The best 13 desserts in Chelsea New York City
Indulge your sweet tooth in the heart of New York City with the delightful array of desserts in Chelsea NYC. This vibrant neighborhood is home to a variety of bakeries, cafes, and patisseries that offer a range of decadent treats. From classic pastries to innovative ice cream flavors, desserts in Chelsea NYC are a must-try for anyone with a love for all things sweet. Whether you're in the mood for a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely treat, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings in this bustling neighborhood.
1. Seed + Mill
Artisanal sesame-based desserts in Chelsea Market.

The tahini ice cream offers a unique and exceptional taste. Its combination of flavors, particularly the sea salt dark chocolate halvah, is nothing short of remarkable. The halvah adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of saltiness that complements the nutty and rich taste of the tahini ice cream. It's an extraordinary flavor experience that is sure to delight anyone who tries it.
Furthermore, the sundae is an absolute must-try. The way the different components come together is a symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy and cold tahini ice cream, the warm and gooey chocolate fudge, the crunchy and sweet pistachios, and the light and fluffy whipped cream create a perfect harmony that will leave you craving for more. Whether you're a fan of tahini or not, this tahini ice cream sundae is definitely worth a taste.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
2. Sweets Laboratory by Hanamizuki
Eat sweets, be sweet✨

Sweets Laboratory by Hanamizuki provides a unique and enjoyable dessert experience. Their creations are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making for a visually appealing and satisfying treat. One standout option is the Queen Mango Snow Sundae, which features a refreshing combination of shaved ice, mango pudding, and fresh fruit. The mango pudding is a particularly pleasant surprise, offering a denser and more flavorful alternative to traditional ice cream.
The desserts at Sweets Laboratory are sure to delight any sweet tooth. The menu features unique and unexpected flavor combinations that are sure to excite and delight. The Queen Mango Snow Sundae, for example, offers a light and refreshing take on a classic dessert. The combination of shaved ice, mango pudding, and fresh fruit is the perfect way to end a meal. Whether you're looking for a traditional sweet treat or something a little more adventurous, Sweets Laboratory is sure to have something to satisfy your cravings.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
3. Empire Cake
Gourmet American baking with a twist.

The selection of sandwich cookies offered at Empire Cake is impressive, with a range of flavors that cater to various tastes. The red velvet shortcake, tri-colored cookie, strawberry shortcake, strawberry cheesecake, and dulce de leche cupcake sandwich cookies are all popular choices. These cookies are consistently delicious, with a perfect balance between the soft filling and the crunchy exterior.
Another standout item on Empire Cake's menu is the chocolate bomb, which is a must-try for chocolate lovers. This treat is rich, decadent, and gooey, with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. For those who prefer something a bit tangier, the coconut flakes lemon cake is a great option. The cake is incredibly moist, with a delicious lemon flavor that is complemented by the sweetness of the coconut flakes. A visit to Empire Cake is not complete without trying their famous Black and White cookie, which is a New York City classic.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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4. Billy's Bakery
Classic American desserts with a nostalgic touch.

Nestled in the heart of the city, this bakery is a true gem. Its charming atmosphere, reminiscent of a grandmother's cozy kitchen, makes it an ideal spot for a sweet treat. The muffins and cupcakes are simply adorable, and they are baked fresh daily. Customers can't get enough of the delicious frosting and the moist, flavorful cake.
In addition to its delightful muffins and cupcakes, the bakery also offers an array of other baked goods. Their pies, scones, croissants, and other pastries are all made with the same care and attention as their cupcakes. Pair your treat with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you've got the perfect recipe for a delightful afternoon. And with a selection that changes with the seasons, there's always something new to try.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. 16 Handles
Artisan frozen treats with endless customization options.

The establishment offers a unique and intriguing concept, allowing customers to create their own customized ice cream experience. A selection of 16 diverse ice cream flavors are available, providing ample options to satisfy any sweet tooth.
One of the standout features of this establishment is the self-serve model. Customers are able to serve themselves and create their ideal ice cream bowl, with the added bonus of only being charged for the exact amount of ice cream they choose to indulge in. This creates a fun and interactive experience for all visitors.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
6. Sullivan Street Bakery and Pizza
Authentic Roman-style bakery in the heart of NYC.

The ginger creme brûlée tart and the lemon tart at this bakery have earned it a well-deserved reputation for excellence. The ginger creme brûlée tart, in particular, stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. The gentle heat of the ginger is balanced perfectly by the cool, smooth custard and the satisfying crunch of the caramelized sugar topping. Meanwhile, the lemon tart offers a delightful tangy punch, complemented by a buttery, flaky crust.
During our visit, we also tried the brioche pastry with chocolate, and we were not disappointed. The pastry was incredibly light, with a delicate, flaky exterior that gave way to a tender, airy interior. The chocolate was rich and creamy, melting seamlessly into the pastry to create a truly decadent treat. Despite its indulgence, the brioche never felt heavy or overwhelming - a testament to the bakery's skill in crafting perfectly balanced pastries. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, this bakery is sure to have something to tantalize your taste buds.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
7. City Cakes
Home of the Original Half Pound Cookies.

City Cakes offers a variety of delicious desserts, including their famous half pound cookies. In addition to these, customers can also find a selection of creative bars and cake slices. The flavors are numerous and unique, with the Chocolate Chip and Sugardoodle (similar to a snickerdoodle) being popular choices.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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8. Doughnuttery
Delicious mini doughnuts with unique sugar blends.

The doughnuts on offer are delightfully tasty, and the added feature of customization allows for a truly unique indulgence, surpassing the typical doughnut shop experience. The welcoming and amiable service, coupled with the entertaining made-to-order doughnut machine, further sets this establishment apart from other doughnut cafes.
Situated in the vibrant Chelsea Market, this is an ideal spot for those craving a delicious sweet treat. These mini doughnuts are incredibly light and devoid of greasiness, while still maintaining a satisfying warmth. The variety of toppings, both sweet and savory, can be overwhelming but also adds to the excitement of the visit. Choosing just two flavors is a challenge, however, the strawberry topping was undeniably the standout.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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9. Amy's Bread
Hand-made with care and freshest quality ingredients.

The pastries at this establishment are truly exceptional. The almond cakes and brioche, in particular, are standouts, bursting with rich, buttery flavor and a delicate, crumbly texture. For those seeking a heartier option, the frittata sandwich is a delicious choice, packed with fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of spices. Even the olive twists, often an afterthought, are a delight here, crispy and moreish with a subtle herbal note.
The velvet cake deserves every bit of praise it has received. Words cannot adequately convey its goodness - it is a truly transcendent experience. The velvety texture, the depth of flavor, the artful balance of sweetness and richness - all combine to create a dessert that is, quite simply, unforgettable. Those who appreciate fine baking should not miss the opportunity to try this masterpiece for themselves.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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10. L'Arte del Gelato
Experience the true taste of Italy in every scoop.

L'Arte del Gelato, situated in the heart of Chelsea Market, offers a delightful range of desserts with a focus on their exquisite gelato. This establishment is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth seeking delectable treats.
The PISTACCHIO SICILIANO GELATI is a highly recommended choice. This authentic Italian gelato, made from premium Sicilian pistachios, boasts a rich and creamy texture, tantalizing flavor, and fresh aroma. It is truly a delight for customers looking for an indulgent dessert experience.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
11. Baskin-Robbins

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Princi Bakery & Café

That's why inside the chic Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Chelsea you'll find an outpost of Princi. Fully stocked with fresh, beautiful loaves of bread, it's no surprise that a carb lover like me is in heaven every time I visit this Chelsea bakery.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
13. Baskin-Robbins

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Breakfast