Spotlight | Radio Bakery

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There is a new kid on the block in Greenpoint, and people are taking notice! Last year, Kelly Mencin and Howard Kalachnikoff, Rafiq Salim, Stephen Maharam, and Ben Howell opened Radio Bakery in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. And from day one, people have lined up for their delicious creations! 

These partners are the same people behind Rolo’s in Ridgewood, Queens. And while they all have a hand in the business, Kelly is the driving force at Radio Bakery. Her leadership and creativity come from an inner passion. “I want to make what I want to eat and what tears at my heartstrings, and hopefully will tear at other people’s heartstrings as well,” she said.

Most of the space at Radio Bakery is used for bakery production. But there is limited seating inside, including seats at the counter. And when it’s not raining, they set up a few tables on the sidewalk for people to take in the pleasant, leafy neighborhood. Because the word about their food is out, you can expect lines. But the well-practiced team runs this efficiently and keeps things moving. “We are all overwhelmed by how great it’s been. I’m just so happy. This is what I live for, just baking and baking and making as much as I can and getting it out to people.”

But the real star of the show is the food, of course. Mencin takes pride in putting a twist on traditional favorites. Their chocolate croissants have chocolate in the dough, on the inside, and on top. Also, instead of almond croissants, you’ll find twice-baked pistachio ones and buttery ‘nduja croissants with a pleasant hint of heat.

“We’re calling ourselves a New York-style bakery because New York has a bit of everything,” she says. Italian breads and maritozzi, French viennoiserie, and sandwiches that riff on classics from places like New Orleans, Midtown street carts, the Grecian islands, and your corner bodega.

The menu also includes cheesy bear claws, scallion sesame twists, lunch sandwiches like a spicy muffuletta or roasted cauliflower version, and focaccia. One customer even said, “I nearly cried when I ate the focaccia.” You can check out the menu online here or feast your eyes on their Instagram page.

Radio Bakery is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or until they are sold out. “I made like 600-plus pastries on opening day, and we sold out by 9:30 am,” said Mencin.

Broadway Stages welcomes all new businesses, but we especially love those dedicated to putting out a quality product with excellent service. As Ari from Brooklyn said, “Radio Bakery in Greenpoint is a true neighborhood gem. Their baked goods are always fresh, flavorful, and crafted with care. The welcoming vibe and friendly staff make every visit a joy. A must-visit for anyone in the area craving delicious bakery treats.” Stop by soon to try it out for yourself. And when you do, be sure to tell them Broadway Stages sent you!