When it comes to baked goods, there's nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread or the taste of a perfectly flaky croissant. And in southwestern Pennsylvania, there are plenty of bakeries that have mastered the art of creating delicious treats. But which ones have truly stood out and received recognition for their baked goods?
The Search for Award-Winning Bakeries
As an expert in the food industry, I've had the pleasure of trying out numerous bakeries in southwestern Pennsylvania. And let me tell you, there are some truly exceptional ones out there.But when it comes to awards and recognition, there are a few that have truly stood out. My search for award-winning bakeries led me to three main sources: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's "Best Bakeries in Pittsburgh" list, the James Beard Foundation Awards, and the Great American Pie Festival. These sources have recognized some of the best bakeries in southwestern Pennsylvania for their exceptional baked goods.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's "Best Bakeries in Pittsburgh" List
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is a well-respected newspaper in southwestern Pennsylvania, and their annual "Best Bakeries in Pittsburgh" list is highly anticipated by locals and visitors alike. This list features some of the top bakeries in the city, including those that have won awards and recognition for their baked goods. One bakery that has consistently made it onto this list is La Gourmandine Bakery. Located in Lawrenceville, this French bakery has been recognized for its delicious croissants, baguettes, and pastries.In 2019, they were also named one of the "Top 10 Bakeries in America" by the James Beard Foundation. Another bakery that has been featured on the list is Prantl's Bakery. This bakery, located in Shadyside, is famous for its burnt almond torte, which has been named one of the "Best Cakes in America" by the Huffington Post. They have also won numerous awards for their other baked goods, including their thumbprint cookies and cinnamon rolls.
The James Beard Foundation Awards
The James Beard Foundation Awards are often referred to as the "Oscars of the food world." These prestigious awards recognize the best chefs, restaurants, and bakeries in the country. And southwestern Pennsylvania has had its fair share of winners. In 2019, La Gourmandine Bakery was named a semifinalist for the "Outstanding Baker" award.This is a huge accomplishment, as only 20 bakeries from across the country are selected as semifinalists. And in 2020, Prantl's Bakery was named a semifinalist for the "Outstanding Pastry Chef" award. But it's not just these two bakeries that have received recognition from the James Beard Foundation. In 2018, Five Points Artisan Bakeshop in Squirrel Hill was named a semifinalist for the "Outstanding Baker" award. And in 2017, BreadWorks Bakery in North Side was named a semifinalist for the "Outstanding Baker" award.
The Great American Pie Festival
The Great American Pie Festival is an annual event that celebrates all things pie.And it's no surprise that some of southwestern Pennsylvania's best bakeries have been recognized at this festival. In 2019, Apple Annie's Bake Shop in Bethel Park won first place in the "Best Apple Pie" category at the festival. This bakery is known for its delicious pies, including their award-winning apple pie. And in 2018, Grandma's Country Oven Bake Shoppe in White Oak won first place in the "Best Cream Pie" category.
