What, exactly, is it about a warm, sweet baked good that makes you feel like your tastebuds are getting a giant hug? Though they are certainly not an everyday indulgence, freshly made bread, pasties, and cupcakes are universally beloved by just about every person I have ever met. In San Francisco, alongside all of the wonderfully diverse restaurant options that we are lucky enough to enjoy, there are also some amazing bakeries that will make you want to leave room for dessert. In fact, you may be tempted to give them a try even if you already have a full belly. If you are in the mood to give into that sweet tooth or on the lookout for a homemade bread that rivals the loaves your grandma used to make, then you must check out these top bakeries in San Francisco.
For about the past 20 years, the fine people at Tartine Bakery and Café do not skimp when it comes to quality. They use a wood-fired brick oven to bake their breads and pastries. They strive to make only the best quality offerings, and they have been refining their process every day that they have been in business. Their breads are skillfully crafted before being fired in one of their ovens, and both their taste and texture is amazing. My favorite is the almond croissant. It is the flakiest and most delicious almond croissant I've ever had. Move over Starbucks, I'd much rather get pastries were this bakery! If you are not in the bay area, check out their website to see about having a loaf delivered to your doorstep.
What I recommend: almond croissants
Location: 600 Guerrero St San Francisco, CA 94110
If you are looking for a donut that has stood the test of time, then Bob’s Donuts and Pastry Shop is for you as they have been making them since the 1960s. Located on Polk Street, they include all the favorites you would expect at a corner donut shop. For those who want something more traditional, I recommend giving their cinnamon cake donut a try. If you want something that is just a tad fancier, then you can’t go wrong with their almond ring Danish. If you can't eat donuts because you're vegan, don't even worry about it because they have some of the most amazing vegan donuts around! They all go great with a cup of hot coffee.
What I recommend: Almond ring Danish but give vegan donuts a try
Location: 1621 Polk St San Francisco, CA 94109
No matter what it is that your sweet tooth is demanding, you are sure to find it here at B Patisserie. Located on Divisadero Street, their huge variety of baked goods and treats may seem a little overwhelming. If you are having trouble deciding what to order, my suggestion is to start off with a coffee hazelnut pastry. It is glazed to perfection with the perfect amount of sweet. One of the most decadent desserts here has to be the black sesame tiramisu. Creamy and the perfect amount of sweetness. But if you are looking for something savory, order their seasonal quiche. It is perfect any time of year.
What I recommend: coffee hazelnut pastry or the black sesame tiramisu
Location: 2821 California St San Francisco, CA 94115
Many may visit San Francisco for its views and weather. After reading about the above bakeries, I hope that you now plan to visit just to get a fluffy serving of your favorite baked good. With its cool climate year-round, there is nothing better than warming up with a sweet treat and a hot cup of coffee.