My fiance and I were trying out local bakeries to determine which one would suit us best to make our wedding cake. I loved what I saw from street view already, being someone who loves quaint homeyness over hoity-toity pretentiousness, but upon walking in I almost knew immediately this would be the spot. It's a lovely little bakery, in a very quiet part of Worcester, and I felt invited in by the staff upon entering. Mara knew who we were, sat us down and provided excellent samples on a platter and discussed our favorite colors, ideas, etc. during our consultation. By the time she finished, my fiance looked at me and we exchanged the decision that we were going with On The Rise. Now, it's a way's off before I'll see what our wedding cake turns out to be, but the samples we tried were wonder, the presentation was beautiful, the service was excellent, and I love knowing I'm supporting a truly local staple. (If I remember, I'll update this after the wedding!) read more

I'm hesitant to write this review because this is a best kept secret in Tatnuck! But yet... support this local business! I cannot speak for their catering business, but I highly recommend stopping by for a coffee and a pastry or sandwich! Prices are on point and the quaint space has a relaxing atmosphere. The owners will be there working hard and the service can't be beat. Low visibility, limited hours, and street parking but well worth stopping in. read more

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They made a cake for me that was beyond beautiful and equally delicious. The GF cake was also amazing.

Walked in on a Friday afternoon, excited to finally try out the highly rated cupcakes at OTR! The friendly staff instantly drew me in as they prepared fresh coffee behind the counter. There was a clean, simple sitting area looking out onto the street. I was pleasantly surprised to see a variety of pastries from beautifully decorated scones to tarts and cake pops so I tried the most unique options. I decided to get the Morning glory muffin and the vegan chocolate banana bread (which looked divine), both for takeout. The vegan bread was soft and well loaded with chocolate chips (Willy Wonka would be proud) but I only tasted the banana in one small bite, yet I'd still recommend it if you're simply a chocolate lover. Sadly, the muffin led to the average score because it mostly tasted of the rising agent but the sweet raisins and carrots in the centre tried their best to save the day. I was mostly disappointed by the fact that for a first timer, if that's all I'd gotten, I wouldn't have been happy so luckily it was my second purchase. I reached out to the store on their official page as well just to point it out so hopefully it was a one time thing because they generally have lots of great reviews. I'll be back in future to experience the many options they have. read more

On the Rise Baking - Glass case - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

OTR were amazing to work with for our wedding cake. Not only were the flavors and tasting organization delightful, but they gladly accommodated a lactose intolerance! The cake was beautiful AND delicious. They were always responsive and delivered a perfect cake on time and in perfect condition a few towns away from their site. Thank you OTR for you professionalism and your delicious baked goods! read more

Love this bakery! Pastries, cake and pastries are delicious and they have a great variety. Friendly staff.

Always delicious and friendly and helpful staff. I always have a hard time deciding what to get as all is really good. Love the quiches

I just ate the best quiche of my life. I seriously might go back for more right now! Everyone is so friendly and there is a fab assortment. Love this place!!!! read more

Ordered cupcakes from here for a baby shower. The total count was 60 cupcakes and we requested four flavors. I picked up them a day prior to make sure it all was ready for the next morning. I should have double checked because we were missing 15 cupcakes! we had to have someone rush them over. I would have over looked this but after tasting the cupcakes the cake itself was okay but the frosting had absolutely no sweet taste to it. It tasted like just straight butter. I was a bit disappointed as i was recommended this bakery by my sister in law. Overall they were a hit but probably will not do a large order again. read more

On the Rise Baking - Two women are at a dessert table with cupcakes and decorative pumpkins, in a room with wooden walls and a window. - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

If you haven't checked this place out since the new owners have taken over, you absolutely should!! I have never had bad anything here! The service is great, the drinks are great, the food is great. Did I mention that everything is great?! We have ordered numerous cakes from them and will continue to do so; Mara is so talented and takes such pride in her craft. Thank you, "Up on the Rise", we will see you soon! read more

Love this place .Better then anywhere else I been for breakfast and treats. Hidden away om pleasant street but a must try u don't know what your missing, super nice people. read more

This used to be my best bakery in town. May 12, picked up 18 cupcakes and birthday cake salted caramel flavor. It wasn't the first time I ordered that flavor and it was delish. Picked up at 12:30 and ate it 4:30 but to my dismay my guests and kids are taking off the butter. One of my guest mentioned it taste like refrigerator( means fridge needs clean up) and I tasted chemical. I emailed Betty(owner) and has no apology and just said that it could still be cold that it taste like that and also the cakes was made in the night before she said. The cupcakes 3 usd/piece and 8 inch cake 48 usd. Birthday cake was the recent that taste so bad and wedding cake was delish and both has the same flavors. read more

On the Rise Baking - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

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We hired On the Rise for our wedding cake and they didn't disappoint! Prior to committing to a type of cake/flavor, I purchased some chocolate cupcakes with chocolate ganache and peanut butter buttercream. It was delicious and they masterfully turned that cupcake into our wedding cake! Mara is so easy to work with and everything was stress free on our wedding day! Thank you so much! read more

We're relatively new to the area, and have tried other bakeries for birthday cake, and have been let down. I saw this bakery made carrot cake and decided to give it a try for my husband's birthday. The cake was a fair price, and the baker I spoke with was very helpful. The taste of the cake was AMAZING. It lasted us for about a week, and even those last pieces were moist and delicious. We will definitely be back!!!! read more

On the Rise Baking - Carrot cake, moist and delicious. - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

Everything they make is off the charts good. From baked good to drinks. A seriously talented and passionate person runs this place.

Five stars is not even close to what this place deserves to be rated ! My first experience with them was for my daughters Christening and cake came out so pretty and yummy everyone had to ask from where we got it! On my husbands 40 th bday I went for a more Sophisticated cake, cigars jack daniel label and nibs , ice bucket with ice on the top I showed Anna the picture and she said sure will be ready in 2 days, I didn't have my expectations too high Cz I knew it was a very tough cake to replicate ( picture from Pinterest) but guess what ?! They nailed it !! was so so beautiful and the strawberry mousse filling was so yummy everyone loved it!! read more

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My cousin is gluten free and had mentioned she missed banana bread the most. My wife made it her mission to find a bakery that could make that happen. Let me tell you, On the Rise did NOT disappoint! They worked quick and had it ready before we needed it. The loaves are HUGE, so just be aware We will have banana bread for days, and my cousin is so excited! read more

On the Rise Baking - Absolutely amazing! The large loaves are HUGE! Thanks for being able to make these quick for my cousin! - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

I love scones! I have been searching Worcester for a bakery that makes scones and I found a fabulous one in On the Rise. Every time I go, there are different flavors to choose from. I have tried many flavors, all were wonderful: lemon, chocolate chip, blueberry, apple. I walk in and ask, "what flavor scones do you have". In fact, everything on the counter looks terrific; the muffins, coffee cakes and breads (banana, cranberry, chocolate chip). My ONLY disappointment is that they are only open Thursday to Sunday and only for 5-6 hours. read more

On the Rise is the perfect local bakery. They have amazing sweet treats. Some of my favorites include their chocolate chip cookies, the cinnamon buns, and their famous triple chocolate mousse cake. If you're not looking for dessert, it's the place for savory options as well! Their homemade cheddar jalapeño bagels and quiche varieties melt in your mouth. Great selections of coffee and gluten free options as well. This is the place to go for all of your breakfast, lunch, and sweet tooth desires! read more

I recently ordered a gluten and nut free cake for my daughter's graduate degree graduation. It was a very special event and I wanted an elegant cake to mark the occasion. She has both Celiac Disease and sever peanut/tree nut allergies. The cake was amazing and delicious. Thank you Betty and gang at OTRB. read more

On the Rise Baking - Gluten and nut free Beautiful and delicious - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

Delicious, classy, friendly little bakery/cafe in Tatnuck Sq. They offer lovely French pastries..cheesecake...tartlets...muffins..scones...coffee...espresso drinks...smoothies...paninis. The desserts, specialty cakes and breakfast pastry are all baked in house by Chef Elizabeth Casey. On The Rise is a female owned business with friendly, attentive staff....very good Espresso bar and they brew Carpe Diem Coffee roasted in Maine. Seems they brew in small 1/2 gallon portions so it is never watered down or bitter. Always fresh as opposed to other coffee shops that brew 3 gallons and just let it sit on the warmer getting stale all day. Prices are VERY reasonable, especially for coffee...a 16 ounce hott coffee is around $1.89.... they also offer a variety of Gluten Free breakfast pastries and desserts...the GF triple mousse cake is to die for... some things to keep in mind: *Parking on street as well as behind building between Charlotte Klein dance studio and On The Rise. just don't block the driveway!!! *$10.00 debit/credit minimum... *call ahead for cakes...they bake fresh to order as opposed to leaving whole cakes in the fridge or freezer for weeks the way that some of the other Worcester bakeries do. Don't be turned off by the small selection available daily. It is all fresh. *They're now open late Fridays and Saturdays and offer a cute outdoor eating area... *Driving by and unable to find the danmed place??? Look for the big chef statue that the regulars have named "Steffano" On The Rise is a Worcester gem. read more

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I stopped into the bakery as I was looking for a good tea. I'm glad I did, I ended up ordering a Apple Chai Tea Latte with almond milk, at first sip it was A-mazing!! Just the right amount of spice and the apple flavor melded wonderfully with the chai. I treated my mother to her 1st Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte and she was in love. We ended up sharing a freshly made sticky bun which was out of this world good. I don't think I've tasted a sticky bun that nice in ages. They also have a good variety of gluten free desserts. Which I was tempted to try but didn't have room. The owner and the girls that worked in the shop were very friendly. If your in the mood you there is a small area with seating to enjoy your tea, coffee and bakery goods. If your in the Worcester area give, On the Rise Baking a try. read more

On the Rise Baking - Post workout Pumpkin muffins and chai. - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

This is hands down my favorite bakery in Worcester!! From quiche to pastries this bakery does it all. They have a great selection of mighty leaf teas and a killer coffee menu. I always get the Almond Joy Latte: chocolate, almond, and coconut - you can't go wrong. Cozy cafe area has lots of greenery and natural light. A must try on the West side. read more

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Our wedding cake was perfect. It was exactly how we had imagined and all the guests commented how beautiful it was, not to mention the yummiest chocolate cake ever!!!! read more

On the Rise Baking - Thank you Betty for making this beautiful for Brian and I on our wedding day!!! - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

Superb service, products and quality. An outstanding bakery for special orders. Desserts are superior. Our favorite privately owned bakery for over ten years. Desserts and cakes are phenomenal. Five stars year after year! read more

Had an americano and a blueberry muffin. Solid store. It's my first time, so I can't speak to consistency, but if they're like all the other bakers I know, it's the same excellent end product day in and day out. Also - best americano is worcester. read more

On the Rise Baking - There's about 4,000 (give or take) blueberries in this amazing muffin. Treat yo'self and get about 40,000. - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

If you have a bad experience here it not about them it would be about you. This is a 5 star plus operation. Service excellent, quality excellent and the taste is out of this world. The attention to detail far exceeds expectations. I highly recommend them from a simple coffee to a large order wedding cake. Excellence in service and quality!! read more

We most enjoyed doing business with On the Rise for our wedding cake. The cake was beautiful and delicious. The fact that it is local and family run business is "icing on the cake". We found Betty very easy, responsive and reliable to work with. Thank you! read more

Long overdue review- but I have got to say they exceeded my expectations greatly. I had called at least 10 bakeries to place an order for a friend's birthday cake- and they were the only ones that didn't have their ribbon girl on leave, chocolate not colored in advance, or any other bakery related reason why they couldn't take my order on a short notice. They were also not unreasonably expensive. When the cake was brought out, everyone oohed and aahed and my friend loved it! Mission Accomplished read more

On the Rise baking is by far the most amazing bakery in Worcester. The staff is always friendly and the treats are delicious. My mom ordered my baby shower cake at OTR and it honestly brought tears to my eyes. Not only was every detail exactly what I wanted, the owner Betty went the extra mile to add sentimental touches making the cake truly spectacular. It was one of the most gorgeous cakes I've ever seen and everyone raved about how delicious it was. Betty suggested adding rose petals to the table and let us borrow her beautiful cake stand. The day was amazing on its own but the cake was one of the talks of the party. Thank you so much!! read more

On the Rise Baking - Bakeries Near Me - Worcester, Massachusetts

As a lifelong Worcester resident (and pastry/tea lover), I can say with utmost confidence that On The Rise is one of Worcesters finest. Located in the heart of Tatnuck Square, this bakery and coffee shop is an adorable addition to the area. Having read some other (not-so-good) reviews, I am shocked that people could be commenting about the same place. Everytime I have been to On The Rise (which is usually at least once weekly), the staff have been extremely pleasant and kind. They even go above and beyond to give treats and water to my dog, who often waits outside while I get my tea. The patio is great in the summer for people watching, and you are almost always sure to get into a genuine conversation with the local customers. The owner, Betty, is a very sweet woman who is clearly passionate about what she does. The pastries taste as good as they look, and the gluten free menu options are delicious! Another commenter posted on the preferred music of the staff-- every experience I have had at OTR has been nothing short of relaxing. The perfect place to sit down, do some work, or socialize with the friendly staff and customers. Truly one of Worcesters best! read more

Friendly staff, great coffee drinks (they truly make a great iced latte), delicious cupcakes and other treats...it's really a win-win for the neighborhood to have such a great little place here in Tatnuck Square. Keep up the great work, On The Rise. You're a real gem on this side of town! read more

Coffee was really good. We got there about 10 so the selection of pasties was a bit low by the blueberry muffin and the raspberry coconut pastries were excellent. The place smelled delicious when we walked it. Nice gluten free selections as well. read more

Just had a really excellent piece of triple mousse cake - rich, smooth white chocolate, milk chocolate and seriously bittersweet, with a thin solid chocolate bottom. Divine! They obviously use all the best ingredients. read more

I'll try again, but so far have been disappointed. One time I ordered two egg and cheese sandwiches. They seemed to take forever -- it seemed like 20 minutes but may not have been that long. Which was especially strange because there didn't seem to be anybody in front of us. The eggs were made on a grill, which is key in a good egg and cheese. But the cheese was American cheese and the sandwich was bland. Salt on the eggs and butter on the bagel would have gone a long way. Another time I ordered the blueberry coffee cake. The texture was OK and I really liked the crumb topping. But again, the rest of the cake was bland and needed salt, fat, and sugar, the key ingredients in baked goods. I remember the coffee being good. Everything looks good, so I won't give up yet. But I want better. read more

Just had a great experience with our sons confirmation cake! Service and pricing were great but the cake itself was FANTASTIC!!! I've sent friends to OTR and they've all been extremely satisfied! Keep up the great work!! read more

Great customer service but the cake tasted old. The cake was dry and inedible. None of my guests enjoyed it.

After an extremely frustrating search for a decent bakery for our wedding cake we were referred to On the Rise by another baker who was retiring. We made an appointment with Elizabeth to taste some of her cakes and see if it was a good fit. My wife and I were blown away at how warm and accommodating Elizabeth was. She brought us some coffees and let us taste a vast variety of delicious cakes. She also popped into the kitchen on the spot to whip us up a custom buttercream that I suggested we might want for our cake (spoiler: it was amazing) Every step of the way she was very attentive to our concerns and extremely accommodating to our whims and most importantly our budget. On our wedding day the cake was delivered without incident, looked beautiful, and tasted amazing. She also provided us with an extra top layer for our first anniversary. All in all, we have recommended her to many of our engaged friends and would not hesitate to go to On the Rise for more special occasion cakes. Thanks a ton! read more

I work at a wedding venue so see wedding cakes come and wedding cakes go. Sure they're all nice, but Betty's cakes truly stand out among the others! Her care and devotion to perfection are evident in each unique and beautifully designed cake. But how do they taste you ask? OMG, personal favorite of mine, she makes a luscious rich chocolate multi layer cake that has tiny crunchy toffee bits and layers of silky smooth chocolate mousse frosting, that's AMAZING! Not sure of name, chocolate triple mousse cake? Help me Betty, is that right? Tied in a close second are a yummy carrot cake with shredded carrots, walnuts, pineapple, cream cheese frosting topped off with abundant buttercream frosting and the Strawberry Genoise, a light as air sponge cake layered with luscious vanilla buttercream and loads of fresh strawberries... Mmmm, am I the only one hungry now? I've never visited her bakery but having tasted and loved her cakes and just now viewing photos of things that made my stomach growl, I think a trip to Worcester is forthcoming... See ya then Betty :) read more

I've lived in Worcester for several years now, and I'm sad I'm only just finding out about this bakery! Everything I've ever had there (quiche, muffins, triple mousse cake...) is delicious. The icing on the cake (heh) is that I have Celiac Disease, which means I have to eat gluten free - and doing that is not only easy but incredibly awesome here. I follow them on Facebook and they update regularly about all of their offerings, gf options included. They've always had something gf for me (although sometimes they sell out, or only have gf cake as an option when I stop in for breakfast, etc.), and they're very good about assuring guests about what's in their food. The little outdoor seating area is really lovely on a beautiful day, and indoor seating is fine (although not plentiful... this is a tiny place!). My husband got my gf birthday cake from here this year, and it was all I could do not to eat the whole thing and make my friends find something else. The cake was beautiful, very professionally done. I will say that the daily baked goods aren't always "perfect" looking - if you want your food to look like it is styled for a magazine, some of the muffins here might disappoint. Personally, I think bakeries go over-the-top with that (so much decorative frosting you can't even get a good bite!), so I love it. Gives everything a wonderful home-cooked feel. read more