East Rock Breads — Restaurant in New Haven

These are only bagels that my bagel snob husband from New York (his ancestors are the people who brought bagels to Brooklyn or something like that) enjoys in the New Haven area. That alone is reason enough for me to drive out there to get bagels (which I usually do at least once a week).

They had bialys a couple weeks ago and omg I never knew a bialy could be so delectable. I had to go back the next day and get more. Unfortunately they were sold out. I actually got up early (early for me) on a Sunday to get more (third day in a row to this place). That’s really saying something. I don’t get up early for anything on weekends if I can help it. But I had to buy a bunch and freeze them because who knows when they’ll ever make these discs of perfection again.

The bagels are great, but the cookies?? That is my realm. Their chocolate chip cookies have a touch of salt on them. I think they’re made with browned butter. They are just absolutely amazing. I use all the restraint I can muster to not buy more than one when I go.

My only complaint about this place is the fact that I have to go on instagram to see what specials they have. I am trying to reduce social media use so I don’t have instagram installed on my phone anymore. When you aren’t logged in to an instagram account, using the site is not user-friendly. I wish they just had a regular website I could visit to get excited about the bagel flavor...

A lovely neighborhood bakery- I was there at 8:05 (they open at 8) and there was a line out the door. There were several regulars who knew exactly what they wanted! :)

The bakers were baking away in the back- lots of fresh bread and treats on huge sheet pans.

Service was very friendly and the 2 staff members waiting on customers looked happy to be there and were very efficient. It was very pleasant.

I was frankly overwhelmed by all the absolutely beautiful treats- and bought way more than we needed in our house. :)

The kolaches which I learned are Czech pastries (after we devoured them immediately) were absolutely amazing! We tried the ham and asparagus and strawberry rhubarb- both outstanding. The pastry is airy and light, not overly sweet. The savory kolache was fantastic! Both were outstanding and our first thought was - have to go back tomorrow! :)

We also got chocolate and pistachio croissants and brioche bread. Have not tried those yet. Blown away by the kolaches.

Will try the bagels in the future. :)

There is coffee available as well, cold brew and pour over. :)

Day old baked goods such as baguettes and bagels available for $5.

East Rock bakery will outgrow this space very soon- excellent baked goods, great service, and overall positive environment. :) Check it out! :)

Take out only,...

I have been to East Rock Breads on a weekly basis ever since it opened. My regular faves are their sourdough brioche and butter croissant. My partner’s regular faves are chocolate chip cookies and pistachio croissant. I am posting my review this weekend because of their Asian flavors. Highly recommend the (1) Hojicha (toasted Japanese green tea that is very different from matcha) madeleines and (2) Pandan (southeast Asian plant that is equivalent to vanilla) Swiss rolls. As someone who is born and raised in Singapore, I can vouch for the authentic flavors!

Of course, the people at East Rock Breads behind the baking bench and pastry case are super nice. Support...