A day celebrated by Christians for rebirth and new life was the final day for a longstanding Plandome Road staple.
Steiner’s Pastry Shop closed its doors on Easter Sunday after serving Manhasset residents since 1979.
Owner Franz Steiner, who immigrated from Austria in 1969 and now lives in the Village of Great Neck, said he was forced to close the popular bakery he opened 39 years ago this month at 432 Plandome Road because neighbors Green’s Irish Pub has taken over the lease to expand their restaurant and bar.
“We’ve been trying to get the lease with our landlord [Mitchell Greenberg Real Estate] for the last three years, but they felt they could have a better deal with a restaurant,” Steiner said. “Bakeries have been closing and struggling, so it’s all about square footage and how much you can charge. We’re trying to get a lease, but the landlord doesn’t want to budge.”
Port Washington resident Trisha Hodson said she’s been visiting Steiner’s since it opened and was sad to see the longstanding pastry shop close.
“It’s about supporting the community rather than the chains,” Hodson said.
Hodson said when she heard the bakery was closing, she had to get one last meltaway and was thrilled when the shop called to let her know one was available — a luxury not usually found with larger stores.
Steiner, who loves baking because of the creativity involved, said the bakery is known for the meltaways — a ring-shaped coffee cake that makes up for its flat appearance with a punch of flavor.
Steiner said residents throughout the years have also raved over his jelly donuts, cookies, seven-layer cake and holiday treats.
During the shop’s final weekend, a notebook slowly filled up with names and phone numbers of residents hoping Steiner would find a new home for his delicate pastries and cakes.
Steiner said the bakery will auction off some of the equipment this week and will begin looking for potential new locations, including Matty’s Toy Shop across the street which is also expected to close soon.
“I know the community here, and we have tremendous support here with long-term customers,” Steiner said. “It’s beautiful support, all throughout the years.”
