Skip to main content

51st Bakery & Cafe
$ · French, Bakery

5-33 51st Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
Are you the owner? Claim this business

ZipPicks Awards

Best French in Long Island City Best Bakery in Long Island City

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

51st Bakery & Cafe 8.0
Long Island City-Hunters Point
Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Brunch Bliss Spots Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A compact neighborhood café that quietly overdelivers on croissants, coffee, and breakfast/lunch staples—more everyday French-leaning bakery energy than formal bistro. It’s best as a reliable routine stop: one pastry, one savory sandwich, and you’re out without over-ordering.
Must-Try Dishes: Ham & cheese croissant, Egg sandwich (breakfast), Homemade chocolate chip cookie
Scores:
Value: 8.6 Service: 8.2 Consistency: 8.1 Food Quality: 8.3 Atmosphere: 7 Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Neighborhood bakery-café comfort with strong pastries and repeatable lunch options.
Who should go: Coffee-and-croissant regulars
When to visit: Morning or weekday lunch
What to order: Ham & cheese croissant, egg sandwich, cookie
Insider tip: Keep it simple—one pastry plus one sandwich is the sweet spot.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; usually manageable during mornings and weekday afternoons, tighter on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—anything from athleisure to work-from-home basics fits right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy conversation, light café buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is a daytime bakery-café.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; brief line during noon rush but tables turn quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—egg sandwiches, pastries, and a few meat-free lunch options.
Vegan options: Limited—mostly pastries or sides; best for light snacking rather than a full vegan meal.
Gluten-free options: Very limited—no dedicated gluten-free pastry program.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual coffee meet than a full date—short, low-pressure, and easy to exit gracefully.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—ordering is counter-service and seating is first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick stops—simple pastries and cookies work well, but it’s not set up for long kid-focused meals.
Best For
Better for: Reliable everyday pastries, quick breakfasts, and budget-friendly café routines without lines or fuss.
Skip if: You’re looking for a destination bakery, elaborate plated brunch, or a long sit-down café experience.