At Sullivan Street Bakery in Hell’s Kitchen, bakers spent Monday morning grating zucchini into batter for loaves. Blueberries, still arriving from upstate farms, are folded into muffins at Bakeri in Greenpoint. The city’s bakeries are adjusting their menus as September brings a final burst of local produce.

Tomatoes, which have held on through the heat, are landing in savory cobblers at spots like Runner & Stone in Gowanus. At Balthazar in SoHo, kitchen staff are incorporating excess stone fruit into galettes, trying to use up crates that arrived last week.

Outside the Union Square Greenmarket this morning, shoppers carried bags of late-season squash, tomatoes, and berries. Many said they planned to bake at home, citing recipes for quick breads and fruit crisps.

Wholesale buyers report that prices for local zucchini and blueberries dropped slightly over the weekend as supply outpaced demand. Chefs say they expect tomatoes to linger for another week or two before the focus shifts to apples and pears.

For now, bakeries and home cooks alike are trying to use what is still fresh, as autumn’s heavier flavors begin to appear on shelves and menus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which New York City bakeries are using late-summer produce in their baked goods?

Sullivan Street Bakery, Bakeri, Runner & Stone, and Balthazar are among the New York City bakeries using late-summer produce in their baked goods.

What types of produce are city bakeries using as the local harvest peaks?

Bakeries are using zucchini, blueberries, tomatoes, and stone fruit as the local harvest peaks in early September.

How have wholesale prices for local zucchini and blueberries changed recently?

Wholesale prices for local zucchini and blueberries dropped slightly over the weekend due to high supply.

How long do chefs expect local tomatoes to remain available?

Chefs expect tomatoes to remain available for another week or two before apples and pears take over.

What are shoppers at the Union Square Greenmarket buying for home baking?

Shoppers are buying late-season squash, tomatoes, and berries for home baking.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.