Puffs, Pastries, & Passion: A Homegrown Guide To The Best Bakeries Across India

As dusk approaches, a familiar ritual unfolds in Indian households - the irresistible urge to indulge in snacks; whether it's the comforting combination of chai and biscuits or crispy pakodas sizzling at home or venturing out to local bakeries with your friends and family. India's bakery culture is a delightful reflection of its diverse regional cuisines, offering an array of sweet, savory, and spicy delights. From sweet buns and cream rolls to savory crackers, puffs, and rusks, these evening treats are enjoyed alongside tea or milk. Bakeries are a lively spot where people of all demographic come together to revel in the culture of snackies. We have curated the ultimate list of the best bakeries around India for you to indulge in.

Mumbai

Subko Coffee Rosters & Bakehouse

Nestled in the charming by-lanes of Old Bandra village, Mumbai, Subko Coffee & Bakehouse resides in a restored 1925 bungalow, serving as its flagship roastery, cafe, and bakehouse. With five distinct experience zones, patrons can indulge in freshly baked treats, including the renowned chocolate chip and walnut cookie, sourdough, and brioche. Every delicacy at Subko is crafted from scratch, offering a delightful escape into the world of artisanal flavors within this historical setting.

Check it out here.

Theobroma

Theobroma, translating to 'Food of the Gods' in Greek, epitomizes indulgence with its exclusive array of brownies, cakes, desserts, chocolates, breads, and savories. Since its modest inception in 2004 at the iconic Cusrow Baug on Colaba Causeway in Mumbai, Theobroma has evolved into a Pan-India chain with outlets in over 18 cities. Indulge in their recommended treats, such as the Overload Chocolate Brownie, Pineapple Pastry, Chocolate Truffle, and Red Velvet Pastry, as Theobroma continues to enchant taste buds with its divine offerings.

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Yazdani Restaurant & Bakery

Established in 1950, Yazdani Bakery, a revered Irani bakery in South Mumbai's Fort, is a nostalgic gem with a timeless charm. Known for its chai and brun-maska, the bakery's unassuming blue walls and wooden name-board hide a haven of warm, buttery delights. Specialities include brun pav, khari biscuits, nankhatai, and a delectable apple pie. Awarded as an 'Urban Heritage Monument' in 2007, Yazdani Bakery boasts a loyal following drawn to its classic offerings and historic ambience.

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La Patisserie

The renowned cake shop and delicatessen at The Taj Mahal Palace, is a haven for delectable desserts, gourmet cold-cuts, cheeses, freshly baked breads, and savory treats. Offering an exquisite ambience blending elegance with old-world charm, their extensive menu includes customizable cakes, pastries, macarons, artisanal breads, cookies, and savories. Don't miss the must-try delights, especially their exceptional plum cakes and cheesecakes. La Patisserie also provides a curated selection of soft beverages, beers, sparkling water, and handpicked wines.

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The Bombay Baking Company

The Bombay Baking Company is a versatile destination that combines a deli, bakery, cake shop, and leisure area, inviting patrons with the enticing aroma of brewed coffee and freshly baked treats. The menu features a diverse selection of fresh homemade bread, sandwiches, delectable cakes, and pastries, complemented by steaming cappuccinos or refreshing iced teas. Beyond the culinary delights, the establishment offers an engaging atmosphere for book enthusiasts, accompanied by an assortment of merchandise and lifestyle products, spanning from food and dinnerware to premium wines.

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Delhi

Wenger's Deli

Established in 1924 for British troops, Wengers Bakery in Delhi shifted to Connaught Place in the late '20s or early '30s and is now the oldest surviving establishment in the area. With a rich history in bakery, confectionery, restaurants, ice cream manufacturing, and a cafe at Delhi University, Wengers has become legendary in Delhi's food scene. Known for its cakes, multi-flavored bread, stuffed patties, and doughnuts, Wengers offers reasonably priced, high-quality food, attracting generations of loyal customers. The addition of Wengers Deli in 2011 further enhanced its popularity.

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Elma’s Bakery

Synonymous with Hauz Khaz Village since 2011, Elma's bakery has expanded to Lodhi Road, acclaimed for its sensational cuisine and unmatched baked goods. The enticing aroma of freshly baked breads, croissants, and homemade bacon loaves captivates locals and tourists alike. Elma’s signature dishes, including sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and pastas, are crafted in-house in an open kitchen. They produce their own sauces, salad dressings, jams, mustard, and soups from scratch, using predominantly imported meats and cheeses. Recommended items include thin-crust pizzas, pasta, hummus, falafel, red velvet cake, and floral-infused teas.

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Defence Bakery

Defence Bakery, a Delhi institution since 1962, is one of the city's oldest and most esteemed establishments in Bakery, Patisserie, and Confectionery. With a simple and honest approach to business, guided by Cordon Bleu Chef Mr. Tushar Dhingra, this family-owned bakery prioritizes innovation, skilled employees, and responsible growth. Renowned for excellent quality baked goods, including a variety of breads and European-style Crusty Breads, Defence Bakery offers cakes, pastries, confectionery, viennoiserie, snacks, and customized gifts.

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L’Opéra

L’Opéra is a distinguished high-end French pastry, bakery, and Salon de Thé in India, renowned for its authentic French offerings. Emphasizing quality and excellence since its inception, L’Opéra's cakes, pastries, breads, Quiches, and Croissants meet the strictest standards of perfection and elegance. From Macarons to Galette des Rois and Millefeuille, the menu showcases a comprehensive array of French delicacies. Inspired by the French "Salon de Thé" concept, L’Opéra pioneers high-end culinary offerings in India, with innovative presentation and ambience.

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Bread & More

Bread & More in Delhi is a contemporary patisserie and boulangerie, offering a delightful fusion of traditional French classics with a modern twist. Specializing in freshly baked bread, the bakery features an array of options, including sourdough, whole wheat, and gluten-free varieties. Alongside a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, the cafe serves a tempting selection of savory bites, croissants, quiches, celebration cakes, pastries, brownies, tarts, and bon bons. Whether you're in the mood for a scrumptious dinner roll, a sweet treat, or a speciality coffee, Bread & More is the go-to destination for an indulgent culinary experience in Delhi.

Check it out here.

Bangalore

Bengaluru Baking Company

Bengaluru Baking Company (BBC), located within JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, redefines the traditional patisserie delicatessen. The establishment offers an evolved concept, transitioning from a casual café during the day to a vibrant resto-lounge in the evening. Following its relaunch in 2022, BBC presents a fine immersive experience in lifestyle dining, featuring green cuisine, fusion cocktails, and retail merchandise. From plant-forward breakfast options to artisanal breads and signature desserts like the Chikmagalur Estate Opera cake, BBC aims to delight patrons with its innovative offerings.

Check it out here.

OG Variar & Sons

Variar Bakery, founded by O.Govinda Variar in 1955, has been a culinary landmark in Bangalore. Initially situated in Guttahalli, the bakery moved to Rajajinagar in 1970, later expanding to West of Chord Road. Renowned as Variar Bakery, it has gained popularity for its delectable puffs and biscuits, producing more than two tons of biscuits and rusks daily. The diverse range of biscuits, including Butter, Masala, Kara, and more, along with snack items like Dilpasand, Vegetable Puffs, and Rusk, reflects the bakery's commitment to excellence.

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Glen's Bakehouse

Founded by Glen Williams, Glen's Bakehouse stands as a testament to four decades of culinary excellence. Glen's journey began with the success of Sweet Chariot, one of the pioneering bakeries in Bangalore, offering treats like Japanese cakes and Black Forest cakes. Over the years, Glen has become a household name, and his commitment to quality is evident in Glen's Bakehouse. From delightful cupcakes to refreshing sherbets, rich milkshakes to aromatic lattes, and a signature firewood oven producing cheesy sourdough pizzas, the menu is a diverse culinary experience. With a European touch in its ambiance, Glen's Bakehouse is renowned for its desserts, particularly red velvet cupcakes and chocolate croissants, ensuring each item is crafted from the finest and freshest ingredients.

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Iyengar Bakery

Established in 1981, Iyengar Bakery has evolved from a small 10x10 outlet to an iconic bakery in Bengaluru. With a foundation built on providing the best value to customers, the bakery has become a local legend. Known for its trade secrets in mixes and procedures, Iyengar Bakery offers a menu featuring popular products like Puffs, potato buns, and khara roti. Each outlet has its unique selling point, whether famous for rusks, bread, or other specialties. These bakeries have stood the test of time, maintaining a loyal customer base and holding their own against modern eating joints. Traditional yet quintessential, Iyengar Bakery remains an integral part of Bengaluru's culinary culture.

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Excelsior Bakery

Established in 1930, Excelsior Bakery in Bangalore holds a unique place in the city's food history. Originally a partnership between local baker Sahadevan and a British woman, the bakery became renowned for its English treats. During the 1940s, army aspirants reportedly volunteered to knead dough, receiving a coveted loaf of freshly-baked bread in return. The bakery's menu boasts absolutely amazing cakes and biscuits, with must-try items including the Japanese cake, samosa, salt biscuits, and coffee – all baked in-house. Over nine decades, Excelsior Bakery remains an essential and cherished part of Bengaluru's culinary landscape.

Check it out here.

Kolkata

Nahoum and Sons Private Limited Confectioners

Nahoum’s and Sons, a 121-year-old bakery in Kolkata, stands as a testament to enduring culinary legacy. Established by Baghdadi Jew Nahoum Israel Mordecai in 1902, the bakery has seamlessly passed through generations, preserving its rich tradition. From Nahoum Israel to Elias and later David Nahoum, the family's commitment to the business remained unwavering. After David's passing, his brother Issac took the reins, ensuring the continuation of this beloved bakery's heritage. Known for introducing Western desserts like brownies and cream puffs alongside traditional Jewish and Middle Eastern confections, such as challah bread and baklava, Nahoum’s has become an iconic name in Kolkata's dessert landscape. The rich Plum Cake, Lemon Tart, Chicken Patties, and Rum Balls are must-try delights, embodying the bakery's enduring charm.

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Shuktara Cakes

A high-quality French Patisserie in Kolkata, founded by Alain Cojean in 2013, Shuktara Cakes not only offers a tempting array of pastries but also houses the French Patisserie Training Centre. This initiative empowers young adults with disabilities, including cerebral palsy and Usher syndrome, providing professional baking skills. The five dedicated bakers, communicating through Indian Sign Language, bring warmth and determination to the bakery. Beyond exquisite flavors, Shuktara Cakes is a place where dreams and flavours intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on Kolkata's culinary landscape.

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Flury's

Established in 1927 at 18, Park Street by Mr. and Mrs. J Flury, Flurys swiftly became the preferred tea room for both prosperous Britishers and affluent Indians. It has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of Kolkata's culture, an integral part of every morning walker's routine. Today, Flurys is more than just an eatery; it's a city institution, stirring deep emotions across generations. Nestled on Park Street, Flurys stands as a landmark, drawing visitors from around the globe seeking a taste of its nostalgic charm. The old-world tea room remains unparalleled in evoking a unique sense of attachment and fond memories.

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Dunkel Braun

Dunkel Braun is a culinary celebration, marrying exotic flavors with indigenous tastes to create a rich tapestry of Turkish cuisine. Our extensive range includes meticulously crafted cookies, snacks, beverages, and unique desserts, all curated by the world's finest chefs. Our simple yet ambitious goal is to provide an unforgettable taste experience that lingers on the palate, leaving a lasting impression of our exceptional baked products. If you seek the perfect fusion of enticing aromas, an exquisite foreign taste, and an exciting Indian twist, Dunkel Braun is your go-to destination. We don't just offer delicious treats; we craft memorable culinary experiences.

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Saldanha Bakery

Saldanha Bakery, the only Goan-run bakery in Kolkata, carries a rich legacy dating back to its establishment in 1930 by Ubelina Saldanha and her husband, Ignatius. Over the years, the bakery has evolved under the stewardship of subsequent generations. Denzil and Mona Saldanha introduced enduring favourites like the walnut cake and coconut macaroon, while their daughter Debra expanded the menu with savoury delights like quiches and corn puffs. Despite the challenges posed by the lockdown, the Saldanhas adapted by offering essential bread deliveries and crafting new items such as wraps and hotdogs. Committed to customer satisfaction, the bakery remains a cherished institution, known for its warm familial approach and a diverse range of delectable treats.

Check it out here.

Chennai

The Old Madras Baking Company

The Old Madras Baking Company fulfills the dream of a locally inspired bakery with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. Founded on the idea of creating something uniquely Madras, their journey began to offer wholesome, all-natural bread made from clean labels and natural sources. The bakery takes pride in its 100% whole wheat bread and cereal bread. Among the must-try items are the Bagel with cream cheese, Parisian Croissants, Pound cake, carrot cake, Danish custard, blueberry Danish, Cinnabomb, banana/focaccia bread, coconut bun, Choco chip/Dark chocolate cookies, ensuring a delightful experience with every visit.

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Sandy’s Chocolate Laboratory

Established by Sandesh Reddy, Sandy’s Chocolate Laboratory is a culinary haven where chocolate experiments result in delightful desserts and gourmet meals. Their dynamic menu, blending clean, fresh flavours with experimental twists and continental themes, constantly evolves while honoring fan favorites. The dedicated team of chefs, bakers, and service staff strives to ensure a delightful customer experience. Among their popular offerings, the Tiny Chocolate Cake stands out, but the extensive list of sweets, including Macarons, Dark Chocolate & Marshmallow Tart, solidifies their reputation as one of Chennai's finest bakeries.

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Winners Bakery

Winners Bakery in Chennai stands out as a beloved establishment, winning the hearts of customers with its delectable range of breads, pastries, and cakes. Boasting an array of delightful baked goods, including cookies and innovative savory treats, the bakery is a go-to destination for those with a sweet tooth or a craving for quality bread. Operated by a rotary club, what sets Winners Bakery apart is not only its mouthwatering offerings but also its commitment to aims at providing a decent vocation to under-privileged youth supporting community development.

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Hot Breads

Established in 1989 by "Hot Breads Mahadevan," Hot Breads revolutionized the baking industry with transparent baking facilities and the aroma of freshly baked goods. With over three decades of experience, the bakery continues to innovate globally. Led by a skilled team, Hot Breads focuses on passion and product ownership, offering world-class breads, cakes, and pastries at fair prices. Known for their massive Easter Eggs and diverse menu, including vegetarian options, the bakery provides freshly baked delights and filter coffee. With friendly staff and quality products for all occasions, Hot Breads remains a Chennai bakery icon.

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Smith Field Bakery

Established in 1885, Smith Field Bakery stands as a trusted family business renowned for its commitment to quality and high standards. The family's active governance ensures a steadfast adherence to values without compromising on quality for profit. Synonymous with daily fresh bread, Smith Field employs a slow fermentation process, making the bread easily digestible and flavourful. In addition to signature bread, the bakery offers a diverse range of artisan biscuits, including shortbread, ginger, Ragi, jam swirls, and the iconic old Madras butter biscuits.

Check it out here.

Hyderabad

Karachi Bakery

Karachi Bakery, an enduring icon in Hyderabad's baking scene, boasts a six-decade legacy marked by unmatched reputation and continuous innovation. Renowned for its meticulous care and detailed craftsmanship, Karachi Bakery has seamlessly blended traditions with evolving consumer trends, offering a vast array of appetizing baked goods and confections. The bakery has not only carved a niche across India but has also become a household name globally. Celebrated for its iconic fruit biscuits, Dil Kush, and Plum Cake, Karachi Bakery remains a stalwart in the world of baking.

Check it out here.

Conçu

Conçu, a French bakery nestled in the heart of Hyderabad, lives up to its name, meaning 'crafted' in French. Specializing in authentic French pastries, croissants, and bread, Concu boasts a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and crafting each product with care and perfection. The bakery exudes a cosy and comfortable ambiance, creating an ideal setting to savor your favorite pastries. The elegant display of cakes, croissants, cookies, and brownies reflects the sweet haven that Concu has created, bringing the charm of European cafes to Hyderabad.

Check it out here.

Cafe Niloufer

Cafe Niloufer, established in 1978, has earned its place as Hyderabad's favorite spot by creating a unique and delicious blend of Hyderabadi Chai that captures the spirit of the city. Starting from a single outlet in Lakdikapul, it has become a household name. While renowned for its iconic chai, Cafe Niloufer has diversified into the retail business with its tea powder and has also become a hotspot for good food and enjoyable moments. With a daily service of over 20,000 customers, the cafe remains dedicated to preserving its authentic taste and upholding the tradition that has made it a beloved establishment in Hyderabad.

Check it out here.

Van Lavino

Van Lavino Cafe and Patisserie is a haven of elegance and indulgence, inviting patrons to experience a blend of sophistication and comfort. Known for its luxurious cakes and pastries, this cozy cafe offers an artful fusion of flavors and aesthetics, showcasing fine craftsmanship in every creation. From ornate cakes to delicate pastries, Van Lavino is a concept Dessert Cafe where the ever-changing delights ensure a continuous and delightful experience for those seeking to unlock their inner foodie in an atmosphere of delightful opulence.

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Labonel Fine Baking

Labonel Bakery, established in 1995 in Hyderabad, redefines home-style baking with freshly baked, made-to-order cakes and desserts. Under the leadership of owner Mehnaz, a passionate self-taught baker, Labonel emphasizes quality and consistency. Their outlets feature skilled bakers and decorators to ensure freshness and customer satisfaction. Using the finest ingredients without preservatives, Labonel's small-batch production minimizes the carbon footprint, addressing concerns about sustainability. From brownies to cakes, each product is crafted to individual orders, reflecting their commitment to quality and reducing waste.

Check it out here.

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