For Greeks living abroad, it becomes a constant desire to discover flavors that make them feel closer to home. Greek bakeries in New York serve that exact purpose—to enrich people’s lives with traditional delicacies they grew up loving.
New York’s top five Greek bakeries are not only found in Astoria where Greek culture, cuisine, and traditions are kept alive but also in the chic neighborhood of Soho and the chaotic Hell’s Kitchen.
Pi Bakerie, Soho
Pi Bakerie, located in Soho, is one of New York’s most authentic Greek bakeries, as it is defined by traditional flavors and recipes inspired by northern Greece. It opened back in 2014, and since then has become a hot spot for the city’s most famous residents, including Kelly Ripa and Lady Gaga, who are both lovers of Pi’s famous orange pie, (portokalopita).
Pi Bakerie offers not only savory tarts, such as Green Harvest Pi with spinach, feta cheese, and cabbage, but also moussaka, lentil salad, and sweet desserts with a homemade filo pastry.
“Everything that you see in the store is made on the premises, which is something I’m very proud of,” said co-owner, Regina Katopodis. She added, “People often come to us and say thank you for opening up in the neighborhood. They really appreciate what we do.”
Katopodis previously owned Artopolis Bakery in Astoria for eleven years, a place she liked to call “an icon to Hellenism.”
Yaya’s Bakery, Astoria
Yaya’s Bakery in Astoria is a family-owned business that began its journey in 2004, specializing in baklava. Since then, it has expanded its variations of traditional Greek sweets to include galaktoboureko, kataifi, and bougatsa.
It is also a leader in traditional Greek breads, pies, presentation baked goods, and cookies, making it a favorite in the community. Its homey and warm atmosphere is inviting for all visitors looking for an overall authentic Greek experience. Locals in the area like to call it a “neighborhood gem.”
Poseidon Bakery, Hell’s Kitchen
Poseidon Bakery, which is located in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen near the Theater District, is close to celebrating one hundred years since its establishement.
Owner, Paul Fable, told Greek Reporter, “The bakery first opened in 1923, five generations back, when my great grandfather came here and started off the business with his son. In 1950, they moved to the spot we’re at now, and that’s where we’ve been located ever since. We make everything by hand, including the filo.”
Amongst the most popular delicacies at Poseidon are the galaktoboureko, finikia, kourabiedes, and baklava, as well as savory choices, including spanakopita and tiropita.
Victory Sweet Shop, Astoria
Victory Sweet Shop/Victory Garden Café specializes in Greek desserts and cuisine. Its extensive menu contains classics such as spinach pie, cheese pies, galaktoboureko, bougatsa, and baklava.
The shop was established in 1968 by The Sakalis Family who had a background in baking. From the very beginning, they offered the Greek community a taste of Greece representing various regions. They are also well-known for their tsoureki with the main essence of flavor coming from orange zest seasoning and mastic resin.
Lefkos Pyrgos Cafe, Astoria
Lefkos Pyrgos Cafe in Astoria provides a broad selection of cakes, pastries, and traditional Greek sweets all at once. Its name, Lefkos Pyrgos refers to the White Tower of Thessaloniki, a location known as the capital of Greek sweets.
Standing out from the rest for their eight different variations of baklava, it is the ideal spot to enjoy a combination of classic and modern baked goods.
It started out in the 1970s and has always maintained its high quality through the use of fresh ingredients as well as following traditional recipes. It is a top choice in the area for both residents and visitors, who can enjoy the dessert of their liking accompanied by a strong Greek coffee.
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