Best Dessert Places in San Francisco

If you have a craving for something sweet in the Bay Area, you’re in luck! The region boasts some of the best dessert spots that will satisfy, with creameries and paterissies from the Presidio to Daly City, ranging from upscale shops to small neighborhood favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for chocolate, ice cream, or old-fashioned favorites, you’re sure to find the best dessert in San Francisco, with its selection of top-notch dessert locations!

Need something sweet to celebrate after a future tech escape room? We got you covered!

NaYa Dessert Café

Located in San Francisco’s Central Richmond neighborhood, NaYa Dessert Café is a must-visit dessert spot for anyone looking for something sweet and savory. Their diverse dessert menu offers a wide range of delectable treats, with flavors like green tea and black sesame being particularly popular. One of the best desserts on offer is their shaved ice, which is served with a generous amount of toppings and is perfect for cooling down on a hot day. They also has an excellent dessert menu with options like savory crepes and mochi waffles. NaYa Dessert Café prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to create their unique and delicious desserts. The café has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a tasty dessert. If you’re in the mood for a satisfying and innovative dessert experience in San Francisco, NaYa Dessert Café is the place to go. 

DayDream Cake Shop

DayDream is a charming little cake shop that offers a wide variety of delectable treats for all dessert enthusiasts. Their cakes are all made from scratch with the finest ingredients, ensuring a high-quality and mouth-watering experience. What sets DayDream apart is their commitment to offering unique seasonal flavors. Whether it’s a refreshing citrus cake in the summer or a cozy pumpkin spice cake in the fall, their seasonal offerings always leave customers coming back for more. One bite of their cakes is enough to transport you to a dreamy world of flavors. their patisserie selection is also worth exploring, with mini tarts, croissants, and macarons that are simply irresistible This patisserie is known for its exceptional cheesecakes, with options ranging from classic New York style to strawberry swirl and even decadent chocolate ganache. With DayDream Cake Shop, you simply can’t go wrong when looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings. 

Dandelion Chocolate

Dandelion Chocolate is a renowned chocolate brand that has gained popularity for its exceptional quality and unique flavor profiles. With multiple locations across the city, this chocolate paradise is a must-visit for any chocolate enthusiast. Whether you’re craving a creamy milk chocolate or a rich dark chocolate, Dandelion Chocolate has got you covered. Their dessert shop offers a wide range of delectable treats, from artisanal chocolate bars to mouth-watering bonbons and truffles. The aroma of freshly roasted cocoa beans fills the air as you step into their flagship location in the Ferry Building. Each piece of chocolate is carefully crafted using ethically sourced cacao beans from around the world, ensuring a pure and indulgent chocolate experience. Dandelion Chocolate is not just a chocolate shop; it is a destination for chocolate lovers to immerse themselves in the wonderful world of premium chocolate.

U: Dessert Story

Dessert Story is an aesthetic haven for all dessert lovers. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a wide range of delectable treats that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. One of their most popular desserts is the matcha lava cake, a rich and indulgent treat that combines the flavors of matcha and chocolate in a beautiful way. But that’s not all, they also offer a variety of other desserts such as crepe cake, which is a delicate confection made up of layers of thin crepes filled with whipped cream. The attention to detail and presentation is evident in every dish, making each one a work of art. Dessert Story takes pride in using high quality ingredients to create their desserts, ensuring that every bite is a taste of perfection. It is the perfect place to reserve a table and indulge in your favorite desserts while enjoying the ambiance of a traditional Japanese dessert shop.

Tartine Bakery

Tartine Bakery in San Francisco is a must-visit destination for bread lovers. With three locations in the Bay Area, this modern bakery is famous for its fresh bread and delicious pastries. What makes Tartine even more convenient is you can order online with nationwide shipping options and time slot bookings, allowing customers to enjoy their baked goods no matter where they are. Their bread recipe books are available at their store, but the bakery has a unique and delectable taste that keeps customers coming back for more. Whether you choose to visit one of their cozy cafe locations or have their goodies delivered to your doorstep, Tartine Bakery offers a delightful experience for all food enthusiasts. 

Oh Dessert Cafe

Oh Dessert Cafe is a haven for fancy dessert enthusiasts. This charming little cafe offers a wide array of delectable treats that will satisfy any sweet tooth. One of their signature dishes is the mochi waffle, a unique twist on a classic. With its crispy exterior and chewy interior, this dessert is the perfect combination of textures. Another popular item on the menu is their premium crepe cakes. These delicate and velvety creations come in various flavors, such as ube, which is a Filipino purple yam, and mino dino, a matcha-infused delight. If you’re a fan of all things banana, then the banana dulce de leche cheesecake and banana cream tart are must-tries. However, it is important to note that the quality and innovation come at a price, as Oh Dessert Cafe is known for being a bit pricey. Nevertheless, for those looking to indulge in exquisite desserts in a cozy atmosphere, this cafe is definitely worth a visit. 

Bi-Rite Creamery & Bakeshop

The Bi-Rite Creamery & Bakeshop is a popular ice cream shop with locations near the iconic Painted Ladies and in the Mission district of San Francisco. Known for its delicious ice cream, Bi-Rite offers a wide range of flavors to satisfy every palate. They are famous for their seasonal ice cream flavors, which change throughout the year to reflect the freshest ingredients available. In addition to the seasonal options, They also has a selection of signature flavors that are available year-round. From classic favorites like marshmallow cookie dough and mint chip to unique creations like honey lavender, there is something for everyone. What sets them apart is their commitment to accommodating different dietary needs. They offer delicious dairy-free options, made with coconut milk or almond milk, that are just as creamy and flavorful as their dairy counterparts. Bi-Rite also offers novelties such as ice cream sandwiches and sundaes, providing a variety of ways to enjoy their delectable treats. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to Bi-Rite Creamery & Bakeshop is a must for any ice cream lover in San Francisco.

Stella Pastry & Café

 Stella Pastry & Café is a delightful bakery located in the heart of North Beach, San Francisco. Known for its delectable pastries, this place is a haven for dessert lovers. One of their signature offerings is the Sacripantina, a light and creamy sponge cake layered with luscious vanilla cream and rum syrup. It is truly a piece of heaven on a plate. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, Stella Pastry & Café never fails to impress. With a wide range of Italian pastries, from cannoli to tiramisu, there is always something to satisfy your sweet tooth. In fact, their amazing desserts have become a staple in the neighborhood, and people come from all over the city to indulge in their creations. When it comes to finding the perfect spot to eat dessert, Stella Pastry & Café is a top choice. It is the sixth course you never want to miss, and their desserts are unlike any you will find anywhere else in the city.

Bob’s Donut and Pastry Shop

 If you’re looking for something delicious to eat in San Francisco, Bob’s Donut and Pastry Shop is the place to go. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Nob Hill, this classic and independent pastry shop has been a staple in the city for years. One of the things that sets Bob’s apart from other shops in SF is that they stay open 24 hours a day, catering to those late-night cravings for a sweet treat. In a city where most shops close early, Bob’s provides a haven for dessert lovers who want to satisfy their cravings at any hour. With its mouthwatering selection of donuts, cakes, pastries, and more, it’s no wonder that Bob’s is consistently ranked as one of the best dessert spots in San Francisco. Their delectable treats are a must-try, and any list of the best desserts in the city wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Bob’s Donut and Pastry Shop.

Twisted Donuts and Coffee

If you are in the Bay Area and craving some comfort food, you’ll find no better place than Twisted Donuts and Coffee. Located in the bustling Sunset District of San Francisco, this hip cafe offers a delightful array of donuts and aromatic coffee drinks that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you are looking for traditional glazed or unique flavors like PB&J or matcha, this San Francisco bakery has it all. The inviting atmosphere of Twisted Donuts and Coffee creates the perfect ambiance for enjoying a tasty treat while catching up with friends or simply taking a moment for yourself. Additionally, they offer the convenience of online ordering, making it even easier to indulge in their delectable creations. So if you’re in need of a foodie adventure in the Bay Area, make sure to stop by Twisted Donuts and Coffee.

The Original Ghiardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop

 A visit to San Francisco would be incomplete without a stop at the iconic Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. Located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, this shop is a haven for chocolate lovers. this shop offers a delightful experience where visitors can indulge in classic ice cream sundaes and delicious chocolate treats. The menu offers a wide range of options, from classic ice cream sundaes topped with rich hot fudge to their famous Ghirardelli square, a thick and creamy milk chocolate delight. One cannot resist the temptation to try their famous chocolate chip cookie hot fudge sundae, a perfect combination of warm, gooey cookie, vanilla ice cream, and rich hot fudge sauce. As visitors enjoy their sweet treats, they can also take in the stunning view of the Ghirardelli Square outside. The shop’s location is convenient, just steps away from the famous cable car line. After satisfying your sweet tooth, take a stroll along the waterfront or hop on a cable car to explore the city’s other attractions. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop is a must-visit destination that perfectly combines the charm of San Francisco with the decadence of chocolate.

Smitten Ice Cream

Smitten Ice Cream in San Francisco is a popular dessert bar known for its unique twist on traditional ice cream. What makes Smitten stand out is its use of a liquid nitrogen machine to create made-to-order, organic ice cream. The process is fascinating to watch as the nitrogen instantly freezes the ingredients, resulting in a smoother and creamier texture. With a wide range of flavors available, there is something for everyone at Smitten. One particularly delicious flavor is the thai tea and the mango, which is made with fresh, ripe mangoes sourced from local farms. The natural sweetness of the fruit shines through, making each bite a refreshing and indulgent experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or enjoy more adventurous combinations like salted caramel and lavender, Smitten Ice Cream has the perfect scoop for you. So next time you’re in San Francisco, make sure to stop by Smitten and try their delectable, made-to-order ice cream. 

Hot Cookie

San Francisco, being an iconic city known for its diversity and inclusivity, offers a multitude of dessert places catering to all tastes and preferences. One such unique and popular spot is Hot Cookie, which has become a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. Apart from its scrumptious treats, Hot Cookie is also celebrated for its strong support of the LGBTQ community. You can’t help but be amused by their creatively crafted cookies in various shapes and sizes, some of which embody a humorous twist. From phallic-shaped cookies to those featuring playful double entendres, the array of delights at Hot Cookie definitely adds a fun and enjoyable touch to their menu. Additionally, their menu boasts a wide range of delectable desserts, making it a haven for those who want to satisfy their sweet tooth. Hot Cookie truly captures the essence of San Francisco’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene, making it a favorite destination for dessert lovers of all kinds.

Matcha Café Maiko

Matcha Cafe Maiko is an exquisite gem nestled in the heart of Chinatown, within the bustling Japan Town Mall. This charming café offers an authentic taste of Japan with its range of delectable matcha treats. Known for its rich matcha flavor, Matcha Café Maiko has become a top spot on our list for all matcha enthusiasts. From their signature Golden Shogun, a delightful parfait bursting with layers of matcha soft serve, red bean paste, and mochi, to their classic matcha lattes and shaved ice, this café never disappoints. The aroma of freshly brewed matcha fills the air as you step through the door, creating an inviting and relaxing ambiance. The friendly staff is always eager to recommend their favorite matcha desserts and provide insights into the art of matcha preparation. Whether you’re a matcha aficionado or simply want a delightful dessert, Matcha Café Maiko is the place to indulge in the rich flavors of Japan.

Joy’s Place Cafe

Joy’s Place Cafe is a delightful haven for those who crave a sweet treat or a delicious breakfast. Located in Lower Nob Hill, this charming cafe offers a variety of mouthwatering options to satisfy every palate. Whether you want a dessert or a scrumptious breakfast sandwich, Joy’s Place has it all. Their signature dish, the croffle, is a perfect fusion of a croissant and a waffle, resulting in a heavenly pastry that is both crispy and fluffy. For those who prefer something cooler, they offer bingsoo, a Korean shaved ice dessert, in different flavors such as pistachio and red bean. The cafe’s serene ambiance coupled with its quiet atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing dining experience. So, if you’re in the mood for a delightful and satisfying meal, Joy’s Place Cafe is the ideal spot 

Conclusion 

Lastly, the classic San Francisco treat, the It’s-It ice cream sandwich, is a must-try. Made with oatmeal cookies and creamy ice cream, this dessert is a timeless favorite among locals and visitors alike. You can find it at most corner stores throughout the city while on the hunt for one of your next favorite desert locations in the bay!