The best bakeries & sweet shops in Finger Lakes

“When the week gets chaotic, Ithaca Bakery steps in with legit bagels, stacked sandwiches, and rotating soups like creamy tomato with basil or Italian wedding. Snag a pastry or a Grab 'n Go salad, or order ahead and let their catering rescue your next meeting.”

“Family-run and obsessively taste-tested, Finger Lakes Chocolates turns out truffles, playful novelty pieces, and classic bars that actually taste like chocolate. Build your own box for gifting or, you know, personal research, then keep an eye out at favorite local shops and wineries around the region.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Light's Coffee Shop and Pizza is that Elmira spot where fluffy omelets, Fruity Pebble Cakes and Cookies & Cream French Toast share menu space with legit New York pies, Sicilian squares and Buffalo chicken slices. Add the Friday fish fry to your week if you’re feeling old-school.”

From the Chemung County newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Loaves and pastries are baked in a wood-fired oven at this friendly spot.”

“Longtime bakery serving sandwiches, international cheeses, and entrees, plus gluten-free options.”

“Bakery chain known for warm cookies, ice cream & late-night deliveries.”

“Walk-up eatery offering hand-pies made from scratch from savory options to sweet treats.”

“Popular hand pie spot serving savory and sweet options, plus coffee.”

“Homey cafe whipping up breakfast and lunch sandwiches, bagels and baked goods alongside tea and coffee.”

“Loaves of organic, hearth-baked bread (and sourdough) from a friendly baker in a cozy venue downtown.”

“Casual cafe specializing in an array of sweets and pastries, plus fresh coffee and tea.”