Lily Bloom Bakery

Lily Bloom Bakery sits along 86th Street in Brooklyn’s southern stretch, offering a blend of Portuguese and Asian-inspired pastries in a bright, bustling spot that sits just beneath the train tracks. This bakery is well known locally for its standout Portuguese egg tarts, which arrive warm and fresh with a thick, flaky crust supporting a creamy, custardy center that leans more on the egg flavor than sweetness. Those who favor rich, soft pastries with a gooey texture will find these tarts especially satisfying.

The bakery’s atmosphere leans lively and casual, partly shaped by the ambient rumble of the elevated trains overhead. This can make for a noisier environment than your typical cozy bakery, so it’s more about grabbing delicious treats on the go or settling in briefly with a drink rather than a prolonged quiet sit-down experience. Busy weekday mornings are a prime time to stop by, especially if you’re after popular items like the egg tarts or the hot red velvet cake. They often sell out, so early hours can mean better availability.

Besides their egg tarts, Lily Bloom serves a mix of Asian-style pastries and drinks, including bubble tea and iced coffee, appealing to those who appreciate a balance of sweet and less sugary options. The inclusion of unique offerings like hwajeon (flower pancakes) and chicken pot pie broadens the menu, catering to customers looking for both sweet and savory bites. The spot attracts a diverse local crowd—from neighborhood regulars seeking an affordable afternoon pick-me-up to visitors curious about the bakery’s cross-cultural treats.

Service here is straightforward and friendly, with staff readily helping newcomers navigate the somewhat bilingual menu. Cash and card payment options are both accepted, though there is usually a small minimum for card use, which is standard for places focused on quick, casual sales.

Overall, Lily Bloom Bakery works well for those who want to experience a slice of Brooklyn’s eclectic culinary scene through pastries that emphasize texture and authentic flavor rather than overt sweetness. It’s a solid choice for a neighborhood breakfast stop, a midday snack with bubble tea, or a casual sweet treat to take away while exploring the area.