I am excited to offer my list of the Top 5 Best Bakeries in South Philadelphia. After putting together my Dan DuPraw 2024 Philadelphia Restaurant Awards, I got a little sad when I could only pick one bakery to win, because Philadelphia has so many great bakeries, not only that, SOUTH Philadelphia has many great bakeries. I am blessed to live walking distance from a couple incredible ones.

Whether you’re looking for a special occasion or just a little Treat Yo Self snack, I want to share the top 5 best best bakeries in South Philadelphia. Warning: If you are hungry right now… this is not going to help :). Now, without further delay… Introducing…

The Top 5 Best Bakeries in South Philadelphia

#5. Artisan Boulanger Pâtissier

Artisan Boulanger Patissier: Looking for a French Boulanger? This is it! I come here for my French baguettes whenever I am hosting a party, and because I have no self control, I usually sneak in a croissant to munch on while I prep. Their breakfast sandwiches are one of my favorite weekend treats too. Get there early because they often sell out of many of their baked goods.

#4. Termini Bros

Termini Bros: A south Philly staple, and they have multiple locations around the city. The tiramisu cake is my guilty pleasure and I could eat it every day. I got my birthday cake here this year and absolutely loved it! The location closest to me is thankfully not on any of my normal routes… but the idea is always in the back of my head. I actually just stopped there for a single slice of cake in a moment of indulgence earlier this week.

#3. Machine Shop at BOK

Machine Shop at BOK: This is where you need to take your friends who visit from out of town and have already been to Reading Terminal. Now you get to go deep in South Philly and enjoy the hip neighborhoods where all the cool cats want to be (does the phrase “cool cats” age me?). While it’s a bit on the pricy side, the vibes are great and the BOK building has lots of fun to offer. Because of the epic vibe, it is an experience more than just a bakery. You really have to go to see what the old high school turned hipster hangout is all about and if you go on the weekends, the rooftop bar is open during the warmer months.

#2. Isgro

Isgro is the first bakery in Philadelphia that I ever fell in love with, and all you have to do is walk past and smell to understand why. When I go here I head straight for anything filled with their delicious cream because it simply makes me go weak at the knees! Their eclairs are one of my favorites in the world, the cannoli is a classic to get here and is probably my top favorite cannoli ever. Isgro is also more on the north end of South Philly and is closer to more of the popular spots… so if you’re too chicken to come see what real South Philly is like, this is a good spot for you. Additionally, Isgro is one of the first places I featured in my Philadelphia Restaurant Awards in 2022.

#1. Kouklet Brazilian Bakehouse – The Best Bakery in South Philadelphia

Kouklet: The number one best bakery in south Philadelphia and I truly believe this is non-negotiable as number one on the list of the top 5 best bakeries in South Philadelphia. RUN, do not walk, to this incredible bakery for the most delicious sweet and savory baked goodies. I have visited countless times and tried many different (maybe all?) treats. Because of this, I feel very qualified to name them number one. Kouklet’s donuts are made with sourdough which you can taste. The treats are perfectly balanced and delicious with the yummy cream inside. Their chicken curry empadas (a Brazilian empanada) are one of the most divine snacks I’ve ever had. Lately it’s been my habit to stop by almost every weekend to snag a couple for a weekend lunch if I’m in the area. Kouklet is also highlighted in the Dan DuPraw Philadelphia Restaurant Awards for 2024 and you can read more about here. If you want to try something very unique, get one of their Yuka Coconut cakes – it is so yummy and unlike anything else.

I hope you get a chance to try some of the most delicious treats that Philadelphia has to offer. Philly really is one of the best foodie cities in the world. If you’re looking for more fun Philly things, check out my Philadelphia Visitors Guide here.

Cheers to treating yourself!

Dan DuPraw