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Shakalaka Bakery
Master Critic Review
Shakalaka Bakery
8.1
Shakalaka Bakery is a contemporary Asian bakery on Roosevelt Avenue known for creative taro, matcha, and fruit-forward cakes made with real cream and butter. The menu runs from pork floss breads to elaborate mousse and chiffon cakes, drawing customers who want celebration-ready designs with modern flavors. With long hours and plenty of cake options, it bridges everyday snacking and special-occasion orders.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taro Purple Rice Cheese Cake, Black Sesame Soybean Mochi Cake, Taro Pork Floss Cake
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 6.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Inventive Asian cakes and breads that lean less sweet but highly flavorful.
Who should go: Cake fans wanting modern Asian flavors and celebration options.
When to visit: Evenings for cake pickups or late-night dessert cravings.
What to order: Taro Purple Rice Cheese Cake, Black Sesame Mochi Cake, pork floss breads.
Insider tip: Pre-order whole cakes earlier in the day for same-night pickup.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Roosevelt Avenue is tight most evenings; nearby municipal lots and garage parking around Main Street offer the most reliable options.
Dress code: Casual and come-as-you-are; most guests arrive in everyday wear since it’s a bakery with grab-and-go plus sit-down options.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation is easy but expect light bustle during late-night dessert runs.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak cake pickup periods, especially around celebrations and holidays.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait unless you’re ordering a full cake or custom box.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — many cakes, mousses, and fruit-forward pastries are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — most items contain dairy or eggs, though a few fruit-based pastries may work depending on the day.
Gluten-free options: Very limited — gluten-free options are not a core focus and cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s a relaxed spot for a low-pressure dessert date with modern cakes, long hours, and enough seating for casual conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations are needed. Seating is first-come and generally available unless it’s late-night on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families stop in for fruit cakes and buns; best for ages 5+ since the space can get crowded during peak dessert hours.
Best For
Better for: Creative Asian-inspired cakes and cream-forward designs that feel more modern and customizable than many classic Flushing bakeries.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional Cantonese pastries, strict dietary accommodations, or a quiet café environment for long study sessions.