If you’d do anything for a pastry, you’re in the right place.
This bakery has been cranking out some of the best Danish treats in the state for decades.
People come from all over Washington just to get their hands on their giant kringles, flaky spandauer, and other buttery pastries.
It’s not fancy, and half the time there’s a line out the door.
But once you taste what they’re baking, you’ll get why nobody minds waiting.
So what’s the deal with these pastries that have folks planning full road trips just to try them?
Let’s talk about it.
Where Is It?
Larsen’s Bakery is in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, Washington.
You’ll find it on 24th Avenue NW, just a quick 5-minute drive from NW Market Street.
It’s about 20 minutes from downtown Seattle, depending on traffic.
About
Larsen’s Bakery has been serving up authentic Danish pastries since 1974, and let’s just say, they’ve nailed it.
This place is a Seattle icon, especially if you’ve got a thing for flaky layers, buttery dough, and anything topped with icing or almond paste.
It was started by Poul Larsen, a Danish immigrant who brought his traditional recipes straight from Copenhagen.
Today, the bakery is under new ownership, but they’re still continuing the same classic recipes and traditions.
When you walk in, you’re hit with the smell of fresh bread and sugar, and the glass cases are packed with pastries that look almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
Larsen’s is best known for their kringles, which are giant oval-shaped pastries filled with almond, raspberry, apple, or even pecan.
Their Smorkage is another fan favorite — layers of buttery pastry filled with custard, almond paste, and raisins, finished with a sweet glaze, perfect with a cup of coffee.
You’ll also find flaky spandauer (like a Danish with fruit or custard in the center), cinnamon rolls, and marzipan treats.
They don’t skimp on size either. Most of these pastries are big enough to share, but no judgment if you don’t.
If you’re into bread, don’t miss their rye loaves and cardamom twists.
And during the holidays? They go all out with seasonal treats like enriched fruit loaves and other festive baked goods.
It’s not really a sit-down kind of place.
You order at the counter, grab your box of goodies, and either enjoy them at one of the few outdoor seats or take them home (if they last that long).
Expect lines on busy weekend mornings, but the service is fast and friendly, and the pastry case is always worth the wait.
Know Before You Go
Larsen’s Bakery is open daily, but your best bet is to get there early.
They open daily at 5:30 AM and close at 6:30 PM.
By mid-morning, the most popular pastries (like the kringles and other favorites) start to sell out fast.
Weekends get busy, especially in the morning, so if you’re trying to avoid the crowds, aim for a weekday or come right when they open.
Prices are super reasonable, especially considering the size of the pastries.
Many basic items range from around $2 to $6, with kringles priced higher since they’re huge and made to share.
They accept credit cards, and you can also call ahead if you want to reserve a kringle, which is honestly a smart move if you’re making a special trip.
Parking in Ballard can be tricky, but there’s usually street parking within a block or two if you’re patient.
The bakery is grab-and-go, but there’s limited seating outside and a few spots inside if you want to dive into your pastry right away.
If you’re visiting Seattle and love baked goods, this place is 100% worth the detour.
Bring a box. You’ll want extras.
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