Ridiculously delicious rugelah in an unexpected neighborhood. There is frequently a wait, but it's absolutely worth it!

My below message was sent to Mr Lee, however I never received a response. Therefore I want to share. I am in NY on vacay to attend the many upcoming events. My friend recommended me checking out your bakery. I was very disappointed to find a missing piece from one of my sugar cookies with sprinkles on top as if someone ate it. The missing piece was not in the bag. I enclosed pics of the cookies when I sent this message to Mr Lee. I also ordered a mixed berries pie and a peach pecan pie. The fork that was placed in the bag has crumbs on it like someone ate from it then was placed in my bag. Both of the issues are sanitary issues. Maybe you can purchase your utensils in a plastic sleeve with a napkin enclosed. I hope I hear back from you regarding this issue. I try to patronize my people's businesses but you have to be accountable. read more

I didn't know what a Rugelach was I went to Lee Lee's after hearing many good things about it. We got one of each flavor, Apricot, Raspberry, and Chocolate. I asked our server what his favorite was and he said Apricot. The place is very small and quick with all the pastries out behind the glass case. The rugelachs were great! Better than I thought, it was very flaky on the outside without being too buttery. The filling was jammy and paired well. I'm glad I got to give it a try! read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - 1. Rugelach - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

See all

A Harlem staple from the Rugelach King. Make.sure you stop by and try every variety. Today I got 4 of each the day's selections: chocolate, raspberry, apricot. All delicious as usual. Consistent...never deviates. As a special treat, I also got a couple of chocolate chip walnut cookies. Trying to exercise some restraint, I asked about the mini bundt cake in the case just for future reference. "I'll give it to you at no charge since you just spent $40," Mr. Lee told me. "It's a good cake. I'm trying to promote it." He's right. It's good. Honey Walnut: super moist chocolate cake drizzled with honey and chopped walnuts. Go get y'all one! read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Honey walnut mini bundt cake - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I've been a long time customer and fan of Lee Lee's for many years. Mr. Lee lee is always so warm and welcoming when you walk in, greeting you so kindly. It always smells DELICIOUS! You can't go wrong with anything you order but you MUST get a selection of rugelach. The other cookies are also delicious, as is the pound cakes and sliced cakes. If you are lucky enough to visit when there are blueberry cheesecake slices available- you must get a slice! So light and airy but also flavorful and still decadent. Always a great experience at Lee Lee's! read more

See all

I was pretty surprised at first to hear that the rugelach were $3.25 each, but I have to say that these live up to the price (and to the Rugelach King title). I bought a few of each flavor for a gathering with friends, and they got rave reviews. The black and whites and pies also looked really good, and the person who helped me told me they'd been in business about 35 years. This was my first time visiting, but I will definitely be back any time I'm looking for some homemade treats. I'd love if the cookies could come in bakery boxes for presentation when bringing as a gift! read more

My mom and I were in the area celebrating get birthday and she wanted a slice of cake to go. I checked Yelp and saw the great reviews from this spot. It's a small bakery that's more of a take out spot. The staff was very friendly. As soon as you walk in the yummy smells embrace you. They had a few slices of cakes available on the side. Inside their main case was variety of cookies, pies and other baked goods. My mother saw the customer in front of us picking up two big sweet potato pies and opted for a smaller version of the pie. She complained about the price even though she wasn't paying for it, talking about i could've made this myself. lol We get to her house and she can't put the pie down. She raved about the pie and said it was very delicious and she regrets not getting the bigger one. lol I will definitely check out this bakery again to satisfy my sweet tooth. read more

See all

Excellent home baked goods. You will want to try everything the moment you walk into the bakery. My favorite is the carrot cake. It reminds me of my grandma's baking, making sure it tastes like real carrots and that you can see plenty of the carrots and walnuts :) I also noticed the owner's wedding photos on the wall. It made me put my hand on my chest and pause for a moment. A solid bakery creates memories that go beyond the food. Lee Lee's Bakery is a place you won't forget. You feel the people who made the food, just as they feel and remember you. read more

See all

Best rugelach anywhere. We live in Virginia and order there for holidays. Not cheap, but delicious. read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods of Harlem has the best rugelach pastries I have ever eaten. They truly are the King of Excellent Rugelach pastries. Rugelach are often served on Jewish holidays like Hanukkah and Shavuot, though of course they can be made anytime throughout the year. Jewish families typically serve them during Rosh Hashanah, when sweet foods are made to signify a sweet new year. The hospitality of at Lee Lee's reminds me of Southern charm, you will feel at home. From the moment you enter the bakery. Apricot rugelach's are my favorites here. Don't take my word for it, give them a try. My initial visit, I double parked. On one of many visits. I placed my order ahead, had exact change, and the staff was kind enough to bring the order to my car. They are really the best. read more

See all

Since moving to this neighborhood, regularly walked by Lee Lee's Baked Goods, which his signage touts his Rugelach. After the passing of my Grandmom, who baked her own, had not really gone for rugelach. In fact, the only one I ventured to try over the years was Washington Heights' Carrot Top's Carrot variety, which was quite good but wasn't anything traditional. For dinner at a friend's, had to pick up our dessert and thought it would be a good opportunity to finally try them out. So glad I did! Lee Lee's case was filled with small pies and other baked goods, including Hamentaschen, their three Rugelach varieties (Raspberry, Apricot, Chocolate), and Rugelach Fudge Cookies - made from rugelach dough. The owner Mr. Lee (a.k.a. Lee-Lee) was out front, but came in when I was reviewing the selection and offered me a sample Rugelach. I chose the Chocolate, which was topped with chocolate as well. Yum! For my friends, I brought Lee Lee's Peach Pie, Raspberry and Apricot Rugelach, and those Rugelach Fudge Cookies. Everything was awesome, but especially enjoyed the cookie!!! Definitely plan on picking up something baked and sweet from Lee Lee's again and recommend you try it out too! read more

See all

I had no idea what a rugelach was before Lee Lee's, and wow I was missing out. Shop is small with warm homey decor. There's a screen door and many signs welcoming you in. He has cakes on the sides & in the fridge, and rugelach and cookies in the glass case. I've tried the rugelach, blueberry cheesecake, and the fudge cookies. Everything was yummy, but for sure, the rugelach is the thing to get! Love the crunch and how soft and sweet the inside is! He adds raisins to it so there's a little chewiness too. So. Addicting. I've been here three times since I found it last week. The owner is so nice; he gave me an extra rugelach twice, and it was incredibly appreciated. 10/10 recommend stopping by and supporting this local business :) read more

Stopped in randomly after walking by and noticing how cute this place was. The inside is charming, a real time capsule. I only bought one chocolate rugelach, but just that one pastry was enough of a testament to the quality and love that goes into the food here. I shared it with my boyfriend, who notoriously hates pastries with walnuts and dried fruit, and even he said it was delicious. I will definitely be back! read more

Lee Lee's is the kind of place that gives NYC its soul. The rugelach are pricey but 100% worth it - buttery, flaky, truly outstanding. The cakes are also excellent and available by the slice. Mr. Lee himself is often manning the register and will greet you warmly. This is the kind of small business that makes the city feel cozy and embodies the welcoming, cultural, rooted spirit of Harlem. read more

Small shop with reasonably priced baked goods. I popped in and it was quick and easy to pick up small apple pie. I took it home for dessert and warmed it up with vanilla ice cream. They also have a peach one I might try another day. Apple pie gave me 4 good quarter servings and was very flavorful and crumbly and just sweet enough. read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Apple pie - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Such a gem! Really delightful store owner Mr. lee! Upon walking in to the establishment we were greater with smiles and the air smelled of freshly baking goods! Such nostalgia! I wanted to try everything he had. I settled on apricot rugelach because I heard soo much about it and am grateful that I did. The first bite into it and it shows the ingredients he uses are top notch. It reminded of my old classmates grandmothers homemade rugelach. Soooo good! I definitely will be a repeat customer and will order for special occasions! A+++ read more

See all

Meeting the legendary Mr Lee was an absolute honor. Sad I just discovered this historic gem. We loved talking to Mr Lee about the history of the bakery and the area. The Rugelachs were warm and delicious and the carrot cake was absolutely unforgettable. Can't wait to come back and bring my friends. read more

What a hidden gem!! Not personally a huge rugalach fan but Lee lee's has converted me. Tried every flavor and all tasted phenomenal! The owner is also the sweetest man and gave me one for free. I can't wait to make this a regular spot. Thank goodness they deliver! read more

Lee lee's IS LEGENDARY. So first thing you should know is Lee Lee runs the register and is lovely. The second is that his rugelach is incredible. I got the chocolate rugelach which was a classic rugelach (with cinnamon, nuts etc) but with an even sweeter addition. I also picked up a black and white cookie which was one of the best I have had in the city. read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Awesome rugelach, the best!! Absolutely delicious and Addictive!! Will be RETURNING FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

Cute little place. The service was definitely lacking. The outside of the pastries had a nice flake and bite but the inside were a little doughy read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - 1. Rugelach - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

I love Rugelach, have tried it in bakeries all over the city/country and baked it myself many times. This Rugelach is FLAWLESS in every way. Perfectly balanced flavors and fillings, just the right amount of flakiness, not greasy and highly addictive in the very best way. I love that the chocolate or fruit or cinnamon doesn't overwhelm, it enhances. These are not too full and not too dry, these are the Goldilocks of Rugelach and are JUST RIGHT. They don't flake apart when eating but are the perfect soft texture when eating. I don't know how long a bag (12 for $36) will last, since I eat them far too quickly. I don't know if they can be frozen so I could keep a stash in my freezer. They sell other giant cookies (which are superior to all the other places selling gourmet cookies). Somehow I've never had the cakes, sold by the slice but I am confident they are as perfect as everything else this tiny little gem of a bakery sells. If you love Rugelach this is THE ONLY place for you! read more

Any food tour of Harlem must include this tiny bakery that's big on taste. They have incredible rugelach that is different from those I've ever tasted. Flakier crust, more buttery, and tastes very artisan instead of the cookie-cutter kind you find everywhere else. Lee Lee's charges a bit more for their rugelach but they are about 30% larger than your typical rugelach. Would you rather go to a large bakery with small rugelach?? I haven't tried anything else there yet but I shall. I had no idea there's a National Rugelach Day but I won't miss it next year! read more

See all

Lee Lee's is one of those rare NYC mom and pop businesses which stays on your mind long after you leave the city. It's great to see it is still a thriving operation which has weathered storms of all kinds. I really miss being able to take a 10 minute or so walk and get apricot and raspberry rugelach. This is definitely the best rugelach I've ever tasted. Service is great, and the shop itself is memorable. This is not only a great Harlem landmark and business, but also one of the best small businesses in New York City. read more

I've been meaning to come here for a long time, but we were in the neighborhood today and finally made it. And damn, I am kicking myself for not getting here sooner. These were by far BY FAR the best rugelach I have ever had. I mean, not just a little bit better than the others but miles and miles head and shoulders above. We bought a couple apricot, a couple chocolate, a couple raspberry, and honestly I had a hard time not eating the lot before we walked back to the subway. Quaint little shop, with other baked goods too (cookies, cakes, bread pudding, cupcakes, pies). I will definitely be back. read more

This bakery smells like home and is decorated very cute. Since the moment I got to Harlem I have been eyeing Lee Lee's Baked Goods and tonight, I finally got to try! I passed by on the way home and noticed their open sign so I ran in. I was greeted with warmth and smells of baked goods that brought happy memories back into my mind. The owner, Mr. Lee, came out to greet us and helped us with our transaction. Me. Lee is an extremely sweet man and he offered us samples of a warm apple cinnamon rugelach which was super delicious. (And when I say he was sweet I MEAN it! Now that I am writing this review, I am noticing that the bakery actually closed way before we got there. So not only did he bless me with great treats, he did not kick me out even though it was time for him to go home.) Overall, I enjoyed my conversation with Mr. Lee as much as I enjoyed the baked goods. I wanted to buy everything in the bakery! I ended up leaving with red velvet cake, chocolate almond rugelaches, walnut chocolate cookies, and a raspberry shortbread cookie. Since my sublet is only 1 minute away, the moment I got home I tried every single thing I bought. My verdict is that this bakery is a MUST GO TO! The baked goods quite literally have changed my life. I wish I could have Lee Lee's around the corner from me forever! I am hoping to make another trip before I head back to CA, but, good news is that they ship! If you are traveling to New York or are from New York or even just passing through, I would 1000000% plan a trip to Harlem to visit Lee Lee's! (P.S: Mr. Lee: I love your business card. The post card is a BRILLIANT concept.) read more

See all

Friendly service from behind the counter - I asked for recommendations and received a fairly lengthy answer (although she wasn't just listing off everything they had). I was told that this bakery was known for their rugelachs, so I ordered a raspberry rugelach and a russian coffee cake. Raspberry rugelach - fairly small, $2.50, and good for 2-3 bites. It's not as crispy as one from Breads Bakery, and the interior texture is a little crumbly. But the raspberry shines really well, and it feels like a relatively light dessert. Russian coffee cake - Good for sharing between two people! The bready foundation of this reminded me of a cinnamon roll, sans icing. Each bite was pleasant because you get the crunchy nuts on top, the soft bread, and also the pineapple that had a special taste to it, like it was soaked in booze. The store is fairly small but welcoming, and I really enjoyed the home-made taste and feel of the rugelach and coffee cake. read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Mr. Lee would win in a rugelach baking contests with any Jewish grandmother. His rugelach are THE REAL DEAL -- buttery, flavorful, but not heavy. They are the best. And Mr. Lee himself is such a gem - he and his rugelach are a true gift to Harlem! It feels great to support a small business that has thrived for so long. Long live Lee Lee (and his rugelach)! read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Mr. Lee makes THE BEST RUGELACH EVER. Hands down. Better than any Jewish grandmother - really! - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Got some pastries for a friend, they really enjoyed it. I can't speak on it since I am vegan and Uncle Lee Lee is an old school dude (he is in 80's) I think his bday was this past week. Friendly guy and an obvious neighborhood treasure. read more

A Harlem Gem! I highly recommend this bakery. I think it's better than Levan Bakery on Fredrick Blvd. Prices are reasonable and pastries baked fresh daily. This bakery has been in the neighborhood before gentrification. Love it. read more

After receiving my original order and having several rugelach broken into pieces, Lee sent me a new order completely intact without me requesting anything. I feel this is the way a business should be run. The rugelach were delicious. read more

The best rugelach around. This was outstanding. They have great flavors to pick from. Could have eaten a dozen. Really great!!!

Mmmm. I likes rugelach very muchly, and this place delivers. The chocolate is a must, but the apricot isn't too shabby either.

Bought frozen pie which was ok. The person who rang me up could not tell me how long to put the pies in the oven to warm them up. I had to call three times to get an answer, and the woman who ultimately gave me an answer was very rude. read more

Deliciousness and homemade! I walked here from the Harlem Metro North Station and it was more than with it. Especially that fabulous sweet potato pie! I am looking forward to returning soon but it will have to wait a while for me to work off what I put on from all this deliciousness! read more

Great hole in the wall pastry shop. Just walking near the entrance smells absolutely amazing . The chocolate rugelach was great. I plan on going back for the carrot slice. This place is a real hidden gem in Harlem. read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Menu items - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Holy *%#*. This is the real deal. Worth every mile to get here and every minute of exercise to work it off. Having had my fair share of regulech, I can honestly say these are the best I have ever had. They are moist and full of a great filling to dough ratio. Very sweat but in the right way, not overly sugary, don't know how to describe that, but very good. I got a bunch for the family but had two one day and two the next and I cannot allow my self to fall in the trap of having any more If you are anywhere near hear and like baked goods, this is a destination location!!! Cannot wait till my next visit, and now, probably most NYC visits will involve a stop here. read more

Lee Lee's seems to be quite the establishment in the neighborhood. When you first pull up to the store, you see a huge board in the window that shares its beautiful story with passerby's. The story of its humble beginnings is the perfect precursor to the store itself. When you walk in, it almost feels as if you've walked into somebody's grandmother's home. It's cozy and super homey which and completely unexpected from the city streets outside. We tried three types rugelach (Apple, chocolate, and maple?) and the carrot cake. Each rugelach was $2. My favorite was probably the chocolate as it was the most distinct of the three. If I went back, I'd probably go for that one. In addition, I wouldn't go back for carrot cake. It was good, but not the best I've ever had. Overall, my experience was very pleasant. The woman who helped us was extremely kind and made us feel right at home. I recommend stopping in for a bite if you're around! read more

Lee Lee's Baked Goods - Rugelach + Carrot Cake - Bakeries Near Me - New York, New York

Probably the best rugelach I've ever had! I think the raspberry is best. The service was friendly and patient. The store itself is homey and simple. They seem to have cookies and other baked goods, but not much else. read more

See all

Love this place. Local shop with such an interesting story. They're known for their Jewish Rugulach - apparently one of the most authentic ones left in the city as it's been carried on by the former staff that now owns the place. My favorite here though is completely different - it's their cheesecake. Underrated but so decadent. Even a friend who doesn't like cheesecake let it pass. They don't always have it though - even if it's on the menu, it seems like it's something they make only when they feel like it (made with love!) maybe that's their secret ingredient? Lol Support this local business, met the owners before when I was there and they truly are kind people and it shows because their staff can be as well. :) read more