Levain Bakery

We visited Boston in Aug 25. We found this bakery round the corner from our hotel. It serves fresh bread daily but we were smitten by the cookies which were some of the best we have eaten. As you can see from the photos they have many varieties to choose from. One thing we particularly liked was the cookies and ice cream. It is all reasonably priced with a good selection of different coffees. I would definitely come back to this place again.

Tried the gluten free cookie. Flavor was great but honestly it was under baked in the middle 😕 Also, I asked a few dietary questions. Staff said they aren't told much about the ingredients to share with customers. Wasn't thrilled about that personally. However, the staff was very friendly which was nice. There's not really any space to sit inside except for one round bench and table. Nonetheless, if you're grabbing and going, it's not an issue.

Stumbled upon this shop after having lunch. My eyes were wide open after seeing and smelling all the different flavors. I chose the caramel coconut chocolate chip cookie. It was deliciousness in each bite! Cookies are a bit expensive, but it’s worth a try! Definitely returning.

I know these cookies are expensive, but given it’s still comparable to other cookies near Rittenhouse Square, these ones are definitely my favorite. I got a chocolate chip walnut and they gave one to me warm. It was thick and buttery, without being overly sugary or rich. The quality of the ingredients you can tell are elite quality. I would definitely recommend checking this place out.

Levain was a cookie spot I was holding off for a bit until the crowds and the hype finally dispersed, I’m very glad I finally got to try them! The price is pretty steep, $5.25 for ONE cookie. But, the cookies were slightly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s perfectly sweet and served warm. I would definitely be back to try their new specialty flavors!

The very best goofy cookies I have ever tasted! The best part for this branch is you don’t have to wait on the line for 45 minutes to get a cookie like NYC. They have a new cookie for a limited time “ coffee toffee” and it is a must try!

Feb 2025: Updating my initial review (see below), with all due credit to Levain's amazing service recovery. After communicating my feedback on their website, Levain promptly reached out to me to apologize and even refunded my original order. They also informed me that I could ask for cookies to be warmed up on-site (pro tip here!), which I definitely will request in future. Their customer service is indeed first-rate, and I will be returning to Levain Rittenhouse to give it another shot! *** Original review: Jan 2025 I was besotted by Levain over 10 years ago when I first took a bite of their signature chocolate chip walnut cookie right outside their OG location in NYC’s Upper West Side. It was fresh out of the oven - crispy and craggy on the outside, and all sorts of melty-gooey inside. So good that we got another cookie - the dark chocolate peanut butter chip one - which immediately became my favorite. Ever since then, I made it a point to visit Levain at any of their locations whenever I was in NYC, and later on in Boston when they opened a Newbury St location. I’ve had nothing but fabulous experiences at the above - the cookies are always warm with the same textural experience that I first enjoyed back in 2014 on the UWS. I was thrilled when they decided to open a bakery here in Philadelphia. Unfortunately… I haven’t had quite the same experience at the Walnut St location (and I’ve been there several times, as I thought I’d give them a chance to sort out teething issues since they only opened in late 2024). First, the cookies are never warm (room temperature is the best it gets) - which immediately causes the satisfaction rating to plummet. Next, I’m not quite sure what it is - but some of the flavors seem to be nearly rock-hard on the outside (I’m looking at you, oatmeal raisin), which most decidedly was not my experience at any of the NYC or Boston locations. Add to that the fact that they’re cold, and the cookie is pretty much nothing more than a rock bun of sorts, as the insides are only marginally better than the outsides. To be fair, I did purchase some cookies to take home, and they were significantly better once they’d been heated up in the oven. That being said, I expect that same level of deliciousness - jf not more - if I were to have said cookies at the bakery itself. After all, they’re supposed to be freshest then! I really want to love Levain on Walnut St, but unfortunately it’s not on par with what I expect from a Levain Bakery location. I really hope they look into their processes and step up their game. If nothing else - warm cookies, please!

I went to the Levain Bakery opening on Walnut St a few months back and I had a great experience. Everything was nicely displayed in there and the decor was so cute. I got 2 of the two chip chocolate chip cookies and an iced caramel latte. The latte was fantastic and one cookie is very filling (very chocolatey btw). The prices were fair for the portion sizes. This place is a good option for a quick dessert or even coffee. I also apologize for forgetting to take photos of my food :/

I first fell in love with Levain in New York city in 2020. As soon as I noticed there was one near my hotel in Philly, I decided to stop by and get a sweet treat for the train ride home. I highly recommend ordering their original flavor, the chocolate chip walnut, it's just simply delicious. I ordered one of those and a dark chocolate peanut butter cup. Their cookies here are comparable to scones. Huge sizes with a crunch on the outside and a gooeyness on the inside. This was an easy walk from my hotel in a super walkable part of town. Parking seems a bit tougher to find here, but that wasn't an issue for me. I came on a Tuesday morning and there was pretty much no line. The gentleman who helped me was really kind and helpful. I highly recommend checking this spot out for a delicious decadent treat.

Always wanted to try Levain cookies, but didn't get a chance to in NYC. My cousin told me they opened up recently in Philly, so we tried them out while I was visiting. The shop is nestled in downtown Philly. It can be difficult to find street parking in the evening or rush hours. The exterior of the shop was nicely decorated for the holidays and I appreciated how they added the bow to the box for the cookies to add a touch of elegance. The cookies are huge and $5.25 each. We tried the two chocolate chip, chocolate chip walnut, dark chocolate peanut butter, and caramel coconut chocolate chip cookies. I enjoyed all the cookies with the chocolate chip walnut and caramel coconut chocolate chip being my favorites. My least favorite was the two chocolate chip cookies. Too many chocolate chips for me, which ended in a bitter taste. I would definitely get them again, as I appreciated the not overly sweet element to them and found them to be baked nicely. I find Crumbl and some others underbaked and too sweet with all the frosting.

I always forget to try Levain when I'm in NYC so when I learned there was one in Philly and walking distance from me, I finally got a chance to try it. Its a clean, put together bakery that's mostly an order and go. Staff were really pleasant and nice about letting us know what they had available. I got the original cookie as well as their fall chocolate chunk cookie. The original was good but not life changing as people all seem to claim. Its a pleasant chocolate chip cookie with walnuts and its pretty thick. The fall chocolate chunk was my favorite though, gingerbready flavors with nice chunks of chocolate. The cookies are a bit of an indulgence, price wise, and a fun treat. It's not worth the hype, to me, but I believe the hypes died down so you can go in and out pretty quick.

36 different types of donuts, there will be one for you. I absolutely loved my French cruller and the Boston cream pie. I was a little less of a fan of their moose stuffed donuts. And I got 3 of those in my half dozen. In the bustling reading terminal

Cyle whom I talked to at my first visit was working. He was very helpful and patient with my friend who came to the store for the first time. He suggested my friend to get the coffee toffee. It's seasonal but I wish it becomes a permanent item. It is my favorite cookie. Super crunchy on the edges from the toffee. So addicting.

I came in primarily to check out their architectural approach to converting the bank building to a cookie shop, but was pleasantly surprised to find a GF cookie option for me! I'm giving a 5-star solely based on the cookie, which was thick and deliciously walnutty. It was $6.25 but big enough to be two cookies, in reality. Somehow they manage to cook it all the way to the middle despite its girth -- something that would probably be impossible at home. Levain's certainly a refreshing alternative to the typical normie bakeries like Au Bon Pain/Insomnia Cookies/Pre a Manger. If you can have gluten there's some really enticing options it seems, too.

This cookie place just opened up in Rittenhouse. The cookies are so big and there was a ton of variety. In the inside of the store there was a big line for people waiting for cookies. There were example pieces of the cookies out for display. From the counter, you can see all of the baking tools and people hard at work making cookies. The place doesn't really have any tables to sit at. There was a small area available in the front in order to sit and enjoy the cookies as well. The lady working the counter recommended the Coconut Chocolate Chip. It was so warm and big. There were definitely fresh coconut shavings mixed in with chocolate chips.

I finally made it to the bakery, I arrived early morning and didn't have a wait. I was the only customer in the shop and I was immediately greeted. The smell was absolutely amazing! I ordered the cinnamon loaf and a walnut chocolate chip cookie. I had the cookie a few hours later, and the loaf the next day and both were very fresh. The cookie was the perfect amount of sweetness and very chunky. It had a very unique taste, different than any other chocolate chip cookie that I've eaten. I absolutely enjoyed it! The cinnamon loaf was so moist and soft and yummy with a cup of coffee. I definitely recommend their pastry and their big cookie which they're known for and I'm glad that I finally had an opportunity to try them.

Dense, thick and oversized! A pretty decent cookie, but I got an evening batch and the cookie ate a tad dry. Not sure if that's intentional as I've never had a Levain Bakery cookie before, but I desired something more gooey. Size value, felt a bit overpriced ($5.77 before tax) Overall taste was solid. The walnut helped cut the sweetness of the chocolate chips, and there might have been a pinch of sea salt as well.

Fall Chocolate Chip Cookie I cannot tell you how ecstatic I am that Levain opened a shop in Philly! I last had a Levain cookie years ago in NYC and I haven't stopped thinking about it since. They were super cute and giving out free cookies as a shop opening gift and I got this huge fall chocolate chip cookie! I adore that their cookies are so ginormous they're practically a meal in themselves. And the flavors are incredible and not too sweet. Nice and crunchy on the outside and soft in the inside. The most perfect treat

Ordered the chocolate chip walnut cookie and it was raw in the middle. For the outerparts of the cookie, it was tasty. Lots of chocolate and very heavy. Service was fast, but they probably still have a few kinks to work for quality control.

Levain Bakery has finally opened in Philly, so I had to check out what all the buzz was about. Their $5.25 cookies are famous worldwide, so I was excited to give them a try. We got the Chocolate Chip Walnut and the seasonal Fall Cookie. The Fall Cookie, which isn't advertised very clearly (it's essentially a gingerbread cookie), had an overpowering nutmeg flavor that I didn't love. The Chocolate Chip Walnut was decent, but honestly, it didn't live up to the hype. We also tried the Raspberry Bomboloncini. The dough was a little dry, but the filling was tasty--then again, it's hard to go wrong with a jam filling. Overall, the treats were good, but not great, and for the price, I'm not sure I'd recommend them. If you're curious, it's worth trying, but I wouldn't rush back.

Caramel coconut chocolate chip cookie is the best! Crunchy on the edges, doughy, chewy, gooey in the center. The coconut adds a savory contrast with the sweetness of the chocolate chip and caramel. Highly recommend Fall chocolate chunk was a letdown. It crumbled apart and the consistency was off. Sour cream coffee cake tasted like a standard coffee cake. Sugar crumbles at the top soft cake not too sweet. I wouldn't order it again

I first went to Levain (NYC) when I began working in the city in 2003. The cookies were unlike any others I'd had.....they still are. They're not 'my mother's chocolate chips'....but sometimes I wish they were. I got 3 cookies - the chocolate chip, dark chocolate peanut and oatmeal raisin. I couldn't remember exactly what the cookies were like, and I was surprised by how many chocolate chips there were - at times, it seemed liked I was eating chocolate with a little cookie. While my memory isn't what it used to be, I didn't think the cookies I recall having in 2003 had as many chips. I'm a big chocolate lover, and the chocolate in the cookies melts decadently in your mouth. However, it's not what I look for in a good cookie. In addition, see the attached pictures, the dense, thick nature of these cookies detracts from the eating experience. We're talking about a cookie that's between a quarter to half pound - it's a thick, heavy cookie. The oatmeal raisin cookie is as thick and dense, and unfortunately the dough doesn't resemble oatmeal - it's not the same type and consistency of the chocolate chip cookies, but it's not the oatmeal texture of my mother's Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies. It's a less expensive sweeter alternative to oatmeal - I'm sure there is 'some' oatmeal in the cookie, but it's undetectable. I was walking home and happened to pass Taylor Chip cookies, which you can see in the attached pictures. I compared the two cookies. I'll have a review out for Taylor when they list the Philadelphia location on Yelp.

Finalllyyyyyyyyyy. Adding Levain to Philly was such a good business move. First of all, the buttery chocolate smell as you walk by the store is intoxicatingly good and if you're strong enough to walk by and not get roped in, good job. The line goes by pretty quick and the workers are all very pleasant despite being so busy. I ordered a classic cookie, a dark chocolate PB cookie (each $5.25), and an iced latte ($4) with regular milk. Classic cookie: 4/5 Dark chocolate PB cookie: 5/5!!!! So so good, not bitter at all Iced latte: 5/5 I love the beans they use, literally so much better than Starbucks to me! Levain is a great addition to philly and i can't wait to grab some cookies when i'm having a major sweet tooth!

Enormous cookies with a crunchy exterior that gets softer as you get closer to the middle interior of the cookie. It really is the best of both worlds for those who enjoy foods that have different textural components. How they're able to combine the 2 textures into 1 cookie is by making it into a bigger cookie. When I say bigger, I mean it's a lot bigger and thicker than traditional cookies. The thickness of these cookies remind me of a muffin and the size is close to that of a muffin as well. In terms of taste, these cookies are too sweet for my liking. I wish they made versions that are less sweet for those who prefer cookies that are less sweet. I got the Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter but was disappointed that the dark chocolate flavor is not that prominent and the cookie was still incredibly sweet to the point where it was cloying. My favorite cookie has to be their original, the chocolate chip walnut because in my opinion, that one is the least sweet and most palatable. I've had Levain cookies in their NY location before and I remember them being nice and warm. The cookies at this location were not warm even when I ate them on the spot. I hope that it's only because they are new so they make bigger batches than they normally do. There isn't really a line because of how fast they serve the cookies. The cookies are all premade sitting in a rack behind the registers so that's probably why they weren't warm. Overall, this cookie spot has a lot of potential. I hope that they will serve warmer cookies in the future when the hype dies down because they're not really living up to the fresh, warm, ooey gooey cookies that their NYC location is known for. Maybe next time I will try asking which is the warmest cookie to see if that changes my experience.

Awesome cookies as good as NYC location and great customer service.Chocolate chips and oatmeal cookies were the best.

Levain Bakery really wows with the size of its cookies! Though pricey ($5.25), their cookies re-heated and with some milk were delicious! -- Originally from NYC, Levain Bakery recently opened a branch in Philadelphia. Newly opened, expect a crowd/line, but don't expect to wait long. I arrived on a weekday evening and waited no longer than 10 minutes, even with a long line. The servers are fast and friendly and do their best to move the line along. The interior is bright, sleek, and modern. I honestly loved the look! I tried both the original chocolate chip walnut and the caramel coconut chocolate chip cookies. The cookies are very large and are very round/tall. I found the cookies were a little too large and sweet to eat one in a sitting. But, this was all for the best because after heating the cookies at home (and pairing some milk), the cookies honestly tasted far better than when cold! The reheating highlights the gooey chocolate and fillings, which are complemented by the nice crunch from the nuts. If you're craving a decadent cookie to splurge on and enjoy eating at home, Levain Bakery deserves a visit!

Was a bit hesitant to try as they are a bit pricey for a cookie ($5.25!), but was actually very well baked and near perfect. They are quite large and chock full of chips or whichever type you got (seasonal flavors, nuts, etc.). Definitely far above any run of the mill cookies, and great ingredients used to make them. They also have a few other bakery items and merch for sale inside. Lots of interest and they constantly bake the cookies made fresh to keep up with the demand. Definitely would say they're one of the best, no flaws at all. An excellent treat! Thanks.

First time trying levain! Cookie was very decadent and had tons of peanut butter chips. Would definitely recommend splitting with someone! Cute bakery with minimal seating. Everyone was super nice.

Levain bakery makes delicious crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside cookies! The inside smells so sweet, delicious and heavenly with the fresh baked cookies! I've only tried their cookies but there are also other freshly baked pastries. I did online ordering which is efficient. Excited to have Levain in Philly!

I've been waiting all summer for Levain to open and they are finally here! I stopped by for opening day, seemingly during a midday lull in the line because I somehow only waited 30 minutes. Staff were really friendly, well-trained, and efficient, the line moved pretty fast, and the cookies tasted exactly like they did in NYC. I also picked up a blueberry muffin, my second favorite item after the OG chocolate walnut cookie, and it's just as good as I remembered. I'm not sure if I missed it, but I didn't see any seating inside, which surprised me as I remembered reading that Levain took over a two-story space. It looks like they just went for super high ceilings instead. Overall the space feels really airy and it's cool to be able to peek back a little into the kitchen, which was bustling with full racks of freshly baked goods. Levain might be some "bougie bullshit," in the words of a very Philly man walking down past the line on the sidewalk, but what they do, they do well. And based on the opening day line, which stretched down 2 city blocks before the bakery even opened its doors, it seems like that strong quality control has amassed a huge following. Welcome to Philly, Levain!

These are huge cookies with a crunchy exterior and gooey center. It's a perfect combination of crunchy and soft! I completely understand the hype. The walnut chocolate chip cookie is unique because it is not overly sweet. The nuts add great texture to the cookie as well. The two chip chocolate chip is perfect for chocolate chip cookie lovers, it is very decadent. Pro tip if you do not eat it right away, heat them up in the oven at 350° for five minutes. They turned out perfect! Will definitely come back to try the other baked goods.

Gave these cookies a second shot after mot liking them them in New York. Still a no for me. Though the googie-ness is nice, they have a very greasy after taste and feeling. Even worst when microwaving the leftovers the next day. I asked my friends who had them in NY if they wanted any when I was picking some up. They all said no cause they didn't like the NY ones either. They did take a bit of mine and we all agree, we gave it a second shot. We're okay with saying it is not for us.

The store is really nicely decorated and has a lot of supplies! I got 2 types of cookies and liked the chocolate chip the most. The staff was friendly and fast! Was only able to eat 1/2 of the cookie in one sitting because it was soo heavy ! Cookies are $5+ each which is kinda hefty but they are super dense.

cookies are large and taste good! not the best ever, but still very good. I wish they were heated up a bit more. i would recommend the two chip chocolate chip over the walnut chip. the service was very friendly and the I know the line here tends to be long / high volume, but the service does a great job at serving everyone quickly! I went on a weeknight around dinner time and there were still some people - quite a popular place and worth checking out a cookie!

Came here after work on a Thursday. There was a short line, but it moved fast. There is no seating and it feels kinda sterile but the staff was friendly. I ordered 3 cookies which was about $16. I ordered the special fall chocolate chip cookie, the double chocolate cookie, and the coconut chocolate cookie. I would say my favorite was with the double chocolate or the coconut. These cookie are dense and tasty. Not my favorite cookie I have ever had but I would definitely get them again as a treat. Glad this opened up in Philly.

When visiting a friend in Philadelphia, I was so excited to hear they recently opened a Levain Bakery! I had never visited Levain, but my homemade chocolate chip recipe was originally based off of a copycat recipe of their cookies, so I had to check it out. Firstly, this location is visually appealing. The space is also a decent size, although it was pretty crowded since it is still pretty new. After about a 10 minute wait in line, we were ready to order and we ordered several cookies to go. They were pretty darn tasty! They have several options without it feeling too overwhelming with choices.

I love levain loaf. They are so nice and moist. My favorite cookie would be the chocolate chip walnut out of the ones I try. Service was great and there is usually a crowd/ line but they move pretty fast. It's a cute little store with no sitting place so just go and grab your bakery items.

A fun new addition to Walnut Street / Rittenhouse Square neighborhood! Walking by, you'll get a whiff of the delicious goods baking inside. Step into the bakery, and the smell is intoxicating!! The cookies are big, definitely shareable. I love the cold brew - a surprise hit! All of the employees are sweet and friendly. Great new staple for Center City Philly :)

Came in town and to my surprised there's a Levin in Philadelphia! My gosh what a sweet treat! There was a line outside but it was organized and quick! The store itself looked very clean and nice. The set up is small so it's more a grab and go than a sit down but absolutely the best cookies in NYC and now Philly!

Walking towards Rittenhouse Square, we noticed a shop with a line out the door and learned that a Levain had recently opened up. Having never tried the fabled cookie, I was intrigued and joined the queue. It moved quickly enough and I was greeted with friendly staff and a large selection of cookies. We got the classic walnut chocolate chip and it was very good. Crunchy, nutty, and a hint of sweetness. It was a bit too dense and doughy, however. The iced latte was great. The coffee was rich and smooth and the drink was creamy with a nice touch of sweetness. This is definitely a great addition to Philly!

WARNING! These are not cookies, they're muffin tops! LOL The minute you walk into this sparkling, clean place the cookie service representatives ask if you need assistance. The "cookies" are big and delicious. I also purchased a baguette, which was fresh and perfectly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Levain, welcome to Philadelphia!

Line was long but they kept it moving for opening day. The cookies are amazing as always. The workers were so nice and patient. So excited to have this wonderful cookie place in Philly now!! It's a bit loud inside but they are quick. They did give me the wrong cookie which I didn't know until I bit into it. I wanted two chip but got the chocolate chip walnut. It's unfortunate since I'm mildly allergic to walnuts when I ingest them but I get it they were busy I guess and things weren't labeled. Hopefully won't be an issue in the future.

Grand opening today. Line moves fast and the bakery smells delicious. I can't wait to try these cookies.

I've been to Levain about 3 times now. And I love how when I'm approaching, I already begin to smell fresh baked cookies. I love how it's open late! I'm addition to the cookies which are so delicious, I've also tried the baked goods and breads which are reasonably priced and delicious as well! The location isn't very large so sometimes it's filled up with a line, but when I go later in the day on a weekday, there is rarely a line, but even when there is a line, it moves fast.

The cookies are thick and pricey! They have different kinds and even have a gluten free option. Service was good and friendly. There is no real ambiance as you take the cookies to go. $5-$6 is a lot for a cookie, but it is worth a try.

That crispy fat gooey chocolate cookie is EVERYTHING !! My daughter surprised me with one. She said I needed to have it with milk. But I couldn't wait and had it with cinnamon tea. I told myself I would make it last a week. Right!!!

Great layout. Quick service. Employees were super personable. The baked goods and coffee were tasty. Excited to have this in the neighborhood!

If you have a sweet tooth or just a dessert craving, Levain Bakery is an absolute must-try! I was so impressed with the cookies and can't wait to go back to try more of their flavors. We had the limited edition Chocolate Chip Walnut and the Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip, and they were both incredible. Fresh from the oven, they had that perfect gooey center--almost like a cookie-cake hybrid. So indulgent and satisfying! The bakery itself was decorated cute , with a variety of other pastries and breads to choose from, making it the perfect spot to satisfy any dessert craving. Service was fast and staff were helpful .Highly recommend!

Went at 10:45 PM after a show at the Kimmel. There was no line (good) and five employees. I'm not sure why there needed to be so many people there. None of them were welcoming and they seemed annoyed that we were there to be honest, Tried the dark chocolate peanut butter and it really was delicious! The cookies aren't much to look at and there is little variety of baked goods in the store to choose from but it did taste very good!

Visited Levain on a Sunday afternoon. The line was not too long was in and out in about 8 mins. I realized they had a cute seating nook area, could fit maybe 5 people. I order the classic Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie, it was so soft and moist. I enjoyed it and would visit again.

I love Levain bakery and am so happy they opened one here in Philadelphia! The cookies are so gooey inside and are perfect every single time. Definitely one of the best cookies ever! I always go for a classic chocolate chip or chocolate walnut. Next time, I want to try their other bakery items.

Had to go back for me. The chocolate chip was calling my name! Thank yall so much for the positive energy and welcoming experience again. Great relaxing environment.

With so many flavors and companies to choose from its mind blowing, but I'm determined to eat each and every one of them they're delicious

OMG! This place is absolutely fabulous! The cookies are thick, warm and delicious The service is amazing! You order and wait a few minutes for them to bring them out to you personally! There are so many amazing items to choose from, I'll definitely be returning to try more

Levain Bakery - Ritten. 1518 Walnut St Yes No Maybe Amazing! What went well? A few things to consider in your review Food Service Ambiance * Your review needs at least 85 characters. Add a few more thoughts to post review. How would you rate your experience? Post review

Visiting Philadelphia for the holiday and stopped by this location. Gluten free chocolate chip w/walnuts were dry, dense and disappointing, the nuts were stale. I hand carried a blueberry muffin and chocolate chip walnut cookie home, for my husband. He was not impressed, both muffin and cookie are very dense and dry.

Went in today on lunch break to buy the famed two chip cookie very dissatisfied. Bottom was burnt black, inside seemed under baked and it tasted milk chocolatey chip. I did not taste any semisweet. Not worth the money.