Taste Of Denmark Bakery: Authentic Treats You Must Try

For those who cherished the authentic treats and warm atmosphere of Oakland’s iconic a taste of denmark bakery, its sudden closure left a void. You’re likely wondering what happened to this beloved 93-year-old institution and, more importantly, where you can now find those irreplaceable Danish pastries, cashew curls, and special occasion cakes that marked so many family celebrations.

A Taste of Denmark Bakery, the beloved Oakland institution formerly known as Neldam’s, permanently closed on Sunday, October 24, 2022. The closure was the result of multiple financial pressures, including the lasting impact of the pandemic on its business.

Leveraging a detailed analysis of community reports and news coverage, this guide provides the definitive story behind the bakery’s closure. More importantly, it offers a comprehensive list of exceptional alternatives, from local Bay Area gems to renowned Danish bakeries across the country. This guide unpacks the legacy of an Oakland icon and helps you discover new favorites to continue the delicious tradition.

Key Facts

A 93-Year Legacy: The bakery, originally Neldam’s, served the Oakland community for 93 years before its final day of operation on October 24, 2022.
Multiple Closing Factors: As reported by KTVU, the closure was not due to a single issue but a combination of factors, including the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on catering, high operational costs, and frequent window damage.
A Worker-Run Cooperative: Since 2010, A Taste of Denmark Bakery operated as a co-op, run by its dedicated former employees who took over the business.
Missed Community Favorites: Customers have specifically expressed missing iconic items like their unique cashew curls, vanilla bites, and the one-of-a-kind strawberry shortcake.
Unrelated Operating Bakeries: It’s important to note that other bakeries named “Taste of Denmark” in locations like Lakewood, Colorado, and San Diego, California, are entirely separate businesses and remain fully operational.

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The End of an Era: What Happened to A Taste of Denmark Bakery in Oakland?

A Taste of Denmark Bakery in Oakland, formerly known as Neldam’s, permanently closed its doors on Sunday, October 24, 2022, after operating for 93 years. For generations of Bay Area residents, the bakery on Telegraph Avenue was more than just a place to buy pastries; it was a cornerstone of the community, a landmark for birthday cakes, and a source of comforting, traditional European baked goods. The news of its closure was a sudden and heartfelt loss for its loyal customer base.

The announcement marked the end of a long and storied history in Oakland, CA 94609. As reported by local news outlets, the decision was a difficult one for the workers’ collective that had been running the bakery. The final weekend saw an outpouring of support from the community, with many stopping by one last time to purchase their favorite treats and say goodbye.

According to a report from KTVU, the 93-year-old bakery on Telegraph Avenue cited rising costs, increased crime, and the fallout from the pandemic as the primary reasons for the permanent closure of the workers’ collective.

For loyal customers and Oakland residents, the question was immediate: why did this beloved institution have to close its doors?

Why Did the 93-Year-Old Bakery Close?

The closure was attributed to a combination of factors, including the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, high operating costs, and frequent window damage at their Oakland location. The decision was not made lightly by the co-op of former employees who had passionately run the business since 2010. The financial pressures ultimately became too much to overcome.

Based on information reported by KTVU and other local sources, the key reasons for the closure of a taste of denmark bakery included:
* Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic had a devastating effect on their catering business, which was a significant source of revenue. The shift away from large gatherings and office events directly impacted their bottom line.
* High Operating Costs: The general cost of doing business in the Bay Area, including rent and utilities for their large Telegraph Avenue space, continued to rise, making profitability a constant challenge.
* Increased Crime and Damage: The bakery reportedly suffered from repeated instances of window damage, adding unexpected and significant repair costs that further strained their finances.

These compounding issues created an unsustainable business environment for the historic bakery, leading to the difficult decision to permanently close.

Remembering the Most Beloved Treats

Customers fondly remember popular items like cashew curls, vanilla bites, and custom cakes for special occasions, with many specifically seeking a replacement for their strawberry shortcake. The legacy of a taste of denmark bakery lives on in the memories of the delicious, handcrafted goods that were part of countless celebrations and daily routines.

Many former patrons still search for flavors that can compare to their old favorites. Some of the most frequently mentioned and missed items include:
* Cashew Curls: A unique and beloved pastry that many customers, according to news reports, were specifically seeking out during the bakery’s final days.
* Vanilla Bites: These simple yet elegant treats were a staple for many who visited the bakery.
* Strawberry Shortcake: The bakery’s version of this classic cake was legendary, and online community forums show people are still actively searching for a comparable replacement.
* Special Occasion Cakes: For birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, a taste of denmark bakery was the go-to for beautifully decorated and delicious cutting cakes.

A query on the r/OaklandFood subreddit perfectly captures the sentiment: “A taste of Denmark’s strawberry shortcake was soooooo good. Anyone aware of a bakery with a similar cake?”

Which of these iconic treats do you miss the most? The search for these nostalgic flavors has led many to explore other bakeries in the region.

Where to Find Your Danish Pastry Fix: 5 Bay Area Alternatives

For those missing A Taste of Denmark, several Bay Area bakeries offer authentic Danish treats, including Copenhagen Bakery & Café in Burlingame, known for its wide variety of Danish flavors and specialty cakes. While no bakery can ever perfectly replace a 93-year-old institution, the Bay Area and greater California are home to several excellent European-style bakeries where you can find high-quality pastries and cakes.

Here are some top-rated alternatives for those looking for a bakery near me to satisfy their cravings:

Copenhagen Bakery & Café
- Location: Burlingame, CA
- Key Offerings: This bakery has been a Bay Area staple since 1977. They offer a huge selection of authentic Danish pastries with flavors like apple, cheese, cherry, cinnamon, custard, and raspberry. They also create specialty cakes and serve a full breakfast and lunch menu.
- Why It’s a Good Alternative: Its long-standing reputation and extensive, authentic Danish menu make it a top destination for former patrons of a taste of denmark bakery. Pro Tip: Copenhagen Bakery & Café in Burlingame has been serving the Bay Area since 1977, offering a truly authentic experience.
Andersen’s Danish Bakery & Restaurant
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA
- Key Offerings: A family-owned landmark famous for traditional European cuisine and classic Danish pastries like Kringle, Butterring, and Strudel.
- Why It’s a Good Alternative: For those willing to take a trip or order online, Andersen’s offers an authentic taste of Denmark and even ships its marzipan candies and cookies nationwide.
Copenhagen Pastry
- Location: Culver City, CA
- Key Offerings: This spot is renowned for its incredibly light, flaky pastries that are baked fresh throughout the day. They also offer delicious layer cakes.
- Why It’s a Good Alternative: Their dedication to quality and consistency has earned them a loyal following across Southern California, making it a worthy destination for pastry lovers.
Taste of Denmark
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Key Offerings: This bakery (an unrelated business) specializes in traditional Danish rye bread made with a 3-day cold fermentation process, alongside a variety of classic pastries.
- Why It’s a Good Alternative: It provides an authentic experience with a special focus on traditional bread-making techniques you won’t find everywhere.

Top-Rated Danish Bakeries Across the U.S. (And Beyond)

Excellent Danish bakeries exist across the U.S., such as Andersen’s in Santa Barbara which ships its Kringle and marzipan nationwide, and Oh Danish Bakery in Racine, WI, specializing in scratch-made Kringle in various flavors. If your search for the perfect Danish pastry extends beyond California, there are several nationally recognized bakeries dedicated to the craft.

Here is a breakdown of some of the best European-style bakeries across the country that honor the traditions of Danish baking:

Bakery Name	Location	Must-Try Specialty	Key Feature
Andersen’s Danish Bakery	Santa Barbara, CA	Kringle, Butterring, Strudel	Family-owned landmark that ships coast to coast.
Seattle Kringle	Seattle, WA	Traditional Danish Kringle	Founded by a Copenhagen-trained baker with decades of experience.
Oh Danish Bakery	Racine, WI	Scratch-made Kringle	Specializes in various Kringle flavors, including seasonal options.
Copenhagen Pastry	Culver City, CA	Light & Flaky Pastries	Bakes fresh batches throughout the day for ultimate quality.

A Note on Other Bakeries Named “Taste of Denmark”

It’s important to note that other bakeries named “Taste of Denmark” in locations like Lakewood, Colorado, and San Diego, California, are separate, unrelated businesses and remain in operation. The closure of the Oakland location has caused some confusion for customers searching online. To be clear, these other bakeries are thriving and are excellent places to find European-style pastries.

Taste of Denmark in Lakewood, Colorado

This European-style bakery has been serving the Lakewood community for over 18 years. It is a completely separate business from the former Oakland establishment.
* They offer a wide selection of freshly baked Danish pastries, croissants, Kringles, and strudels.
* They are well-regarded for their traditional European treats and custom cakes.

Taste of Denmark in San Diego, California

This Southern California bakery is also an independent, operating business with no connection to the closed Oakland bakery.
* Their specialty is traditional Danish rye bread, which is made using a meticulous 3-day cold fermentation process.
* They also offer a full range of pastries and provide catering services.
* Quick Fact: The Taste of Denmark in San Diego is renowned for its traditional Danish rye bread made with a 3-day cold fermentation process.

To get started with your own Danish baking adventures at home, consider investing in a quality set of pastry tools. A good collection can help you achieve the flaky layers and delicate textures that make these treats so special.

FAQs About Danish Bakeries and Pastries

What is the most famous pastry in Denmark?

The Spandauer is often considered the most classic and famous Danish pastry, recognized by its typical shape and filling. When most people outside of Denmark picture a “Danish,” they are likely thinking of a Spandauer. It’s a timeless classic known for its flaky pastry, circular or square shape, and often a dollop of cream or jam in the center.

What is a famous Danish bakery chain?

Lagkagehuset, which operates as Ole & Steen in countries like England and the U.S., is a famous Danish bakery chain with over 143 branches worldwide. Founded in Denmark, this chain has become an international ambassador for modern Danish baking, known for its high-quality breads, cakes, and, of course, classic Danish pastries.

What does a Danish pastry taste like?

A Danish pastry’s taste comes from its core ingredients: rich butter, flaky dough, spices like cinnamon, and fillings such as pastry cream, almonds, or fruit, creating a nostalgic and comforting flavor. The experience of eating a true Danish is a study in texture and taste. The key flavor components include:
* Rich Butter: Laminated into the dough, it creates the signature light, flaky layers.
* Flaky Dough: The texture should be crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
* Spices: Cinnamon is a classic and signature component in many Danish pastries.
* Sweet Fillings: Pastry cream, fruit preserves, and almond paste are common fillings that add sweetness and depth.

Final Summary: Honoring a Legacy and Finding New Favorites

The closure of a taste of denmark bakery in Oakland marked the end of a remarkable 93-year chapter in Bay Area culinary history. For decades, it was a place of comfort, celebration, and tradition. While its loss is deeply felt, the legacy of authentic Danish baking it championed continues in other dedicated bakeries both locally and across the nation. Understanding the reasons for its closure—a combination of pandemic pressures and rising costs—helps frame its story not as a failure, but as the end of a long, successful era.

An Oakland Icon: A Taste of Denmark, formerly Neldam’s, closed permanently on October 24, 2022, after 93 years of service.
Remember the Favorites: Customers continue to miss beloved treats like cashew curls, vanilla bites, and their legendary strawberry shortcake.
Excellent Alternatives Exist: High-quality Danish and European pastries can be found at establishments like Copenhagen Bakery & Café in Burlingame and other specialty bakeries throughout California and the U.S.
Clarifying Confusion: Bakeries with the same name in Lakewood, CO, and San Diego, CA, are separate, thriving businesses.

Use this guide to explore the rich tradition of Danish baking in your area and discover a new go-to spot for your favorite treats

Last update on 2025-08-17 at 19:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API