There’s nothing quite like starting your day by walking into a bakery on a crisp Ann Arbor morning, with the warm, comforting smell of fresh bread and pastries in the air. If you’re as passionate about baked goods as I am, you’re in for a treat—literally! I’m sharing my go-to hidden bakery gems around Ann Arbor, where each visit is a guaranteed delight for your taste buds.
Warning: Reading this may lead to spontaneous cravings and impromptu bakery stops!
Must-Visit Bakeries in Ann Arbor
1. The Pastry Palace (Kerrytown)
Nestled in Kerrytown, The Pastry Palace feels like a mini Paris in Ann Arbor. This bakery is all about authentic French-style pastries, with croissants that taste like they’ve come straight from a Parisian oven. Each flaky, buttery layer results from a 24-hour process, and their chocolate-almond croissant is a must-try—rich and nutty with the perfect balance of sweetness.
Aside from their famous croissants, they also offer seasonal treats made with Michigan-sourced ingredients. In the summer, their berry galettes feature fresh local berries, and in the fall, their apple-cinnamon morning buns are crafted with apples from nearby orchards. Head baker Pierre trained in France for over a decade, and his skill shines through in every single pastry.
Must-try: Their “Morning Glory” pastry box is a curated selection of 6-8 pastries, giving you a taste of the best they offer. Be sure to arrive early on weekends—the best items sell out quickly.
2. Wild Crumb (Main Street)
If you’re looking for innovative baking that’s also sustainable, Wild Crumb on Main Street is the place. Their story began 15 years ago with a sourdough starter, affectionately named “Betty,” and they’ve built a loyal following ever since. Wild Crumb is more than just bread; their pastries, like the maple-pecan morning bun, strike the ideal balance of crispy, fluffy, sweet, and nutty.
Inside, the exposed brick, hanging plants, and open kitchen make for an inviting space. Their commitment to sustainability is evident too—all packaging is compostable, and they use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. For a unique experience, check out their monthly baking classes—I joined one of their sourdough workshops, and it was both informative and a lot of fun.
Insider tip: Stop by on “Wild Wednesdays” to try their experimental flavors, like matcha-white chocolate brioche or za’atar-stuffed focaccia.
3. The Flour House (South University)
A long-time favorite, The Flour House on South University is beloved for its welcoming atmosphere and sense of community. Walking in, you’re greeted with the comforting smell of baked goods and, often, a friendly hello from Maria, the owner, who’s been serving Ann Arbor for over 20 years.
Their cinnamon rolls have become iconic among University of Michigan students. These aren’t your average rolls; they’re generously sized, incredibly soft, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Maria’s recipe has been perfected over generations, giving each bite that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
The Flour House goes beyond baked goods, hosting weekly “Coffee and Conversations” sessions where locals discuss topics ranging from politics to art. During finals week, they extend their hours and provide free coffee refills—a thoughtful gesture that has made this bakery a staple for students and faculty alike.
Fun fact: They make their own jam for filled pastries, using fruit from local farms. Try their raspberry danish or, if it’s in season, their peach hand pies and apple butter turnovers.
Why Ann Arbor’s Bakeries Stand Out
Ann Arbor’s bakery scene is about so much more than just incredible food. These bakeries are gathering spots where communities come together, where students prepare for finals, where first dates spark new connections, and where Saturday morning rituals are born. Each spot has its own character, specialties, and a dedicated following of pastry lovers.
What’s truly special is how these bakeries have woven themselves into the fabric of Ann Arbor’s culture. During farmers’ market season, their stalls are packed with locals eager for fresh-baked treats, and local food tours ensure they include stops at these beloved spots. Even wedding planners in town are getting creative by incorporating treats from local bakeries into events—because nothing says “Pure Michigan wedding” quite like a dessert table stacked with goodies from these local gems.
These bakeries do more than just serve pastries; they help shape Ann Arbor’s traditions. Whether it’s homecoming, graduation, or another major university event, these places are always buzzing with families spanning generations, sharing stories over coffee and croissants, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Bakery Adventure
Planning to check out Ann Arbor’s bakery scene? Here are some pro tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Go Early: These spots get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early gives you the best selection of freshly baked items.
- Follow on Social Media: Many bakeries post daily specials and seasonal treats on their social channels. It’s a great way to keep up with their latest offerings.
- Holiday Pre-Orders: For holidays and special occasions, many places allow pre-orders. Trust me—you don’t want to miss their limited-edition holiday specials.
- Cash Friendly: Smaller spots may have minimum card purchases, so having some cash on hand can be handy.
- Try New Flavors: These bakers love experimenting with unique ingredients. Don’t be afraid to venture out and try something you wouldn’t normally choose!
Honorable Mentions and Other Notable Stops
Here are a few more bakeries to explore on your carb-loving tour of Ann Arbor:
- Sweet Pea Pastries on Liberty Street: Known for their fantastic vegan and gluten-free options, Sweet Pea is perfect if you’re looking for a delicious treat with dietary restrictions in mind. Their lavender scones and almond cookies are popular choices.
- Crust & Crumb on Packard: This cozy bakery offers an excellent selection of breads, cookies, and savory pastries. They’re known for their rosemary focaccia and tangy lemon bars. With a smaller, neighborly vibe, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a quiet breakfast.
- Baker’s Field near Kerrytown: A bit off the beaten path, but worth the trek! This bakery focuses on rustic loaves and homemade jams. Their artisan baguettes and seeded rye are fan favorites, especially when paired with their house-made preserves.
In Conclusion: Embark on Your Bakery Journey
Ann Arbor’s bakery scene is always evolving, but each bakery stays true to its roots. These local gems provide not only quality baked goods but also a sense of community and connection. Whether you’re a lifelong Ann Arbor resident or just passing through, make time to explore these incredible bakeries. Which bakery will you visit first? Drop a comment and let me know! And if you find yourself indulging in a particularly amazing pastry, tag me in your photos—I’d love to see where your bakery adventure takes you. Just remember: life is short, so treat yourself to the croissant!
