If I were hit by a meteor tomorrow, and then to my complete surprise and amazement were immediately reincarnated as a croissant... ...I would choose to rematerialize as a Madison Park Bakery almond croissant. That's because, if my new life as a French pastry is going to last only about an hour or so before I'm lustily consumed (and perhaps then reincarnated as, say, an aardvark), I would want to spend that hour on earth as the very best of my ilk. Madison Park Bakery's almond croissants are that good. Let's put it this way...soon after trying my first such croissant, I had the opportunity to compare it with some formidable competition: an almond croissant from the world-renown Tartine bakery in San Francisco. It wasn't even close. The Tartine version was disappointedly average: chewy, little if any crispy crunch, uninspired filling, a bit dry overall and just possibly a tad on the stale side, (sure, it's possible that the fancy foods shop I bought it from, rather than from Tartine directly, sold me a day-old? If so, may you be reincarnated as a limp, overcooked asparagus spear!) In delicious contrast, head chef, Provence-born Cecilia Lystad's croissant is more like the Platonic ideal (not that almond croissants were a thing during Plato's lifetime, otherwise we might find them carved in marble relief on the Parthenon's facade): crunchy on the outside, clearly laminated layers (I think that's the correct term) on the inside--nothing like the croissant-impostering ponderous, dry sponges you might encounter, say at Oakland Airport late on a Sunday night. Poor Oakland...maybe you'll be reincarnated as Paris? And just the right amount of butteriness, sweetness, yeastiness. The generous amount of frangipane filling is delightfully jammy and tastes freshly-made, probably of almonds bakery-ground early this morning. What's more, this here dang croissant is paradoxically light and quite filling at the same time (don't forget, this is a supernatural confection--only the baker knows its secrets). While the pastry was half gone in about the amount of time it takes to say "yum!" I wouldn't attempt to eat the whole thing in one go. Half will satisfy you, unless you are a total gourmand or goinfre (look it up). Make a heroically disciplined attempt to save some for an after-dinner treat. Ancient disciplines such as Ayurveda, for instance, maintain we should cover all the major taste bases--including "sweet"--as part of every meal. I can only claim I've scratched the surface of Madison Park Bakery's other offerings (whenever I step in, the devil in my ear aggressively whispers "get the almond croissant, you fool!"), though the chocolate licorice cookie was nice in a subtle "adult" way, and their apricot-almond pastry was like the croissant reincarnated as an accomplished piece of folk art--almost too pretty to eat. As is their pistachio cream tartlet. Because I'm an artist (painter mostly), and a prime way I enjoy life is through the lens of appreciation for striking color juxtapositions, I would be happy to fossilize this tartlet and keep it forever on my countertop--what gets me is that minor key combination of whimsical pistachio green swirls married to the cool red of the fresh raspberries and fragrant raspberry coulis filling. Obviously created by a chef who has a sophisticated eye for subtle color harmony! Then there's her take on the French classic Gâteau au Chocolat. Imagine if a dark brown cow were able to produce milk the color of a shot of espresso macchiato, and that dusky chocolate milk were then hand-churned into dark chocolate butter...that's my best description of the main layer of this deep, dark and dense gâteau. It's meant for those who are in it for the chocolate and not so much the cake. That said, in the spirit of full disclosure, I'm an outlier among patisserie patrons: unlike most Americans, I don't really have a sweet tooth. And prefer to keep my teeth from going wiggly. My vote is always for intensity of flavor rather than sugariness. My ideal of a chocolate cake would contain not only no white flour, but also hardly any sweetener. But then, you're reading the ravings of someone who eats straight 100% cacao baking chocolate without grimacing in the least from the bitterness. Embrace and explore the bitterness, I say. Knowing is appreciating--could help explain the growing popularity of Italian amari, which I also enjoy. Hey chef, you can't please everyone. And shouldn't try, lest risk diluting what you do best. So keep doing it. Be inventive in a way that foremost pleases you. Bake for your own tastebuds and secondarily for your fans, not for your detractors. Judging by the lineup of eager seekers of excellent French patisserie and cuisine, my prediction (and I bet you a lifetime supply of your almond croissant about this!) is that if you stick to your guns you will not only deepen the loyalty of your core base of fans, but also grow that core market. Bon appétit! read more

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I stumbled upon Madison Park Bakery while I was in the area. I used to live in Madison Park, and was enjoying some of the newer shops. I was delighted to see there's a bakery now, and not just Starbucks. I am very picky when it comes to pastries as my husband is from France, and I've been fortunate enough to be spoiled by French pastries over the years. I've been extremely disappointed in the past when trying pastries in the seattle area, even at some bakeries that are quite popular. As soon as I walked into MPB and saw their case of pastries, I knew I was in for a treat. You can just tell when the pastries are going to be GREAT. I ordered a pain au chocolat and a croissant. They were absolutely phenomenal. So perfectly buttery and flaky. FRESH! I really was transported to France and truly believe this is one of the best bakeries in seattle. Definitely has the best croissants and pain au chocolat out of any of the other places I've tried (yes I've been to all the top spots). The only complaint would be that they aren't open Mondays (but most bakeries aren't since they are open all weekend). read more

Quaint cafe with pleasant service. We were deliberating over the selection, and the staff was cheerful, patient, and quick to pick up on vibes. "Did o hear someone say lemon tart?" Yes. Yes, you did. There are savory and sweet offerings available. We decided to have dessert before lunch and oh, so glad we stopped in. The macchiato had great flavor. The pastries though...terrific. The scone was just right - moist, full of chewy cranberries and popping with orange peel flavor. Scones can either be very dry, or more typically, have the consistency and taste like a muffin top. This was great - the merest hint of orange glaze on top (they also offer without. but in for a penny, in for a pound!) The lemon tart was fabulous. The crust was buttery and perfectly baked, with a great texture. Not overly sweet. The filling - what WAS that?! A hint of lemon confit? Jam? not a lemon curd - really unusual. Perfect tartness. And the delicate whipped cream topping was so fresh and airy. I'll be thinking about this one for a while. read more

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ohmygosh madison park bakery i am in love. this spot is more catered towards people with sweet tooth's. i tried the tiramisu and strawberry eclairs and they were great! i need to try the creme brûlée croissant next time! the staff were all so sweet. dog friendly spot. a few seating available inside and outside. read more

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I love exploring different bakeries and donut shops. This past weekend, I decided to venture into Seattle. While Seattle isn't my favorite place to visit due to its parking and traffic, we tried five different donut shops. We stopped at Madison Park Bakery, where I got an éclair for my husband and a lemon cupcake and pastry for myself. Unfortunately, the lemon cupcake was dry, and the lemon curd inside was extremely tart--oh my! Although I wouldn't return for the baked goods, I want to return and try their sandwiches; they looked fantastic! The area is very neat, and I recommend checking it out. read more

Madison Park Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I needed a birthday cake for tonight and they had a small very tall red velvet that looked elegant and perfect sized for us. The cake was lovely, not overly sweet and the frosting complimented the cake perfectly. I haven't tried them since the change of ownership, it was a nice look inside. Not the same massive selection as before but a good looking assortment. Didn't need it today but I saw a delicious looking baguette sandwich with prosciutto that I'll be back for. It's nice to see a meal option in a bakery read more

I just had the most delicious salmon croissant from here, the best sandwich I've had in Seattle! This place has a good vibe and it is now my favorite cafe. I used to not like this place but something is significantly improved here! read more

This was the worst cupcake I have had in years. Red velvet was dry and they keep it in a cold case which makes it less pleasant to eat. Seriously terrible! Nice staff, but horrible product. read more

LOVE this gem of a shop! Wanted to surprise my partner with a special treat for takeaway, and they definitely delivered! I got him a chocolate ganache cupcake (which looked like those fancy fake food props you see in movies and showrooms) and me a twisted glazed donut thing (which was gone in about 2 seconds, sorry, not sorry!). Everyone was in masks, the staff was splendid and my Americano was perfect (and I'm a coffee snob). JAVAAAAA (maybe I didn't need those 2 shots this am...) Can't wait to go back and try some more of their delights!!! read more

Madison Park Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Love this bakery w great patisserie and a European style sandwich selection that's incredible if that's what you're looking for. Cookies the kids adore, etc. Just really grateful to have it in the neighborhood. read more

I was a big fan of the former version. Came in today and noticed a big remodel of both the interior and the menu. I agree with others that it feels a lot more like Belle Epicurean now. I was looking for the cinnamon bread that seems to be discontinued. Old pastries like the turnovers and donuts replaced with tarts, sandwiches, and different breads. I understand change, but feel like there is now a void in our neighborhood read more

Absolutely a must go. The bakery products are SO delicious, service is great, and did not know they did private orders if you called. I go once a week for my Sunday donuts, the owner (Issac) never disappoints! ¡Chocolate sprinkle donuts for the win! -Matthew read more

Cute little bakery!!!! I loved that they had mini pastries so that I could try more things. I mainly came for the Hot Cross Buns. They were great and super cute. I took my bun down to the park and enjoyed it while watching some ducks. Awesome bakery! Very friendly staff, and I loved that there was easy parking nearby. read more

Madison Park Bakery - Hot Cross Bun! - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Customer service is alive and well at Madison Park Bakery. The new owners, Issac and Sylvia, should be supported and commended for bringing back excellence to a longstanding community staple. I ordered a cake for my deceased sister's birthday celebration. When we went to eat the cake it was horrible. Because her celebration was in the evening the bakery was already closed. My plan was to call them the next day. I phoned the Bakery early and Issac answered the phone. He immediately apologized for my experience and offered to refund my money. He asked if I could bring the cake back to the bakery. I did. While they were refunding my money his staff tasted the returned cake. They, too, agreed that the cake wasn't good. They then tried to figure out what happened in the preparation of the cake. It was refreshing to have a business acknowledge they made a mistake and take the steps necessary to correct it. Issac wanted to assure me that my returned cake was not the standard or quality of a Madison Park Bakery cake. He offered me a slice of cake and ask that I call him after I tried it. The slice had great flavor and texture. I called Issac and let him know there was a marked difference in the cakes. Issac had already apologized, returned my money and given me a slice of cake. He then offered to give me a full cake. Throughout this entire process Madison Park Bakery personnel was gracious and provided top notch customer service. They made what could have been a trying situation exceptional. Best wishes Madison Park Bakery, Issac & Sylvia. I'll be back. Don't forget to try the carrot cake. read more

Madison Park Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Wonderful bakery, nice people. I would highly recommend this bakery. They have a good variety of items.

This is a wonderful bakery! Great products and friendly service. Until today. I had called on Thursday, December 26. I got a recorded message to leave my order and information and I would receive a confirmation. They were closed 12/26 and 12/27-- understandably as they were incredibly busy The previous 2 days. I didn't receive a confirmation on 12/27 as they were still closed. I went to the bakery on 12/29 to be sure they had received my message. II was told they only pick up messages when they're open and too busy to answer the phone. They didn't pick up any messages from days when they're open and were closed even though I got the recording when they're open were closed. I happy to say they were able to provide my order but only in one shape, not assorted as I ordered. I found the whole," we were so busy, we don't pick up messages left when we're closed," confusing as well as poor customer service. If the staff does not pick up messages left on days when they're closed-- don't have the recording on. If they do have the recording on then pick up the messages. In spite of that, they're a terrific bakery. Just be sure to order anything only when they're open. read more

This cute neighborhood bakery is one of the few bakeries that offer hot cross buns during lent. I love hot cross buns and look forward to either baking or buying them most years. I'm sad to say that although I enjoyed the buns I got here last year, this weekend was a let down. I ordered ahead during the week for pick up on Saturday, early. The assistant who took my order was great. When I arrived on Saturday morning, I was informed that there would not be buns for almost two hours; so much for breakfast. I picked up the buns later and when my family began eating them, it was clear that the bake had been rushed and the buns were not fully baked. I put them in the oven for a bit, but that didn't remedy the situation. The buns also suffered from no spice, scant fruit and a weird frosting cross that we scraped off because it gave the buns an off taste. I love supporting neighborhood bakeries and am saddened that I won't be back to this one. I'm happy to share my recipe. read more

Friendly little spot to get coffee and a donut. Swing by here and grab your latte before hitting the beach nearby. These folks are so nice, quick and their pastries are top notch. read more

Madison Park Bakery - Puppy meringues - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

One of the best sandwiches and cookies I've ever had. Do yourself a favor and get an order to go and have a picnic at the beach down the street. read more

You might as well go to the grocery store to buy baked goods over this place. Most of the offerings here look like wonder bread and the like. However, the workers here are incredibly friendly and warm. The owner is a grump. read more

I called in and made a custom cake order two weeks before an extremely important event. Order was very simple (two-tier cake with plain frosting, no decorations or anything) and set up time was for 10AM the day of event. The man on the phone confirmed everything, confirmed pricing, took my CC details over the phone and confirmed it was fully paid for and would be ready at 10AM on the designated pickup day. I arrived at 10:10AM and watched someone behind the counter look in every corner of the bakery for a cake (that should have been pretty obvious considering it was two tier) and then advise "we are running behind and need another hour." The event was set to start in an hour, so that was unacceptable. I asked if they could deliver to the venue, which was 15 min away and said they couldn't. Then the owner came out and said "actually we can have it done in 20 min." What this told me is they either were going to attempt frosting a hot cake, or they were going to give us a frozen one. Ultimately, the cake was not made. In addition, the owner said "we tried to reach you several times" and showed me a number that was taken down incorrectly. The man who originally took my order also had my email address since he sent me receipt. They never once emailed me to get the right number. And to make matters even better, I as the customer had to come up with the counter solution to salvage the issue. I asked about any already made cakes that I could make work. He refunded me for the custom cake and then fully charged me for a different one. There was no accountability and to be frank, felt like a major missed customer service opportunity or correcting an error. The entire experience was unpleasant. read more

This joint is understaffed, over priced and absolutely not worth it. The pastries are just as good at the local Safeway. Don't go! read more

This bakery is slowly changing from American to European. There is something for everyone. My favorites are tomato croissant, gorgonzola walnut croissant, blueberry croissant strawberry croissant and the incredible "olives on a bread stick". Lots of love for their sandwiches, but I'm too addicted to their "croissant-like pastries" to order their sandwich. Only restaurant where I have self imposed rules. Only once a week. . . No more than six items . . . read more

This bakery feels like it's transformed in the last year. It's bustling with happy customers and we noticed a lot more inventiveness and fun flavors and items. Also, the hand made syrups and spices for their coffee flavorings were great - loved the pumpkin spice and gingerbread lattes! read more

I used to be a regular here as my kids can't get enough of what I would call "old school" baked goodies, especially raised sugar and glazed donuts and twists! Unfortunately over the past several months they've eliminated most of these traditional staples, and the quality of what's left is sub-par. The raised donuts are literally the same size and weight as the cake donuts. Hard, dense and dry; nothing light or fluffy about them. At $3.55 a pop I won't be back. That said, over the same period of time I see they've added much more sophisticated pastries and sandwiches, and they all look great. Not me or my family's thing but I guess that's what happens when new owners take over, which I totally get. Curious, however, as to why they want to replicate the menu of Belle Epicurean, which is just down the street and has a much nicer ambience. Lastly, bummed to see that the old staff has largely departed. That's a shame; they could have taught the new employees a lot about customer service. read more

I am rarely in Madison Park because I'm rather far away, but when I do go there, I always call ahead and order their apricot bear claws. They are the only bakery in Seattle the carries bear claws that are stuffed, and I mean stuffed with apricot filling. I buy it at least a half-a-dozen at a time, eating one there while I sit at one of their cute little tables. I love this Bakery! read more

Madison Park Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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I entered the bakery and the staff greeted me and were kind and friendly, the bakery had a great selection of food such as pastries, doughnuts and sandwiches. I ordered the Boston cream doughnut and it was delicious it had the perfect amount of filling , I was very impressed. While it was a bit expensive for a doughnut it was worth it and I will be coming back , I highly recommend. read more

New management came in a while back and modernized the menu. They still have some old favorites, but they've added some great new items. Their breads are fantastic, especially their focaccia and baguettes. Their espresso is excellent too! read more

How I heard of this place: We were walking along the quaint streets neighboring the park in Madison Park and were delighted by the smells wafting out of the open door to this neighborhood bakery. After brunch, it was worth a stop for a sweet treat to be enjoyed on the beach. Type of cuisine: "First established in 1929, Madison Park Bakery continues to serve the community a wide variety of Wedding & specialty cakes, donuts, pies, pastries, cookies & more! We're an old-fashioned bakery owned and operated by Karen & Terry Hofman who since 1993, have taken a great deal of pride in "baking from scratch"." Ambiance: A true focus on baked goods, there is little seating, few decorations to distract from the colorful array of treats in the display cases, and an air of simplicity all around. What I ordered: My husband and I couldn't pass up a few of the items in the case, namely, a traditional Nanaimo Bar ($2.99), a Chocolate Eclaire ($3.99), generously stuffed with custard, and a Maple Bar ($2.15) - which we couldn't refuse after a small, sweet sample. What I loved: Each one. Not one could be compared to the other, but every bite sweetly satisfying and gloriously, deliciously fresh! Why I loved it: Baked from scratch, daily: Check! Local and sustained through the decades: Check. Friendly, warm staff: Check. Deliciousness in every bite: Double Check! Cost: Average ($2 - $4 per pastry of varying sizes) read more

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I love this place!! The items are so delicious, staff always so friendly. My only issue was they weren't open one morning at the listed time. I left my house early on my way to work and the bakery wasn't open. I do t know if there was a specific issue that day but I was disappointed. But the croissant ham and cheese are amazing!! Now I'll only go in the middle of the day!! read more

Delicious every time! We're lucky to have them in the neighborhood. They kept lots of favorites from the previous owners. PLUS awesome new offerings. Love the French hot chocolate , perfect croissants, traditional donuts. read more

Nothings been the same since they sold the business. All the original recipes, like maple bars are not the same. I don't mind paying more if I were to get the same quality as Stolls was the baker. even the last owner 2023 who sold and used those recipes. I cant recommend sorry read more

I'm appreciative of the wonderful treats MPB offers, and they are certainly a staple in our neighborhood. They have helped build "community" in Madison Park. There are a handful of businesses that do more than just sell things to the community. Madison Park Bakery gives back to the community by being part of neighborhood events, supporting the pre-school and grade school whenever possible, and donating their day-old to those with food insecurities. Don't think it goes unnoticed, Karen and MPB team. I notice and it makes an impact! The pastries and breads are simply delicious. If you weren't aware they make hamburger/hotdog buns, just ask for a supply of them for your next BBQ - well, when it's warmer. It's January and not that many people are grilling during the COVID winter of 2022. I adore Karen and her staff. They bring joy to the community with their delicious treats, friendly smiles and dept of humanity. read more

First time there. came in with my son. ordered coffee and hot chocolate and pastry. hot choc was no taste of chocolate and asked pastry to be heated and gave to me cold and hard. my mocha was burnt taste and no mocha flavor. the girl was not friendly and young man doesn't listen well. based on other reviews I was not impressed. read more

A Seattle and Madison Park classic. Amazing Parker House rolls, donuts and pastries that keep residents coming back for decades. During the holidays, the place is absolutely mobbed - while walk-ins still occur. The regulars order weeks in advance. The Parker House rolls have been gracing our holiday meals for over 25 years, and we ares till relative newcomers with the shop approaching its 100th birthday. Highly recommended. read more

I am a sucker for bakeries. This is a cookie, cupcake/cake, meringue type of bakery. Not a lot of pastries or doughnuts, although there's a couple. The only gluten free things are the meringues. They have a lot of options though, even ones like "unicorn poop"! I got the toffee cookie, mini raspberry cinnamon roll, and the chocolate ganache cupcake (recommended by the staff to me) The toffee cookie was a 10/10. I ate the whole things ASAP. It's something I'm going to crave... The cupcake was a little dry, but I still enjoyed it. I got like 6 different things for about $10 so this is super affordable... and delicious! Definitely will be back read more

Madison Park Bakery - Chocolate ganache cupcake. A little dry but good! - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I grew up not too far from the bakery, but moved to another neighborhood 25 years ago, so I don't go nearly as much as I did when I was a kid. I do stop by occasionally, though, and when I need a special cake, that's where we go. Four years ago they made a custom cake for my daughter's first birthday featuring an image of a Korean hanbok outfit. This year, for my son, we were planning a much smaller affair, so we were going to forgo the cake, but Grandma convinced us to change our minds We weren't sure what they'd be able to do this time given a far shorter turnaround, but it was great! Chocolate cake, strawberry preserves filling (with big chunks of fruit!), and butter cream frosting for the design (last time was fondant). The chocolate cake tastes the same as it has for the last 50 years, and in this case that's a good thing. Happy 90th birthday, Madison Park Bakery, and may you be around at least 90 more! read more

Madison Park Bakery - Korean hanbok cake (girl) - Bakeries Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Love this neighborhood spot. Staff are super friendly, approachable and helpful. Never had the coffee but tried lots of their baked goods, donuts, cakes etc. read more

We had a family gathering this past weekend and a friend brought a German chocolate cake, decorated beautifully and I think the most delicious that I have ever eaten. I usually find this type of cake too sweet, but this one was moist, and perfect! When I asked where he obtained such a scrumptious dessert - Madison Park Bakery! 10 Stars! New Fan! read more

I never thought I'd be writing this about my favorite bakery. I'm so disappointed with how things have changed, and generally I'm all FOR change. But this small, local bakery was so incredible before. Prior to the new situation, MPB made these delicious sugar cookies with royal icing. The charm of the shapes and colors (baseballs, unicorns, cats, hearts) only added to the uniqueness of this bakery, and separated it from every other place I could go for baked goods. The people in charge were incredibly kind and even allowed me to place a super uncommon cookie order for my baby shower. Now, they are completely gone. I understand wanting to change things up, but why get rid of things that were so great in the first place? Having a place in Madison Park that felt homemade, local, warm, and welcoming made the environment feel so much more friendly. Bummed out for sure, and feel like if I want classic French baked goods, there's many places I could go that aren't out of my way. It's upsetting because I know that the cookies in particular were well loved in the community. Don't think I'll be back, and I'll be dreaming of cookies in the meantime. read more