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I came here this morning (a Tuesday) on a breakfast date and was surprised at how empty the cafe was. Their organised display of pastries and robust menu made it difficult to decide what to order, but the staff were super patient while I figured out what I wanted. While they don't have caramel macchiatos on the menu, the barista agreed to make me one after I described it. The iced oatmilk caramel macchiato he made the best I've had in a while. The caramel sauce had such a unique flavour. I also appreciated how friendly our barista was, he chatted with us while making my drink and it really gave that indie coffee shop vibe. My date and I shared the ham and provolone pastry which tasted good room temperature but tastes even more incredible heated up when the cheese is all gooey and melty. We also loved the apple cinnamon roll which was deliciously flavourful. I liked that it was sweet with just a bit of crunch and really appreciated that it wasn't overly cinnamon-y either. I had a sip of the elderflower lemonade my date ordered, and honestly I'm not sure what elderflower tastes like but he said you can taste it and I trust his judgement. It was definitely a refreshing drink, you can't argue with lemonade. The cozy cafe atmosphere made it easy to spend an hour chatting over our pastries and I really enjoyed the homey feel of the decor. The space was open and clean and I love that they compost and have a well-stocked condiment bar. With such a big menu, there are so many more pastries I want to try, especially the marzipan cakes. Hopefully we'll be back for breakfast again soon!
I got this sort of Blueberry Cheese Danish. It was pretty good. Nice texture & flakey. The blueberries were nice & sweet. I'd like to explore more of their options in yhe future.
This bakery is a gem! It's not trendy but from what I've tried, this bakery is legit and has been around for years for a reason. Everything is quality made and absolutely delicious. The taste of butter is prevalent and the recipes are European and delicious. I love their use of poppy seeds and sesame seeds. I also love that they make savory pastries for when you feel like something indulgent but not sweet. With that said, a great pastry is never cloyingly sweet, it is just sweet enough and everything I've had so far at Nielsen's is just that!! I'll be back the next time I'm in town!!!
I love an old time bakery. When you go inside, itʻs so cute and the counter person was so friendly. I ordered the Snitter because I had read that it was their special pastry. They had both sweet and savory items. Everything looked classic. I actually liked how the pastry looked. The flavors were good but a tad sweet.
One of my favorite Queen Anne bakeries. I always go for the peach danish, and their coffee/lattes are actually really good for a bakery. The staff are super friendly, and always helpful with recommendations when i maybe want to try something different. Nielsen's is a community gem as it helps those in need as well by offering free coffee, a dresser full of clothes who may need it, contraception for men and women, and just so much more. I will always take family and friends here as I truly love the location
Nielsen's Pastries is truly Seattle OG, established since 1965 - going to be 60 years in 2025! I was recommended to check out Nielsen's Pastries back in 2016 by James, the original owner of the now shuttered, Cafe Besalu. Recently, I came across my ancient stamp card started back then. Shocked that I've never posted a review, until now. I decided to seek them out on 12/16/24. I found easy peasy street parking out front. I joined the line and that enabled me to peer at the pastry cases. There was also merch available for the holiday season. There are a few tables, window counter seating, and additional seating by the kids area and cookbook reference area. The counter person was very upbeat, exuberant which for me was uplifting. I ordered and enjoyed onsite a 16oz mocha, a custard danish, and The Egg McNielsen. I was onsite for about 45 minutes. The mocha was tasty. The danish was modest, but I enjoyed the flaky layers and creamy custard. The Egg McNielsen hit the spot despite it being early afternoon. Egg, ham, cheese and served toasty from the panini grill. It was impressive to see periodic waves of folks coming in, but the efficiency of the team behind the counter there really wasn't much of a wait. Currently, there are a selection of holiday items that can be ordered ahead of time. One customer came in and picked up three impressive kringles that were nicely packaged. Yes, the greater Seattle area is fortunate to have many indie neighborhood cafes/bakeshops, but glad places like Nielsen's Pastries has staying power. I also appreciate quality spots that are relatively kind to one's wallet. Great customer service, tasty baked goods, decent coffee. I know I left feeling much better than when I first arrived.
They sell out pretty quick so get there early! Servers are polite and helpful. The "potato" was delicious and I'd def come back for that. The party pig was cute and tasty but functionally it was a sugar cookie with sprinkles, which was totally fine. I'd love to try more of their bakery like croissants and such when they're more fully stocked and I can get there early. Love that they are dog friendly too!
First time visitors after wandering the area from seeing Kerry Park Everything is made fresh daily and the smell is in the air - that's what caught out attention from being across the street! The employees were helpful and attentive and provided their recommendations and explained more about the product including many made in house daily. The snitter and kringle were not overpowering in sweetness, buttery, various textures, and lovely consume with tea or caffeine choice. The chai was potent and earthy in a good way (its not your traditional starbucks sweet style) It appears to be a local favorite and dog treats are available inside to give to your dog who are allowed to walk inside! Small trinkets and sweater available for purchase. Will return for another visit and smell!
I couldn't ask for much more with Nielsen's- tons of almond flavor based desserts, my absolute favorite flavor in the world. I finally got around to coming here last week and it was worth the wait- I got a slice of marzipan/princess cake, a napoleon hat, and a Sara Bernhardt, all delicious. Parking was easy too which was a big plus. I can't wait to come back again, def a repeat customer now!
Do you have a favorite family bakery? I do. And the bakery is Nielsen's, located in Seattle's lower Queen Anne neighborhood. Founded in 1965, this bakery is one of Seattle's secrets, and the creations cannot be found, nor duplicated by any bakery in greater King County. Danish in origin, these traditional pastries look like they hopped of the airplane and jumped into the display case. Made daily these selections keep the bakery crew busy. Among their favorites (to me anyways) is their almond crescent, Napolean Hat (sugar cooking with almond paste), and their Sarah Bernhardt (almond macaron and chocolate mousse dipped in chocolate). Among these, the two that stand out are their Potato (puff pastry filled with whipped cream wrapped in marizpan and rolled in cocoa powder) and their signature, coups de grace.... Marizpan cake! A little more on this Marzipan cake... Nielsen's states this is a 'princess cake' with three layers of sponge cake, raspberry filling, and whipped cream custard, with hints of rum!! Outstanding. And this cake has NEVER been duplicated by anyone. To me, that's what makes a place stand out. Be advised that this place is only open from Monday to Saturday from 8am to 2pm. But spend the time to come over, where you can. Now, they also serve daily lunch specials and a daily soup and fresh coffee or espresso! Even more of a reason to come on down. And call ahead if you want to make sure your favorite treat is available - or if you want a special order of cakes for that special event. Save me a slice of marzipan cake if you don't mind. See you in line at Nielsen's!
I had about a half hour to spare and I was walking around the area and happened upon Nielsen's Pastries. I am so glad that I did! This is an adorable hidden gem of a bakery that immediately felt homey when I walked in. I had to try the famous snitter. It was even better than I imagined it would be! The employees were all so kind and I was served very quickly. I will most definitely be back over and over again to try everything in the case, one pastry at a time.
Stopped by early in the day for pre hike pastries. I got the spinach feta pastry, blackberry cream cheese danish and Kringle slice. Everything was fresh and pretty delicious. I got things warmed up. I usually don't like almond forward pastries as I don't like the almond essence flavour. But that was really not the case here where almond was subtle and more in texture. Overall pastries were a little on the sweeter side for me but I can see why this place is famous.
What a charming little cafe. I was immediately transported back to Europe to one my beloved small town bakeries. Not fancy or showy - the focus is clearly on the baked goods. The pastries are also clearly handmade, simple and delicately flavorful. No sugar bombs here! The cinnamon roll was baked well with a subtle hint of cardamom. I'd never heard of a Sarah Bernhardt cookie before, but looked intriguing. Glad I indulged! The cookie base was a Danish makroner which had a great chew yet still crisp. The chocolate interior was fluffy and mousse like, and the chocolate coating was just the right thickness. The staff are friendly, helpful, and patient while you make your selection. Nielsens is a bit off the beaten path; I found it while visiting the DMV. I'll definitely be back again. Their cardamom braid is falling my name...
3 months ago
Stopped by in the early afternoon. Staff were super friendly. Was excited to see the excellent cleanliness rating, space seemed welcoming and clean. There is a lot of indoor seating available. You order with staff at the counter. This one of the best slices of cake I've ever had. It was fresh, wasn't too sweet, and I loved the frosting. Would definitely stop by again to pick up a slice of cake. read more
I came here this morning (a Tuesday) on a breakfast date and was surprised at how empty the cafe was. Their organised display of pastries and robust menu made it difficult to decide what to order, but the staff were super patient while I figured out what I wanted. While they don't have caramel macchiatos on the menu, the barista agreed to make me one after I described it. The iced oatmilk caramel macchiato he made the best I've had in a while. The caramel sauce had such a unique flavour. I also appreciated how friendly our barista was, he chatted with us while making my drink and it really gave that indie coffee shop vibe. My date and I shared the ham and provolone pastry which tasted good room temperature but tastes even more incredible heated up when the cheese is all gooey and melty. We also loved the apple cinnamon roll which was deliciously flavourful. I liked that it was sweet with just a bit of crunch and really appreciated that it wasn't overly cinnamon-y either. I had a sip of the elderflower lemonade my date ordered, and honestly I'm not sure what elderflower tastes like but he said you can taste it and I trust his judgement. It was definitely a refreshing drink, you can't argue with lemonade. The cozy cafe atmosphere made it easy to spend an hour chatting over our pastries and I really enjoyed the homey feel of the decor. The space was open and clean and I love that they compost and have a well-stocked condiment bar. With such a big menu, there are so many more pastries I want to try, especially the marzipan cakes. Hopefully we'll be back for breakfast again soon! read more
This bakery is a gem! It's not trendy but from what I've tried, this bakery is legit and has been around for years for a reason. Everything is quality made and absolutely delicious. The taste of butter is prevalent and the recipes are European and delicious. I love their use of poppy seeds and sesame seeds. I also love that they make savory pastries for when you feel like something indulgent but not sweet. With that said, a great pastry is never cloyingly sweet, it is just sweet enough and everything I've had so far at Nielsen's is just that!! I'll be back the next time I'm in town!!! read more
2 months ago
I love an old time bakery. When you go inside, itʻs so cute and the counter person was so friendly. I ordered the Snitter because I had read that it was their special pastry. They had both sweet and savory items. Everything looked classic. I actually liked how the pastry looked. The flavors were good but a tad sweet. read more
One of my favorite Queen Anne bakeries. I always go for the peach danish, and their coffee/lattes are actually really good for a bakery. The staff are super friendly, and always helpful with recommendations when i maybe want to try something different. Nielsen's is a community gem as it helps those in need as well by offering free coffee, a dresser full of clothes who may need it, contraception for men and women, and just so much more. I will always take family and friends here as I truly love the location read more
Nielsen's Pastries is truly Seattle OG, established since 1965 - going to be 60 years in 2025! I was recommended to check out Nielsen's Pastries back in 2016 by James, the original owner of the now shuttered, Cafe Besalu. Recently, I came across my ancient stamp card started back then. Shocked that I've never posted a review, until now. I decided to seek them out on 12/16/24. I found easy peasy street parking out front. I joined the line and that enabled me to peer at the pastry cases. There was also merch available for the holiday season. There are a few tables, window counter seating, and additional seating by the kids area and cookbook reference area. The counter person was very upbeat, exuberant which for me was uplifting. I ordered and enjoyed onsite a 16oz mocha, a custard danish, and The Egg McNielsen. I was onsite for about 45 minutes. The mocha was tasty. The danish was modest, but I enjoyed the flaky layers and creamy custard. The Egg McNielsen hit the spot despite it being early afternoon. Egg, ham, cheese and served toasty from the panini grill. It was impressive to see periodic waves of folks coming in, but the efficiency of the team behind the counter there really wasn't much of a wait. Currently, there are a selection of holiday items that can be ordered ahead of time. One customer came in and picked up three impressive kringles that were nicely packaged. Yes, the greater Seattle area is fortunate to have many indie neighborhood cafes/bakeshops, but glad places like Nielsen's Pastries has staying power. I also appreciate quality spots that are relatively kind to one's wallet. Great customer service, tasty baked goods, decent coffee. I know I left feeling much better than when I first arrived. read more
They sell out pretty quick so get there early! Servers are polite and helpful. The "potato" was delicious and I'd def come back for that. The party pig was cute and tasty but functionally it was a sugar cookie with sprinkles, which was totally fine. I'd love to try more of their bakery like croissants and such when they're more fully stocked and I can get there early. Love that they are dog friendly too! read more
First time visitors after wandering the area from seeing Kerry Park Everything is made fresh daily and the smell is in the air - that's what caught out attention from being across the street! The employees were helpful and attentive and provided their recommendations and explained more about the product including many made in house daily. The snitter and kringle were not overpowering in sweetness, buttery, various textures, and lovely consume with tea or caffeine choice. The chai was potent and earthy in a good way (its not your traditional starbucks sweet style) It appears to be a local favorite and dog treats are available inside to give to your dog who are allowed to walk inside! Small trinkets and sweater available for purchase. Will return for another visit and smell! read more
2 months ago
I couldn't ask for much more with Nielsen's- tons of almond flavor based desserts, my absolute favorite flavor in the world. I finally got around to coming here last week and it was worth the wait- I got a slice of marzipan/princess cake, a napoleon hat, and a Sara Bernhardt, all delicious. Parking was easy too which was a big plus. I can't wait to come back again, def a repeat customer now! read more
Do you have a favorite family bakery? I do. And the bakery is Nielsen's, located in Seattle's lower Queen Anne neighborhood. Founded in 1965, this bakery is one of Seattle's secrets, and the creations cannot be found, nor duplicated by any bakery in greater King County. Danish in origin, these traditional pastries look like they hopped of the airplane and jumped into the display case. Made daily these selections keep the bakery crew busy. Among their favorites (to me anyways) is their almond crescent, Napolean Hat (sugar cooking with almond paste), and their Sarah Bernhardt (almond macaron and chocolate mousse dipped in chocolate). Among these, the two that stand out are their Potato (puff pastry filled with whipped cream wrapped in marizpan and rolled in cocoa powder) and their signature, coups de grace.... Marizpan cake! A little more on this Marzipan cake... Nielsen's states this is a 'princess cake' with three layers of sponge cake, raspberry filling, and whipped cream custard, with hints of rum!! Outstanding. And this cake has NEVER been duplicated by anyone. To me, that's what makes a place stand out. Be advised that this place is only open from Monday to Saturday from 8am to 2pm. But spend the time to come over, where you can. Now, they also serve daily lunch specials and a daily soup and fresh coffee or espresso! Even more of a reason to come on down. And call ahead if you want to make sure your favorite treat is available - or if you want a special order of cakes for that special event. Save me a slice of marzipan cake if you don't mind. See you in line at Nielsen's! read more
I had about a half hour to spare and I was walking around the area and happened upon Nielsen's Pastries. I am so glad that I did! This is an adorable hidden gem of a bakery that immediately felt homey when I walked in. I had to try the famous snitter. It was even better than I imagined it would be! The employees were all so kind and I was served very quickly. I will most definitely be back over and over again to try everything in the case, one pastry at a time. read more
2 years ago
Stopped by early in the day for pre hike pastries. I got the spinach feta pastry, blackberry cream cheese danish and Kringle slice. Everything was fresh and pretty delicious. I got things warmed up. I usually don't like almond forward pastries as I don't like the almond essence flavour. But that was really not the case here where almond was subtle and more in texture. Overall pastries were a little on the sweeter side for me but I can see why this place is famous. read more
What a charming little cafe. I was immediately transported back to Europe to one my beloved small town bakeries. Not fancy or showy - the focus is clearly on the baked goods. The pastries are also clearly handmade, simple and delicately flavorful. No sugar bombs here! The cinnamon roll was baked well with a subtle hint of cardamom. I'd never heard of a Sarah Bernhardt cookie before, but looked intriguing. Glad I indulged! The cookie base was a Danish makroner which had a great chew yet still crisp. The chocolate interior was fluffy and mousse like, and the chocolate coating was just the right thickness. The staff are friendly, helpful, and patient while you make your selection. Nielsens is a bit off the beaten path; I found it while visiting the DMV. I'll definitely be back again. Their cardamom braid is falling my name... read more
4 months ago
I don't know why I haven't reviewed this place yet I come here enough. It is the best neighborhood bakery by far. Everyone who works there is super friendly and helpful. They have the best pastries -- some of my favorites include: spinach and feta, the BOB, any danish really, and snitters. They will sell out of certain items so if you want your pick, come earlier in the morning. I've ordered lattes here as well and they are solid. It looks like they've brought back some seating inside but most people take it to go, or sit at a couple of small round tables out front. If you are looking for a light breakfast or just want something buttery and delicious. GO! You won't regret it. read more
I didn't expect much at first but it blew my mind after first bite. It was freshly backed and quality pastries! I got the potato and some cinammon danish. They weren't overly sweet and spices were just great. Sucha flavor bomb. I would love to visit again. read more
1 year ago
Solid Danish pastry shop with both sweet and savory varieties. I came right before they close, and couldn't get my hands on the popular stuff like cardamom braids. I got some classic pastries like cookies and cinnamon roll, nothing stood out. I'll be back early in the day next time! read more
1 year ago
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4 years ago
Went specifically looking for this place since my SO remembers the poppy seed danish from half a decade ago and it was one of the best pastry he's ever had so he wanted to share Food/Taste/Flavor: 5/5 - this pastry shop definitely lives up to his memory and everything we tried was so good!! Poppy Seed Danish (tebirkes) was buttery and flaky with just a hint of sweetness to contrast the savory/nuttiness from the poppy seeds. Boller with a chocolate topping and some custard inside. It reminds me of a milk bread with the lightly sweet flavor and fluffy texture. The coffee was great with this since the acidity helped cut through some of the sweetness Frosnapper was interesting to look at and we though it would be a more savory pastry since it had poppy and sesame seeds. It was flaky, buttery, sweet and crispy from the caramelized bottom, savory from the seeds, and we absolutely loved it. The sesame and caramelization reminds us of Asian sesame sweets but it added a great texture to this bread as well Ambience: 5/5 - cute shop that feels warm and cozy. Someplace we would want to just hang out at. They had a sign outside asking to limit the number of customers in the store for safety Service: 5/5 - super friendly and held a conversation with us while we were making our decision. Ask if you have any questions or want recommendations! Value for price: 5/5 - great food and service and very reasonable price. There's definitely a very good reason why they've been around for so long! read more
10 months ago
3 years ago
Definitely a local gem in the queen anne neighborhood! This danish bakery has Lots of varieties in pastry, freshly made each morning from savory to sweet. We had the spinach and feta, peach danish, snitter, and cinnamon rolls. So flaky and delicious! A snitter is a flattened cinnamon roll with custard on top. Sounds interesting and tasty too. Also super friendly and helpful staff. read more
1 year ago
3 years ago
(4.85 stars if available) This "hole in the wall" café is a great example of Seattle's finest espresso/ bakery. Although I did not stay to enjoy the experience, I was treated very well. Joel did a great job of making myself feel welcome. Great team, very professional. read more
4 years ago
Nielsen's Pastries is a great dessert shop. They serve a very large variety of delicious pastries, and have a dessert for every tastebud, whether you are craving sweet or savory. I highly recommend having them heat up whatever dessert your order, to achieve maximum flavor. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. I highly recommend this dessert shop. read more
Nielsen's Pastries is a pretty great danish pastry shop. They have a variety of sweet and savory pastries. They have friendly baristas with a great selection of coffees. I had a hazelnut coffee and a pastry called The Potato. It is a puff pastry with whipped cream and custard, marzipan and cocoa powder. Worth checking out if you're in the area when they are open. read more
5 years ago
You can't go wrong with this place. I smelled the good food while passing by. Figured I might as well pop in to see if it was something I could eat for lunch. When I came inside I felt like I wasn't sure if the place was fully open yet or if they were closing down, but yes they were open. I ordered an apple cinnamon roll to go. It wasn't easy to pick as they had a few items I would have liked to try and for a reasonable price. I would say the cinnamon roll was quality, but at the same time did not wow me. Yes it was nice they added a few small pieces of apple. In my opinion nothing about it makes me want to choose their cinnamon roll over another bakeries. Maybe had they offered to warm it up and there was about twice as much topping and icing it would have had more of that wow factor. It also would have been alot messier in the bag. It's also kind of dark and cold feeling inside and there isn't any seating outdoors. Meh. Overall if your in the area and looking for a bakery. You won't be disappointed. You won't be wowed either. You will get a decent pastry worth your money. I'm not mad about that. read more
2 years ago
Love a good danish bakery! The patties are so good. Light and flakey. Great custard- silky and smooth. The staff is so friendly and they have a discount for 6 or more. So many good choices to choose from I had to reach the discount! Street parking and pretty much on corner of 2nd ave and Mercer. Small area to sit, if I remember correctly. I got my box to go. Very walkable from Maxwell hotel read more
This place have been on my list for a while. I think my expectations may have been too high so it was kinda a let down??? Or they just have really good Kringles during the season but their pastries are pretty standard. I got 4 pastries: cream cheese Danish, bear claw, apple pastry, and another pastry that I don't remember the name but reminds me of a cinnamon roll. They were all good but nothing really stood out. My favorite was probably the apple pastry as there was different textures in it while the other was more monotonous. Overall, it was ok, I might get some when I'm in the area but nothing to be overly excited about read more
Solid spot to grab some coffee and some of the best pastries out there. Never heard of a boller before and it's like a croissant with a splash of chocolate in the middle of the top and crème filled. Ham and cheese pastry was excellent as well and coffee was on point. read more
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More info about Nielsen's Pastries
520 2nd Ave W
Seattle, WA 98119
Lower Queen Anne
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(206) 282-3004
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http://nielsenspastries.com/
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