I finally ventured to a Levain Bakery to make my own personal assessment to determine and formulate my own opinion. Yes, the reviews are verifiably accurate and true. This location 167 West 74th Street is the original brick and mortar storefront. Levain Bakery does validate for all the hype, sweetness indulgence and fresh-baked artesian cookies and baked goodies. I am Cookie Monster from "Sesame Street" whose eyes are bigger than his stomach who becomes highly excited to engulf all cookies characteristic aesthetic thrashing, splattering every where when consuming within mere minutes. There was a short line waiting to enter for orders to be placed. Upon entering the air conditioning is at full artic chill blast and the air has a sweet aromatic odor emanating throughout. I inquired with the sales associate if the classic chocolate chip cookie contained any nuts who responded "no." I do not have any food allergies. I absolutely do not like nuts in any form. I am not allergic to nuts either. It is not my cup of tea. I am very grateful the classic chocolate chip cookie does not contain any nuts. Customer service is very attentive and exhibited who assisted me with respect, patience and perspective to explain and listen to my requests and needs as I matter. This female server was not curt and I was not rushed. I was acknowledged. I was seen. I was heard. I was not dismissed. I was respected without the standard producing a disgruntled face of reluctance to service me. I am one life in the smallest measurement. The female associate permitted me to take photos of the cookies in the display case without question which is posted with this review. Merchandise of T-shirts, tote bags, mugs, gift tin boxes are available for sale as well. This location is small as it is take-out and go. There are several steps going downward at the entrance which is not ADA accessible. There are some outdoor benches for seating, but no table. I suggest to order and consume in the comfort of your own home for full immerse enjoyment with a table. Yes, cash is accepted as that works greatly for me. Levain Bakery complies with "Prohibition of Cashless Establishments" as of March 21, 2026 where all retail and food establishments in New York State, including New York City, must accept in-person cash payments. Thank you, Levain Bakery for not giving me a red card! I was not blatantly ejected. I would surely return for another visit. Chocolate chip cookie $5.75 each One word: WOW! The interior was oozing with semi-sweetness. The cookie is gargantuan and very thick somewhat bulky. It is massive size well known weighing exactly 6 ounces (170 g) each and measure about 8-10 cm. in diameter and 3-4 cm thick. It is not a traditional flat cookie as I hoped. It is massive chewy interiors. It is soft. It is not crispy. Levain takes the classic chocolate chip cookie and make it their version. It did break apart and dropped onto my plate upon the third bite. It is amazing! I suggest warm-up the cookie in the microwave for approximately 1 minute. I purchased two (2) quantity of these delightful chocolate chip cookies. Delicious. I enjoyed mine with one glass of red wine which I did achieved equanimity state of mind. The red wine was a birthday 2023 gift from a work colleague which I finally opened with good reason. I was floating! Nota Bene: Store policy: "There are no returns on food or beverage. Merchandise (T-shirts, bags, etc.) may be exchanged within 7 days with a receipt. Items must be unworn/unused and all original tags/packaging must be included." read more

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I have only ever ordered online from Levain Bakery and not visited the store. The cookies are simply delicious and you can taste it whether it's the first bite or the last bite. We were introduced Levain Bakery cookies when I had my little guy over two years ago. One of my friends came to visit, gave us a box and told us to try it because the cookies are delicious. I remembered how big and filling the cookies were, you'd sit in comfort knowing how the flavors pop in your mouth. Now cut to this past year, we found out after exploring the website, there are gifts sets. Our current go to is the new parent gifts. We see it as whether a bew parent or one who is going through the next chapter with more children to raise- it's thoughtful of how a package can bring a smile to some sleep deprived parents who want to eat and relax. This was a cute idea, wish someone would gift to us after our twins were born. One day we want to check out Levain Bakery. For now, happiness is explored through the website and delivered to our famiy and friends. Thank yoi for the sweetness. Picture credit: taken by my best friend who received our new parent gifts set. read more

Levain Bakery - Rocky Road - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

My parents have been raving about this spot for years. I saw this spot in a Youtube video, and wanted to pickup a gift card for some family in the NY area. We figured while we were grabbing the gift card we just had to try a cookie too. When we arrived, there's a couple steps you go down to get into the store. We went in about 10am on a Saturday, and there was about two people ahead of us. We were helped within minutes, and I ordered the Two Chip Chocolate Chip Cookie, while my partner got the Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie. I believe each cookie ran a little more than $5/cookie. We threw the cookies in my backpack, got lost going to Trader Joes, and then went back to the hotel (a 40 minute journey) and to our surprise - the cookies were still warm even though it was raining outside! My partner and I demolished those cookies within seconds. They were warm, slightly crispy on the edges, so many chocolate chips inside and chewy in the middle. If I could describe the perfect cookie this would be it. I imagine this would be delightful with a cold glass of milk. I also noticed several people at JFK with Levain bags, so I'm guessing it's common to stock up and bring home. Now, I'm trying to convince my partner to go to the location in Beverly Hills when we're in the area. read more

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Summer collab with caffe panna rocks. Got a mini Sammy and had half a cookie left for later! My favorite of theirs though is the dark chocolate toffee winter special. read more

Levain Bakery - Mini Sammy - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Dined in on 05/25/26. High quality ingredients but for somehow the sum of it all together always leaves me a little unsatisfied. Walnut chocolate chip is the way to go! Have tried the location in Venice Beach and the cookies are better in NY :") Service was quick and friendly. Would probably have liked some ice cream or milk with this as it gets pretty sweet. Ambience - casual but was able to grab two seats within a few minutes of ordering. read more

Levain Bakery - Lemon Cookie, Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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Was so excited to try Levain after years of hearing about it and seeing those massive cookies! We got a two chip chocolate chip cookie and a dark chocolate peanut butter chip cookie. Cookies were good, but not the best cookies ever like they're often hyped up to be. I liked the cookie of the dark chocolate cookie better, but didn't like the peanut butter chips, I'm not usually into PB cookies though. The two chip chocolate chip cookie was loaded with chocolate chips and was a little too sweet, so I'd probably opt for the chocolate chip with walnut next time to cut the sweetness. Service was very friendly and the line moved quickly! read more

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Aesthetic: Classic cookie bake shop What to try: Chocolate chip Service: Excellent Parking: None Rating: 5/5, we took the cookies back to our hotel this time since we were getting sick, but I had to get a Levain while in NY, they really are the best cookies. I love the chocolate chip and walnut, and my husband prefers the oatmeal raisin. Try this place! read more

Levain Bakery - Chocolate Lovers - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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These are hefty cookies that are great for sharing since it's otherwise a sugar rush! The coffee toffee was a nice surprise given how aggressive it looks. It wasn't too sweet (shocking!) and is one I'd probably got back for. Oatmeal is... oatmeal. lol! My husband insisted w get this one bc it's a flavor he typically enjoys and I'd say it is a typical oatmeal cookie. The choco chip walnut is one of my favorites and is something that's always a hit. The chocolate peanut butter one was also very good! I thought it had a good balance of both flavors and I surprisingly enjoyed it. These cookies are pretty expensive for what they are but they are delicious and dense. There was no line when we went on a weekday lunch time. Final note... wow to the iced mocha or whatever it was that we got. It tasted like someone dumped hersheys cocoa powder mix into iced coffee but forgot to mix it and just served it as a beverage. It was probably one of the worst coffee drinks I've ever had. read more

Levain Bakery - Cookies - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Okay YUMMM I am a self proclaimed cookie expert and these were delicious. They're pretty big and so fresh, soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. I make my own favorite cookies and these were close in comparison! After a few bakery disappointments on my NY trip this was a breath of fresh air. read more

Levain Bakery - Two Chip Chocolate Chip Cookie - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Chain bakery known for good cookies - tried this in other cities, but it was so good on a cold winter day --------------------------------- Food: as someone who does not like cookies, this place has amazing cookies! We ordered 4 different cookies (chocolate chip, black and white cookie, dark chocolate chocolate chip, GF), everything was so good!! The cookies are thick and chewy with a gooey interior and crusty exterior Recommendations: love the basic chocolate chip Ambiance: N/A (delivery) Service: no delivery issues Good for: a sweet treat read more

Levain Bakery - cookie spread - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

The OG location, the cookies are a must get when you're on the UWS or to bring out of towners. Lines may be long but moves quickly. They're always a hit at get togethers and parties. I go for the classics - regular chip, chocolate chip walnut, peanut butter chip. They hold up well in the fridge or freezer. Pop them into the microwave or toaster oven to reheat and get the same in store ooey gooey chocolate chip pull. There's a bench outdoors but is a to-go place. read more

Taste wise, the cookies at Levain are delicious. Teller soft gooey center that's not too soft but crispy edges are just right. I have always loved boneless cookies so this was definitely new but delicious. This location is very tiny so beware, it was cramped. I had to shuffle in and out. It's better for a quick order. Staff were friendly. You could see directly behind counter how they make the pastries and drinks. read more

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I wanted to visit Gray's Papaya on the Upper West Side before leaving town on a Sunday morning, and I noticed on a food map that Levain Bakery was nearby. I've known the name Levain Bakery for a long time, but I've never visited and I didn't know what they were famous for. My handy dandy Google AI Summary said they're known for cookies, and especially their Chocolate Chip Cookies. I arrived shortly after their 8 am opening. The bakery is a 1/4 flight of stairs down from street level. The bakery is small, and my eyes were immediately drawn to a glass case of THiCK cookies. Flavors like White Chocolate Macadamia Nut. Oatmeal Raisin. Walnut Chocolate Chip. Coconut Chocolate Chip. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip. Two Chip Chocolate Chip. I love nuts like pecans, but my wife has a walnut sensitivity so I had to skip a couple of the nut cookies. I ordered 2 Two Chip Chocolate Chip, 2 White Chocolate Macadamia Nuts, 1 Coconut Chocolate Chip and 1 Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip. After my purchase, I took a cab back to our Midtown Hotel. The cookies were still a bit warm when I opened the box. I broke a Two Chip Chocolate Chip down the middle, and the chocolate from the chips on the inside was still melty. I ate half. My wife ate half. She said it was the best chocolate chip cookie she's ever had. I might not go that far, but it's way up there in the top tier. Over the course of the day, I tried parts of the Coconut Chocolate Chip, which reminded me a bit of German Chocolate Cake, and the White Chocolate Macadamia Nut. Both were delicious and had a firm, fresh texture. Levain also has baguettes, coffee and some other things. Service was professional. There was no seating. Now I know. Levain is known for its amazing, thick cookies. And rightfully so. Get em while they're warm. 4.75 Stars read more

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The cookie was absolutely massive! Definitely shareable and delicious! It's not just an ordinary cookie, this was my first time having it and oh my goodness! It was so amazing, delicious, tasty and depending on the cookie rich/sweet. The perfect cookie to have with tea or like we did right after dinner. The cookie was filled with so many chocolate chips and walnuts and I LOVED it! You would break off pieces it and you would see the chocolate chips melted and it was the best. oh! I love how parts of the cookie was gooey and chewy when you eat it. Honestly I think that is the best. I didn't want the cookie to end. The service was great! It was my first time there and the employees were very helpful and answered all of my questions. They gave great feedback and advice back on each cookie and they even rated the sweetness level on each cookie depending on my mood which I thought was awesome! The inside is cute! There is very little seating but you can stand too. It's mostly just take out orders. There was a line when I went but it goes but pretty fast and they are making cookies in there as well so they don't run out as much. read more

Levain Bakery - Chocolate chip Walnut - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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These cookies are worth it! We got an assortment of- double chocolate chip, chocolate walnut, raisin, and coconut chocolate chip. My personal favorite was the coconut chocolate chip w/caramel, but none of the cookies disappointed. Another family favorite was the raisin. They keep in 100 degree walks back home, too! read more

i enjoyed the muffins and donut. I always go for a glazed donut. Never misses! Service is good during midday not as packed.

I saw these cookies on social media and had to see what the fuss was all about. Located in SoHo, Levain's Bakery had a line outside the door. Clearly a very popular spot! These cookies are thick and decadent! I won't argue that these aren't good or worth the hype. I just prefer a thinner cookie with less chocolate and softer and gooey. This was not it for me, but to each its own. read more

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I went to a different location closer to lower Manhatten but I can't find it but anyway, the cookies were so delicious and large and great for sharing! The guy who helped me was so kind and patient and packed it all so nicely. He even wrapped the gf cookie to pack it separate. Everything was well separated as to not spread flavors. I personally didn't like the gf cookie but my friend who got it really liked it. It was clean and fast service inside. I liked the merch and it was cute. My hotel desk guy told me I had to get the banana bread and I'm so glad he did because I would never have tried such a delicious banana bread. Since I was already getting cake, I also tried the lemon cake. I got a big box to share with my family back home and it transported well and still tasted great a couple days later. read more

Levain Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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Pretty casual bakery, kind of like a quick serve kind of cookie shop, some seating along the edge. Nice branded packaging. The cookies are hefty, the chocolate toffee coffee one was really good. You don't really see cookies being made and this spot doesnt really have a wait. My only caveat is it would be nice to offer them warmed up. They were nicely packaged abd sturdy enough that I could travel with them home. read more

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Delicious cookies - if they're good enough for Taylor Swift, they're good enough for me. We got the chocolate chip and chocolate chocolate chip. Came early and the cookies were warm and gooey, haven't had them fresh in over 10 years and the mailed variety we are gifted every now and then just don't compare. No frills, no seating at this takeaway original location (there's a sit down option a few blocks away). read more

This Upper West Side location on W 74th is supposed to be the OG location of Levain Bakery. Now they are known to have the best chocolate chip cookies and have multiple locations across New York City. This one has stairs leading down to the bakery. It's a small spot; it felt tight even with only seven customers in there. There is a small counter with a couple stools, but it feels more like a quick stop. They also have a bench outside. The chocolate chip cookie with walnuts is delicious! They have other baked goods that look tasty. They started out as a bakery, so I'm sure they make good bread too. This is always a treat when I'm in New York City. Credit card/Apple Pay accepted. No bathroom. No Wifi. read more

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Cookies bread and an assortment of desserts. Levain has more options than what I remember from the early days. Glad they expanded there delicious menu. read more

I don't have a Levain where I'm from, and we are such big fans of their cookies! We always get a dozen cookies to bring back home to give to friends. Honestly they're all so good, but I think my favorite is the standard chocolate chip cookie. I also got a scoop of ice cream, which was from cafe panna. The ice cream was so rich and one of the best ice creams I've had! I still think about this ice cream. It was exciting to go to the original Levain Bakery after going to different outlets across the US! There's not much room to sit and enjoy food, besides a counter inside and bench outside. read more

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Here's the thing - Levain at this point is an NYC legend, but I don't think it's a tourist trap at all. Because they've got so many locations around the city, there wasn't a line even on a Saturday afternoon at the OG spot. Cookies are fresh out the oven ALL DAY and the smell of fresh cookies hits you like a brick the minute you walk in. It is more of a grab and go spot, but there is a singular blue bench outside if you're able to snag it. They also sell merch (shirts and totes) and have free postcards that are super cute. Service was 5 stars - super friendly and even gave me multiple cups of milk for free to enjoy my cookies with! I pretty much tried every cookie - all the classics and the seasonal options. My personal favorite actually ended up being the oatmeal raison cookie, even though I normally am not a fan. It's just so fluffy and the raisins add a bit of fruity sweetness. Second favorite I have to recognize the Chocolate Chip Walnut cookie, just so gooey and nuttiness from the walnuts is perfection. Normally, I'm a crispy cookie gal, but this place does the big fluffy, gooey bites right. read more

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I got to try Levain's cookies and I think they're pretty good. I like how this location is walking distance from Central Park. The shop is small and there's barely room to walk around. There's only one door to get out the shop and you have to squeeze your way through people when a line forms to the register. Their chocolate chip cookie was pretty good. I wish they added less chocolate because it's already sweet enough. The oatmeal raisin was my favorite though. What I like about their cookies overall were the chewiness and doughiness taste it had. Although the food quality is okay, I think this bakery is overpriced and the total cost of 3 cookies already add up to a whole meal read more

Levain Bakery - Store front - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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Small bakery in the upper west side. Very efficient with crowd control. Gets you in and out pretty fast. I had an oatmeal raisin cookie that was hands down 10/10. I also tried the blueberry muffin. But the cookie was my fav. I will be back again. read more

Levain Bakery - Today's offerings - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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Post blue willow. First time having levain and it did not disappoint. I love any double chocolate chip cookie and levain was no exception. I will admit it did get to be a bit much at the end with like 3 bites left but still so good. I wish they had milk because I really needed something to wash it down and clear my throat to eat more. They had almond and oat milk, but that's just not gonna cut it for me read more

Levain Bakery - Double chocolate chip and Caramel Coconut Chocolate Chip - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

I absolutely love levain bakery! I bought the Raspberry Pistachio Cookie recently on Sunday, ate half of it and today on Tuesday I ate the other half and it was still soft, like if I just bought it from the bakery today! I had to say something about it! I didn't realize how cozy or small it was all tucked downstairs, like a cookie nook half underground. I loved the free mini tote bag they gave for Pride and the staff was friendly and nice to help with my decision on what cookie to try with recommendations since it was my first time. Even though I didn't take the recommendation, the pistachio was calling my name! read more

Levain Bakery - Mini Pride Tote Bag that was Free with Purchase - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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HOLY YUM Eat it right away while it's warm and you'll be back for more! This place is so cool and obvi delicious. Service was quick and very friendly for how busy they were. The place was clean and super cute. A must stop in NY! read more

I tried the two chip chocolate cookie. It might be an unpopular opinion, but they were just okay. Cookies are heavy and not sweet, I guess I just expected something more. It was still nice to have it with a cup of coffee. Staff were nice, rthe store was nice, warm and clean, and they have a decent amount of seating. read more

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I tried Levain on my most recent trip to NYC and it was so good that I absolutely needed to go back for more! You would think it's just a big chocolate chip cookie, but I swear, it tastes like heaven. It's perfectly chewy, sweet, and has a good balance of different textures. A must try when you're in the city :) my favorite is their caramel coconut chocolate chip cookie, it all fits so perfectly together. read more

Levain Bakery - Variety box - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

I had high hopes for this cookie, it's fresh baked, crispy and chewy on this inside. It's a big cookie, and has tons of chocolate chips, but it's very very rich. You need to have the ice cream, milk, or an iced latte to wash this cookie down. The workers work hard and it's fast. I like a less rich cookie so I'll keep trying top bakeries in the city read more

Levain Bakery - Chocolate chip cookie - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Clean looking interior, have sitting area, register worker was apologetic and polite. Came a little after 6pm, not a lot of choices for a bakery, even though they close at 10pm. Brioche (chocolate chip & cinnamon) weren't fresh, dark chocolate chocolate chip cookie was rock hard. No coffee served at the time. Was looking forward to delicious bakery experience but alas! read more

Levain Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

very yummy & fast service! small walk in bakery so don't expect to sit inside or anything. a lil pricey. read more

Levain Bakery - Banana Chocolate Chip Slice - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

We meet again!! Here was my experience after 5 years. Many have imitated their creation but there's like no other than the original. Here was my experience. AMBIANCE: Parking: It's in a neighborly area so it's street parking moreover but it's probably easiest taking the subway here. Seating: No seating inside but there's a nice bench outside to sit and enjoy. Vibes: Welcome to Upper West Side NY! It's a classy place to enjoy the residential houses, leafy trees, and close to Columbia University! The spot itself is small, humble but iconic. You're welcomed to lite rock, smells of sweets, and a friendly hustle and bustle greeting. They are not shy about their history and recognition. Great place for a grab and go! FOOD: Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie (Recommend) THE original. Thick and gooey sweet delight with elements of a cookie and a fudge cake. The size is HUGE and you can enjoy the crispy golden brown exterior and the soft doughy middle. The toasted walnuts give it a nice nutty touch. An absolute must! CUSTOMER SERVICE: Awesome! A popular spot but glad I got my order in a timely matter. TL; DR OVERALL: 5 Stars. Can't get any better. Good selections, delicious sweets, and a pleasant experience. I'm glad they expanded so I can get a taste of NY in California now. It's always hard to try their other delights as I always gravitate towards this cookie. TIPS: * They got ice cream now so enjoy the cookie sandwich! read more

Levain Bakery - Woooo! - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Very small bakery by Central Park. Take the steps down. Be careful as the steps are small and the line can go out the door. The bakery is very small. It smells amazing in there. Service was painfully slow. Lots of cookie varieties. We bought a box and shared the deliciousness. read more

We came here 5 of the 7 days during our stay in the Upper westside. Yudi always greated us with a smile. Can't wait to go back on our next trip! Coffee and muffins are delicious. read more

Levain Bakery - Outside Levain Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

These cookies are amazing. Soft on the inside but baked well on the outside to give it a. Ice crunchy texture. read more

Levain Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

I stop in here every time I'm in the neighborhood. Coffee and the cookies cannot be beat. Special today was a white chocolate macadamia. It was delicious. The nuts were toasted a bit and the cookie was soft and buttery. Chocolate chips are always good. But today the dark chocolate peanut butter was extra extraordinary. read more

Levain Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Really decadent delicious cookie, get it warmed up and it's so gooey and hefty and chocolatey and luscious, 10/10 cookie! I love how well baked but still soft and rich the cookie is. read more

Levain Bakery - dark chocolate chocolate chip - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

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