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Buttercup Bake Shop
Master Critic Review
Buttercup Bake Shop
8.3
Buttercup Bake Shop’s Madison Avenue location channels classic New York bakery nostalgia with a focus on buttercream-topped cupcakes, cheesecakes, and bars. Office workers and locals swing by for midday slices, late-night sugar fixes, and custom boxes for birthdays and celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Red velvet cupcake, Buttercup Golden cupcake with vanilla frosting, Lemon cheesecake slice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Cupcake-focused bakery from a former Magnolia co-owner with robust desserts.
Who should go: Cupcake fans and cheesecake lovers near Midtown and Murray Hill.
When to visit: Afternoons or evenings when the cases are fully stocked.
What to order: Red velvet cupcake, Buttercup Golden cupcake, lemon cheesecake.
Insider tip: Build a mixed box of mini cupcakes to sample multiple flavors.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Madison Ave; nearby paid garages are the easiest option, especially during weekdays.
Dress code: Casual — anything from business casual to jeans and sneakers fits right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — quick in-and-out crowd with enough quiet for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dessert hours, usually faster for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; quick counter service keeps lines moving.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — nearly all core items like cupcakes, bars, and cheesecakes are vegetarian.
Vegan options: Very limited — vegan options rotate and are not always guaranteed daily.
Gluten-free options: Limited — a few gluten-free items may be available, but there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it works well for a low-pressure, casual dessert date where you can keep things short or linger nearby.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is limited and first-come, but most guests treat it as a grab-and-go dessert stop.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — kids love the colorful cupcakes and cheesecake slices, though it’s more of a quick stop than a linger-long spot.
Best For
Better for: Classic buttercream-heavy cupcakes, nostalgic bakery vibes, and affordable celebration desserts compared to trendier pastry shops.
Skip if: If you want highly technical pastries, laminated croissants, or a full sit-down café experience.