San Francisco's Best Croissants [Updated 2025]

After sampling a dozen of the city's finest offerings, I can confidently say that San Francisco has a vibrant croissant scene that deserves recognition.

From flaky textures to buttery goodness, each bite tells a story of skillful craftsmanship and dedication.

Whether you prefer classic, almond-filled, or unique flavors, there’s a croissant waiting to delight your palate.

Join me as I explore these hidden gems and beloved establishments, each bringing their own twist to this timeless pastry.

ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique

Highlights
Distinct flavor combinations
Visually stunning pastries
Friendly and attentive service
Charming ambiance near Union Square
Exquisite cakes and chocolates

ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique is a delightful gem nestled near Union Square, where croissants transcend mere pastry to become an experience. As I stepped inside, the charming ambiance enveloped me, perfectly complemented by the friendly staff who greeted me with warm smiles, instantly adding to my delight.

Now, let’s talk about the croissants! I opted for their signature almond croissant, and with the first buttery bite, I was transported to a world where flaky perfection reigns. Each layer was remarkably crisp, revealing a delicate almond cream that lingered delightfully on my palate. The unique flavor combinations they offer take these classics to another level—imagine a hint of orange zest mingling with the robust almond!

Visually, these pastries are nothing short of art. They beckon you with their glossy sheen and enchanting shapes. Don't be surprised if you find yourself reaching for desserts that look almost too beautiful to eat!

ONE65 doesn’t just excel in croissants; their exquisite cakes and chocolates add an allure that keeps me coming back. If you’re seeking the ultimate croissant experience in San Francisco, this patisserie should top your list!

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Jane The Bakery

Highlights
Diverse baked goods selection
Tasty Viennese-inspired treats
Excellent catering services
Seamless event organization
Local favorite for all diets

Review of Jane The Bakery

As I strolled into Jane The Bakery, the aroma of buttery pastry instantly enveloped me, setting the stage for a delightful tasting adventure. This charming spot isn’t just a bakery; it’s a playground for the senses. Their croissants are a delicious declaration of culinary artistry. Each bite is a flaky revelation, accompanied by a delicate crisp that shatters softly, revealing a tender interior.

What particularly caught my attention were the Viennese-inspired variations. Who would have thought that experimenting with traditional recipes could yield such scrumptious results? The balance of flavors is simply a joy to behold. It's not just about croissants here; the bakery offers an exquisite assortment of baked goods that caters to every taste and dietary need, making it a local favorite for everyone.

Not only do they excel in pastries, but Jane's also tops the charts for catering events. I can only imagine how radiant an event would be with their treats stealing the show. In a city brimming with options, this lovely bakery stands out—its charm and deliciousness are simply too hard to resist. If you find yourself in San Francisco, this is a stop you won't want to miss!

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Thorough Bread & Pastry

Highlights
Cozy outdoor seating
Affordable menu options
Buttery and crispy croissants
Solid almond frangipane
Above average custard bun

Thorough Bread & Pastry is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of San Francisco, where the aroma of freshly baked goods pulls you in like a moth to a flame. As I settled into their cozy outdoor seating, I couldn't resist ordering their signature croissant. Let me tell you, this croissant is a buttery masterpiece, with layers that flake away at the mere touch of a fork. It's the kind of pastry that makes you forget about your diet—who needs resolutions when faced with such bliss?

The croissant has the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside, while the inside is delightfully soft and airy. But don't stop there! I indulged in their almond frangipane, a luscious treat that complements the croissant experience beautifully. To top it off, I couldn't resist trying their custard bun, which turned out to be above average, but the croissant truly steals the show.

What makes it even better? Their prices are surprisingly affordable for such high-quality pastries, allowing for a guilt-free treat. Thorough Bread & Pastry is a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for croissant perfection. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Vive La Tarte

Highlights
Savory plain croissants
Amazing cold brew coffee
Generous portion sizes
Friendly and helpful staff
Great for lunch options

Vive La Tarte Review

Stepping into Vive La Tarte feels like a delightful embrace; it's a cozy nook that beckons you to indulge. I immediately gravitated towards their savory plain croissant, and let me tell you, it was pure buttery bliss. The flaky layers shattered under my fingers, revealing a warm, soft interior that danced on my palate.

But it's not just the croissants that steal the show — their amazing cold brew coffee was the perfect companion, offering a smooth, refreshing contrast to the rich pastry. Together, they made my taste buds sing!

The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, offering recommendations and ensuring I felt right at home. I was pleasantly surprised by the generous portion sizes; the croissant was so satisfying that I could easily see it as a lunch option, perhaps paired with one of their delicious sides.

Overall, my visit to Vive La Tarte was a delightful escapade! It’s a must-visit for anyone yearning for a croissant that captivates and comforts in equal measure. With each bite, it became evident why this little gem is one of the best spots for croissants in San Francisco!

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Arizmendi Bakery

Highlights
Worker-owned co-op
Freshly baked daily
Must-try pizza of the day
Outdoor seating available
Known for cookies and scones

Arizmendi Bakery is a little slice of heaven tucked into the vibrant Mission District, and oh, what a delight it is! As a worker-owned co-op, the passion for craftsmanship shines through with every golden-brown pastry they serve. The croissant here is nothing short of a masterpiece—flaky, buttery layers that delicately give way with each bite.

What makes this bakery even more special is its commitment to freshness, with croissants baked daily. The aroma alone draws you in, enveloping you in a warm embrace that only good bread can provide. While you're at it, I highly recommend trying their pizza of the day—an irresistible addition to your outdoor seating experience.

The laid-back atmosphere invites you to linger a bit longer, whether you’re enjoying a croissant with a side of their famous cookies or sharing scones with friends. Be sure to arrive early, as this gem tends to attract a crowd, but trust me, your taste buds will thank you. If you’re on the hunt for the best croissants in San Francisco, don’t miss the chance to indulge in what Arizmendi Bakery has to offer—your palate will be eternally grateful!

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Cinderella Bakery & Cafe

Highlights
Huge plain croissant
Delicious perogi
Lovely outdoor seating
Nice warm borsch soup
Amazing honey cake

Cinderella Bakery & Cafe is a delightful little gem that whisks you away to a charming European café, right in the heart of San Francisco. As I stepped inside, the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods enveloped me, but my mission was clear: the croissant. The moment I laid eyes on the huge plain croissant, I knew I was in for a treat. Its golden, flaky exterior beckoned me, promising layers of buttery goodness with each bite.

Upon tasting it, I was not disappointed. The croissant was perfectly baked—crispy on the outside, yet soft and airy on the inside, making it an ideal companion to my nice warm borsch soup. The experience was heightened further by the lovely outdoor seating, where I could bask in the San Francisco sun, sipping tea and enjoying the ambiance that felt almost whimsical.

To finish my visit, I couldn't resist indulging in their amazing honey cake, a sweet ending that beautifully complemented the savory bites. If you're searching for croissants that transcend the ordinary, Cinderella Bakery & Cafe is a must-visit—your taste buds will thank you!

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Craftsman and Wolves Valencia

Highlights
Excellent coffee selection
Cozy and relaxed atmosphere
Friendly and attentive staff
Unique pastry offerings
Highly recommended café

Craftsman and Wolves Valencia is a delightful gem that transcends the ordinary croissant experience. As I walked through the colorful doors, I was enveloped by a cozy and relaxed atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The cheerful staff greeted me with genuine smiles, instantly elevating my mood.

Now, let’s talk about the croissant! The moment I sank my teeth into their buttery, flaky masterpiece, I was transported to pastry paradise. The layers were perfectly aerated, inviting a delicate crunch before revealing the rich, soft interior. Each bite was a harmony of textures, striking a flawless balance between crispy exterior and a sumptuous, melt-in-your-mouth center.

This spot is not just about the croissants; the excellent coffee selection had me coming back for sip after delicious sip, complementing my pastry wonderfully. And while I indulged, the surrounding buzz of fellow patrons created an inviting charm that kept me lingering longer than I anticipated.

In my quest for the best croissants in San Francisco, Craftsman and Wolves Valencia has certainly earned its spot as a must-visit destination. If you find yourself in the area, don't miss the chance to treat yourself—your taste buds will thank you!

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Butter & Crumble

Highlights
Unique seasonal creations
Flaky, flavorful savory pastries
Sweet pastries with delicate crumb
Long lines, worth the wait
Expansive menu with rotating items

Butter & Crumble is truly a gem nestled in the vibrant streets of San Francisco, and I couldn’t resist indulging in their offerings. As I approached the quaint storefront, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pastries filled the air, beckoning me from the street. The line, thick with fellow pastry aficionados, was a testament to their acclaim.

Once inside, I was greeted by an array of unique seasonal creations that made my mouth water. I decided to sample their savory croissant, packed with delightful flavors that showcased a perfect balance of texture and taste. The flakiness was unparalleled—the kind of flaky that leaves you marveling at craftsmanship!

For something sweet, I couldn’t resist a buttery pastry wreathed in delicate layers that melted in my mouth. Each bite revealed a lovely crumb that danced between richness and lightness. I was thoroughly impressed by the expansive menu, which promises new delights with each visit.

At Butter & Crumble, every croissant feels like a little work of art. The long lines may test your patience, but the reward is absolutely worth it.

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The French Spot

Highlights
Great variety of baked goods
Best pastries in Nob Hill
Friendly and helpful staff
Relaxed atmosphere
Perfect pastries and coffee

The French Spot in Nob Hill is a delightful establishment that truly embodies the spirit of French patisserie. As I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly baked goods enveloped me—a heavenly invitation to indulge. This charming spot boasts a fantastic variety of pastries, but of course, my heart was set on their signature croissants.

Upon first bite, I was greeted by the delicate crunch of the buttery, flaky crust that gave way to a warm, soft interior. It was crispy yet impossibly tender, a balance that is often hard to achieve. The croissant had a subtly nutty flavor, hinting at expertly crafted dough layered to perfection.

The staff at The French Spot were not merely helpful, but genuinely warm and welcoming, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere of the cafe. With a cup of coffee in hand, I felt as though I had been transported to a quaint Parisian corner shop.

In my quest for the best croissants in San Francisco, The French Spot has certainly rose to the occasion, proving a worthy contender. If you're in the area, allow yourself the indulgence of their croissants—you won't regret it!

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Neighbor Bakehouse

Stepping into Neighbor Bakehouse is like entering a pastry paradise. Their croissants are a delightful dance of flaky layers and buttery goodness that instantly captivates your taste buds. I savored the classic butter croissant — golden, airy, and with the perfect crunch to each bite. The subtle nuttiness and all-too-temporary crispness made it impossible to resist seconds! The ambiance is as warm as their pastries, and the staff embodies that cheerful neighborhood spirit. For anyone seeking a croissant that elevates the morning ritual, Neighbor Bakehouse is an unmissable gem in San Francisco's culinary landscape!

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Arsicault Bakery

Stepping into Arsicault Bakery is like entering a croissant utopia. The moment I bit into their golden, flaky masterpiece, I knew why this bakery is often hailed as a local treasure. With its delicate layers and buttery richness, the croissant is a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on the palate. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, airy interior, all while wafting freshly baked aromas that entice you from the street. If you're a croissant aficionado, missing out on Arsicault would be a true culinary crime. Their croissants are not just pastries; they're pure delight in every bite!

b. patisserie

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, b. patisserie is a croissant lover's dream come true. The buttery layers of their classic croissant are simply exquisite, creating that perfect flaky exterior that gives way to a soft, airy interior. Every bite is a celebration of texture and flavor, with just the right hint of sweetness. It’s a delightful treat that dances on the palate, leaving you wanting more. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for indulging in this French pastry. If you seek croissant perfection, b. patisserie should be at the top of your list!