Mary O's Irish Soda Bread Shop

- 93 1/2 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009

In a city that thrives on discovery, some of the most cherished spots are the ones that specialize in doing one thing, and doing it exceptionally well. Mary O's Irish Soda Bread Shop, tucked away on a small East Village street, is a shining example of this. This charming bakery has captured the hearts of New Yorkers with a singular focus: serving what many consider to be the best Irish soda bread scones in the city. Born out of the pandemic, Mary O's has grown from a humble home-baking project into a beloved institution, thanks in part to a viral story that brought its simple, delicious offerings to a wider audience. The shop is a testament to the power of authentic, high-quality baking and the deep connection people feel to simple, comforting food.

The experience at Mary O's is all about the scone. The menu is intentionally minimal, consisting of their signature Irish Soda Bread Scones served warm, right out of the oven. These aren't your typical dry, crumbly scones; they are known for their perfect texture—crispy on the outside, with a warm, moist, and fluffy inside. The magic lies in the combination of the scone's slight saltiness, the creamy richness of authentic Kerrygold Irish butter, and a generous dollop of homemade, chunky blackberry jam. This symphony of flavors—salty, creamy, sweet, and tangy—creates a truly "delightful and fun experience" that keeps customers coming back for more. The simplicity of the menu allows the quality of each ingredient to shine, making every bite a clean, rich, and deeply satisfying treat.

Because the scones are made in small batches and sold until they run out, visiting Mary O's is a bit of a race against time. They are typically available Thursday to Sunday, from 7am until they are sold out, which can be as early as 11:30am. This limited availability only adds to the shop's charm and desirability. Customers have learned that the earlier they go, the better their chances are of getting to enjoy the delicious goods. The lines can be long, a clear sign of the immense popularity, but many patrons report that the wait is well worth it for the chance to taste a freshly baked scone. While you can opt to eat on one of the few benches or window seats, most people choose to get their scones to go and enjoy them in one of the many parks nearby.

Beyond the iconic scones, the shop also offers a selection of beverages to complement your meal. You can enjoy a delicious and rich coffee, a traditional Barry’s Irish Tea, or a hot mulled apple cider, all of which are the perfect accompaniment to the warm scone. The shop itself, while tiny, has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The decorations, filled with nostalgic items from Ireland, make it feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy home kitchen. It’s a place that serves as a small, daily ritual for many locals, a perfect spot to start the day with a simple yet extraordinary breakfast. The bakery’s success story is a testament to the enduring appeal of handcrafted quality and the unique, personal touch that only a small, focused business can provide.

Location and Accessibility

Mary O's Irish Soda Bread Shop is nestled at 93 1/2 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009, USA. This location in the East Village places it in a charming and bustling neighborhood. The small, unassuming storefront can be easy to miss, adding to its hidden-gem allure. The area is well-served by public transportation, and for those driving, there is free street parking available, although finding a spot can be challenging in a dense urban environment. The entrance to the shop has a tiny step, which is an important detail for accessibility. Inside, the space is small, with limited seating, so it is best to plan for a quick visit or to take your order to go.

Services Offered

• Onsite services: You can enjoy your scone and coffee inside the cozy shop, though seating is limited.
• Takeout: The most popular option, allowing customers to grab their orders quickly and enjoy them on the go or in a nearby park.
• Breakfast: The shop is primarily a breakfast spot, offering scones, coffee, and tea in the morning.

Features / Highlights

• Signature Irish Soda Bread Scones: The main attraction, known for their incredible taste and texture.
• Served Fresh and Warm: The scones are served right out of the oven, ensuring a fresh and delicious experience.
• Kerrygold Irish Butter and Homemade Jam: The scones come with real Irish butter and a special homemade blackberry jam, which perfectly complement the baked goods.
• Great Coffee and Tea: Offers a selection of beverages, including rich coffee and traditional Barry’s Irish Tea.
• "Until Sell-Out" Model: The limited availability creates an exclusive feel and ensures that every scone is as fresh as possible.
• Small, Cozy Atmosphere: The tiny, intimate space with a few tables and window seats adds to the shop's charm.
• Supports a Local, Viral Business: This is a business that became a sensation through genuine community support and an inspiring backstory.

Contact Information

Address: 93 1/2 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009, USA

Phone: (212) 505-5611

What is worth choosing

For any New Yorker looking for a unique and memorable breakfast experience, Mary O's Irish Soda Bread Shop is absolutely worth seeking out. The primary reason is the simple, honest-to-goodness quality of the scones. As many customers attest, these are not just ordinary scones; they are "salty, umami," "moist," and a "perfect" combination of flavors that are unlike anything else in the city. The entire experience of getting a fresh, warm scone with its accompanying butter and jam is a moment of pure culinary delight. This is a place that proves that focusing on one thing and making it perfect is a recipe for success.

Beyond the food, the experience itself is a key part of the appeal. The "until sell-out" model adds a sense of urgency and community, as regulars know they need to get there early to secure their treat. The short wait times, even with a line, are a testament to the fast and efficient service. It’s also a place that feels deeply personal, as the scones are made by Mary O herself, adding a personal touch that you rarely find in a city of massive chains. This is a destination for those who appreciate tradition, simplicity, and a beautifully crafted baked good. It's not just about a scone; it's about supporting a local business with an inspiring story and enjoying a small, perfect moment of deliciousness in the heart of the East Village.

Mary O's Irish Soda Bread Shop

93 1/2 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009, USA