“There’s always room for dessert!” –  a family belief which holds true for Akim Vann, owner of The BAKERY on Bergen, in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. The quaint, beautifully designed bakery may look familiar since it was recently renovated by BravoTVs Get a Room with Carson Kresley and Thom Filica, this year. Akim, a mother of four,  has a very diverse background but is the complete embodiment of Brooklyn. Raised by her mother who is first generation Chinese-American, (originally from Hong Kong), and her father who is African-American, (with roots in Savannah, Georgia, and Trinidad), Akim’s influences have always been undeniably global. Although she grew up with a heavily Asian influence, she is a native Brooklynite to the core.

Akim feels that “being a product of Brooklyn, exposes you to many cultures and they all influence who I am.” Those influences are tastefully displayed throughout the bakery from the ambiance, to the staff, and of course, treats! Delectable selections such as Matcha Cupcakes and even savory choices like Bánh Mi Hotdogs and Organic Chicken Dumplings grace the menu along with traditional sweets. Akim believes the offerings at the bakery will not seem inconsistent because of Brooklyn’s myriad of cultures which contribute to her identity, and the essence of the neighborhood.  

Known as a neighborhood favorite, the bakery offers delicious treats: the indulgent Chocolate Chip Cookies with smoked sea salt, (the delicate smoked element adds a whole new depth of flavor), the Carrot Cake is pure pleasure boasting a hearty amount of carrots, and the gluten-free treats like the Lemon Cake and Oatmeal Cranberry Coconut Cookies are simply heavenly. Both vegan and non-vegan customers praise this cookie due to its balance of sweet and tart from the cranberries, and texture from the coconut flakes.

The BAKERY on Bergen is open to the community daily except Mondays. Guests are greeted with a warm, welcoming smile, and will feel ‘at home.’ The mix of sweet aromas lures visitors further into comfy seats, quaint tables, and thoughtful pastel and whimsy adornments. This is the ambiance Akim Vann intends. She aims to unite Brooklynites and evoke feelings of old-school Brooklyn, (open doors and spreading love), with new-school Brooklyn, (trendy, cultural, and innovative ideas).

Dessert is often associated with celebration, comfort, and happiness while stimulating the senses. The BAKERY on Bergen achieves just that, whilst proving it is more than a bakery – it is a place where people from various walks of life can meet,  fellowship, and feel at home. Much like its home… the borough of Brooklyn.

Want to know more about this beloved bakery? Follow Akim (@unbelievablekim) and The BAKERY on Bergen (@thebakeryonbergen) for news on the latest treats, classes, and delish events!

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