New Jersey has an abundance of diners, beaches, and pizzerias. One thing we can always count on is finding a favorite local bakery. A mix of Italian, French, Caribbean, Swiss, South American and American-style bakeries line the state and provide mouth-watering and irresistible sweets. Most of these are family-run businesses, oftentimes run by generations of families. The menu of items are made with love and quality ingredients. With so many places from which to chose, we decided to start with bakeries in Central NJ.
In bustling Summit, a long-time favorite awaits you on Broad Street in a nondescript building. But that building holds a special secret. Generations of families have been going to Natales Bakery for special occasions and everyday items like bread since the 1930s. Their custom cakes are well-known across the area. Not only are they a fan favorite for birthday cakes (one friend's family has exclusively gotten them for three generations), but other events such as Baptisms, anniversaries and graduations. With a flair for Italian specialties, they also make fantastic pastries, pies and cheesecakes.
Just a short car ride away is Bakehouse by Joe Murphy in New Providence. Owner and international pastry chef, Murphy, started the business in 2022 after a long career in award-winning and Michelin recognized establishments. He won Beat Bobby Flay in 2023 for his blackout cake. In addition to this favorite, Bakehouse has delectable cookies, brownies, cakes and croissants. Grab a Cappuccino and muffin to start your day off right.
Heading north from New Providence is the Swiss Chalet in Morristown. This cafe also offers breakfast and lunch in addition to its goodies and beautiful cakes. A popular meeting spot on the corner of South Street, it is worth the effort to stop in and grab something to bring home while you get lunch.
If you are gluten-free or have allergies, you can still enjoy wonderful baked items at another area treasure called Two Fields Bakeshop located in Berkeley Heights. Successful pastry chef Nick Nikolopoulos uses high-quality ingredients to make sure his wide assortment of breads, pastries, cakes, muffins, pies, and cookies give patrons products that taste as great as their counterparts. Vegan and dairy free options are also available.
Moving into Somerset County we find Coco Luxe, a French bakery in Peapack. This bakery is a favorite and perfect stop for bicyclists cutting through the backroads or a weekend morning ride in horse country. Hands down, the croissants are the best this side of the Atlantic. Flaky and buttery, they are perfection. Also, not to be missed are the macrons made with precision. They are crisp on the outside and light with a changing variety of flavors. Cakes, pastries, cookies and cafe specialties await you. Try the soup du jour or a sandwich followed by something sweet. There is no chance of leaving without a box of irresistible items.
A trip south of Route 22 brings us to another French bakery, Pierre and Michel, in Somerville. The croissants are a runner up and the pastries are a beautiful array of color. From fruit tarts to cream-filled, the display and elegant setting will make you feel like you stepped into Paris. Dazzling the eyes as much as the appetite with traditional French methods and ingredients.
A few minutes down the road, another long-time area favorite is Randazzo's in Raritan. Offering Italian treats as well as unmatched deli items. Biscotti, black and white cookies, cannoli, elephant ears and Tiramisu are some of the best in the area with people coming from a distance to grab the goodies. When you walk in you will be impressed by the bread and the other Italian food which is sure to make you hungry. From sandwiches to salads and pasta to chicken dishes, you can grab something for dinner or cater a party. Meatball subs, antipasti trays and broccoli rabe are just a few dishes that will impress. Don't forget the cookies though!
Luisana Moronta owns Pastry Lu's in Metuchen, a Dominican influenced bakery. Her experience in a number of New Jersey restaurants and her culinary studies helped form her unique specialties. Dulce de leche cheesecake, guava empanadas, Alfajores and Colombian coffee offer unique flavors in a whimsical pink accented space.
One of the last stops is Chez Alice Patisserie in Lambertville and Princeton. It is managed by Genesis Hospitality, a local area company with seven brands featuring high-end dining, bakeries and inns. Displaying delicate and adorned cakes, the patisserie also offers tarts, Cassis, Flan, and Baguettes. Impressive grab and go items are convenient and delicious. The unique French tea time is elegant and satisfying with a variety of specialties that are sweet or savory.
Wherever you go, you will enjoy the special treats these bakeries offer. Make sure to soak up the atmosphere at a table with a friend and try multiple treats. Or, box up a variety of desserts and bring them to the next holiday party.