Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery

- 137 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002

### Introduction / Overview

In a city where restaurants come and go with the changing seasons, a true institution stands the test of time, not by chasing trends, but by perfecting a single, cherished tradition. Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery is one such landmark. Tucked away on the Lower East Side, its unassuming storefront gives little hint of the century-plus of history and flavor contained within. Since opening its doors at its current location in 1910, and with a history stretching back to a pushcart in the 1890s, this bakery has been a constant fixture of New York's cultural and culinary landscape. It is one of the last remaining Jewish businesses from the neighborhood's rich immigrant past, a living testament to a bygone era. The star of the show, of course, is the knish—a savory or sweet pastry with a thin, tender dough wrapping a hearty filling. Yonah Schimmel’s knishes are made from original recipes, a commitment to authenticity that has earned them a loyal following and a reputation as a true New York hidden gem. The atmosphere inside is as timeless as the recipes. It's a no-frills, casual, and cozy space that feels like a step back in time. While some online sources and reviews mention dine-in seating, many recent customer experiences point to it being a takeout-only spot, which only adds to its classic, grab-and-go New York charm. For both tourists and locals, a visit to Yonah Schimmel’s is more than just a quick bite; it's an opportunity to taste a piece of history and savor a dish that has been loved for generations.

What makes Yonah Schimmel's particularly special is its deep-rooted connection to the city's heritage. It's a place that has been immortalized in art and film, and where politicians and celebrities have visited for a taste of authentic old-world cuisine. Despite the changing neighborhood and the rise of modern dining, the bakery has remained true to its craft, continuing to bake its signature knishes by hand in an oven located in the basement. This dedication to tradition is evident in every bite, from the classic potato knish to the heavenly sweet cheese varieties. The menu is simple and focused, which allows them to maintain the high quality that has kept them in business for over a hundred years. The staff, known to be warm and welcoming, will even warm up a knish for you on the spot, ensuring you can enjoy its full comfort-food potential. Whether you are a fan of savory or sweet, there is a knish for you. It's a place that embodies the spirit of the Lower East Side—resilient, authentic, and full of flavor. For anyone looking for a unique and delicious food experience that feels truly New York, Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery is an essential stop.

### Location and Accessibility

Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery is located at 137 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, USA. Situated in the heart of the Lower East Side, its location is both a testament to its history and a convenient spot for modern-day visitors. The bakery is easily accessible via public transportation. The B, D, F, and M subway lines at Broadway-Lafayette Street and the F train at 2nd Avenue are all within a short walking distance. The location also makes it a perfect stop for those exploring nearby attractions like the Tenement Museum, Orchard Street shopping, or other iconic Lower East Side food spots. Parking can be a challenge in this bustling area, with both free and paid street parking available but often difficult to find. Most visitors find it easier to use public transit or a rideshare service. While the provided data does not specify wheelchair accessibility, it is listed as an option, and the restaurant is good for kids. The unassuming exterior can make it feel like a "hidden gem," as one reviewer noted, but its status as a beloved landmark means that a delicious knish is just a walk away for anyone in the neighborhood. Its central location in a highly walkable area makes it an easy addition to any day out in Lower Manhattan.

### Services Offered

Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery focuses on one thing: crafting the perfect knish. While the menu is straightforward, the variety of fillings ensures there is a knish for every taste. Here's a breakdown of what they offer:

• Savory Potato Knishes: The foundation of the bakery's fame. The traditional Potato Knish ($5.50) is the classic choice, but they also offer a range of delicious savory options, including Sweet Potato Knish ($5.50), Kasha Knish ($5.50) (buckwheat groats), Spinach Knish ($5.50), Broccoli Knish ($5.50), Red Cabbage Knish ($5.50), Mixed Vegetable Knish ($5.50), and Mushroom Knish ($5.50). These are perfect for lunch or a quick bite.

• Sweet Cheese Knishes: For those with a sweet tooth, the sweet cheese knishes are a dessert lover's dream. Options include Apple Cheese Knish ($6.50), Cherry Cheese Knish ($6.50), Blueberry Cheese Knish ($6.50), Chocolate Cheese Knish ($6.50), and a classic Apple Strudel Knish ($6.50). A reviewer described their cherry cheese knish as "heavenly."

• Beverages: A small selection of drinks is available to complement your knish, including Bottled Water ($2.00), Coca-Cola ($2.00), and Diet Coke ($2.00).

• Service Options: Yonah Schimmel's offers a highly convenient service model. While it has traditionally had dine-in seating, many current reviews mention it is primarily Takeout. They also offer Delivery, allowing you to enjoy their knishes from the comfort of your home. They will warm up your knish for you if you plan to eat it immediately, ensuring a fresh and comforting experience.

### Features / Highlights

What makes Yonah Schimmel's more than just a bakery is its unique character and historic significance. Here are some of its most notable highlights:

• Living History: The bakery is a true New York institution, having been in the same location since 1910. It’s one of the last vestiges of the Lower East Side's Jewish immigrant culture, offering a tangible connection to the city's past. A visit here is a cultural experience as much as a culinary one.

• Authentic, Hand-Crafted Knishes: The recipes for the knishes date back to the 1880s, and they are still made by hand, never fried. This commitment to traditional methods ensures a quality and taste that are unmatched by other establishments.

• Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly: With a wide array of savory knishes made with vegetables and potatoes, the bakery offers excellent vegan and vegetarian options, as noted by customer reviews. All non-cheese knishes are vegan, making it a great stop for a quick, plant-based meal.

• Cash and Card Accepted: While some reviews mention a cash-preferred policy, the business accepts both credit and debit cards, as well as NFC mobile payments, making it convenient for modern customers.

• Casual and Unassuming Vibe: The no-frills, unassuming exterior and interior are part of the bakery's charm. It’s a genuine, authentic New York spot, not a polished chain, which adds to its appeal as a true "hidden gem" for tourists and locals alike.

### Contact Information

To plan your visit or place an order for delivery, here is the contact information for Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery:

Address: 137 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (212) 477-2858

### What is worth choosing

Choosing to visit Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery is about more than just satisfying a craving; it's about embracing a piece of New York City's soul. What is truly worth choosing here is the opportunity to taste a knish that has been made from the same recipe for over a century, in the very same location for over one hundred and thirteen years. This deep sense of history and tradition is the bakery's main attraction. The knishes themselves are the perfect example of comforting, classic food done right. The savory options are hearty and flavorful, with the Potato Knish ($5.50) being the quintessential choice for a first-timer. For those with a love for sweets, the Cherry Cheese Knish ($6.50) is a customer favorite that is described as "heavenly" and is perfect for a delicious dessert or a satisfying afternoon snack. Furthermore, the bakery's commitment to being a welcoming and accessible place is commendable. Its casual atmosphere and status as a "hidden gem" make it an appealing destination for tourists seeking a truly authentic experience. For locals, it’s a constant reminder of the city's rich immigrant history and a reliable source of simple, delicious food. The fact that the bakery offers both delivery and takeout, and will warm up your knish for immediate enjoyment, shows a dedication to customer satisfaction that has helped it thrive for generations. In a city of endless choices, Yonah Schimmel’s stands out as a unique and invaluable landmark, and choosing to support it is choosing to support a piece of living history. A visit here is a delicious and meaningful experience that will leave you with a full stomach and a greater appreciation for the city's enduring culinary heritage.

Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery

137 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, USA