When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop
Why Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Fireman Derek's Bake Shop stands out as a beloved family-owned bakery in South Florida, specializing in an exceptional variety of pies, cakes, cheesecakes, cookies, and unique desserts. Located in vibrant Miami neighborhoods including Coconut Grove and Wynwood, this bakery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere making it a perfect place to meet up with friends. What makes Fireman Derek’s truly special is its commitment to freshness; all treats are baked in-house daily using fresh, locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients. The bakery was founded by Derek Kaplan, a former Miami firefighter and Division-I football player, whose passion for pie baking translates into award-winning flavors and an uplifting customer experience. With a focus on both classic and innovative sweets, the shop invites guests to enjoy everything from their famous Key Lime Pie made with fresh squeezed key limes to savory pies and artisan cookies like the White Chocolate Guava Cookie. Open late into the evening, it offers a versatile setting for daytime gatherings or late-night cravings. Customers also appreciate the opportunity to place same-day pickup orders, supporting spontaneous meetups or planned celebrations. The shop’s cozy vibe and dedication to crafting big flavors consistently bring big smiles, making Fireman Derek’s a standout destination to share sweet moments with friends and family.
Here's what people think of Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop
As of recent, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1613 reviews.
Customer reviews for Fireman Derek's Bake Shop are overwhelmingly positive, reflecting its 4.4-star rating based on over 1,600 reviews across multiple locations. Patrons often praise the bakery’s friendly and attentive staff, welcoming atmosphere, and the consistently high quality of freshly baked goods. Positive feedback frequently highlights the exceptional taste and texture of their pies and cheesecakes, with many reviewers particularly loving the Key Lime Pie and inventive cookies. The bakery’s use of fresh, local ingredients and its family-owned charm resonate well, giving a homey yet vibrant feel that customers enjoy. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional issues such as limited seating during busy hours, pricing perceived as slightly high, or wait times for popular items. A few customers have mentioned variability in the sweetness or portion sizes of certain treats. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains strongly favorable, with many customers returning to indulge in their favorite desserts and recommending the bakery as a top Miami dessert spot. The blend of traditional favorites and unique treats, paired with a commitment to quality and community, secures Fireman Derek’s reputation as a must-visit bakery that consistently delights its visitors.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ali
🎉Ok Fireman Dereks 🫶🏽 I've only had positive experiences at the location in Wynwood. Its always clean, usually little to no line or wait time. People are friendly and patient. I actually like this location in terms of friendlyness more than the coconut grove one. I usually stick to the cheesecakes and I can recommend trying them all. But my favorite were the original, Cookie monster, and cookies and cream. The cookies are also good but the cheesecake is better.
Indiana Lanzas
Every time I’m in Wynwood, I have to stop here and get their pecan pie. It is the best pecan pie I’ve had as it’s not overly sweet. Their salted caramel pie is also delicious but I forgot to take a picture of that. The service is always excellent and the ambience is very cheerful with its colorful decorations. I will always be returning here whenever I’m craving something sweet.
Natalie Mendez
I visited the Wynwood location after dinner to grab a pie slice before heading home. The attached pictures is exactly what I was served and no, I had not taken a bite out of it yet. I was basically served all whip cream. Especially for being called the “cookie monster”, this order was completely lacking. The quality of Firemen Derek’s has gone down since I first started going.
Juliana Costa
I have been a loyal customer of FIREMAN DEREK’s since the store opened. I have enjoyed many of your baked products , including crackpies, guava cookies, and Oreo cheesecake pies. However, my experience at the WYNWOOD store today has left me deeply disappointed and motivated to never return. The lack of respect and civility displayed by your manager was truly unacceptable. I arrived at the store and ordered a few items, including a slice of “CRACKPIE”. I took a bite while and immediately realized that the pie was stale and frozen. I explained to the manager that the pie was not fresh and didn’t taste right. Her response was dismissive and arrogant. She claimed that they didn’t get fresh pies because they were delivered twice or three times a week and that they had three stores, so they couldn’t possibly have fresh pies every day. This attitude was unnecessary , especially for a simple question. It doesn’t even make sense: since FIreman Derek’s have 3 stores, shouldn’t they be able to deliver fresh products ? you have Specially I had paid for a fresh piece of pie, and I didn’t expect to be served something frozen and unappetizing. If the pies are not FRESH, please put up signs !!! It’s only fair with the customer to know they are not paying for fresh pie. When I asked what I could do about the situation, I offered to get another product to substitute. After she cut the slice, to my shock, she asked me to pay for it. As a side note, the full pie I had purchased and paid for was already in the trash. She asked me if I was going to eat it, and I said no, so she put it in the trash bin. She insisted that she couldn’t give me “free food,” but the point is that it wasn’t free. I had paid for something and didn’t get what I paid for. Any decent business would try to make a customer happy, especially a loyal one. This manager turned her back on me the moment I asked for her name and went to the back of the store, never to return. I want to make it clear that during all this time, I spoke to everyone in a respectful tone and didn’t make a scene or yell at anyone. I simply expected the situation to be resolved in a civilized manner. This is not about a bad experience, a bad slice of pie, or even about the $10 I wasted in the trash. This is about a business’s respect for its customers. I left your store feeling frustrated and completely disrespected. If you don’t want to run out of business maybe you should be more concerned with keeping customers, perhaps you should be more cautious about who you hire as a manager and make decisions on your behalf. I don’t have the name of this manager because she didn’t provide it. Three unhelpful and arrogant workers were involved in this situation. No one offered any assistance. They all kept pointing to the policy signs, as if I were trying to “scheme the system.” All I wanted was a fresh slice of pie and to go home happily.
JOE THOMAS
As a former donut shop owner and now a consultant for dessert businesses, I can confidently say Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop in Wynwood is a masterclass in dessert excellence! This place is a must-visit gem in the heart of Miami’s vibrant arts district. From the moment I stepped in, the bright, cozy vibe and the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods had me hooked. The colorful murals and bustling energy perfectly match Wynwood’s creative spirit, making it an ideal spot to refuel after exploring the neighborhood. The menu is a showcase of bold flavors and meticulous craftsmanship. I started with their legendary Key Lime Pie, which lives up to its Miami New Times “Best Key Lime Pie” title—perfectly tart, creamy, and balanced with a flaky graham cracker crust that’s clearly made with love. The Salty Monkey Pie was a revelation, blending chocolate, peanut butter, banana, and pretzel in a way that’s indulgent yet harmonious—pure genius! I also grabbed a Guava & White Chocolate Cookie, and let me tell you, the sweet-tart guava drizzle paired with the rich cookie base is a game-changer. As someone who teaches others how to create standout glazes, I was blown away by their in-house artistry. The staff is phenomenal—friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about their craft. Jada, one of the servers, made my visit extra special with her spot-on recommendations and warm energy. It’s clear they’ve been trained well, which I appreciate as someone who coaches businesses on employee systems. The bakery’s commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through in every bite, and the fact that everything is baked in-house daily speaks to their dedication to quality. I also love how Fireman Derek’s has built a community vibe, from their 10-year anniversary mural supporting local artists to their creative specials like the chocolate-dipped key lime pie on a stick. As a consultant, I admire how Derek Kaplan turned his firefighting passion into a thriving brand that’s become a Miami staple. The prices reflect the premium quality (e.g., $8-$13 per slice), but trust me, every penny is worth it for these massive, flavor-packed portions. Whether you’re a dessert aficionado or just craving a sweet escape, Fireman Derek’s is a Wynwood must. I’m already planning my next visit to try the Cookie Monster Pie and maybe a savory quiche for balance. This place sets the bar high for bakeries everywhere—don’t miss it
How to reach Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop
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Why Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop with your friends? Because it brilliantly combines the warmth of a family-owned bakery with an inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering and sharing delicious moments. Fireman Derek's is not just about eating dessert—it’s about creating an experience where you and your friends can enjoy top-tier sweet and savory pies, legendary cheesecakes, and unique pastries crafted fresh daily. With a strong reputation, evidenced by a 4.4-star rating from over 1,600 reviews, it’s clear that this bakery is a community favorite, revered for its quality and cozy vibe. The shop’s roots run deep in South Florida, founded by a former firefighter turned dessert maestro, Derek Kaplan, who infuses dedication and passion into every baked good. Meeting here transforms an ordinary meetup into a memorable adventure filled with decadent tastes and warm, friendly service. Its extended hours until 11 PM accommodate both brunch gatherings and late-night cravings, making it exceptionally flexible. Whether your group is a casual bunch or a celebration crew, Fireman Derek’s offers a welcoming space where friendships can naturally flow over slices of Key Lime Pie or a plate of rich cookies & cream cheesecake.
What activities are available at Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop for groups? The centerpiece is, of course, tasting and sharing an eclectic variety of handcrafted desserts—from award-winning Key Lime Pie made with fresh-squeezed limes to the famous White Chocolate Guava Cookie beloved by locals. Groups can engage in delightful dessert tastings, offering a social experience that sparks conversation and joy. The bakery’s friendly atmosphere encourages lingering together, making it ideal for birthday parties, casual hangouts, or even informal celebrations. As a focal point in vibrant neighborhoods like Wynwood and Coconut Grove, it serves as a perfect rest stop after a day exploring Miami’s colorful streets and murals. Moreover, Fireman Derek’s offers options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night dining, so your meetup can easily turn from daytime coffee and pie to an evening indulgence without changing venues. The availability of coffee and specialty drinks enhances your gathering by complementing the food with warm or refreshing beverages. The space’s ambiance and delicious food act as built-in icebreakers, encouraging connection and laughter throughout your visit. To elevate your meetup further, consider ordering a variety of desserts to create a DIY dessert platter for everyone to sample—guaranteeing shared enjoyment and lively discussion.
Why is Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop ideal for a group meetup? Their commitment to locally-sourced, fresh ingredients means each dessert not only tastes incredible but supports community values, giving your meetup an added feel-good factor. Because everything is baked in-house, the quality remains consistently high, ensuring your group always experiences the best flavors and textures. The bakery’s dual locations in Miami’s cultural hubs—Wynwood and Coconut Grove—place it at convenient and intriguing crossroads, inviting exploration before or after your gathering. The welcoming, familial vibe born from Derek Kaplan’s own story as a Miami firefighter turned baker adds a unique narrative that guests appreciate, making every visit feel personal and community-based. The interior is designed to be warm and comfortable, offering enough space for groups of varying sizes while maintaining intimacy. Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop also offers flexibility for group needs, from casual drop-in visits to planned meetups, with friendly staff attentive to accommodating any special requests. Their diverse menu appeals to a wide range of tastes, accommodating both those seeking rich indulgences and others preferring lighter, fruity options. In short, it’s a place designed to celebrate friendship through the shared joy of fantastic food in a friendly, approachable setting.
What specific treats make Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop stand out for a group gathering? Their award-winning Key Lime Pie is a must-try, celebrated for its fresh-squeezed lime tartness balanced with creamy sweetness—perfect for sharing among friends who appreciate a classic with a twist. The White Chocolate Guava Cookie offers a unique blend of tropical sweetness and rich white chocolate, an inventive treat that sparks curiosity and delight in equal measure. For cheesecake lovers, options like the decadent cookies & cream cheesecake provide rich, creamy experiences that satisfy dessert cravings while fostering lively “taste test” sessions within your group. Fireman Derek’s also boasts a variety of savory pies, allowing your meetup to include more than just sweet treats, making meal-like gatherings convenient and delightful. The freshness and handcrafted nature of these items mean you’re tasting something made with care and expertise, enhancing the communal spirit of your visit. By sampling multiple items, your group creates a shared palette adventure, encouraging discussions about flavor nuances and favorites, perfect for bonding over delicious food.
How does the atmosphere and location contribute to Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop being a meetup hotspot? Nestled in artistic and bustling Miami neighborhoods, the bakery sits amid vibrant street art, specialty shops, and nearby bars and restaurants, making it easy to integrate your visit into a broader day or evening out. The inviting interior design balances modern touches with cozy comfort, ensuring your group feels relaxed and welcome as you enjoy your treats. Their operating hours, often extending until 11 PM, provide flexibility unmatched by many bakeries, supporting late-night gatherings or after-dinner desserts with friends and family. Proximity to other entertainment and cultural venues allows your meetup to evolve organically, whether you want to continue the night with a walk through Wynwood’s famed murals or a nearby live music spot. Staff at Fireman Derek’s are recognized for their welcoming attitude and efficiency, knowing how to handle groups without sacrificing the quality of service or your enjoyment. This combination of location, ambiance, and service positions Fireman Derek’s as a reliable and appealing venue for any occasion involving a group get-together.
What makes Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop more than just a bakery for local meetups? It is a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and shared pleasures. Owner Derek Kaplan’s background as a Miami firefighter and dedication to his craft adds authenticity and heart to the bake shop, inviting guests to connect not just over food but through a story of passion and dedication. The bakery's recognition, including awards and consistently high ratings, confirms its status as a destination for those who take dessert seriously. Ordering here means you support a local, family-owned business committed to excellence and innovation in baking. They also provide online ordering and national shipping through platforms like Goldbelly, allowing friends to share the experience even from afar. This community-centric approach, paired with top-tier desserts, makes Fireman Derek’s a special meeting point, a place where friendships are sweetened by quality food and genuine hospitality. Hosting your next meetup at Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop means embracing a blend of exceptional dessert artistry and a welcoming environment designed for connection and celebration.