Busy and buzzy, this all-day affair surprises first-timers with its airy, bi-level space and self-service trays. Always crowded but with quick turn-around, this popular spot was made famous with its hybrid “croissant pretzels” and appearance on “Sex and the City.” (Carrie and Samantha buy brownies, in case you don’t remember or watch reruns on TBS.)Famous for its generously sized and reasonably-priced gourmet pastries...

Busy and buzzy, this all-day affair surprises first-timers with its airy, bi-level space and self-service trays. Always crowded but with quick turn-around, this popular spot was made famous with its hybrid “croissant pretzels” and appearance on “Sex and the City.” (Carrie and Samantha buy brownies, in case you don’t remember or watch reruns on TBS.)Famous for its generously sized and reasonably-priced gourmet pastries that are enticingly piled high around its registers, City Bakery offers a range of savory breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner dishes (macaroni and cheese, French toast, grilled shrimp, soups, sandwiches) for eat-in or take-out with by-weight prices along the lines of generic delis. Catering is also available.

A tiny offshoot called Birdbath was opened in the East Village with little fanfare (and no sign) about two years ago, and offers innovative décor (made up entirely of sustainable materials) and an expedited means to procure the bakery’s most popular items, like the massive, just sweet-enough cookies and muffins. It remains just under-the-radar and is a great spot to pick up some sweets after your weekly tussle at the Union Square Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. City Bakery has also recently opened an outpost in Los Angeles at Brentwood Country Mart.