This Bakery Just Got Named The Best And It's Vegan

Written by The VEGPRENEUR Team

In the golden age of American bakeries, the New York Times listed some of the best and number 1 on the list is vegan.

The Accidental Vegan Bakery: How Bakers Bench Took the Top Spot

When Jennifer Yee founded Bakers Bench in Los Angeles in 2022, she had no plans to create a fully vegan bakery. What started as a practical solution to fluctuating egg and dairy prices during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly turned into a recipe for innovation—and acclaim. Fast forward to today, and Bakers Bench has just been crowned the number one bakery by The New York Times. This is not just a victory for vegan desserts but a testament to creativity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change.

From Pragmatism to Passion

Jennifer Yee’s journey to vegan baking wasn’t a deliberate choice, but rather a happy accident. Like many business owners, she faced supply chain challenges during the pandemic. Eggs and dairy, once staples in her kitchen, became unpredictable in availability and price. Instead of stressing over logistics, Jennifer opted for simplicity: she stopped stocking them altogether.

“I didn’t intend to reinvent the wheel,” she admits, “but I found myself enjoying the challenge. Testing my fundamental pastry knowledge by creating new vegan recipes really tickles my brain in a satisfying way.”

What started as a workaround quickly evolved into an opportunity to explore the boundaries of vegan pastry-making. Jennifer leaned into her deep understanding of traditional baking techniques, using nondairy butter and other plant-based ingredients to replicate—and even elevate—the textures and flavors of classic pastries.

Redefining Vegan Viennoiserie

Bakers Bench didn’t invent vegan viennoiserie, but Jennifer Yee’s work has set a new benchmark for what’s possible. The bakery’s croissants have become the stuff of legend, earning rave reviews for their delicate layers and buttery richness—despite being entirely dairy-free. Regulars swear by the cookies, muffins, and Danishes, many of which are crafted with fruit sourced from the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market.

For true pastry aficionados, the bakery’s seasonal pithiviers are a must-try. Jennifer’s annual interpretation of this classic French dessert is a visual and culinary masterpiece that thrills customers, vegan or not.

A Universal Appeal

What makes Bakers Bench stand out is its universal appeal. While the bakery proudly wears its vegan label, it doesn’t limit its audience. Many of its fans aren’t vegan themselves; they simply love good food. Bakers Bench is proof that plant-based baking doesn’t have to be a compromise—it can be a revelation.

This accessibility has been key to the bakery’s success. By focusing on quality and flavor, Jennifer has created a space where everyone, regardless of dietary preference, can find something to enjoy.

Lessons for Entrepreneurs

Jennifer Yee’s story offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs across industries:

1. Adaptability is Key: When faced with challenges, Jennifer didn’t panic—she pivoted. By embracing change, she unlocked a new avenue for creativity and growth.

2. Challenge Fuels Innovation: Restricting herself to vegan ingredients pushed Jennifer to think outside the box. Sometimes, constraints can be a catalyst for breakthrough ideas.

3. Quality Over Labels: Bakers Bench’s success proves that focusing on the product, rather than marketing to a niche, can create broader appeal.

The Future of Bakers Bench

As Bakers Bench basks in its newfound recognition, Jennifer Yee remains focused on what she loves most: crafting exceptional pastries and connecting with her community. She continues to experiment in the kitchen, exploring new ways to push the boundaries of vegan baking. Whether it’s through innovative recipes or collaborations with local farmers, the bakery’s future looks as bright as its golden-brown croissants.

For anyone skeptical of vegan baking, a visit to Bakers Bench might just change your mind. As Jennifer Yee has proven, a little creativity—and a lot of passion—can turn an accidental choice into a groundbreaking achievement.