#96 - Treat Yourself at Long Island's Oldest Family Bakery

The American dream sure is sweet, especially when it involves freshly-baked cakes, hand-decorated cookies and lots of chocolate bunnies.

We continue our look at the with a visit to Riesterer's Bakery.

Riesterer's Bakery is a landmark not only in the West Hempstead community, but also in the greater Long Island area, where it is the oldest family bakery.

For over 80 years, customers have been enjoying the tasty creations of the Riesterer family and their dedicated staff. It all began with one man in Germany who dreamed of coming to America for a chance at a better life.

As the story goes, August Riesterer, who was born in southern Germany came to America in 1929. About two years later, he and his wife, Wally, also from Germany, opened up their bakery in West Hempstead. They would go on to one day celebrate their 50th Anniversary, cutting a Riesterer's cake.

Today, three generations have worked behind the counter, including Karl Riesterer, who currently serves as president of the West Hempstead Chamber of Commerce.

On any given day, the bakery is stocked with a variety of freshly-made cookies, breads, and cakes. Customers can also order customized cakes for special occasions, including birthdays and weddings ( See a sample of their gallery here.) They even make gourmet dog treats. And if you need to send a care package or gift, they'll ship items such as jelly beans and bagels.

While the Riesterer's name is known throughout Long Island (They also have a location in Garden City.) it continues to have strong ties with the West Hempstead community. Many former and current Girl Scouts might recall taking the tour of the bakery to learn how it makes its signature chocolate bunnies around Easter time and when the winter holidays roll around, Riesterer's generously donates gingerbread cookies to the West Hempstead Community Support and Civic Association's party for the local kids.

For its history and continued success, its family values and its commitment to making life in West Hempstead so sweet, Riesterer's Bakery is among the top places on our list.

To see what other local places have made it click on the numbers below:

• ...check back next Tuesday to see what we picked for #95.