The Rugelach Shop

- 213 US-46, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407

Introduction / Overview

For residents across New Jersey, particularly those in Bergen County looking for a truly standout dessert experience, The Rugelach Shop in Elmwood Park offers a unique and highly praised destination. This is far more than a typical local bakery; it is a small business built on passion, tradition, and a dedication to making one of the finest versions of its namesake pastry available anywhere. Identifying proudly as a Black-owned enterprise, The Rugelach Shop, led by master baker Kevin Smalls, has quickly become a beloved spot in the community, celebrated for its craftsmanship and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

The core specialty of the shop is, naturally, the rugelach—a traditional Eastern European pastry made from a tender, flaky dough rolled around various sweet fillings. However, the quality here elevates it beyond the ordinary. Customers consistently rave about the "best rugelach I’ve ever had," noting its perfect texture: "Super flaked and crunchy, but not overly sweet." The shop offers classic flavors like Apricot, Chocolate, and Raspberry, ensuring there is a perfect bite for every palate. The meticulous process and high-quality ingredients, often including crunchy walnuts, result in a pastry that many locals now consider their favorite dessert destination.

While rugelach is the star, the menu at The Rugelach Shop boasts a comprehensive selection of other freshly baked treats that receive equally enthusiastic reviews. From decadent, not-too-sweet cheesecakes to a range of cakes like Carrot Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and Lemon Toasted Coconut Cake, the variety is impressive. The atmosphere complements the delicious food perfectly. Described as having a "very spacey interior" filled with the delightful aroma of baked goods, the shop offers a clean, inclusive, and inviting space for customers to relax. Furthermore, the dedication of the owner, Kevin Smalls, who is consistently called "super cool and friendly," ensures that every visit is a positive one, making The Rugelach Shop an essential stop for anyone in the North Jersey area craving high-quality baked goods.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently located in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, The Rugelach Shop is highly accessible to commuters and local shoppers alike, being situated right on a major route.

The specific address is: 213 US-46, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407, USA

The shop is positioned for ease of access, a major benefit for New Jersey residents passing through or living in the area. Accessibility is a key priority for The Rugelach Shop, ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons. They provide a free parking lot, eliminating the typical North Jersey worry of finding a spot. For those requiring specific accommodations, the business ensures maximum accessibility by featuring a wheelchair accessible restroom and wheelchair accessible seating, demonstrating an inclusive approach to customer service. Being located right on Route 46 West in a small strip mall setting makes it simple to pull in for a quick visit, grab an order to go, or sit down for a moment of indulgence. Its presence in the 07407 zip code makes it a central dessert hub for Elmwood Park and its neighboring Bergen County towns.

Contact Information

To place an order, inquire about custom cakes, or simply check on the daily fresh selections, The Rugelach Shop can be reached at the following numbers:

Address: 213 US-46, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407, USA

Phone: (201) 300-6137

Mobile Phone: +1 201-300-6137

Services Offered

The Rugelach Shop offers a range of flexible services designed to meet the diverse needs of the busy New Jersey customer, from on-the-go professionals to those seeking a leisurely break.

• In-store shopping: Customers are invited to browse the selection and enjoy the "spacey interior" and welcoming atmosphere.
• Dine-in: Offering comfortable seating for patrons who wish to enjoy their coffee and baked goods immediately.
• Takeout: Quick and convenient service for customers grabbing their treats to enjoy at home or on the road.
• In-store pickup: Streamlined service for orders placed ahead of time.
• Onsite services: Full availability of bakery and beverage offerings directly at the location.
• Beverage Offerings: Including freshly made coffee with a "strong smooth taste," plus a separate juice bar area for items like the "jersey turnpike smoothie."
• Payment Options: Acceptance of Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a quick and secure transaction experience.

Features / Highlights

The Rugelach Shop stands out in the Bergen County bakery scene due to several unique features that appeal directly to the values and desires of New Jersey patrons.

• Signature, Best-in-Class Rugelach: Consistently praised in customer reviews as "the best I’ve ever had," the pastry is noted for its "super flaked and crunchy" texture and balanced sweetness.
• Black-Owned Small Business: The business proudly identifies as Black-owned and a small business, offering the community an opportunity to support local, diverse entrepreneurship.
• Welcoming and Inclusive Environment: The shop actively promotes itself as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, fostering a supportive and open atmosphere for all customers.
• Diverse and High-Quality Cake Selection: Beyond the specialty rugelach, the bakery offers expertly made cheesecakes (not too sweet and "awesome"), Carrot Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and Lemon Toasted Coconut Cake.
• Master Baker Kevin Smalls: The owner and baker is frequently highlighted in reviews as "super cool and friendly," enhancing the overall customer experience with personal attention and excellent service.
• Beverage and Smoothie Bar: Providing a full experience, the shop features a juice bar offering unique and "very tasty" smoothies, alongside high-quality, freshly made coffee.
• Excellent Accessibility: Featuring a free parking lot, wheelchair accessible seating, and a restroom, ensuring ease of access for a quick visit.

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting The Rugelach Shop, the choice is clear and strongly recommended by the local New Jersey community: you must start with the Rugelach.

Customers repeatedly emphasize that this specialty pastry is the reason to visit, calling it "hands down the best" they have ever tasted. Given the choices of Chocolate, Apricot, and Raspberry, a first-time visitor is highly encouraged to try the customer-favorite combination of Chocolate and Raspberry Rugelach. They are described as being "like little cookie/croissants with walnuts inside," offering a perfect, flaky texture that is not overly sweet. For an authentic and defining experience of The Rugelach Shop's unique craftsmanship, a dozen of these assorted rugelach is the perfect place to start.

For those seeking other baked goods, the Cheesecake is another must-try item. Even non-cheesecake fans have been converted, noting that the texture is "just right" and the flavor is "awesome" because it is "not too sweet." Considering the price options for a slice or a mini cake, it’s an easy addition to any order.

Finally, to complete the experience, order a cup of their fresh coffee or the highly-rated Jersey Turnpike Smoothie. This dual offering of excellent baked goods and a dedicated beverage selection solidifies The Rugelach Shop's reputation as a top-tier destination for breakfast, a quick dessert, or a moment of enjoyment in the Elmwood Park, NJ area. Every choice here promises quality and a friendly smile from the owner, Kevin Smalls, ensuring a rewarding experience that will make this your favorite destination for dessert needs.

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The Rugelach Shop

213 US-46, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407, USA