of pastries, the vibrant SoHo neighborhood beckons. Step outside the bakery and stroll down the charming cobblestone streets.
You'll be surrounded by the beautiful 19th-century cast-iron architecture that makes SoHo so distinct; it’s like walking through an outdoor gallery. The area is packed with high-end boutiques and art galleries, perfect for window shopping or discovering something truly unique.
A short walk away, you can find Washington Square Park, with its famous arch, street performers, and lively energy – a great spot to relax and people-watch. For an evening adventure, consider seeking out the hidden speakeasy at La Esquina for cocktails and upscale Mexican food, behind what looks like a casual diner.
Explore New York your way
Want to discover more of SoHo's food scene, galleries, and historic architecture at your own pace? StoryHunt's Personal Tour Guide lets you create custom audio walks based on your interests.
The interactive map guides you between attractions with stories about the neighborhood's evolution from industrial district to culinary destination.
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