Best Bakeries in San Francisco (2025)

Belinda Leong and Michel Suas turned San Francisco onto kouign amann, earning national accolades and James Beard recognition. Still a line-worthy stop for perfectly laminated pastries, with seasonal specials often noted by Eater SF and Food & Wine.

The Mission original that helped define modern American sourdough and the city’s pastry culture. Morning buns, monumental loaves, and enduring influence—long praised by The New York Times, Food & Wine, and local critics.

Bon Appétit’s former best new bakery still makes croissants that inspire pilgrimages. Now with Civic Center and Mission Rock outposts, yet it remains firmly local and frequently cited by the San Francisco Chronicle and Eater SF.

A community anchor with a serious bread program—stellar sourdough, laminated pastries, and beloved cookies. Regularly highlighted by Eater SF and praised by local food critics for consistency and craft.

North Beach’s century-old focaccia specialist sells out before noon for good reason. Family-run since 1911 and celebrated by local outlets for preserving a delicious slice of Italian San Francisco.

Asian American pastry creativity—kaya toast, milk bread, and standout viennoiserie—has made this Richmond cafe a critics’ favorite. Expanded to Pier 70 in 2025, signaling staying power and deep local support.

Since 1911, this Richmond stalwart has turned out European-style cakes and tortes—especially the beloved Swedish Princess Cake. Frequently recommended by Eater SF and cherished by generations of locals.

Castro favorite with San Francisco Baking Institute lineage. Textbook baguettes, croissants, kouign amann, and rustic loaves win steady praise from local writers and national travel features.

Whole-grain, fresh-milled sourdough that sparked the city’s toast obsession. Still a hub for exceptional loaves and seasonal toasts, often singled out by the San Francisco Chronicle and other respected outlets.

Outer Sunset favorite known for the biscuit breakfast sandwich, sticky buns, and surf-town vibe. Longtime local darling regularly noted by Eater SF; now with additional locations yet still proudly independent.

Worker-owned cooperative baking stellar morning pastries, sourdough, and a cult-favorite daily pizza. A neighborhood fixture applauded by Eater SF and local press for community impact and quality.