One of the beauties of NYC lies in the fact that you can eat foods from all over the world without leaving the comfort of the city. From crêpes to Spanish gummies, you can get pretty much any international sweet within the parameters of Manhattan. Here are our picks for the ten best international desserts in New York City.
Takahachi Bakery (Tribeca)
Takahachi offers some of the best Japanese baked goods around. From buns and breads to cakes and crepes, you’re sure to find a new favorite treat here. If you’re visiting in the cold, be sure to try one of their delicious hot beverages. 25 Murray St., 212-791-5550, takahachi-bakery.com
Aji Ichiban NYC (Chinatown)
Widen your palette with some sweets from Japan at this Hong Kong-based chain. Japanese Crispy Seaweed with Tom Yum Goong Flavor and ginger candies are sure to make you a Japanese candy enthusiast by the end of your visit. If you aren’t feeling that adventurous, Aji Ichiban also offers American candies and treats. 37 Mott St., 212-233-7650, ajiichiban.com
Tous les Jours (Chinatown)
Made with South Korean ingredients, this French-Asian bakery offers a unique selection of baked goods that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their signature sausage danishes, which wraps savory meat in cheesy pastry. Talk about unique. 7 Division St., 212-966-6777, tljus.com
Grace Street (Koreatown)
Grace Street’s Korean desserts are a must try for any city-goer with a sweet tooth. “Hod-Duk” is a warm Korean donut that you won’t forget. But if you’re going to try only one thing, it’s got to be the shaved snow, which comes in fun flavors like black sesame and green tea. 17 W. 32nd St., bygracestreet.com
Harbs NYC (Upper East Side)
Born in Japan, Harbs is a café that offers famous handcrafted cakes—from baked cheese cake to banana cream pie to royal milk tea cake. No matter where you're coming from, you won't be able to resist these treats. 1374 Third Ave. (also in Chelsea), 646-896-1511, harbsnyc.com
Sockerbit (West Village)
Try some of Sweden’s finest sour gummies, hard candies, chocolates, and more at this sleek candy store. Some crowd favorites include “frukstang,” which means fruity jelly stick and “huggormar,” fruity candy snakes. 89 Christopher St., 212-206-8170, sockerbit.com
François Payard Patisserie (Battery Park City)
When in Manhattan, do as the French do! Payard’s offers delicious high-end desserts combining chocolate, nuts, and more. Famous for his peanut-centric George V and hazelnut-based Lourve, chef François Payard puts every bit of his French roots into each of his pastries. 210 Murray St. (also in Greenwich Village and Columbus Circle), 212-566-8300, payard.com/new-york
Biagi Gelato (Tribeca)
Biagi gelato has carts outside of two Whole Foods locations. You won’t find Brazilian gelato like this anywhere else, except of course Brazil—and you don’t have to feel guilty because it has way less fat and fewer calories than ice cream! 270 Greenwich St. (also on the Upper East Side), 212-219-8094, biagigelato.com
Leonidas (Financial District)
Leonidas Belgian chocolates are a delicious snack and also the perfect gift. You can find these treats at multiple locations, including their downtown Manhattan Manon Café which is complete with a huge selection of chocolate pieces, gift boxes, and delicious gourmet hot chocolate. 3 Hanover Sq. (also in Chelsea), 212-422-9600, leonidas-usa.com
Caffe Palermo (Little Italy)
Looking for the best cannoli in Manhattan? Caffe Palermo, aka the “Cannoli King of Little Italy” is the best place to seek out. Palermo’s cheesecake, tiramisu, and other delicious treats also can’t be beat anywhere else in the city, the state, or even the country! 148 Mulberry St., 212-431-4205, caffepalermo.com
