When my favorite bakery closed several years ago, I was faced with needing to find a new source of birthday cakes. I seem to be the birthday cake guy in my circle of friends... I firmly believe a birthday celebration isn't a celebration without a cake! Helen Bernhard Bakery has been a consistent source of last-minute birthday cakes when I need them. The greatest thing about this bakery is that there's almost always a few cakes in their case that are ready and available. Because I'm not super picky, a Frozen princess works for random occasions like my 48-year-old friend's birthday! But there are generally nondescript cakes available that can be personalized. Did you know Helen Bernhard Bakery is over 100 years old, and it's one of the first woman-owned businesses in Portland? There are many stories circulating about Helen's fiery personality, and her no-nonsense business tactics. I love celebrating the few remaining businesses that have roots going back to the early days of Portland. It's wonderful hearing stories from longtime customers, and learning about the positive impact these businesses have made in the community, and the sense of nostalgia many people have for them. It means a lot to me to live in a city that values history and tradition, as well as what's hot and new. Thanks, Helen Bernhard Bakery, for always being dependable, and having lots of great products that make celebrations and entertaining a breeze. read more

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Previously I have been coming to this bakery for all of my last minute cakes so this year I thought I would purchase a custome cake because my daughter wanted a very specific cake. She wanted red velvet. She also wanted a very specific color ( burgundy/bordeaux) and unfortunately they could not match the color. They did say they would try, but it ended up being a purplish eggplant. That's ok, I understand it might be hard to match a color. But as a result of adding color to it they had to use buttercream on top and the cream cheese inside. Here's where I feel like if I had known what I know now, I could've helped remedy the issue I had with this cake and hopefully my review can help them or someone else. It's not that the cake was dry, but I believe the ratio of cake to frosting was really bad. I posted my photo to demonstrate. The cake had 2 layers but they were very large layers and the cream cheese frosting in the middle was very thin. As thick as these layers were, they really should have cut each layer in half and frosted them to make it a 4 layer cake. So it's not that the cake was dry, but we couldn't really swallow it down because it was all cake. I would also like to state that this cake cost $85. But when I picked it up the refunded be $13.25 so it was a $72 cake, which is still very pricey for this cake. I had better luck and it cost less when I would just buy their cakes out of the case last minute. They were cheaper and had more filling to them. I don't think I will custom order a cake from here again. It just wasn't worth the cost and it didn't look like the photo I sent for inspiration. read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Red velvet cake - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

We walked in and we were in awe of this place! Wow what a great place to get your sweet tooth on! The cakes, so beautiful. The overall selection of things to buy was amazing. The staff was amazing also they walked us through the "What's that, oh, and that" dance with kindness and genuine helpfulness. We walked out with a couple items but we will have to go back for more. The pastry and donuts are great by the way. read more

Disappointing . I was so hyped up on this turn of the Century bakery . My German Chocolate cake was like a cake I can get anywhere . It was like "clipart " . Common . Shared . I get it that you're a local thing . Legend with neighborhood . Maybe that best suits the regulars . Although I will not be a regular . It was nice to try , though . read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Delicious cookies - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Service was terrible. I walked in on a rare weekday morning and was the only customer. A lady with long black hair walks from the back, past me to the opposit end of the counter without any acknowledgment at all. At the very least staff should be warm and welcoming. She was neither and this is the second time in less than a year that I have had this experience. Will not return. read more

I submitted photos then prepaid for a cake. I had an 11:00 am pickup time. When I arrived to pick it up, the cake had a couple of smudges and the writing was as if my child could have done it. They didn't add Anonymous which was one of the most important details. I also had to go to a store while pressed for time to complete the cake on my own. Before leaving I asked for the decorator to fix the smudges and add the word , but they had left for the day. I let the cashier know that agreed with me about the cake and that there should be someone there to fix or correct mistakes. I didn't feel it was worth what I paid. I called and left messages and an email with no return phone call or follow up regarding my complaint. read more

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Plain and simple this humble little bakery is the best in the Portland metro area. Ever since I was a small child my family brought me here for doughnuts, cakes & pastries. The quality of their products is superb and Ive always had good experiences with the staff. They are usually quite busy so be mindful of that, but again this spot is top tier and also very cute. It's just a little brick building on 17th & Broadway, been there over 100 years, cannot recommend it enough read more

I visited Helen Bernhard Bakery back in October. Service was okay and it was to-go place. There were a ton of pastries to choose from along with breads as well. I got some sesame sandwich bread and two Halloween cupcakes. The bread was good. The cake part of the cupcakes was good but the icing wasn't the best. Overall, it was a good bakery visit. I will definitely come back to try more of their baked goods. read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Array of baked goods - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Really good selection of products! The employees are always friendly and helpful. If you have questions about an item, just ask. I bought pastries/donuts and they were all good. We also bought a loaf of sliced bread with sesame seeds on top, it's great toasted. read more

Donuts are fine. Kind of soggy. Younger staff are very nice. Older are pretty rude. Asked for my donuts in two bags and one was put in frosting side down. Inconsistent overall. I've had good donuts here in the past. read more

This is just a classic old fashioned bakery in the very best way. Super quick and friendly service (one employee was dealing with the most particular and exacting customer ever and never showed an ounce of frustration). There are so many bakery cases filled to the brim and it was hard to make a decision! We settled on red velvet and German chocolate cupcakes, chocolate petit four, chocolate covered coconut macaroon, and a swirly danish of some sort. All absolutely delish! My favorite was the petit four and I wish I would have gotten one of each variety. Their buttercream is exceptional and delicious. I forgot I'd wanted to try a donut as I've heard they are great...ah well next time! Prices are really great. They have adorable cookies and decorated cakes too. I think there were some discounted day old items as well. There is a small lot for parking out front of the shop, but be prepared to park along the street. read more

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King Cake rings supreme! We looked all over the Portland area for king cakes to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Helen Bernhard's came through like a champ! The cakes are PERFECT! Fully equipped with little babies inside and such joy from all who participated in the fun! We also loaded up with the most beautiful Mardi Gras cookies! They are not only beautiful but delicious and reasonable! Thank you so much Helen Bernhard for honoring this rich tradition all the way in the PNW! We'll be repeat customers next year! (you also make the BEST German Chocolate Cake anywhere in town) read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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I'm really disappointed to say that this bakery has now ruined two of my birthday cakes. On my 40th birthday, my husband bought a cake from here, and it was incredibly dry--tasting like it was nearly two weeks old. I tried to give them the benefit of the doubt, hoping it was just a one-time fluke. Unfortunately, for my birthday this year, we ordered again--and the experience was even worse. The cake was falling apart, the frosting was literally peeling off, and the buttercream tasted sour, almost rotten. It was inedible. The cake was so dry it crumbled apart before we could even slice it. I've been around bakeries my whole life, and I know what fresh cake should taste like. This place is clearly selling old cakes and passing them off as fresh. After two terrible experiences, I feel compelled to yet another review. I absolutely do not recommend this bakery. Birthdays are meant to be special, and having them ruin a cake is just unacceptable. You are a bakery, how in the hell can you mess this up? read more

Let me start with if you do not visit, there is something seriously wrong with you! Are you craving a bakery that has amazing pastries, cakes, cookies, bread and, oh, did I say ECLAIRS!? Don't' walk, don't run., race to this location. Oh wait - no, you might beat me there and purchase my sweet treats! Why do we visit Helen Bernhardt's often? While all of their products are delicious, their chocolate eclairs are probably the best I have ever had (and we have traveled the world across Europe (think Italy) to Asia (think Japan) to Latin America and of course across the U.S. (home). The location is easy to find. It is a cute old house/bakery. Go up the stairs and open the door to the sweet smell of baked goods. We are always greeted and welcomed quickly and I am afraid to say the team there is starting to get to know us. :-). The store is always clean and if you come early, stocked with a variety of amazing sweets (check out the pictures which have been taken over multiple trips). I don't have to say I will be back. I have to say, I need to monitor how often I will be back because the product is so amazingly delicious. This bakery is on my top ten list and for me, that says a lot. You will not be disappointed. Please just don't take my eclair before I get there!! (LOL) Now that's funny! read more

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These people made my wedding cake which was amazing, had Neapolitan, red velvet and a raspberry layers. Recently went in for holiday cookies. I've had their turnovers, truly great bakery. They're always slammed and still so sweet and gracious. read more

As a 100-year-old bakery it's got some very old fashioned selections, white flower, white sugar, etc. But it's very good and I go there specifically for the sticky buns/ Pull-A-Parts/ monkey bread. read more

Wanted to love the birthday cake I purchased but it was so dry that we threw 3/4 of it away. Would not recommend at all.

Walking before my schedule appointment....I noticed this bakery and I had to check it out. There was a good amount of people already inside order dozens of yummy items. I ordered a snickerdoodle and a lemon square. I couldn't even wait. I ate the snickerdoodle while checking out Service was gentle and quick! She finished before I finished the cookie. The place itself feels like a home and smells like sweetness. Definitely worth checking out! read more

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My wonderful bought me a Pink champagne cake for my 75th birthday. I have had cakes from Helen Bernhard Bakery since some time in the 1960's the last one I had was for my 60th Bday. It nwas not up to standard. This was the WORST CAKE I HAVE EVER HAD!  Let's start with the decorating. It was the plainest Birthday cake I have ever had, with white frosting and black writing.  I have heard you no longer know how to decorate a cake. Now let's get to the cake, it should not be hot pink it should be a pale cake. with strawberry fill NOT JAM. Needless to say I will not be back. read more

Amazing. My coworkers love the cakes and treats I pick up here. The prices are very reasonable and they always have a good variety. My husband loves the cinnamon rolls and is always willing to make a trip with me. My favorite is the pink champagne cake. Worth a visit. read more

They made my wedding cake 26 yeara ago. I came here to get a King Cake. They did not disappoint. I am so glad this place is still here.

My special order cake was flavorless, burnt, extremely dry and no effort was made to decorate it other than spelling my name in edible glitter I was charged for. read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Five is the limit. I would give more if I could. I have tried 5 other bakeries in Portland in the last 3 years. By far this is the best!!! They have earned a repeat visit!!! I have never enjoyed such sweetness! Just look at the fillings in the picture. Great care was given to make sure it's stuffed full! The rollovers was to big enough to be a meal within itself. I will be back again and again! read more

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I ordered a Champaign cake for a Celebration of Life reception. The family was so appreciative. Their Mother would buy one of these for her children's birthdays. It was beautifully decorated with a spray of pastel flowers in the center. I am going g to see if they can make me a Louisanna King Cake for the upcoming Celebration of Life I am doing next month. read more

Best German chocolate cake I have ever had in my entire life. The pink champagne cake is amazing too.

This is still one of my go-to spots for some donuts and cakes. They have a plethora of items to choose from and also whole cakes that they have ready to go for last-minute shoppers. My favorite cake here is the strawberry pink champagne cake. read more

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Made the drive up from Amity to enjoy the mid day Portland traffic (not). Road work made getting there a bit harder. Parked and went in and for the first time we were the only customers there. Picked up a 9" German Chocolate cake I ordered for $91.50 ($80 last year) for my birthday and 2 crumb donuts,2 almond twists,2 jelly donuts,maple pershing,and 2 scones as well while there. You can opt out leaving a tip while paying with a card (I did because their prices should more than compensate their employees and this is not a sit down restaurant). $120 later we left and made a stop in Hillsboro to enjoy the treats with my sister. The maple pershing was stuck to the paper bag so I had to scrape the icing off. The crumb donut was great. I cut up the Cake to put into containers and the freezer to enjoy over weeks or months.The wife said the cake is really good (I know). read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Always a nice variety and good service. Very convenient location. Will always return to the same bakery

Helen Bernhard is an old school bakery, the kind of bakery you remember from childhood. The smell of freshly baked bread and pastries greeting you as you enter, with the bell in the door chiming to announce your entry! The cases are filled with beautifully decorated cakes, trays and trays of donuts, pastries, cinnamon buns, brownies, eclairs, cream puffs, apple strudel, tarts, turnovers, cupcakes, iced decorated cookies, and so much more! Loafs of different types of rolls, bread and bags of butter cookies are prepackaged on the displays against the wall. How do you decide? It's seriously challenging! Having lived in the neighborhood for many years, Helen Bernhard was the first bakery I discovered when I moved to Portland. Every Easter we would get hot cross buns which they sell all during Lent, one of the few bakeries that still make these. For birthdays, the chocolate cake with the marshmallow merengue icing (also known as 7 minute icing) was always a winner! The light and fluffy icing the perfect compliment to the rich chocolate cake. Bringing a dozen or so doughnuts to work always made me a hit with my employees, especially those who lived way out on the west side and had never experienced this goodness. When I stopped in today after a 3 year absence, the challenge of choice still existed! I have to remind myself that the Bakery will be here again tomorrow, and next week, so it's ok to not get everything! The pandemic has created a fear of not having Access to my favorite foods! Haha. The shortbread cookie, a slice of apple strudel and a 6-pack of Hot Cross buns came home with me on this visit. And since it's just between us, I'll admit that I couldn't wait to rip my off my mask and eat one of the Hot Cross buns as soon as I got in the car! Zero willpower. Private parking lot on the side and street parking out front makes it convenient. Wonderful customer service. Delicious treats. Affordable prices. Great variety plus seasonal items. Sounds like 5 stars to me! read more

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My husband's family has been coming here for many many years and we are never disappointed! I only became a customer after moving here several years ago and now it's my go to "special treat" bakery. The staff is always nice helpful and lovely! This bakery should be a must visit and frequent for anyone needing some yummy treats! read more

While waiting for our table at the Cadillac Cafe, we wandered down the street and stumbled on this cute little bakery! We grabbed a couple frosted sugar cookies for the road, which were soft and chewy and delicious! We even scored a free sugar cookie for checking in on Yelp! Double bonus! Everything in the case looked amazing, so I can see us coming back for more goodies in the future! Everyone was polite, helpful and friendly. Great place, will be back! read more

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How cute is this place? Super cute! The donuts are delicious! Just lookin for an excuse to buy one of those pineapple upside down cakes... read more

I needed a last minute custom cake for my baby's gender reveal, I called and ordered on a Wednesday and it was ready for my event on Sunday. The cake was absolutely beautiful, everything I asked for and so tasty as well! While in the store picking up the cake I grabbed some banana bread which was also delicious. Thank you so much for a beautiful, yummy cake!! read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Custom gender reveal cake - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Fritter 3.8/5 overall. Crispness 4/5. Flavor blend 5/5. Dough 4/5. Fruit volume 3/5. Size and Value 3/5. Glazed Old Fashioned 3.7/5 overall. Icing/Topping 4/5. Dough 4/5. Size and Value 3/5. Glazed 3/5 overall. Icing/Topping 3/5. Dough 3/5. Size and Value 3/5. Divinity Cookie 2.7/5 overall. Texture 2/5. Flavor 3/5. Size and Value 3/5. Sprinkles Cookie 3.7/5 overall. Texture 4/5. Flavor 4/5. Size and Value 3/5. Snickerdoodle Cookie 2.3/5 overall. Texture 3/5. Flavor 2/5. Size and Value 2/5. Nice bakery with friendly staff. They have a good selection of donuts, cookies, pastries and breads. The Apple Fritter was definitely my favorite out the goodies I had! This time.... read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Apple Fritter, Glazed Ring, Glazed Old Fashioned, Divinity Cookie, Snickerdoodle, Sprinkles Cookie - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Probably one of the worst cakes we have purchased. The chocolate flavor was lacking, it was very dry and crumbly. There is 10 of us, and not a person ate an entire piece. We are from out of town and ordered a cake based on reviews, not realizing most of them are from several years ago. Very disappointing. The cake was for my 50th birthday and thankfully it was the only bad part of the day. read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Chocolate cake - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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I ordered a cake for a baby shower and the bakery ruined my cake. They did not deco it per my request and the cake topper was ruined. When I called in to complain the manger would not come to the phone and will not respond to my email. read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Helen would be disappointed in the quality of products coming out of her shop. Last few times we have gotten a cake it's dry and old tasting. Eclairs are not at all like they used to be. Even the service leaves little to be desired. Today even with 3 customers in line one gal at the counter helping while the other one sat on the counter in the back and was what looked like playing on her phone. I hope it wasn't the baking counter she was sitting on but it sure looked like it. I keep trying because we have always loved Helen Bernhardts bakery, but I think i'm done trying. Too expensive for the poor quality. read more

Walked in and found my wedding cake within 5 mins. Everyone said it was the best wedding cake they'd ever had! I have to agree! It was like banana bread, but not too cakey or moist. It was perfect crumbly, not too sweet, airy icing, and made With love. This cake made my day (and all of our guests!). read more

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I will never purchase a cake from here again. I spent $516 dollars on a cake that looked like it had been decorated by a child. The word went from big to small like they ran out of room and lines were squiggly. I contacted them they said they would follow up and call me back then avoided my emails and phone calls. My event had over 100 people and I was very embarrassed. Horrible customer service and I will never purchase from them again! read more

Good cake, but it's not worth $54. The cake needed better frosting and cake design. The cake is moist. Frosting tastes like the $30 cakes you get from Safeway and Fred Meyer. read more

Helen Bernhard Bakery - Cut the cake it was a good cake. - Bakeries Near Me - Portland, Oregon