Nino's Bakery — Restaurant in Washington

I too read the review in the Post on 26 October 2023 (in case anyone is looking). I don’t get down to DC often, and needed to go scout the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon, and thought I’d include a stop at Nino’s in the bargain. And what good fortune had I ! I arrived just before 1000, expecting there to be nothing left. There were several people in line, and after I stepped in, another ten folk showed up. I got to the counter, and obviously the baker’s rack to the side of the display case was nearly empty. I asked for four items, and as luck would have it, got the remaining four, to the disappointment of the folks behind me. There were three or four women working the counter, all passionate about their work (refreshing) and despite the work (or maybe thanks to it) the banter was good natured and there were smiles and patience. I was able to snag two passion fruit croissants, one chocolate, and a sfogliatelle. The buttery light flakiness of the croissants in this style of Proust took me back to my college days in Paris, transposed from Alabama, the pastries there changed my life for the better, and Nino’s Bakery produces items just as heavenly; so good for the palate they are also good for the soul. Praised be Nino’s for making a go of it in only three days/week. One would hope they see their way to open for five, if not six or seven, to give more of the world’s souls an opportunity to rejoice in partaking the treasures offered here. Yes, I highly recommend, and yes, this is worth repeat trips on the Metro with Nino’s as...

I'm sorry, I disagree with the other reviewers. I was hoping for a great local bakery, support the locals. After reading the reviews I walked out of my way to this bakery. I was very disappointed. Two young girls working that care more about their personal conversation than helping a first time visit customer. No hello, no discussion of their items and offerings, just an awkward feeling standing there as they spoke to each other. I decided on the cheese Danish. I asked for it to be warmed and for here. I was handed the cold pastry as if I hadnt said a word. They continued on with their conversation. I repeated, may I have it warmed. The girl at the counter looked confused. She looked at me and said, uh I dont think we do that. She looked at the other young girl who also stated, nah we dont. Then, back to their conversation. The danish was cold and hard which warming would have taken care of. Their lack of customer service and general care about their job and customer happiness finalized my decision...I wont be back. I'm giving 2 stars because the pastry could have been great and the bakery is cute. It has potential. Maybe the owners need to take a little more pride in their bakery and some time to see how their staff represents...

Nino's Bakery is the newest pastry shop in downtown DC. It's on L St NW in between 14th and 13th St NW with the McPherson Square Metro being the closest station.

If you imagine a bakery to make and sell fresh bread, this is NOT that kind of bakery (if you want that, walk to Seyou Bakery in Mt Vernon Square for some of the best bread you'll ever eat). This bakery just sells around 7-8 types of pastries. They have more unique pastries like a lobster tail, madeleine, or tart. If you like more standard features, try one of their croissants (chocolate, almond, or plain). I ordered a chocolate croissant for $4.25 and it was decent. Not the best in DC (Maketto still wins that award), but decent.

They also sell coffee from Vigilante and can make espresso, a latte, and a few other drinks.

There are a few seats, but other than that it's tiny. It's more of a walk in and out place.

The owners have always wanted to test their pastry chef skills and they named the bakery after their dog, Nino. As you wait for your order, you can see photos of Nino on the walls.

Nino's Bakery is a decent bakery with decent pastries. Not sure if they can survive the competitive DC food scene, but if they do, I'll be enjoying more...