Every year on December 9th, food lovers across the country celebrate National Pastry Day—a perfect excuse (as if we needed one!) to indulge in flaky croissants, delicate tarts, buttery danishes, and all the sweet or savory baked masterpieces that make pastries irresistible. Here in the DMV area (DC, Maryland, Virginia), we’re lucky to have a thriving bakery scene filled with talented artisans who elevate the pastry game year-round.
Whether you're a fan of classic French patisserie or creative modern twists, these standout spots deserve a visit on National Pastry Day—and honestly, any day you're craving something delicious.
🥐 Top Pastry Spots in the DMV
⭐ 1. Un Je Ne Sais Quoi — Washington, DC
This French-owned patisserie in downtown DC is renowned for its ethereal Merveilleux pastries, ultra-buttery croissants, and delicate fruit tarts. If you’re celebrating National Pastry Day with elegance, this is your destination.
⭐ 2. Seylou — Shaw, DC
For the sourdough enthusiasts and whole grain lovers, Seylou is a revelation. Their whole-grain croissants, rye kouign-amanns, and beautifully crafted pastries highlight local grains and natural fermentation. Sustainable and delicious.
⭐ 3. Levain Bakery — Georgetown, DC
Their giant cookies get the spotlight, but don’t sleep on the pastries. From tender brioche to buttery pastry bars, Levain is a sweet tooth’s dream stop.
⭐ 4. The Swiss Bakery — Springfield & Burke, VA
Serving authentic European pastries for decades, The Swiss Bakery excels at Black Forest cake, linzer cookies, apricot pastries, and seasonal stollen. A nostalgic favorite in Northern Virginia.
⭐ 5. Fresh Baguette — Bethesda, Rockville, & Reston
This award-winning French bakery is known for its perfectly laminated pastries, pain au chocolat, almond croissants, and Parisian-style éclairs. Everything here feels like Paris in the DMV.
⭐ 6. Boulangerie Christophe — Georgetown, DC
A cozy neighborhood bakery featuring flaky croissants, raspberry tarts, and one of the best butter croissants in the city. Grab a pastry, a latte, and enjoy Georgetown vibes.
⭐ 7. Tout de Sweet Pastry Shop — Bethesda, MD
A charming boutique patisserie specializing in handcrafted, small-batch pastries. Their macarons, tarts, and petit gateaux are stunning in both flavor and presentation.
🥧 Why National Pastry Day Matters
Food holidays are more than fun excuses to indulge—they’re opportunities to support local bakers, celebrate culinary creativity, and try something new. The DMV’s pastry scene is rich with culture, tradition, and innovation, making it a perfect place to celebrate this delicious holiday.
So today, treat yourself! Grab your favorite pastry, try a new spot, or share something sweet with someone you love.