When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Bakehouse 46
Why Bakehouse 46 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bakehouse 46 is a renowned bakery located at 116 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, MI, that offers a modern and collaborative culinary experience shaped by the partnership between the Cupcake Station and Blake's Farm. This bakery is celebrated for its wide variety of freshly baked goods, including up to 29 distinct cupcake flavors daily, with an additional rotating monthly selection of eight unique flavors. Guests can also indulge in seasonal treats and specialty beverages that complement the bakery's offerings. The commitment to quality is evident in their use of premium, scratch-made ingredients and the fresh decoration of cupcakes every morning. Beyond cupcakes, Bakehouse 46 offers delightful items such as cider mill donuts and gluten-friendly options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. The bakery's cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for meeting up with friends, enjoying delicious baked treats, and savoring warm beverages. Its central location in Ann Arbor places it near several other dining and cultural attractions, making Bakehouse 46 a vibrant community hub. With its dedication to freshness, variety, and community spirit, Bakehouse 46 stands out as a go-to destination for those looking to enjoy quality baked goods in a friendly environment.
Here's what people think of Bakehouse 46
As of recent, Bakehouse 46 holds a 4.4-star rating based on 407 reviews.
User reviews of Bakehouse 46 consistently praise the bakery for its fresh, high-quality baked goods, especially highlighting the moist and flavorful cupcakes and the delectable cider donuts. Positive feedback frequently mentions the bakery's warm, welcoming ambiance and friendly staff who enhance the overall customer experience. Many reviewers appreciate the variety of flavors available and the willingness of Bakehouse 46 to innovate, such as offering seasonal specialty items and gluten-friendly options. Customers also note the bakery's commitment to premium ingredients and the scratch-made quality of their treats. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out occasional service-related issues, including long wait times and instances where customers felt overlooked by the staff, particularly during busy periods. A few users mentioned that some items could be perceived as slightly pricey. Despite these occasional criticisms, the general consensus is that Bakehouse 46 offers a delicious and enjoyable bakery experience that is well worth a visit. Overall, the positive reviews significantly outweigh the negatives, confirming Bakehouse 46's reputation as a beloved community bakery in Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shaynna Robinson
Don’t let the frosting trick you -NOT THE SAME- formerly cupcake station the cupcakes replicate the look but are no wear near as good as the former. They are still ok.. but genuinely disappointed that an old favorite seems to be gone. Cute and clean inside, the young lady at the counter was kind.Birthday bummer…
J Liang
Stopped here as we were walking by and wanted to grab some cupcakes. Immediately noticed the price of the cupcakes were high, but thought we'd still give it a try. Got a carrot cupcake (what's up doc) and another with a waffle cone, as well as a mini cupcake. Also grabbed one of their chocolate chip cookies. The cupcakes were good, but the cookie was dry and tasted a bit stale. The service also wasn't great. One of the workers walked away from us to make something and another worker came out and completely ignored us and walked to the back to talk to her co-worker as well. They glanced at us multiple times but didn't come to see if we wanted to order. Can only speak for our experience and what we tried, but we wouldn't come back to spend what we did on their desserts.
Breanne
Ive been here a few times now, and I love this place! Their cupcakes are really good and they have a really great selection. They even have pupcakes, which my dog loves. They have ice cream and doughnuts, but I haven't tried either, though everything looks good. I love that they have mini cupcakes in addition to standard size. It's nice for when you just want a bite of something sweet or you'd like to try a couple different flavors. The staff is super friendly and helpful. The place is small, but really clean. This is one place I will always hit up whenever I'm in the area.
Todays Present
I loved my experience here. The customer service was amazing - and the recommendations were perfect. The drip coffee was pretty good and the cinnamon sugar donuts were perfect. The bagels are made by Barry Bagel - best idea! We loved subscribing and received the 6 donuts with our purchase.
Margaret Howe
Great service but I got the veggie breakfast sandwich and there were massiveeee chunks of onion. I figured this out too late😂 Sandwich would be greatly improved with smaller diced onion or even just replacing with scallion for a more subtle taste. Also, the veggies themselves could use a small sprinkle of seasoning. I got an everything bagel and the sandwich still tasted a bit bland.
How to reach Bakehouse 46
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Why Bakehouse 46 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bakehouse 46 with your friends? Because it’s a warm, inviting spot that perfectly blends the pleasures of fresh, delightful baked goods with a cozy, social atmosphere designed for sharing memorable moments. Whether you’re craving moist cupcakes with rich, creamy frosting or the crisp sweetness of cider donuts that evoke autumn mornings, Bakehouse 46 offers treats that feel like they were made just to be enjoyed together. Their long heritage dating back to 1946 speaks to a legacy of creating connections through food, making it a place where friends and family can gather not just to eat, but to make memories. The welcoming and spacious environment encourages laughter, conversation, and casual hangouts, while their diverse menu means there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you meet up for a weekend brunch, an afternoon coffee and pastry break, or a celebratory get-together, Bakehouse 46’s balance of quality, atmosphere, and friendly service provides the perfect backdrop to rally your group and enjoy some genuine togetherness.
What fun activities can you do at Bakehouse 46 that make it great for groups?
Bakehouse 46 offers a variety of activities and experiences tailored to creating a social environment ideal for group meetups. First, you can indulge in a baking-tasting adventure, where everyone samples different signature treats like cupcakes, cider donuts, cookies, and bagels—this sharing experience naturally sparks conversation and enjoyment. Groups can participate in seasonal tasting events or try out the bakery's rotating selections, such as fall-themed cupcakes or gluten-friendly options, ensuring everyone finds something they love. The location is spacious and thoughtfully designed, offering comfortable seating that encourages lingering conversations without feeling rushed. Some Bakehouse 46 spots are conveniently situated near local art centers and boutiques, allowing friends to extend their meetup with a stroll or a visit to art galleries, enhancing the day’s agenda. Moreover, the bakery staff is noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, which helps make groups feel welcome and accommodated, whether ordering large quantities for celebrations or simply hanging out over coffee and fresh pastries.
Why is Bakehouse 46 a perfect venue for a group meetup?
Bakehouse 46 stands out as an ideal group meetup venue for several reasons. Its reputation for consistently delicious cupcakes, cider donuts, and other fresh-baked treats creates a common love point that brings everyone to the table happily. The spacious, bright, and clean settings at their locations provide a comfortable vibe for casual chats or small celebrations, without overcrowding or noise issues that can hinder conversation. The bakery’s flexibility with orders—from individual snacks to large cake and cupcake orders—supports birthday parties, family gatherings, or friend reunions seamlessly. Beyond food, their warm, welcoming ambiance, enhanced by the subtle aroma of coffee and baked goods, immerses visitors in a cozy, indulgent experience. Offering gluten-friendly and seasonal options means groups with varying dietary preferences or interests feel included and excited to try something new together. This thoughtful menu and atmosphere create a natural draw for people seeking a relaxed yet special spot to come together.
How can Bakehouse 46 cater to different tastes within a large group?
One reason Bakehouse 46 is so well-suited to large groups is the breadth and variety of their menu offerings. Whether your group includes those with sweet tooths wanting rich, creamy cupcakes—like the celebrated chocolate-covered strawberry cupcake—or those craving the nostalgic crunch of freshly made cider donuts, there is something delightful for everyone. They also accommodate dietary restrictions thoughtfully, featuring gluten-friendly cupcakes and treats so no guest has to feel left out. Bagel sandwiches made with fresh ingredients offer a savory alternative for those not in the mood for sweets, broadening the appeal further. The bakery’s frequent introduction of seasonal flavors keeps options fresh and exciting, inviting groups to share and discover new favorites together. This variety makes it easy to satisfy disparate tastes without hassle, fostering communal enjoyment and making organizing meetups simpler and more rewarding.
What makes the ambiance at Bakehouse 46 conducive to social gatherings?
The ambiance at Bakehouse 46 is intentionally crafted to be comfortable, welcoming, and conducive to social gatherings of all kinds. The clean, well-lit interiors with spacious seating arrangements allow groups to sit comfortably without feeling crammed, promoting long, relaxed visits. Unlike places overwhelmed by harsh smells of cleaners or overly industrial vibes, Bakehouse 46 consistently delivers a fragrant atmosphere rich with the enticing scents of fresh coffee and baked goods, heightening the sensory appeal of every visit. Friendly, attentive staff add to the relaxed vibe, making guests feel valued and cared for, which is essential for group comfort. The blend of a rustic bakery charm with modern design elements creates a nostalgic yet contemporary space that invites lingering and easy conversation—perfect for catching up with friends, planning events, or celebrating life’s small moments.
How does the service at Bakehouse 46 enhance group experiences?
Service at Bakehouse 46 plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall group experience despite some mixed reviews. Many customers praise the bakery for friendly, helpful staff who are knowledgeable about the products and accommodate special requests, such as allergy considerations or large group orders, ensuring a smooth visit for everyone. The staff’s willingness to explain ingredients or recommend flavors fosters a personalized experience that groups appreciate, making each person feel attended to within the chaos of a busy meetup. However, there have been some reported inconsistencies in speed and attentiveness, which might occasionally detract from the experience. Still, the bakery’s regional locations tend to have recurring customer appreciation for attentive service, hinting that many visits are handled with care. Proactive communication and the option for online ordering with minimum purchase deliveries also help groups plan ahead, reducing wait times and streamlining their gathering.
What seasonal specials and offerings make Bakehouse 46 stand out for gatherings?
Bakehouse 46 is well known for embracing seasonal specials that elevate group visits from routine to memorable. Their fall lineup, featuring cider mill donuts and autumn-inspired cupcakes, perfectly captures the cozy spirit of the season with flavors designed to evoke nostalgia and warmth. Such limited-time offerings create anticipation and give groups a special reason to pick this bakery for meetups, turning simple encounters into shared seasonal celebrations. Beyond fall, the bakery routinely crafts new flavors and gluten-friendly options to keep the menu vibrant and inclusive. They also provide promotional rewards and discounts, encouraging recurring visits and group orders with an extra sense of value. These thoughtful seasonal touches and ongoing engagement with customers make Bakehouse 46 not just a bakery, but a community hub where friends and families can bond over their shared love of timely, delicious treats.
Is Bakehouse 46 a family-friendly venue?
Absolutely. Bakehouse 46’s mix of quality baked goods, cozy atmosphere, and accommodating service makes it an excellent choice for family gatherings. Parents can bring kids to choose from a variety of sweet and savory items designed to delight all ages—soft cupcakes, cider donuts, and bagels with fresh ingredients offer plenty of choices for younger palates. The bakery’s clean and spacious layout provides enough room for strollers and groups with children without discomfort. Additionally, the approachable staff are attentive to allergies and special requests, an important consideration for families with dietary sensitivities. The low-key environment is neither too loud nor chaotic, allowing families to relax and enjoy their time together over comforting food. This family-friendly nature helps Bakehouse 46 stand out as a trustworthy and welcoming spot for multi-generational meetups and celebrations.
How does Bakehouse 46 maintain quality and consistency across locations?
Bakehouse 46 maintains its quality and consistency by adhering to family-inspired recipes going back to 1946, with ongoing effort to preserve the freshness and flavor that their customers love. Their emphasis on freshly baked goods daily ensures that each location—from Birmingham to Ann Arbor and Grosse Pointe—delivers the same moist cupcakes, crisp cider donuts, and high-quality bagels. The company’s focus on customer loyalty programs and seasonal flavor rollouts reflects a commitment to keeping everything fresh and exciting. While some reviews mention occasional service hiccups, the product quality itself consistently receives positive mentions, suggesting that their baking standards are firmly in place. This consistency is vital for customers returning with friends or family, who can expect the same enjoyable experience no matter which regional Bakehouse 46 they visit, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable gathering spot.
Bakehouse 46 rises far beyond being just a bakery—it is a hub for connection, celebration, and shared enjoyment. With its welcoming ambiance, diverse and delectable menu, accommodating service, and an approachable environment for all ages, it stands as a premier location to rally friends or family for a memorable outing. Whether it’s the charm of seasonal cider donuts, the indulgence of decadent cupcakes, or just the joy of sitting down together over fresh coffee and treats, Bakehouse 46 invites groups to make every visit a little sweeter and more special.