Maine may be famous for its lobster rolls and picturesque lighthouses, but it also is full of really tasty and award winning bakeries. This means delicious croissants are always within reach. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic buttery treat or something a bit more unique, there are plenty of bakeries around Portland that bake up croissants worth traveling for. Here are some of the best places to grab a croissant in the Portland area.
1. Standard Baking Co. – Portland
Location: 75 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101
When it comes to croissants in Maine, Standard Baking Co. in Portland is often considered the gold standard. A local favorite since 1995, this charming bakery is known for its authentic, buttery croissants with a perfectly crisp exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior. They’re baked fresh every day, ensuring the best possible flavor and texture. Standard Baking Co. uses traditional French techniques to create croissants that are perfectly flaky, rich, and golden. There’s usually a line outside the door, they are that good.
2. Belleville – Portland
Location: 1 North St, Portland, ME 04101
Another gem in Portland, Belleville is a bakery that focuses on creating beautifully layered pastries, and their croissants are no exception. Their take on the classic croissant is light, buttery, and has that signature crispness that makes every bite satisfying. The bakery itself offers a modern twist on classic French baking, and their croissants have become a favorite for both locals and visitors. The ham and cheese croissant is always my pick.
3. Zu Bakery – Portland
Location: 81 Clark St, Portland, ME 04102
Tucked away in Portland’s West End, Zu Bakery offers a selection of beautiful pastries that rivals any French patisserie. Their croissants, have those perfect flaky layers and rich flavor. Whether you’re craving a classic butter croissant or maybe a little sweet treat like a pain au chocolat Zu Bakery delivers pastries that consistently impress. If you’re still not convinced to pop into Zu, owner Barak Olins was just named a 2024 James Beard Awards winner in the Outstanding Bakery category!
4. Scratch Baking Company – South Portland
Location: 416 Preble St, South Portland
No croissant list would be complete without my neighborhood favorite! Scratch Baking Co is known for its artisanal breads, bagels, and pastries BUT their croissants are nothing short of spectacular. Light, flaky, and perfectly golden, these croissants are worth the trip over to SoPo.
5. Norimoto Bakery – Portland
Location: 469 Stevens Ave, Portland
For something a little different, Norimoto Bakery combines Japanese pastry traditions with French influences. While their menu includes plenty of unique offerings, their croissants are a standout. The bakery’s croissants feature the perfect combination of crispy, flaky layers, with a tender center that’s both buttery and slightly sweet. Norimoto’s Japanese-French fusion results in a unique, airy, and flavorful croissant experience that can’t be found elsewhere in Maine. Also, owner Atsuko Fujimoto was named a 2024 James Beard Awards winner in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker category.
These bakeries offer a variety of flaky, buttery pastries that will transport you straight to France. So, next time you’re in the area, be sure to treat yourself to a croissant or two.
