Boston's Best Spots For Desserts

Boston has plenty of incredible dessert spots. Whether you want chocolate cake, cannolis, or gelato, you’ll find all you’re looking for at these sweet shops. Try out the infamous Italian cannolis in the North End or go for the melted hot chocolate at L.A. Burdick.

1. Georgetown Cupcake

Bakery, Pastry Shop, Pastries, Dessert, American, Gluten-free, Fast Food, Vegetarian

If you’re a fan of cupcakes, you must stop by this cupcake shop on Newbury Street. Yes, Georgetown Cupcake is a chain, but once you try their imaginative cupcake flavors, you’ll see why it is so popular. If you stop by on the weekend, be prepared for a line. Hint: Georgetown also puts a cupcake of the day on their Twitter feed (@GTownCupcake). If you’re one of the first 100 to order it, it’s yours for free!

2. Max Brenner

Dessert Shop, Pastry Shop, Pastelaria, American, Vegetarian, Dessert, Pastries

Max Brenner is a chocolate bar and restaurant, offering up tons of boozy dessert drinks and delicious crepes. Try a s’mores crepe or the Munchies waffle, topped with ice cream and chocolate ganache. They also have fondue and “choctails” made with melted chocolate.

3. Mike's Pastry

Bakery, Pastry Shop, Italian, Pastries, Dessert

Pastries and gelato are for sale at Mike’s

This family business is a must-visit for all cannoli lovers. Mike’s Pastry has been in the Mercogliano family for years (established right after the family arrived from Italy by boat), and they now have three locations serving their delicious Italian desserts. The North End shop is the original, and you’ll find a line outside on any given night. Try one of several different cannoli flavors or order cookies by the pound. Cash only.

5. Beard Papa's

Bakery, Pastry Shop, American, Pastries, Dessert, Fast Food, Vegetarian

Beard Papa‘s bakery chain originated in Japan, and this location is the only shop in Boston. Try their delicious cream-filled puffs dipped in chocolate. They have a range of flavors, including cookies and cream, plus they also have mochi ice cream.

6. Bova's

Bakery, Pastry Shop, American, Pastries, Italian, Vegetarian, Dessert, Fast Food

Bova’s is a 24-hour bakery in the North End and one of the few all-night places in Boston. Opened in 1932, the family-owned bakery sells cakes, bread, pastries, and several varieties of Italian cookies. Try a “lobster tail” or order a cannoli and take some muffins to go for the morning.

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