Birley Bakery

Oh wow, I don't know if these are special croissants or if no one else knows how to make them. I love how crunchy, fluffy, and layered their croissants are, and the cinnamon flavor was next level amazing. The Thai salad was tasty; with the smoked chicken it was quite a nice snack for fueling up. Our service felt a little slow, but we were treated with lots of kindness. The whole spot it artful and a delight for the senses! Yes, it is on the pricier side. Dare I say, it's worth it.

Such a chic patisserie in the Upper East Side! Close to Central Park and museums, it’s a great stop after a nice walk in the neighborhood. Very large offer of viennoiseries, cakes, ice cream, chocolates and more - home made, of course. I tried the apple pie and it was just amazing - delicate, crunchy, flavorful. The chocolate section would make a perfect gift for a loved one. There is a tea room upstairs, which I didn’t get to check out. Staff is lovely and patient - great service!

This small bakery/restaurant is a little hidden jewel tucked between brownstones on the Upper East side. It's a perfect "New York neighborhood experience" for anyone who wants to feel like a local. The upstairs restaurant is small, but beautifully decorated, and very Parisian. The staff were all attentive and friendly. I loved the power bowl with fresh fruit, nuts and passionfruit sauce. The Croissant was warm and flaky, paired with a cappuccino tasting straight out of Italy. The atmosphere is cozy and chic. I felt perfectly comfortable dining solo. I will visit again.

I have been to this fancy French bakery twice since it opened, with the first time being a day or so after the grand opening, and the other time being more recent. Their initial location is in Britain, with two locations in London, with this being the first location outside of the UK. The design inside is chic, with a fancy space upstairs for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, as well as a selection of pastries, viennoiseries, chocolates, breads, ice cream, and other goodies. The prices range from moderate to overpriced, with most of the general pastries and viennoiseries ranging from $6 to $12, and the chocolates being much more than that, with the fancy packaging matching the prices. The staff was pretty friendly both times I was here. The first time, they were pretty empty, and as I wanted a small snack. I got their summer berry brioche for $7.50, which included hazelnuts as one of their ingredients, which was a bit surprising (perhaps it was the slight crumble on top, though I couldn't taste said filberts,) which was alright. The top, consisting of blueberries and raspberries, was fresh tasting with a bit of sourness, but not too much. There were also some sugar crystals, which helped with the general sourness of the berries. However, even for a brioche base, the bread was a tad too dry for my liking, and it likely needed to be dipped in coffee or tea. It may be because it was dry or a bit old, as I was there in the late afternoon, but if this is the usual case, I would not recommend this pastry. For the second time, they were much more crowded with many people inside on multiple lines, including some people trying to go upstairs, as well as a line for takeout, which converged with someone behind the pastry counter taking my order eventually. I asked the person working there his preference between my usual favorite French pastry, the Paris Brest, which was $11 there, and their Tarte Tropézienne, which was $10. He said that he liked both, but their signature is the latter and slightly better, so I went with that. Said Tarte Tropezienne consisted of a brioche soaked with orange blossom, filled with crème madame (or in other words, a lighter French pastry cream,) and topped with pearl sugar, with them selling it by the slice or the whole tart. The slice was pretty large for the price, with the brioche in this case being much better, which I presume was at least partially since it was soaked in the pastry cream. The orange flavor was subtle, which is good, as orange blossom can be somewhat overpowering if overused. The pearl sugar added a bit more sweetness as well as some crunch. This was a very tasty version of this cake, and I would go back and get that again. The first pastry probably got a low three at most, with the brioche's price point and texture subpar. However, the tart I got was delicious. Mid/upper 3.

Oh, that hot chocolate! The best. Thick, silky, smooth, rich and so good! Did I already say the best? Mhmm. I only wish we had places like this in the Boston area... If you’re a true chocolate lover, this is the destination! They have shops in London and New York. The space in their NYC location is a bit too tight and often crowded with guests, especially now, during the holidays. A sign of just how good this place is. Will certainly return. Cheers!

Stumbled into here while waiting for an appointment at the nearby Italian consulate and was very impressed! The design is elegant and the pastries were very high quality. It’s a little pricey but you’re paying for the nice atmosphere. It’s small, but very cozy. The waitstaff were very friendly and attentive.

Beautiful decor, decent bakery. The croissant and passion fruit cheesecake were delicious. Cappuccino was okay. Overall a great spot in UES after scrolling through the museums!

UPDATE: been a few times and downgrading my review because I had a very disappointing visit. To begin with there is no order or flow or line, it’s a free for all and chaotic, causing aggravation for patrons. I gave this a pass the first few times I went because they were new, but they should have figured this out by now. It’s reason enough for me to avoid it. Second of all, the puny ham sandwich with one slice of ham and a few shavings of cheese (which cost $8.50) tasted like refrigeration and was INEDIBLE. Absolutely disgusting. The bun/bread was stale too. They should be ashamed selling this. Lastly the apple tart also had a slight refrigeration taste and the apples were MUSHY and the pastry wasn’t crisp, it tasted old. The vegan chocolate chip cookie was decent as was the sourdough. Food that doesn’t taste fresh and stressful ordering experience is just not worth it for me in a city with so many options. I hope they get their act together. ORIGINAL REVIEW: Very nice bakery food wise and visually. The pain au chocolat was excellent and I really enjoyed the croissant as well. The mortadella, stracciatella and pesto sandwich was very tasty. Everything was done well. I noticed they had a number of vegan options too. There is no seating downstairs or outside, just take out pastries, sandwiches and chocolates (as well as drinks) so don’t plan on grabbing takeout and having somewhere to sit. If you want to sit down they have a sit down restaurant upstairs which I look forward to trying. They just opened so there isn’t a clear process for ordering/paying downstairs yet (it’s a bit of a free for all now) but I assume they are figuring that out. The team behind the counter are very nice and helpful. Looking forward to going back and trying more things. I suspect it will be very crowded once people learn about it.

When in Central Park East, Birley is a must try. The star ratings are not reflective of how good the food, service, and ambiance was. Most negative reviews deal with dine in orders upstairs during peak hours. If you can, visit on a weekday afternoon around 4pm like we did and grab some stuff to go and have a nice picnic at the park. We stumbled upon this gem of a bakery after an afternoon at Billy Johnson playground (not too far from the Central Park Zoo). We grabbed a bunch of things to go to enjoy on the way to the airport. The cafe itself is beautifully decorated (especially for the holidays). We grabbed a couple of paninis, pastries, and a hot chocolate. Everything was phenomenal! A nice worker recommended the Paris Brest and that thing was unforgettably delicious. Think of the best hazelnut gelato you have ever had in a pastry form. Yes, our bill was a bit pricey, but that is to be expected in this part of town and for the quality of ingredients.

This is a beautifully decorated small cafe that recently opened. The upstairs seating area is very popular on weekends and is very pretty. Downstairs, you can grab something to go and take it to Central Park nearby or along for your day. While the desserts are very tasty, the downside is that the prices are quite high, even for the Upper East Side. Maybe don't look at the receipt for your croissant and slice of pie!

I have been to this fancy French bakery twice since it opened, with the first time being a day or so after the grand opening, and the other time being more recent. Their initial location is in Britain, with two locations in London, with this being the first location outside of the UK. The design inside is chic, with a fancy space upstairs for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, as well as a selection of pastries, viennoiseries, chocolates, breads, ice cream, and other goodies. The prices range from moderate to overpriced, with most of the general pastries and viennoiseries ranging from $6 to $12, and the chocolates being much more than that, with the fancy packaging matching the prices. The staff was pretty friendly both times I was here. The first time, they were pretty empty, and as I wanted a small snack. I got their summer berry brioche for $7.50, which included hazelnuts as one of their ingredients, which was a bit surprising (perhaps it was the slight crumble on top, though I couldn't taste said filberts,) which was alright. The top, consisting of blueberries and raspberries, was fresh tasting with a bit of sourness, but not too much. There were also some sugar crystals, which helped with the general sourness of the berries. However, even for a brioche base, the bread was a tad too dry for my liking, and it likely needed to be dipped in coffee or tea. It may be because it was dry or a bit old, as I was there in the late afternoon, but if this is the usual case, I would not recommend this pastry. For the second time, they were much more crowded with many people inside on multiple lines, including some people trying to go upstairs, as well as a line for takeout, which converged with someone behind the pastry counter taking my order eventually. I asked the person working there his preference between my usual favorite French pastry, the Paris Brest, which was $11 there, and their Tarte Tropézienne, which was $10. He said that he liked both, but their signature is the latter and slightly better, so I went with that. Said Tarte Tropezienne consisted of a brioche soaked with orange blossom, filled with crème madame (or in other words, a lighter French pastry cream,) and topped with pearl sugar, with them selling it by the slice or the whole tart. The slice was pretty large for the price, with the brioche in this case being much better, which I presume was at least partially since it was soaked in the pastry cream. The orange flavor was subtle, which is good, as orange blossom can be somewhat overpowering if overused. The pearl sugar added a bit more sweetness as well as some crunch. This was a very tasty version of this cake, and I would go back and get that again. The first pastry probably got a low three at most, with the brioche's price point and texture subpar. However, the tart I got was delicious. Mid/upper 3.

Nice ambiance and cute sitting area. Good for first dates and quick coffees. Liked their pastries. A lil over priced for what is offered. But a good hangout spot.

This is a cute coffee shop with a dine in part upstairs. I hear it is nice up there but I did not see it for myself. The downstairs part is small and can be/feel a bit disorganized with where to order and then where to wait for your order. The pastries/food/ chocolates here looked good but it is on the pricey side. I had an iced cappuccino which was actually pretty good and had taste to it. If you go here I recommend going as soon as they open to try and avoid the lines.

We came here to enjoy a sweet treat. My friend and I both ordered a hot chocolate and a cream brownie to share. Really decadent and rich hot chocolate. Leaned less sweet which I can really appreciate. Tight quarters upstairs with the seating but I saw a lot of people enjoying their meals. Whole spot is very chic and you can grab items to go downstairs.

Idk why the rating at this place is kinda bad I personally liked it a lot but perhaps because I only ordered apple tart and double espresso. Really really nice decor but I admit its on the pricey side :( All their utensils, napkins, and little post card along with receipt were detail-oriented which I appreciated and I did really enjoy the dessert (at a high price lol)

Beautiful store and great customer service. Really enjoyed the brownie that I got (perfect hazelnut and brownie combo). Crispy exterior and soft inside. A great place to buy gifts for people from.

British import in a posh 'hood with posh prices. It's pretty gorgeous and baked goods are pretty and pretty exorbitant.the small brownie was $9.50. Saving grace is they do sell haves of loaves. Bought: Olive roll Stick of 80% chocolate Total $7.86 I must admit im spoiled for bakeries by Brooklyn Granary but this spot landed in the right hood.

We were walking to Central Park and stumbled across this place and I'm so glad we did. Almond croissant was crisp and buttery and turkey croissant had the most delicious cheesy and saucy filling. On the pricey side but worth it. It took me a while to track this place down and I'm not sure why it doesn't have better reviews. Will be back!

On this rain soaked day and going by bus to the Armory for a show, I stopped at Birley Bakery for a quick croissant. Do you know that the bakery was packed with eager shoppers? I was able to squeeze my way to the front and get a croissant. I started devouring it right away as I was hungry. It was flaky, buttery and delish that I was tempted to get the cinnamon croissant that was created for New York and which to date I still haven't eaten. I will have to fix that soon. A winding line of customers to sit in the small cafe upstairs was also noticeable. Rain or no rain, Birley Bakery has become popular with neighborhood residents. I heard one young man say that he comes every day. If I lived in that area, that could easily be me!

Beautiful store that immediately smells delicious when you walk in. Got a cappuccino which was delicious and a cinnamon croissant which I wouldn't get again. It was dry and the filling to over baked crust proportions were a bit off. We also got the chocolate covered butter cookies which were yummy and easy to share. Also a beautiful little gift to being over to someone's house. The lines moves fast and given how beautiful the store is I would go back to try lunch upstairs.

We decided to try out this new upper east side spot for morning cappuccinos and pastries. This is a British bakery that just opened up in New York City. On the 1st floor they have a bakery and upstairs there is a sit down area. The interior is stunning and very well decorated down to the smallest details. I enjoyed the cappuccino and the raspberry and chocolate cake. My friends tried the croissants which they also enjoyed. It was definitely on the pricier side but is fun for a special treat!

I heard this place was great. It was a Cute bakery off Madison Ave on 69th St with beautiful-looking food and croissants, I couldn't decide what to buy. (Everything looked incredible!)

I just went in to take a look. Everything looks beautiful. The croissants looks fab. They sell fantastic looking chocolate that would make a great gift. Can't wait to meet a friend here for lunch.

I'm assuming this is where people come if they can't get into Sant Ambroeus? I like the pastries, I don't like the crowds some people obnoxiously rush upstairs like it's a hookah lounge waiting for them. The chocolate selection makes the esthetic look grand. Feels like a Harry Potter cafe very woody and European. The staff are militant they seriously want to process orders and keep the crowds moving. I'll come back but not on a weekend.

Most beautiful Bakery and cafe in NYC serving delicious freshly baked European pastries and more . Stunning dining room upstairs, wonderful experience, great service!

Came here & got a croissant and an iced matcha. Both very mid and not worth $17. Service is amazing.

Really not a fan of this new bakery. Everything is supremely overpriced, and their baked goods aren't that good. Perhaps there's not that many bakeries in the area, but I'd rather travel a little more to indulge in solid pastries.

I felt like I was in Paris. It has a wonderful ambiance. Every corner is meticulously decorated. It's definitely a must-see. The waiters are warm and friendly. I'm adding this place to the top of my list of coffee shops. I highly recommend it.

Amazing pastries, fresh, and not too sweet! I got almond and Almond chocolate croissant and an apple tart.

This rendition of a French patisserie is incredibly true to form. The pastries are the real deal. Lovely painted mural - like walls duplicating Japanese screens, add to the ambience. This place is a little bit of heaven on 69th street. The pain au chocolate is transporting. The croissants are fresh and flakey . There is a small assortment of lunch choices - the traditional ham on French bread with butter, a wedge of creamy quiche with smoked salmon, a sandwich on a baguette with roasted vegetables. It's all idyllic, iconic and irresistible. But there is a catch to all of this bounty - the prices.are as high in the stratosphere, as the pastries, (which indeed alighted on Cloud #9.). So after considerable soul searching, I say - "go for it....you only live once."

I tried the turkey and cheese croissant but it was more of a bechamel sauce so it was very heavy and then got soggy. I also got an iced latte but it was bitter. Lastly, on a busy day they need to have a better line system. It's very confusing to know where the line is and who's next.

Solid (cinnamon) croissant and (iced) coffee. Good new addition to the neighborhood. You'll have a hard time resisting on your walk by. The smells of the baked goods are amazing!

What in the world is this place? First of all the stairs are a lawsuit waiting to happen. The server wouldn't bring me a glass of ice as I let my tea cool, because he said he needed the table. Maybe the to go orders are worth this bizarre experience, but I will never go upstairs. I definitely need to speak to a manager about this weird place.

The interior is cute and nicely decorated for the holiday season but it was definitely not worth the hype. I found the dining area to be too busy( too noisy, and the service was reflective of that. It's definitely more of a social scene than a relaxing morning at cafe. You will probably need to talk really loudly to be heard. The food was decent but nothing special.

I've been a couple of times and really enjoy their pastries, breads, and coffee. The service is a little haphazard and the entitled 1% clientele can be brusque and rude, but that doesn't take away from the quality and consistency. I like it and plan to return.

This place is delicious . It can get crowded and a bit chaotic but all the baked goods we tried were really tasty and fresh !

This review is about the café on the 2nd floor. I visited on October 14 shortly after 4 p.m., and we were shocked by how rude both staff members were, especially the woman. After we sat down, I asked her if she could take our order, and she coldly replied, "Give me one second." Then we waited more than five minutes, but she never came back to take our order. Meanwhile, the male employee just wandered around doing nothing. When she finally came to our table, I ordered an iced coffee and an apple tart with vanilla ice cream and my husband ordered a coffee and a Paris-Brest. Then she rudely responded, "Ugh?" so my husband explained politely, "It's the cake they sell downstairs," then once again, she snapped, "No, we have different menus from downstairs," in an unbelievably unpleasant tone. So he decided to order only coffee. When our drinks finally came, they only brought one serving of regular milk, even though she had originally asked if we wanted milk and we both said yes. I also asked her where the bathroom was, and she curtly replied, "Only downstairs," again in an insulting way. The whole experience was uncomfortable from start to finish, but what made it even worse was what happened next. As soon as an older white couple, apparently regular customers walked in, she suddenly smiled brightly and said, "Welcome back! Nice to see you!" That was the first and only time I saw her smile, since she had shown us nothing but a scowl the entire time. When it came time to pay, she came over, again with a sour expression. As I said the male employee was unfriendly too, especially, when we said "tap water is fine" or "no, that's all," but the woman was by far the worst, condescending and hostile the entire time. We remained polite, but she was completely unpleasant. Her attitude was so bad that I honestly can't even remember whether the food and drinks were good. I really should have read the previous reviews before coming because some people seem to have had similar experiences and they are totally correct. We've lived just a few blocks away from there for almost ten years, and since I was partly brought up in London, I was genuinely looking forward to visiting this café. But coming here was a huge mistake. We'll never return, and we won't recommend it to any of my friends or colleagues. Lastly, I also don't understand why pastries like croissants from the 1st floor are allowed upstairs, but cakes are not. Anyway, it doesn't matter now, because we'll never go back. Absolutely the least comfortable cafe on the UES.

Okay, admittedly I've been guilty of a multidecade's long addiction to almond croissants, only occasionally satisfied by the offerings in my neighborhood. Walking to CP today I happened by this tiny storefront and, curiosity piqued, looked at their seriously high-priced version of the French classic. Duty-bound to follow my passion, I purchased one, brought it home intending to munch it with my afternoon coffee, and then couldn't wait and wound up inhaling it. Perhaps the best ever? I'll need to find a few more NYC versions before declaring this a winner, but once you get over the sticker shock, it will put a smile on your face.

Bizarre experience. If I could give it less stars I would. Sat upstairs with the most unfriendly staff. Strangely defensive. As a result of asking the server if my particular pastry normally had a chewy rather than crisp texture she asked me not to yell at her. My entire table were baffled at her accusation of yelling since I was just truly curious - not even accusatory or disappointed. Then both servers ignored us for the next 30 minutes- couldn't order something new, couldn't get more water or another beverage- and there were 6 tables open- they were not slammed. Had to go get the manager to get the check - the manager had no idea what to do. He was like a dear caught in headlights- untrained and inexperienced. Truly a bizarre experience with meh pastries- no thank you, so many better options out there.