A "New Year's cookie" with caraway seeds ($1.20) might have Dutch roots, I'd have wagered, but even the folks behind the counter weren't sure.
Tulip is surrounded by roadways named for crocus, verbena, and violet as well as cypress, aspen, and oak, so it's likely that the shop took its name from the avenue, not the other way 'round. This used to be a German bakery (an oldtimer named Koenig's still serves German chow nearby), and perhaps the current owners inherited the recipe when they took on the lease. Any clue, dear readers?
As for the cookie itself, the flavor is very pointed; you may appreciate the curiosity, with no need for seconds, unless you really like caraway.
Tulip Bake Shop
138 Tulip Ave., Floral Park, New York
516-354-1105
I worked in Little Neck circa 50 years ago and we used to come over to Victor Koenig's Restaurant for lunch occasionally. The restaurant used to serve this really great rye bread that supposedly came from a nearby bakery. That Tulip Bakery may have been it.
Harvey
Posted by: Harvey Fishman | December 31, 2008 at 12:49 PM
Actually, I really do like caraway, but I'll have to welcome the new year without the cookie.
Wishing you a happy, healthy & delicious 2009.
Blather From Brooklyn
Posted by: Annulla | December 31, 2008 at 06:53 PM
We used to get the Fancy butter cookies at Tulip, some of the most awesome ones I ever tasted in my life.
However I believe it changed owners a few years ago and the cookies lost some of their luster, cheaper ingredients I would assume.
Posted by: Fredknows | January 03, 2009 at 02:06 PM
Floral Park was one of the first planned communities. It was placed on the site of a large flower farm, thus the name of the town and the streets. My mom (now 84) was born and raised there and my grandma lived there her whole life. The Tulip bakery was a major part of trips to Grandma's. It was a German Bakery when I was little (50+yrs ago), it was subsequently sold (along with the recipes that the new owners scrupulously follow proving one doesn't mess with perfection). They have several kinds of Rye bread along with the usual other fare. One type of the rye was called Koenigs' and was a staple at the German place that still stands and operates as far as I know. The Tulip Bakery is the real deal. Small town Main Street USA. The best. Oh! Don't miss the jelly donuts!
Posted by: Rob Kellman | January 25, 2009 at 07:41 PM
Koenig's is still in business; I've poked my head in the door but haven't eaten there.
Posted by: Dave Cook | January 26, 2009 at 12:29 PM
A bit of history re:koenig restaurant.Victor & Anna Koenig started the business in 1946 at 86 So.Tyson Ave,Floral Park.I worked there a few years.Still a great place to have a meal.Try the roast beef sandwich on famous Tulip Rye bread .
Posted by: Joseph Koenig | February 04, 2009 at 11:41 AM