Portland's reputation for culinary creativity precedes it, even in the case of pastries. There's nothing like walking into a bakery and being hit with the scent of sugar, fresh bread, and the subtle hint of vanilla, cinnamon, and other spices. Portland might be known for its rad coffee shops, but it should also be known for its incredible pastry art, as well.
Wandering through various neighborhoods in this area is sure to result in some tasty discoveries, but why not follow a guide instead? When it comes to finding the right bakery or pastry shop, there's nothing like being able to simply check the best spots off one's list.
A Little About Portland's Pastry Culture
As with an artistic hub, Portland is full of creatives that have a serious zest for life. This translates well when it comes to food and many Portland restaurants present dishes that are practically art on a plate. When it comes to the pastry arts, this Oregon city excels in that, as well - and does so in a way that entices and enchants visitors who are looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.
A little friendly competition never hurt anyone, and Portland's best bakeries have found ways to be creative in order to stand out from the rest. when the competition is every single pastry shop in the country rather than just one state, alone, things can get pretty interesting... and they certainly do.
When it comes to finding the best pastries in Portland, visitors to this hip city can start with these.
La Rose Patisserie
La Rose has consistently been at the top of the list for some time now, and their fusion of French and Asian techniques and flavors likely accounts for that. This dynamic duo of sweet cuisines is fused together to create something altogether unique and different, and it has caught the attention of everyone in the city. And for those wondering, yes - rose pastries can be found in the display case, and these mousse sponge cakes are a local favorite.
The combinations of pastry flavors work in harmony and unison, making each bite better than the last, which is the true gift of La Rose Patisserie. On the outside, these pastries are as beautiful as can be, with intricate and precise piping, airbrushing, and decorating. With French flour and authentic Japanese matcha being imported on a regular basis, it's not surprising that La Rose has earned the title as one of the best patisseries in Portland.
- Must-Try: Rose-shaped mousse sponge cake, rainbow crepe cake, and souffle pancakes (weekends only)
Jinju Patisserie
It's always a home run when food looks far too beautiful to even eat, and this is the case at Jinju Patisserie. These fancy, decadent pastries are elevated in a way that makes them look as though they belong in a museum rather than behind a bakery display. However, the flavors of these incredible sweets are well worth demolishing them for.
Opening in Portland, Jinju has received praise for quickly becoming one of the best pastry shops in Portland. The pastry chefs at Jinju are from Las Vegas which explains their luxe nature and the art of design behind each one, and also sparks a sense of curiosity for those who have never stepped foot into this bakery.
- Must-Try: Fruit tart, bonbons, six-layer mousse cake, macarons, peanut butter chocolate bar
Baker & Spice
Baker & Spice is a unique blend of cake art and cafe delights and is well worth the trip to Portland's Hillsdale neighborhood. This bakery is where organic and natural meet traditional and flavorful, and visitors can't go wrong with anything from the selection behind the counter. The Cakery is their spin-off for all things cake, and the creations walking out the door of this bakery are breathtaking. Along with custom cakes, visitors to this bakery can also find cookbooks, cake decorating and baking tools, and cake stands- it's practically a one-stop shop for all things cake.
Baker & Spice is the perfect place to stop in for an early-morning bite before checking out The Cakery. With a beautiful combination of local and organic ingredients, the treats one will find here are sure to make an impression.
- Must-Try: Croissants, Buckwheat Cardamom Kougin Amann, galette, savory bread pudding
Bakeshop
The owner of the Bakeshop is none other than Kim Boyce, the author of Good to the Grain: Baking with Whole-Grain Flours, which won the James Beard Award. Kim Boyce herself was nominated for the award in 2016, and all it takes is stepping foot in the Bakeshop to see - or smell, or taste - why.
Bakeshop's niche is creating pastries, pies, cakes, and the like with whole grains. This, alone, has gained a tremendous following in the Portland area. The delightful blend of creativity and whole-grain sources is truly unique and stands alone in its flavors. A true gem of Portland and Oregon, in general, Bakeshop is not to be missed.
- Must-Try: Quiche, burnt basque cheesecake, croissant croque monsieur, marionberry scones
No matter where in Portland foodies might be visiting, any one of these pastry shops is likely to make sweet dreams come true. If you don't believe us, just give them a try!