As a lifelong Portland local, I’ve spent my fair share of time searching for the best bakeries in Portland. What can I say? I have a sweet tooth and don’t need too much convincing to “treat” myself. 😉
It probably comes as no surprise that the birthplace of James Beard is home to some of the biggest talent in the culinary world. The city is full of James Beard award winning bakers and semi-finalists which means we have access to world class pastries within city limits.
But as with anything in life — time is precious. There’s no need to waste time on mediocre bakeries when you can just as easily treat yourself to the best. So without further ado, here’s a list of the best bakeries in Portland — enjoy!
Best Bakeries Portland, Oregon
Ken’s Bakery
Ken’s Bakery is my favorite bakery in Portland. A few years ago I lived on the same block as this famous bakery and found myself waking up to the smell of fresh-baked bread wafting through the air — it was such a treat.
Ken’s Bakery, founded in 2001, has been serving Portlanders for more than 20 years and the long lines every weekend morning prove that this Portland bakery isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
It was started by Ken Forkish, arguably Portland’s most famous baker. His Book Flour Water Salt Yeast, is often considered the holy grail of bread making. This well-decorated bakery has earned praise from Travel + Leisure, USA Today, the LA Times, Food & Wine.
This is the bakery to go to when you’re in need of a perfect baguette, and the loaves are indeed perfect — soft, airy interiors with hearty dark crusts. It’s everything you could hope for in a good loaf of bread, which is why so many restaurants serve Ken’s Bakery breads exclusively.
My favorite items include the goat cheese and leek croissant (my mouth watering as I type this), the Oregon Croissant and seasonal fruit tarts. The pastries from Ken’s are fool-proof crowd pleasers — if they manage to make it to the party at all.
Ken’s is located on popular 21st Avenue in NW Portland, so except long lines especially during weekend mornings. But trust me when I tell you these pastries are completely worth the wait.
Ken Forkish won a James Beard Foundation award for his book Flour Water Salt Yeast: The Fundamentals of Artisan Bread and Pizza.
P.S. Prior to COVID, Ken’s Bakery offered pizzas on Monday nights, I hope they bring that back post-COVID because their pizza is my favorite in Portland!
Location: 338 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Bakeshop
You know that game folks play where they ask “if you could have dinner with anyone (alive or dead) who would it be?” Well, for opt for Kim Boyce, the owner of Bakeshop, to ask her about the filling in her hand pies. Girlfriend, what the heck are you putting into those irresistible treats? Those things could launch a thousand ships.
There’s accolades galore for Bakeshop, one of the most beloved bakeries in Portland. In 2011, Bakeshop’s founder won a James Beard Award for her cookbook Good to Grain: Baking with Whole Grain Flours. And in 2016, she was nominate for the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Baker.
This charming bakery is as delicious as they come, and the heavenly smells adorning the neighborhood in the early morning hours are guaranteed to tempt even the strongest diet-fad disciplinary.
Bakeshop specializes in delectable French baked goods that require great technical skill to master. And master they do, especially if you can snatch them still warm from the oven. Is there anything better than warm baked goods?
Local’s Tip: During COVID, the bakery is only offering online orders for pickup during the weekends. Limited walk-up items are available during the weekend, but they go fast and aren’t guaranteed. Order in advance online.
Address: 5351 NE Sandy Blvd Portland, OR 97213
Grand Central Bakery
Originally started in Seattle, Grand Central Bakery made its way south to Portland and locals were quick to embrace the bakery as one of their own.
Since first opening in 1993, the bakery now boasts seven locations in Portland. It’s not hard to see why though, they churn out warm pastries and perfectly-executed baked goods on a daily basis.
The bakery is best known for their bread, which is offered in various local grocery stores, which is why I suggest ordering sandwich from the bakery if you’re swinging by for lunch because doesn’t get fresher than this.
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Baker & Spice
Baker & Spice first came on my radar due to their cult-like following for birthday cakes. All of my coworkers raved about their treats and I couldn’t help but notice. Thanks to the massive success of their custom cakes, they opened a great bakery right next door where they serve smooth coffee and perfectly baked treats like croissants, coffee cake and sticky buns.
Try to snatch a corner table, if you’re lucky, and spend an easy morning enjoying your freshly baked treat.
Location: 6330 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97239
Jinju Patisserie
Opened in 2019, Jinju Patisserie is the new kid on the block but we can’t remember what we did before them. Offering fancy(ish) pastries in a city known for looking down upon anything fancy, their pastries are completely worth the praise and adoration they’ve earned in such a short time.
Started by two talented Korean women that moved to Portland from Vegas, Jinju churns out picture-perfect baked goods that taste even better than they look — a treat for the eyes and taste buds.
Local’s Tip: There’s no seating inside, but there is a picnic table outside, show up early if you want to enjoy your treat on location.
Location: 4063 N Williams Ave, Portland, OR 97227
Little T Baker
It didn’t take long for Little T Baker to win the hearts of locals and rise to the list of Portland’s best bakeries. Their French baguette could launch a thousand ships and the perfectly airy pastries would keep the crew going for months at sea.
I highly recommend the Kougin Amann (pronounced “queen among”) because it’s the perfect combination of buttery sweet and salty goodness.
The founder of Little T Bakery, Tim Healea, interned at Pearl Bakery and won numerous awards for his undeniable baking talent before opening Little T in 2008. The bakery’s name comes from Tim’s nickname (he was referred to as “Little T” to differentiate him from another Tim).
The baked goods at Little T sell out quickly on the weekends, so arrive early and hungry. Also, expect lines, but the baked goods are worth it.
Location: 2600 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
Lovejoy Bakers
Lovejoy Bakers is one of the most popular bakeries in Portland. The sun-soaked space is full of heavenly smells and delectable baked goods.
The buttery croissants have a satisfying flaky bite, the muffins are perfectly moist and the tarts can satisfy the most ardent sweet-tooth.
Since this Portland bakery is beloved by locals, it’s not uncommon for the line to be out the door during weekend mornings. Try to come early before they sell out of their breakfast goods and don’t skip the Lovejoy Deluxe breakfast sandwich, it’s my favorite.
From the website: Airy and spacious, our Pearl Location is in the middle of it all. Featuring a full selection of espresso, teas, fresh breads, pastries and café sandwiches. We’re here for your pre-work espresso, a power lunch, and on your way home, pick up a baguette for dinner.
Location: 939 NW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Nuvrei
I first discovered Nuvrei while searching for the best almond croissants in Portland. Since then, they’ve moved into a bigger space (upstairs from their first location) and have expanded their selection of baked goods.
Trained in French techniques, Marius Pop opened Nuvrei when he moved to Portland from New York City. He’s no stranger to innovation and his creative treats are a testament to the joys of creative experimentation. You’ll find Nuvrei treats peppered throughout various Portland cafes for good reason — they’re irresistible!
Address: 404 NW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
St. Honoré
St. Honoré is consistently listed as one of the best French bakeries in Portland. When I was taking French classes it was not uncommon for us to meet here to practice over warm croissants and hot coffee. The quality of the pastries are a testament to St. Honoré’s commitment to fresh and local ingredients.
My favorite item on the menu are the chouquettes (buttery and sweet puff pastry balls topped with rock sugar). But honestly you can’t go wrong with the Napoleons or a classic eclair either. Just make sure you don’t miss their lunch salads and sandwiches, they always seem to hit the spot.
Locations:
- 2335 NW Thurman St | Portland, OR 97210
- 501 SW Broadway St | Portland, OR 97205
- 3333 SE Division St | Portland, OR 97202
- 315 1st St Suite 103 | Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Maurice
Maurice is one of my favorite brunch spots if not for the pastries alone. Maurice is a Nordic/French luncheonette specializing in fika, which is a Swedish custom that entails a break from activity during which people drink coffee, eat cakes or other light snacks, and relax with others.
Clear standouts include the black pepper cheesecake and rosemary scones.
Address: 921 SW Oak St, Portland, OR 97205
Best Portland Bakeries (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the best bakeries in Portland
- Ken’s Bakery
- Bakeshop
- Grand Central Bakery
- Little T American Baker
- Baker & Spice
- Jinju Patisserie
- Lovejoy Bakers
- Nuvrei
- St. Honoré
- Maurice
I hope you enjoyed this quick round up of my favorite bakeries in Portland, feel free to reach out with comments and questions!
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Until next time,
Antonina
These all sound wonderful. What I am also looking for is a place that will deliver locally to an address in Portland around Christmas since I live in MA