Sugar High: The Haute 5 Bakeries in Boston

Trying to narrow down the overwhelming availability of tasty treats in and around Boston is not an easy task.  From the new cupcake emporiums to traditional Italian, Jewish, Japanese and Irish options -the list really goes on and on.  There is certainly no shortage of hot spots to satisfy a sweet tooth. But, we have painstakingly sacrificed our own waistline to bring you the Haute 5 Bakeries in Boston. Check your diets at the door.

Flour Bakery

If you like your baked goods light, fluffy, fresh and not too over-the-top sweet, Flour is the right stop for you.  With sweets that look as ripe and ready to be picked as a shiny red apple on a tree, the light and airy café is a welcoming spot to enjoy your treat.  You wouldn’t want to wait too long to take that first bite anyhow. Treat to try: Brioche au chocolat (brioche filled with pastry cream and chocolate)

Location: 1595 Washington St., South End, Boston 617.267.4300 flourbakery.com

Montilio’s

If it is a special occasion – be it a wedding, bar mitzvah or anniversary – Montilio’s is sure to deliver the  WOW factor you need.  They have been doing it since 1947.  In fact, they created JFK and Jackie Kennedy’s wedding cake back in 1953.  Need we say more? From stunning traditional cake displays to simple and remarkably delicious treats, this is traditional tasty goodness.  Treat to try: Raspberry Filled White Cake

Location: 638 Adams St., Quincy, 617.472.5500 montilios.com

Rosie’s Bakery

The hardest part of walking into Rosie’s Bakery is trying to decide what you want to try first.  This is certainly the spot to stop if you want to create a sampler plate of goodies to bring to a party.  You will certainly be loved and adored by everyone at the party! Stop by the Somerville location with the kids – they’ll love the comfortable vibe, high stools and glass cases full of choices! Treat to try: Congo Bars

Location: 243 Hampshire St., Inman Square, Cambridge 617.491.9488, rosiesbakery.com

Finale Desserterie & Bakery

This high-end dessert hot spot is the genius of Harvard grads who decided to turn the art of desserts into a true dining experience. Perfectly located on the edge of Boston’s Theater District, Finale is the spot to grab a fine port, a strong espresso and a decadent dessert. And while you may anticipate sharing your treat, you are likely to order a second to share, they are just that good. Treat to try: Dessert Sampler (go for the nine piece option and try them all)

Location: One Columbus Ave., Park Plaza (adjacent to the Theater District), Boston 617.423.3184, finaledesserts.com

Bova Bakery

You can’t talk Boston bakeries without wandering down to the North End – Boston’s Little Italy.  And while most people would send you to Mike’s or Modern Pastry right on the main Hanover Street corridor, we suggest you follow your nose and slip over to the quieter Salem Street to visit Bova Bakery.  Three generations have made Bova a mainstay in Boston and if you have ever wandered the streets at 2am smelling fresh baked bread – that’s Bova working its magic.  Besides having the tastiest treats in the most no-nonsense locale – the bakery is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.  So no matter what you are craving when – Bova is sure to please.  Treat to try: Lobster Tails or Whoopie Pies (but pick up a loaf of fresh baked bread too while you are there)

Location:  134 Salem St., North End, Boston 617.523.5601, northendboston.com/bovabakery