Birley Bakery, the acclaimed London patisserie by Robin Birley, officially opens its doors in the United States this summer at 20 East 69th Street in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. This marks the bakery’s second location globally, and its highly anticipated U.S. debut. A sophisticated homage to the fading tradition of the French neighborhood boulangerie-pâtisserie, Birley Bakery offers a distinctly European experience with a New York twist. Overseen by renowned maître pâtissier Vincent Zanardi, the menu blends old-world craftsmanship with modern creativity, showcasing beloved signatures like the Cravat pastry – a savory take on a classic pork hot dog – and the Raspberry Tarte Tropézienne, a delicately soaked orange blossom brioche filled with light crème diplomat.
“The Upper East Side felt like the perfect home for us – there’s a strong sense of tradition here that reflects our own values. Day by day, baguette by baguette, we’re looking forward to becoming part of the rhythm of the neighbourhood – a true local bakery for the community, ” says Vincent Zanardi, Executive Head of Bakery and Pastry at Birley Bakery, Robin Birley Holdings.
Birley Bakery offers a thoughtfully curated all-day menu, featuring a wide range of savory and sweet options, from delicate pastries, fresh breads, and cakes to soups, salads, and signature chocolates. Highlights include the cult-favorite 80% bitter chocolate ice cream and inventive flavor pairings such as dark chocolate with Sicilian pistachio or candied Corsican fruit in the signature orangettes. A dedicated coffee bar serves a selection of hot and iced beverages, including espresso drinks, specialty teas, organic juices, and more. The café menu spans breakfast and lunch, with morning favorites like Croissant, Eggs Benedict, Avocado Toast and English Egg Muffins, and midday offerings such as the Lobster Melt, Caesar Salad, and a classic Croque Monsieur.
Designed with the same artistic spirit as its London counterpart, the New York space reflects Birley Bakery’s signature blend of elegance and character. The ground floor houses the bakery and chocolate shop, featuring polished brass shelving, Rosso Levanto marble counters and pastry cases, stained oak millwork, and striking hand-painted wallpaper by Andrew Tedesco. Tables are made from recycled materials, while the bathroom is lined with original photographs by Bob Colacello, capturing iconic scenes from 1970s and 80s New York. A dramatic wooden spiral staircase leads to the second floor, crowned by a blue Murano glass chandelier suspended from a ceiling panel painted with a sky motif. Upstairs, guests will find 25 café seats, arranged around octagonal tables with rattan chairs, and a cozy antique brass fireplace anchoring the room. In true Birley fashion, the design is deliberate yet unpretentious, with no formal interior designer, a nod to the original Chelsea Green location’s intuitive, layered aesthetic.
