ZipPicks Awards
Best Donuts in Greenpoint
Master Critic Review
Syrena Bakery
7.9
Syrena Bakery is a 1993-born Little Poland staple where paczki, rye loaves, and cheesecakes are baked on-site for a fiercely loyal local crowd. It’s less a donut shop than a full Eastern European bakery, but its year-round paczki program makes it one of Greenpoint’s key stops for Polish-style donuts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rose jam paczki, Custard-filled paczki, Makowiec poppy seed pastry
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Since 1993, this Polish bakery has treated paczki and old-world breads as everyday staples for Greenpoint’s Little Poland community.
Who should go: Anyone curious about Polish donuts, breads, and coffee-friendly sweets.
When to visit: Early mornings, especially before and during Lent and holidays.
What to order: Rose jam paczki, custard paczki, makowiec poppy seed slice.
Insider tip: On Fat Thursday and major holidays, join the early-morning paczki line or risk missing the best fillings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on weekday mornings, tighter after 5pm and on weekends.
Dress code: Come casual—bakery attire is perfectly fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate; a steady hum during peak morning pastry rush but still easy to converse.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; bakery closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait—quick counter service with occasional short line for paczki.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many pastries, breads, and sweets are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—some breads may qualify, but most pastries use dairy or eggs.
Gluten-free options: Very limited—traditional Polish baking is wheat-based with no separate prep zone.
Best For
Better for: Polish-style paczki, old-world breads, and holiday traditions delivered with local heritage and loyal-regular energy.
Consider Alternatives If: You want trendy flavors, barista-style espresso service, or dedicated vegan/gluten-free donuts.