Pastry shops in Toronto are loved by all, but local chefs have their favourites too, and some have shared with us their very special recommendations. These are the spots chefs in the city hit up when they want croissants, tarts, eclairs and other inventions.

SJCB x Robinson Bread

Chef Anna Chen of Alma calls Patti Robinson, who oversees the creation of pastries and other baked goods at this Parkdale shop, the queen of bread. Chen loves the sourdough here as well as their pastries like danishes.

French Made

At this under-the-radar Entertainment District shop marked by a simple blue heart with an arrow through it, the croissants are perfection, according to chef Elia Herrera of Colibri. They're super buttery, and she could eat one at any time.

Tsuchi Cafe

Head to Little Italy to find this pastry shop that's a favourite of Matt Ravenscroft, who cooks at Gia. He thinks the plant-based foods here are stunning and delicious, and loves the beautiful interior.

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Roselle Desserts

This Corktown cafe was the instant response for Ryan Campbell of Il Covo when it came to his favourite pastry shop, for their constantly amazing assortment of items and balance between refinement and homemade goodness.

La Bamboche

This place near Avenue and Lawrence is a favourite of Matt Basile's (Fidel Gastro's) for a balance of finesse and indulgence. He says they're innovators in the French pastry game in the city, doing things 10 years ago that have become popular today, and that they also make great coffee.

Nadege Patisserie

This shop with multiple locations including one next to Trinity Bellwoods is chef Michael Hunter of Antler's favourite place to go for sweets, baked goods and croissants. He loves lots of pastry shops but this is high on his list, as he considers it a well-rounded bakery where there's talent in all areas.

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Neo Coffee Bar on Bay

Locations near Bay and College as well as King East serve Nancy Tan's (Sugo, Conzo's) favourite sponge roll cakes and pastries with Japanese flavours. She loves the light and delicate tastes she can find here, which she feels are more suitable for Asian palates.

Sweet Escape Patisserie

Rachel Adjei of The Abibiman Project considers this Distillery District find a hidden gem, calling it the neighbourhood's best kept secret. She loves their classic baked treats, cakes, creative ice creams and their smoked chocolate toffee sea salt cookie.

Barbershop Patisserie

Chefs are loving this Little Italy patisserie, and Ryan Lister of Liberty Commons, Rabbit Hole and Bannock is one of them. His favourites are her pies, pastries and cakes.