The absolute signature of Levain and the dish that launched a global trend. Each cookie is nearly the size of a scone, baked at a high temperature to create a dark, caramelized outer shell while the interior remains remarkably soft and 'gooey.' It's packed with high-quality dark chocolate chips and large pieces of toasted walnuts. Reviewers consistently name it the best cookie in the world. It is a brilliant example of textural contrast and extreme decadence.
Tips from diners
These are best when they're still warm from the oven. If they're cold, pop them in a microwave for 15 seconds to recreate that legendary gooey center. One cookie is plenty for two people—it's very heavy.
A favorite for those wanting a more intense and less nutty option. The cookie uses a deep, dark cocoa dough that is less sweet than the original, providing a refined base for the rich, creamy peanut butter chips. Like the original, it features the signature soft center. Reviewers highlight the quality of the cocoa and the perfect balance of the peanut butter.
Tips from diners
This is the richest cookie on the menu. It pairs perfectly with a cold glass of milk. If you're a chocolate purist, this is the one to get.
The 'purest' chocolate chip cookie at Levain. It omits the walnuts from the signature recipe and uses a blend of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips. It is a favorite for those wanting a classic flavor profile done at the highest possible technical level. Reviewers consistently praise its moisture and the lack of artificial sweetness.
A nod to the bakery's origins as a bread shop. While the cookies are the stars, the baguettes are technically perfect—crispy crust, airy and tangy crumb. It's a favorite for regulars looking for a lighter, savory breakfast option. Reviewers often mention it's the best baguette on the Upper West Side.
Founded by Connie McDonald and Pam Weekes in 1995, Levain Bakery started as a small bread shop and achieved global fame for its oversized cookies. The bakery focuses on large-scale, high-quality baked goods that are as substantial as they are delicious. The original tiny shop on 74th Street remains a pilgrimage site, celebrated for its 'gooey' center technique and its status as the benchmark for the modern New York cookie.
The original 74th Street location is tiny and the line can be 45-60 minutes on weekend afternoons. Walk two blocks to their newer, larger location on 77th Street—the line is often much shorter and they have more of the Greatest Hits in stock.
There is no seating at the original location. Plan to take your cookies to the nearby Central Park—it's just a block away and is the traditional spot for a Levain cookie picnic.
They wrap their cookies remarkably well for travel. If you're heading home, buy a four-pack—they stay fresh for several days and make for one of the best New York souvenirs.
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