South Coast “Snackdown”: Sweet Bread

In the rich tapestry of regional cultures around the world, few culinary delights captivate the senses and forge a deep connection with tradition as much as sweet bread. This delectable fusion of flour, sugar, and yeast not only serves as a testament to the artistry of baking but also weaves itself seamlessly into the fabric of local customs and festivities. Whether it's the aromatic embrace of cinnamon-infused loaves during festive holidays, the delicate layers of pastry in a regional specialty, or the sweet, nostalgic aroma of a grandmother's kitchen, sweet bread holds an unparalleled allure.

The South Coast is home to a host of incredible bakeries that make a variety of sweet breads, including Portuguese Massa Sovada, and Guatemalan Pan Dulce.

This February, it’s time to find out what bakery can claim “Sweet Bread Fame” and be crowned as the maker of the BEST Sweet Bread in the land (well, the South Coast anyway!) But, we can’t do it alone - we need YOUR HELP!

How to participate

  1. Eat sweet bread at as many bakeries as you can

  2. Vote for your favorite online

    Click on the Bread Icon on the Google Map above to get information about each of the bakeries listed below. The pop-ups give you a preview of what you can expect to find at each location, as well as pertinent contact information. As you plan your trip, please take note of the posted hours of operation. Some locations are closed mid-week. we also suggest giving the location a quick call before you head out; as the seasons change, hours may also be altered. We don’t want you to waste your time or miss out on these excellent pies!

Bakeries

New Bedford

  • Economy Bakery: 1685 Acushnet Ave. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Goulart Square: 413 Rivet St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Holiday Bakery: 2153 Acushnet Ave. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Lorenzo’s Bakery: 1533 Acushnet Ave. Puerto Rican sweet bread

  • New Bedford Baking Co.: 98 County St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Padaria Nova Bakery: 1598 Acushnet Ave. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Sara’s Bakery: 1300 Acushnet Ave. Guatemalan sweet bread

  • Sunrise Bakery: 506 Bolton St. Portuguese sweet bread

Swansea

  • Cornerstone Bakery and Restaurant: 1713 Grand Army of the Republic Hwy. Portuguese sweet bread

Fall River

  • Amaral’s Bakery: 241 Globe St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Barcelos Bakery: 695 Bedford St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Cinderella’s Bakery: 975 North Main St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Dukes Bakery: 1082 Davol St. Gluten Free sweet bread

  • Europa Pastries & Coffee Shop: 65 Columbia St Portuguese sweet bread

  • Leddy's Bakery: 1481 S Main St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Lou’s Bakery: 379 E Main St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Mario’s Lebanese Bakery: 260 Harrison St. Lebanese sweet bread

  • Modern Pontes Bakery: 1175 Rodman St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Terminal Bakery: 547 S Main St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • Tony’s Bakery: 196 Columbia St. Portuguese sweet bread

  • United Liberty: 1173 Stafford Rd. Portuguese sweet bread

  • White Rose Bakery: 1642 Pleasant St. Portuguese sweet bread

**Did we miss anyone? Email info@nbfoodtours.com if you know a bakery or cafe that makes their own sweetbread not on our list!*

FAQ

  • Whose crazy idea is this? Viva Fall River and New Bedford Food Tours. Each organization works to promote all the wonderful things about Fall River and New Bedford (respectively)- including its amazing food!

  • How do I participate? Visit as many participating bakeries as you can during the month of February. 

  • Are you sure this is a FRIENDLY food fight? Absolutely! This is a friendly competition whose main goal is to help spread awareness of ALL the great bakeries, cafes, and markets in both cities! No matter who wins, we ALL win!

  • Wait, I don’t see my favorite bakery, what gives? Let us know!

  • Does it cost anything to participate? You are responsible for the cost of the sweet bread, but there is no cost to play or vote.

  • How do I vote? Voting will open from February 1-28. You can vote online on this page. 

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