Greenpoint, Brooklyn is buzzing, and the reason is Radio Bakery, the latest sensation drawing crowds to India Street. Since opening its doors, Radio Bakery has become a must-visit destination, with lines stretching down the block even on rainy mornings. This isn’t just another bakery; it’s a culinary experience crafted by Kelly Mencin, the talented pastry chef from the acclaimed Rolo’s in Ridgewood. If you’re searching for the best baked goods in Brooklyn, especially near India Street, your quest might just end at Radio Bakery.
Come. But come prepared to wait (Scott Lynch)
The overwhelming popularity of Radio Bakery is no surprise to those familiar with Mencin’s work at Rolo’s. At Radio Bakery, she, along with her partners from Rolo’s – Howard Kalachnikoff, Rafiq Salim, Stephen Maharam, and Ben Howell – have created something truly special. The team effort is palpable, with chef Salim seen preparing flavorful cauliflower sandwiches and Howell managing the front-of-house with practiced ease. However, at its heart, Radio Bakery is Mencin’s domain, a place where her baking prowess takes center stage.
Mencin describes Radio Bakery as a “New York style bakery,” a concept that embraces the city’s diverse culinary influences. This means you can expect a delightful array of offerings, from Italian-style breads and maritozzi to French viennoiserie and innovative sandwiches. These sandwiches draw inspiration from global flavors, ranging from New Orleans classics to Mediterranean delights and even the iconic New York bodega.
What truly sets Radio Bakery apart is the exceptional quality across their entire menu, but particularly their savory creations. The spicy ‘nduja croissant is a standout, a flaky pastry infused with flavorful, spreadable pork sausage that crisps to perfection in the oven. Another highlight is the scallion sesame twist, a unique pastry born from Radio’s pop-up days at Bonnie’s, showcasing a Cantonese-inspired twist in collaboration with chef Calvin Eng. And for those seeking something truly unique, the bearclaw is a revelation, boasting a pretzel-like, salty, cheesy, and mustardy flavor profile that Mencin herself describes as “perfect.”
Scallion sesame twist, $7, and spicy ‘nduja croissant, $8 (Scott Lynch)
Fans of Rolo’s tomato and garlic focaccia will be thrilled to find a similar slice of heaven at Radio Bakery. The focaccia here is just as remarkable – a chewy, airy bread soaked in a bright, tangy tomato sauce, reminiscent of summer in every bite. Beyond the classic tomato version, Radio Bakery elevates focaccia further with a luxurious bacon, egg, and cheese rendition, as well as an “everything spice” focaccia topped with a generous schmear of scallion cream cheese. These open-faced focaccia creations are a testament to Mencin’s ability to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary flavors.
Bacon, egg, and cheese focaccia, $9.50, tomato and garlic focaccia slice, $4.50 (Scott Lynch)
Around 11 a.m., Radio Bakery introduces its grab-and-go sandwiches, and among them, the spicy muffaletta is an absolute must-try. It’s a sensory explosion, a substantial and deeply satisfying meal. Generous slices of focaccia are layered with salami, mortadella, prosciutto, provolone, and a zesty olive spread that provides a delightful kick. Whether enjoyed fresh at the counter or savored later after the flavors have melded, the muffaletta at Radio Bakery is an unforgettable experience.
Spicy muffaletta, $16 (Scott Lynch)
While the muffaletta might be hard to resist on a return visit, Radio Bakery offers other compelling sandwich options. The roasted cauliflower sandwich with tahini and pepperoncini is a vegetarian delight, and the marinated feta and tomato hero, enriched with olive oil, wild oregano, and mint, offers a taste of the Mediterranean.
For those with a sweet tooth, Radio Bakery’s pastry case is equally enticing. The rhubarb custard croissant provides a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, while the chocolate and coffee cream croissant is a sophisticated and subtly rich treat.
Rhubarb custard and chocolate coffee cream croissants, $7 each; chocolate chunk cookie, $4.50 (Scott Lynch)
However, the true showstopper in the sweet department is the citrus maritozzi. This brioche-like bun is generously filled with light and airy whipped cream, creating a decadent and visually stunning pastry.
Citrus maritozzi, $8.50 (Scott Lynch)
A sleeper hit among the sweets might be the Earl Grey morning bun, with its delightful crunch and sticky glaze. The twice-baked pistachio croissant is another gem, revealing a honeycomb interior that showcases Mencin’s baking expertise. And for purists, the classic croissant is simply outstanding – so good that one customer declared it “the best in Brooklyn.” To complement the baked goods, Radio Bakery also offers a full coffee program.
Twice-baked pistachio croissant, $8 (Scott Lynch)
Be prepared to encounter a line at Radio Bakery, a testament to its immediate popularity. However, the experienced team from Rolo’s ensures a smooth and efficient service. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, reflecting the neighborhood’s friendly vibe. Located on a charming, tree-lined block of India Street, Radio Bakery offers counter seating inside with views of the bustling open kitchen, and sidewalk tables are available on pleasant days.
Kelly Mencin’s baking philosophy is rooted in nostalgia and personal connection. “I bake and create with an inner nostalgia,” she explains. “That’s how it is at Rolo’s. I want to make what I want to eat and what tears at my heartstrings, and hopefully will tear at other people’s heartstrings as well.” This heartfelt approach is evident in every bite at Radio Bakery, making it more than just a bakery – it’s a place where passion and deliciousness come together on India Street in Brooklyn, NY.
Radio Bakery is located at 135 India Street, just west of Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. They are currently open Thursday through Monday, from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., or until they sell out – which, given their popularity, might be sooner than you think. For the freshest pastries and sandwiches on India Street, Brooklyn, Radio Bakery is your destination.
