Originating from Eastern European Jewish immigrants, the black and white cookie has risen from humble beginnings to become a beloved staple in New York City’s bakeries. Finding great black and white cookies. With its distinctive yin-yang appearance and perfect balance of vanilla and chocolate flavors, this iconic treat symbolizes the city’s cultural diversity and is a true representation of the city’s melting pot.
I’ve eaten more black and white cookies than I care to admit.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Black and White Cookie in NYC
Table of Contents. Where to Get the Best NYC Black & White Cookie
Table of Contents. New York City Black and White Cookies
The vibe is low-key and comfortable. No frills, no attitude. just good food in a space that doesn’t try too hard.
Bread’s Bakery
Website. Bread’s Bakery
Neighborhood.Upper East Side
Address. 1294 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10021
Breads Bakery is undoubtedly one of the best bakeries in all of New York City. Gaining popularity for their award-winning chocolate babka, their excellence extends beyond the loaf of bread to include uniquely flavorful black and white cookies.
These cookies, featuring a croissant-like texture from laminated dough, boldly redefine tradition. There’s also a surprise chocolate layer that adds a really good touch of sweetness. My only complaint is that this beloved New York City black and white cookie is that it’s only sold at Breads’ Upper East Side location. But trust me when I tell you the trek is worth the treat.
Orwashers
Website. Orwashers
Neighborhood.Upper East Side & Upper West Side
Address. 308 E. 78th Street & 440 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY
Established in 1916, Orwashers has remained a beloved institution in New York City, serving generations of locals. Renowned for their commitment to traditional baking techniques honed over a century, the Orwasher family brought their recipes from Hungary to the Upper East Side.
With their expertise in baking, it’s no surprise that Orwashers crafts some of the best black and white cookies in NYC. Blurring the line between cake and cookie, these treats have a fluffy, pancake-like texture. The frosting perfectly complements the cookie’s soft texture, offering a treat that melts in your mouth.
Local tip. Insider move. ask for the off-menu special.
Russ & Daughters
Website. Russ & Daughters
Neighborhood.Lower East Side
Address. 179 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
Famous for churning out some of the best bagels in New York City, Russ & Daughters may not be your first. Thought for a black and white cookie in NYC, but adding one to your order is a choice you won’t regret. Differing from the soft texture of Orwashers’ cookie, Russ & Daughters’ version tends to be firmer.
With subtle hints of almond and vanilla, accompanied by just a touch of lemon, this cookie distinguishes itself with a unique flavor profile. Breaking it in half reveals a satisfying snap, creating the ideal complement to their incredible bagels.
The kind of place you’ll tell friends about. and then wish you hadn’t.
Zabar’s
Website. Zabar’s
Neighborhood.Upper West Side
Address. 2245 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Founded in 1934 and serving New Yorkers for 80+ years, Zabar’s is quite possibly the most beloved grocery store in New York City. It’s hard to imagine a more old-fashioned, family run grocery store in the Big Apple. But I’m not here to tell you where to do your grocery shopping. I’m filling you in on a not-so well kept secret. Zabar’s makes one of the best black. And white cookies in NYC. Not too big and not too sweet, the cookie at Zabar’s is expertly balanced. It’s a great introduction to NYC black and white cookies since it’s traditional and tasty.
Empire Cake
Website. Empire Cake
Neighborhood.Chelsea
Address. 112 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Located a mere two blocks from the High Line (one of the best parks in New York City) is Empire Cake, one of the best bakeries in Chelsea. Although Empire Cake’s fame comes from their homemade twinkies and cupcakes, they also make one of the best black and white cookies in NYC. It’s spongy and soft, and completely dipped in chocolate. Unlike other black and white cookies in New York City that only ice the top, the chocolate dip makes this one of the sweetest black and white cookies in New York City.
Unpopular opinion. I’ll die on this hill. NYC’s cookie scene is better than its cupcake scene ever was.
William Greenberg
Website. William Greenberg
Neighborhood. Upper East Side & Upper West Side
Address. 1100 Madison Ave & 285 Amsterdam Ave
Since 1946, William Greenberg Desserts has been a revered bakery in the Upper East Side, earning its place as one of the oldest and best in NYC. With a successful second location in the Upper West Side, this iconic establishment’s NYC black and white cookies consistently top award lists.
Unlike other bakeries where black and white cookies are secondary, they shine as William Greenberg’s main attraction. Known as the quintessential and most iconic in NYC, these cookies offer a burst of originality.
Beyond black and white, the bakery also crafts a variety of colorful cookies. A visit to William Greenberg Desserts is not complete without indulging in one of these delights, sure to leave you dreaming for more.
Quick Recap of the Best Black and White Cookies in New York City (Post Summary)
- William Greenberg
- Empire Cake
- Zabar’s
- Bread’s Bakery
- Russ & Daughters
- Orwashers
What to Know Before You Go
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
NYC Black and White Cookies (Helpful Map)
Frequently Asked Questions
For the best black and white cookies in NYC, consider exploring iconic bakeries like Orwasher’s, Breads Bakery, or William Greenberg Desserts.
While black and white cookies are enjoyed in various places, they are often associated with New York, where they have become a classic and popular treat.
Black and White Cookies gained fame in NYC for symbolizing the city’s diverse food culture and serving as a beloved treat with both chocolate and vanilla icing.
A fun fact about black and white cookies is that they are often cited in popular culture, famously mentioned in the television show “Seinfeld” as Jerry Seinfeld’s favorite treat.
More Helpful (Sweet) Links
Best Dessert.12 Iconic New York City Desserts (Worth the Wait)
The Best Cookies.10 Tantalizing New York City Cookies (Worth the Wait)
The Best Cannolis.10 Can’t Miss Cannolis in New York City (To Satisfy a Craving)
Where to Find Fall Treats.15 Festive Fall Treats in New York City (You Don’t Want to Miss!)
The Best Ice Cream.15 New York City Ice Cream Shops to Enjoy by Summer’s End
Best Dessert for Kids. 15 Dessert Spots in New York City to Visit with Kids (Worth the Sticky Mess)
And there you have it, the best black and white cookies NYC has to offer.
Cheers!
Looking for more? My 10 Tantalizing New York City Cookies (Local’s Guide). another essential NYC guide.
I want to hear from you. What’s the best cookie you’ve ever had in NYC? Drop the spot in the comments!
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our guide to 5+ Flavorful Black and White Cookies in New York City (The City’s BEST Treat). Drop a comment below and let us know! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these best black and white cookies NYC options won’t disappoint.
Exploring the neighborhood? Check out our guide to things to do in Upper West Side for more local recommendations.
The Bottom Line
Finding great 5+ Flavorful Black and White Cookies in New York City in New York City doesn’t have to be a gamble.
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