Greenpoint, Brooklyn is known for its unique charm and hidden gems, but one spot consistently tops the must-visit lists for locals and tourists alike: Peter Pan Bakery Nyc (often referred to as Peter Pan Donuts). This Manhattan Avenue bakery isn’t just a local favorite; it’s a true New York City landmark, celebrated even without celebrity endorsements like Tina Fey’s well-known affection for the place. Peter Pan Bakery NYC has been the subject of documentaries and featured on countless “best of” lists, from local guides to international publications in Japan. Their summer ice cream sandwiches are legendary, and remarkably, they’ve kept their prices affordable, with donuts still around $1.10 and a satisfying breakfast or lunch for under $10. For anyone who’s spent time in Greenpoint, a trip to Peter Pan Bakery NYC is practically a rite of passage, whether for a morning pick-me-up or a sweet afternoon treat. Over the years, Peter Pan Bakery NYC has subtly evolved, introducing new and exciting flavors that are definitely worth exploring.
Image: A delightful assortment of Peter Pan Bakery NYC’s Valentine’s Day donut collection, showcasing their classic charm and festive spirit.
A Greenpoint Gem with Decades of History
Peter Pan Bakery NYC boasts a rich history dating back to the 1950s. However, the current owners, Donna and Christos Siafakas, took over about 24 years ago, injecting their own passion into this beloved establishment. Donna, a Greenpoint native herself, learned about the previous owner’s retirement plans through her aunt. Interestingly, Donna and Christos’s love story began in another donut shop in Queens, making their acquisition of Peter Pan Bakery NYC feel like destiny. They maintained the bakery’s classic charm, with Christos becoming the head baker, a role later passed down to their son Peter a few years ago. Today, Peter Pan Bakery NYC remains a family affair, with Donna often greeting customers in the mornings and their other son, Demetri, handling the afternoon and closing shifts. This family touch adds to the bakery’s warm and inviting atmosphere.
Image: A close-up shot of Peter Pan Bakery NYC’s delectable Maple donut, highlighting its rich glaze and inviting texture.
Beyond the Classics: Exploring New and Beloved Donut Flavors
While Peter Pan Bakery NYC is famous for its traditional offerings, they’ve also embraced innovation in recent years. Although they expanded their menu to include sandwiches, transforming it from solely a donut shop to a more versatile bakery, the heart of Peter Pan Bakery NYC remains its donuts. Even the staff uniforms are a testament to its history, purchased in bulk due to the original colors being discontinued years ago. Despite maintaining its classic feel, Peter Pan Bakery NYC is busier than ever, sometimes starting baking as early as 10 PM the night before to meet demand. Donna recounts stories of customers traveling from as far as Dubai to taste their donuts, and playfully mentions her dream customers, celebrities Victor Williams and Alec Baldwin.
Image: Peter Pan Bakery NYC’s innovative S’mores donut, revealing the hidden marshmallow beneath a swirl of chocolate.
Many of the exciting new donut flavors are Donna’s creations. Recognizing the desire for novelty, she introduced new options alongside the beloved old-fashioned glazed and chocolate cake donuts. The red velvet donut was the first significant addition and quickly became a customer favorite. Now, Peter Pan Bakery NYC features a rotating selection of “limited edition” flavors daily, including Blueberry Buttermilk, Maple, S’mores, French Toast, Apple Cider Glazed, Apple Cider Cinnamon, Tahitian Cream, and Carrot Cake. They also offer seasonal specialties like St. Joe’s Day zeppole and Fat Thursday pączki. Christos’ contribution, the Apple Fritters, are another must-try, often considered among the best in the city, alongside their renowned streudels.
Image: A mouthwatering Apple Fritter from Peter Pan Bakery NYC, showcasing its crispy edges and generous apple filling.
More Than Just Donuts: Sandwiches and the Peter Pan Experience
While donuts are the star, Peter Pan Bakery NYC also offers sandwiches, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. However, the true draw remains the incredible variety and quality of their donuts, combined with the bakery’s nostalgic charm and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a long-time Greenpoint resident or a visitor exploring NYC, Peter Pan Bakery NYC offers a taste of classic New York and a delightful experience that keeps people coming back for more.
Peter Pan Bakery and Pastry Shop is located at 727 Manhattan Avenue. They are open seven days a week, from approximately 5 AM to 8 PM.
Image: A festive St. Patrick’s Day themed donut from Peter Pan Bakery NYC, decorated with green sprinkles and holiday cheer.
