Mystic, Connecticut, is a charming coastal town that not only boasts maritime history and scenic beauty but also offers a delightful array of bakeries. These bakeries are known for their artisanal breads, pastries, cakes, and other baked goods, making Mystic a haven for food enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most popular bakeries in and around Mystic.
Sift Bake Shop is one of Mystic’s most renowned bakeries, located at 5 Water Street. Owned by Adam Young, who won the title of “Best Baker in America,” Sift specializes in French-inspired baked goods. The bakery is famous for its flaky butter croissants, which are a customer favorite, and its intricately designed entremets—miniature cakes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Sift also offers a cozy outdoor seating area and designated parking for quick takeout. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking high-quality pastries and breads.
Li’s Bake Shop, located at 15 Holmes Street in Mystic, is a cozy spot offering freshly baked goods with a homemade touch. Known for its soft chocolate chip cookies and cinnamon rolls topped with vanilla glaze, Li’s also serves breakfast items like chorizo and egg bagels.
Highlights:
Pastries: raspberry cream cheese danishes and salted caramel chip cookies.
Cupcakes: Unique flavors such as tangerine, red velvet, and coconut.
Atmosphere: Limited indoor seating with an inviting patio area.
Li’s Bake Shop is perfect for those looking to pair their baked goods with great coffee.
For donut lovers, Deviant Donuts inside Vault Coffee Roasters at Olde Mistick Village is a must-visit. Open Friday through Monday during the winter months (and daily in summer), this bakery offers creative donuts made from yeast dough that proofs for up to 20 hours.
Highlights:
Unique Flavors: Menus change weekly but often include innovative options like s’mores or maple bacon.
Sizeable Treats: Large donuts perfect for sharing (though you might not want to).
Tips: Arrive early to secure your favorite flavors.
Deviant Donuts’ playful approach to traditional donuts makes it a standout choice in Mystic.
With locations on Williams Avenue and Noank Road, Mystic Market combines a full-service market with an impressive bakery selection. This spot caters to both sweet tooths and savory cravings.
Highlights:
Desserts: Flourless chocolate torte, carrot cake, cream puffs.
Savory Options: Creative salads, sandwiches, and full dinners to-go.
Specialty Cakes: Wedding cakes and special occasion desserts are available by order.
Mystic Market’s versatility makes it a great stop for both casual snacks and more elaborate baked goods.
Tucked away at 21 East Main Street near the Mystic post office, Lighthouse Bakery specializes in European-style pastries. From Napoleons filled with vanilla custard to tiramisu slices, this bakery brings old-world charm to Mystic.
Highlights:
Pastries: Roulade-style cakes, bagels, cream puffs.
Custom Orders: Made-to-order pies available.
Atmosphere: A small space with limited seating but rich aromas of freshly baked goods.
Lighthouse Bakery is ideal for those seeking traditional European pastries made fresh daily.
Located at 32 Williams Avenue in Mystic, Nana’s offers a unique combination of organic baked goods and naturally leavened pizza. This bakery focuses on sustainability by using regional grains in its recipes.
Highlights:
Breakfast Pastries: croissants made with organic ingredients.
Pizza Doughs: Naturally leavened for superior flavor.
Local Ingredients: Carrot cake made with locally sourced carrots.
Nana’s blends creativity with sustainability to deliver flavorful baked goods that support local agriculture.
Situated in Olde Mistick Village at 27 Coogan Boulevard (Suite 16), Never Enough Bake Shop is known for its wide range of pastries and cakes. Open seven days a week with extended hours on weekends, this bakery caters to all schedules.
Highlights:
Cakes & Cupcakes: Perfect for celebrations or casual indulgence.
Pastries & Cookies: Freshly made daily.
Convenience: Easy access within the bustling Olde Mistick Village area.
Never Enough Bake Shop is perfect for grabbing treats while exploring the village shops.
Zest Fresh Pastry operates inside The Velvet Mill in Stonington Borough.
Owner Gabriella Winthrow sources ingredients from local farms to create desserts like carrot cake with cream cheese frosting or the Amazing Bar—a layered treat featuring dark chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, pecans, white chocolate, and sea salt.
Zest Fresh Pastry focuses on farm-to-table baking that emphasizes fresh flavors and creativity.
Wild Briars Farm & Bake Shop, located at 255 Pendleton Hill Road in North Stonington, Connecticut, is a charming family-run establishment that combines the warmth of a microbakery with the essence of a working farm.
Bakery Offerings: Wild Briars specializes in freshly baked goods, providing a delightful selection that caters to various tastes. The bakery is known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious items priced affordably, typically ranging from $1 to $10.
Overall, Wild Briars Farm & Bake Shop stands out not just for its baked goods but also for its holistic approach to farming and community involvement. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience that blends culinary delights with nature and animal care.
Conclusion
The bakeries near Mystic offer something for everyone—from traditional European-style pastries to modern takes on donuts and cupcakes. Whether you’re craving buttery croissants from Sift Bake Shop or inventive donuts from Deviant Donuts, Mystic’s vibrant bakery scene has it all. Each establishment brings its unique flair to the table while maintaining high standards of quality. Exploring these bakeries is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth—it’s about experiencing the craftsmanship behind every loaf of bread or pastry.