On The Rise Baking , Pleasant St., Tatnuck Square is the finest this city has to offer for pastry, cakes and coffee. After reading some of the negative reviews, I really felt the need to speak up. This is a "small" bakery, run by one woman, Elizabeth Casey. Although the pastry case is not "bulging at the seams" like you see in other commercial places - be assured that all of the products you see are made FRESH daily! All of these delicious European pastries are made in small batches and she only bakes with BUTTER!!! Not crisco shortening like most places use. Try them - the cranberry walnut tarts, key lime tarts, pear almond tarts . . just to name a few, they will melt in your mouth! Muffins and scones in the morning are straight from the oven... and .believe me, these are not like your "franchise" muffins and scones, these are the real things!! All of the cakes, tortes and specialty items are MADE FRESH TO ORDER!! They are not made on Monday and sit in a case all week waiting for someone to come in on Friday to pick it up. As far as prices, I feel her pricing is low for the quality that you get. Have you gone to a store lately and checked out the price of flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cream, etc. . . .?? These used to be very inexpensive items for bakeries, but not today. Small business owners today have such a struggle trying to compete with the big guys. "Scratch" baking is truly a lost art. There will always be people that say, "oh, I can get that same cake at the supermarket for $9.99 and its the real thing"!! To them I say, "Go for it! If you want to eat something that has 30 ingredients, half of which you can't pronounce, then be my guest! For the rest of us, if you want truly remarkable pastry - I say, try "On The Rise Baking" - you won't be disappointed. And kudos to Betty Casey for all of her back breaking hard work trying to keep an old art alive!! You have to have a true passion for baking to be in this business. And one last thing, as far as the girls that work there, they are some of the nicest kids you would like to meet. In all of my visits, they have never shown anything but number one customer service!!!! read more

I have been enjoying On The Rise Baking for about eight years now. And whenever I need something special, I head to Betty Casey and her incredible baked goods. Most recently, I planned and organized my step-daughter's wedding. She wanted a cake with lavender in it, so I went to Betty and asked what she thought. She created a masterpiece of delicate herbal flavor with the exact right amount of sweetness for the main cake. On top of this, she also made separate chocolate espresso AND lemon-curd & raspberry cakes to appeal to all the guests tastes. It is a pleasure to work with some who knows their craft as well as Betty, and is generous and thoughtful to boot. Multiple tastings, a variety of decoration discussions, and so much more went into the cakes, and in the end everyone was happy. Both the bride and groom had their preferred flavors (the lavender and the lemon-curd raspberry), and I had the incredible peace of mind that came with knowing the cakes were something that I did not have to worry about. Betty took care of it, and I could not have been happier. Perhaps the greatest compliment I can pay Betty is to say that her work reminds me of my mother's baking when I was growing up. I never had a store bought cake for any occasion - only ever my mother's from-scratch creations (which were unique and spectacular). Betty's work is the same: unique and spectacular. read more

We selected On the Rise for our wedding cupcakes and cake after several visits to this and six competing bakeries (after our initial tasting, we bought additional cupcakes). The owner, Betty, was present for every visit (not our experience elsewhere), remembered us, and could go into great detail about the high quality ingredients she uses. While she is quiet , we found her very easy to work with, and she knows the other high quality wedding vendors in the area. If you have a specific kind of cake or cupcake you want to taste, it's best to give her advance notice, but she can do anything! Bottom line: everything we tried was consistently delicious. The chocolate cakes tasted like chocolate. The ganache topping was wonderful. The carrot cake with cream cheese was superb. There was a balance to everything--nothing was too sweet. She rented us a large stand which another bakery didn't even seem to have on hand. The cake & cupcake arrangement was lovely and personalized. She called us the day before the wedding to ask about a last minute idea she had to collaborate with our florist, which worked out wonderfully. In retrospect, while there were several choices that were probably acceptable, I wish we'd just gone to On the Rise. Also I must say their coffee is perfect. I think it's the only coffee I've ever enjoyed black--no bitterness and no need to mask it with any other flavors. read more

Elizabeth from On the Rise Baking made our wedding cake this month. From the start, she was very attentive, accommodating, and professional to work with. She made really great suggestions, especially considering that my husband and I have almost opposite tastes in cake. She was very flexible to work with and extremely knowledgeable about what flavors, layering, and decor would be suitable to choose from to get the effect I wanted. She took all of my design ideas seriously and worked with me to make sure the cake was made exactly to my specifications. She also gave us a complimentary top cake tier to share on our first anniversary. The cake came out just as beautifully as I had pictured it and tasted AMAZING! We had various fillings and cake flavors through the different tiers of the cake, and Elizabeth worked it all in. I got many, many compliments on how good it was. I just uploaded the picture of it. Elizabeth was pro-active about communicating throughout my planning process which made her one of the better vendors I worked with for the wedding. She went above and beyond and took care of all the details so that I didn't have to - including double checking the final design before making the cake, picking up the ribbon for my cake, working with my venue to coordinate set up and clean up, and coordinating with my florist. I give On the Rise Baking my highest recommendation! read more

I recently ordered a 12" (and an 8") cake for a milestone birthday party. It was a four-layer devils food chocolate cake with dark chocolate ganache and vanilla buttercream frosting. It was outstanding, probably one of the best desserts I've ever had. Virtually all of our guests inquired about where I'd purchased and the typical comment was "this cake is to die for." And, "definitely worth every decadent calorie and carb." Elizabeth, as well as the staff I dealt with, could not have been more cooperative. She was especially interested in how I wanted it decorated and even called me the day before pick-up to make sure it was everything I wanted. Elizabeth and one of her young woman staffers wanted to carry the cakes to my vehicle. I said I could certainly at least take the 8", and the young woman carried the large one. I cannnot say enough about this bakery and the pastry chef/owner Elizabeth. I'd seen the name On the Rise Bakery, usually in winning in The Best of Worcester competitions. But, it was a friend's recommendation that led me to order. It was the first time I'd been in the shop, and first time I'd ever ordered anything. Now, I would not waste time going anywhere but there. Simply fabulous. Thank you again, Elizabeth. read more

As a lifelong Worcester resident (and pastry/tea lover), I can say with utmost confidence that On The Rise is one of Worcesters finest. Located in the heart of Tatnuck Square, this bakery and coffee shop is an adorable addition to the area. Having read some other (not-so-good) reviews, I am shocked that people could be commenting about the same place. Everytime I have been to On The Rise (which is usually at least once weekly), the staff have been extremely pleasant and kind. They even go above and beyond to give treats and water to my dog, who often waits outside while I get my tea. The patio is great in the summer for people watching, and you are almost always sure to get into a genuine conversation with the local customers. The owner, Betty, is a very sweet woman who is clearly passionate about what she does. The pastries taste as good as they look, and the gluten free menu options are delicious! Another commenter posted on the preferred music of the staff-- every experience I have had at OTR has been nothing short of relaxing. The perfect place to sit down, do some work, or socialize with the friendly staff and customers. Truly one of Worcesters best! read more

I have used On the Rise Bakery for my daughter's Bat Mitzvah Cake and 2 years later, for my son's Bar Mitzvah cake and I have been extremely happy with them. Betty took the time to listen to my ideas, look at pictures I showed her, and then sent ideas to me for approval. By the time I used her the second time, I just told what I was looking for and that I trusted her to come up with something fantastic. She didn't disappoint me. It was amazing! I love looking at the pictures of both of my kid's candlelighting ceremony because Betty's cake were a work of a true artist. Betty also made desserts for our Sunday brunches which were not only delicious, but displayed beautifully. I even made some requests for some fun kids desserts, (baseball cookies, choc. covered marshmallows) which came out great and she added some home made poptarts on a stick. Needless to say, they were a huge hit! I don't understand the other reviews. My mother-in-law has used her over the years and knows that no matter what she orders, they will be delicious. If you are looking for a bakery for your wedding or any other special event, I highly recommend On the Rise Bakery read more

I am a big fan of On the Rise bakery. In fact whenever I enter the place and look into Betty's glass display of gourmet sweets, I get in a better mood - not only are her creations so pretty, they are truly delicious! Whenever I want a perfect and decadent chocolate dessert for my guests, I buy Betty's signature three layer chocolate (white, dark, and milk) mousse cake. My sister, who visits me from Pennsylvania, must always have a piece of this scrumptious creamy creation before leaving Worcester. And Betty's bar cookies are simply the best I've ever had: two of them are the cranberry bars and, maybe over the top, yet out of this world, the pecan Bourbon treats. No matter how busy Betty may be creating in her kitchen, when she sees her regular customers and others with questions, she makes sure to greet them and help. Her reserved, yet kind nature is endearing to all. Now On the Rise even sells fresh breads. Simply stated, I love this place and am happy to rave about it to all! In fact, all who I have turned on to it are appreciative.... and as pleased as I am with this GEM of a bakery! read more

Betty took care of our wedding cake, and did more than a marvelous job. Our guests were astounded by the grand 5 tier cake with beautiful garden roses tucked between the tiers. As the owner of On The Rise Baking she handled our wedding cake needs with utmost professionalism and care. She also took her time in making sure we had all of our options laid out for cake flavor, filling, and fondant, etc. Betty followed up even when my hectic schedule kept me from getting in to talk with her or calling by phone. Her set up and delivery of our cake was flawless. We were very impressed as were our guests. The pictures my wife and I took at our wedding with this cake from On the Rise, were astounding. Her cake topped off our formal wedding with friends and family from all over the world, in a grand fashion. We are sure to use Betty in the future, and she has become a great friend when we stop in for coffee and delicious pastries at her cafe. WORLD CLASS SERVICE FOR OUR WEDDING CAKE NEEDS. read more

sin, sin, sin...but thankfully the forgivable sort! The confections are delectable. Clearly they are made from the finest, purest ingredients...you can actually taste it! When in need of the reasurring comfort of fabulous food - this is the place. Coffee, steamed hot chocolate, pastries, muffins, tarts, blondies, paninis...The atmosphere is funky and relaxed. I like to buy an assortment of the offerings and share them with family and freinds, there is always a gorgeous selection. Recently, a friend turned 40 and Betty made the cake, there was none left the next day. When was the last time that happened at a party? There is ALWAYS cake leftover....not so if it is from On the Rise! A great destination for a girl talk, couple time, connecting with kids or reading the paper. The owner is a dedicated Worcester native, Elizabeth Casey, which as wormtown original myself I can appreciate. Betty went to the world and brought her amazing culinary skills back to us in Worcester. Thanks Betty! read more

On The Rise is truly my preferred place to grab coffee and pastries. I have been a regular customer for some time now, I live on the opposite side of the city and I still take time out of my busy day to stop at my favorite bakery. Betty does an unbelievable job with all her baked goods, here cakes are to die for and I have never been unhappy with the food. My sister has Celiac disease and I have searched far and wide for a good gluten free bakery, I am proud to say that I have found it at On The Rise. I am always greeted by the gorgeous and friendly baristas, with a heartwarming smile, outstanding service and a great attitude. As to people complaining about the prices, not only do I think the prices are more than reasonable, for the amount of care and love that go into these delectable treats, but I also leave a healthy gratuity because the girls at On The Rise bring sunshine to even my gloomiest mornings. As always I will see you tomorrow in th A.M.!!! read more

This place, without a doubt, has some of the best pastries in Worcester. On the Rise Baking is a great place to have a coffee, a muffin or scone, and catch up on computer work, or catch up with a friend. They make some of the most beautiful cakes to order, and the owner and head pastry chef, Betty, has always been great to work with over the years, meeting and exceeding my expectations. This is my go to place when I need to place an order for cakes or muffins, and I always come here to catch up with friends I haven't seen in a long time. They have a wide selection of coffee and latte options, as well, as they do have an espresso machine. They also have a newer lunch menu that is fantastic. As for price points, especially when compared with other places in Worcester, On the Rise Baking delivers in quality. This is a local, family owned business, and over the years I have happy to bring, and will continue to, bring my business here. read more

On the Rise made us a beautiful cake for our wedding. We had multiple guests tell us how much they loved it and how elegant it was. If I can figure out how to post a picture I will. We met Betty the owner at the tasting for our wedding venue and she was absolutely amazing to work with. We were able to go to the bakery for a tasting and coffee and loved every cake we tried. We were able to stay in touch with Betty throughout the process via email and everything went as planned. We tried some of the desserts as well during our visits and were equally impressed. The barista was attentive and polite as well. Betty decorated the cake and even provided us a separate topper to freeze for our anniversary. She is very passionate about her baking and you can taste it in the product. We were able to share our extra cake with our family after the wedding and they continued to rave about it. We highly recommend On the Rise Baking. read more

I'm not one for the stereotypical local cafe, but this one is the exception! I loved how friendly the staff was towards me and my wife on our first visit there. They explained what kinds of pastries were in the case, and especially which ones are gluten free (for my wife). I had a strawberry scone (absolutely delicious!!) with an iced Almond Joy latte (equally scrumptious)! My wife was drawn into the Triple Mousse Cake, which was divine; she also had a cappuccino. The owner, Elizabeth, greeted us as we walked through the door aswell. Which I loved. They take care of the "newbies" as nice as they do with the regulars. They sometimes automatically know what the regulars want already, which gives it a family vibe. Definitely a place to visit, whether it be with your family, friends, or when you need time to yourself. The atmosphere is relaxed, music is upbeat yet has variety that suits everyone's preference. read more

I love On The Rise. Over twenty years ago, Chef Casey made my wedding cake and it was fabulous. I wait tables in the city, and have served her gluten free chocolate torte (in particular) to many of my guests. Her torte is almost always the highlight of my guests' experience- a rich, creamy, decadent, beautiful dark chocolate that I've never gotten a complaint for in the three years of my professional relationship with On The Rise. Her shop in Tatnuck is lovely, very homey and comfortable. Excellent coffee and unique pastries, both sweet and savory. Particularly good attention is paid to food allergies/sensitivities- my daughter has celiac- much care towards cross contamination is taken in their kitchen. Honestly, stop reading this review and go there right now; I beg you. Time's a-wasting. read more

This place is great! I dont normally write these things but I have had good luck with this place and felt the need to share due to the limited number of non-chain coffee shops in the area. On the Rise provides a cozy atmosphere with excellent coffee (a wide selections lattes) and delicious treats including a good selection of gluten-free baked goods, which are great for my friends with celiacs (try the triple chocolate mousse cake!). They also offer sandwiches on tasty homemade focaccia and often have fresh soups if your looking for something in the savory-sector. The service is friendly and the free wifi makes it a great place to go and surf the net or take a break from the office. Every time I go in there is a new treat to try and it will keep me coming and back and recommending to friends! read more

I made a Yelp today just so I could leave a review for On the Rise. My husband and I went to on the rise for a tasting for our wedding cupcakes. Betty helped work with us in what we wanted and made a simple cupcake taste like heaven. She let us use there cupcake stand that held a 6inch cake up on the top for us to cut at the reception, and it was more amazing than when we actually went for the tasting. They also set up for you which is one less thing for me to worry about and it looked absolutely beautiful. We had a fall themed wedding so she sprinkled some color on our cupcakes with reds and greens. We got compliments all night on how great it was and we are still getting asked on who we got them from'! I'd refer On the Rise to anyone anytime. Thanks so much Betty! read more

On The Rise Baking is a gem! The owner/baker Betty worked with me for weeks helping me plan my wedding cake for a small informal wedding. Her suggestions for cake choice and frosting were spot on and our guests and the waitstaff at our venue all enjoyed the cake not to mention how beautiful it was! Betty was so helpful, responsive and catered to what we needed and wanted. She welcomed us into her quaint beautiful bakery offering us a frosting tasting just days before our wedding! She made us feel so welcome and catered to us even after hours, serving us delicious cookies, muffins and coffee! Great atmosphere, conversation and wonderful owner/baker. Thank you again Betty, you helped make our special day even more special. Look forward to visiting again soon. read more

I've been going to On the Rise since it opened. I have Celiac Disease so finding a decent gluten free bakery is not easy. However, Betty Casey has amazing gluten free sweets and bagels. More recently, Betty Casey made my son's baptism cake. She was (is) very accommodating and she is a joy to work with. The baptism cake came out absolutely beautiful. Our friends and family are still talking about how delicious that baptism cake was! She lent me a beautiful cake stand to use. Not to mention the morning that I picked up the cake, it was freezing rain so picture Betty walking backwards, carrying the cake out of her store while her employee covers the cake with an umbrella. That is top notch service. I would highly recommend a trip to On the Rise! read more