San Francisco's Best Desserts [Updated 2025]

From cozy bakeries to upscale patisseries, the city is a treasure trove of sweet delights.

After sampling and reviewing twelve standout desserts, I can't wait to share my favorites with you.

Each dessert reflects the rich culinary culture that San Francisco has to offer, showcasing creativity and flavor in every bite.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will help you satisfy your sweet tooth and explore some hidden gems across the city.

Grab your fork, and let's dive into the delectable world of San Francisco's desserts!

Na Ya Dessert Cafe

Highlights
Cozy and Instagram-worthy space
Amazing salted egg toast
Phenomenal mango sticky rice
Good texture in coconut shaved ice
Friendly and attentive service

Na Ya Dessert Cafe is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco, and my visit there was nothing short of enchanting. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere, perfect for indulging in those sweet delights while capturing the moment for Instagram.

Let’s talk about the star of the show: the salted egg toast. This decadent treat is a true masterpiece, with its perfect balance of sweet and savory that serenades the palate. Each bite was a delightful dance of flavor that left me wanting more.

Equally impressive was the mango sticky rice. The mango was fresh, juicy, and paired wonderfully with the creamy, rich coconut sticky rice. It was dessert nirvana!

To top it all off, I couldn't resist trying their coconut shaved ice. The texture was absolutely on point—light and fluffy, almost ethereal.

Service-wise, the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring a delightful experience from start to finish. If you’re on the lookout for some of the best desserts in San Francisco, Na Ya Dessert Cafe is a must-visit destination that will satisfy your sweet cravings in the most deliciously playful way!

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Mitchell's Ice Cream

Highlights
Variety of flavors
Long-standing local favorite
Kid scoop available
Well-organized service
Sweet, indulgent options

Mitchell's Ice Cream is nothing short of a dessert haven for both locals and visitors alike. Upon entering, I was immediately charmed by the welcoming atmosphere that exudes a rich history, having served the community since 1953. With a fantastic variety of flavors—from the classic scoops to unique tropical inspirations like Ube and Mango—there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. I couldn't resist indulging in their exquisite Chocolate Almond Chip, a decadent blend that was both rich and comforting.

The service was impressively organized, with a friendly staff who were more than happy to guide me through the myriad of options. Even the Kid Scoop was generous, making it an ideal stop for families. I found myself savoring every bite, each scoop boasting a creamy texture that melted beautifully on my tongue.

As I enjoyed my ice cream outside, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of community, with everyone sharing smiles and laughter. Mitchell's truly captures the essence of San Francisco's vibrant dessert scene. It’s a treat that beckons you back for more, and I can confidently say it's one of the best dessert spots in the city.

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Craftsman and Wolves Valencia

Highlights
Cozy and pleasant atmosphere
Top-notch coffee
Soft and delicious pastries
Unique egg-based baked goods
Friendly and welcoming staff

At Craftsman and Wolves Valencia, stepping inside feels like a warm embrace from a close friend. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to indulge in some sweet delights. I was greeted by the wonderful aroma of fresh pastries that instantly tickled my taste buds. The menu is a treasure trove of unique confections, but I couldn’t resist trying their soft, decadent pastries.

One standout was their egg-based baked goods, which had me savoring each rich bite. You can tell that the craftsmanship shines through—these treats aren’t just desserts; they’re little works of art. I paired my pastry with a cup of their top-notch coffee, and the combination was nothing short of heavenly.

What truly set my visit apart was the friendly and welcoming staff, who added a personal touch to the experience. Their enthusiasm for all things sweet was palpable and made me feel right at home. If you're in San Francisco and looking for a dessert hotspot, look no further! Craftsman and Wolves Valencia is a gem that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you with a smile!

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Uji Time Dessert

Highlights
Self-service kiosk system
Quick food preparation
Unique taiyaki cone
Popular in Japan Town
Fast and efficient service

At Uji Time Dessert, stepping into this quaint dessert spot feels like being whisked away to a cozy corner of Japan Town. The self-service kiosk system is a delightful surprise; it allows you to navigate through their menu with ease and excitement. I couldn't resist trying their unique taiyaki cone, which is as stunning as it is delicious. Picture this: a crisp, fish-shaped waffle cone filled with heavenly soft serve that you can customize to your heart's content.

The moment I took a bite, I experienced the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The rich matcha paired beautifully with the sweet red bean filling, a classic combination that never disappoints. What impressed me most was how quick the food was prepared, making it a fantastic indulgence even on a busy day.

Not only does Uji Time Dessert excel in taste, but it also captures that playful atmosphere typical of San Francisco’s vibrant dessert scene. With fast and efficient service, this charming venue has firmly planted itself on my list of must-visit dessert spots. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Uji Time is a sugar-filled adventure worth exploring!

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San Francisco's Hometown Creamery

Highlights
Fresh, natural ingredients
Standout strawberry ice cream
Amazing lavender earl grey flavor
Rich mint chocolate chip
Homemade waffle cones

San Francisco's Hometown Creamery is an absolute gem that dares to push the boundaries of traditional ice cream! As I stepped in, the delightful aroma of fresh ingredients instantly engulfed me. Their commitment to using fresh, natural ingredients genuinely shines through, making each scoop a revelation.

I simply couldn't resist trying their standout strawberry ice cream. This bright and vibrant flavor burst with ripe strawberries, transporting me back to carefree summer days. But hold on, the amazing lavender earl grey flavor was a soothing surprise! It's like sipping a comforting cup of tea in ice cream form—perfectly balanced and utterly enchanting.

Let's not forget the rich mint chocolate chip, which struck an impressive harmony between the cool mint and rich chocolate. Each bite was refreshing yet indulgent, leaving me craving more. And speaking of cravings, the homemade waffle cones take the experience to another level; they’re crispy yet pliable, perfectly crafted to hold the creamy goodness.

In a city brimming with dessert options, Hometown Creamery proves that simplicity paired with quality truly wins the day. If you’re searching for ice cream that’s made with love and creativity, look no further—this is the place to be!

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A Buttercup Dessert House

Highlights
Generous portion sizes
Comfortable seating available
Unique dessert combinations
Spacious, well-lit ambiance
Variety of dessert options

A Buttercup Dessert House is truly a gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a spacious, well-lit ambiance that invites you to unwind while indulging in a sweet escape. The menu boasts a variety of dessert options that could make any sweet tooth tingle with excitement, but what truly sets this place apart are the unique dessert combinations that tickle your taste buds.

I couldn’t resist trying their signature buttercup cake, which came served in a delightfully generous portion size. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, affirming that this is a place where creativity meets classic comfort. The seating is remarkably comfortable, allowing you to savor every moment, whether you're catching up with friends or simply treating yourself.

If you're on the hunt for a memorable dessert experience in San Francisco, look no further than A Buttercup Dessert House. This delightful spot manages to balance playfulness with professionalism, offering an experience that will leave your sweet cravings thoroughly satisfied. Trust me, you'll want to return for more!

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Cinderella Bakery & Cafe

Highlights
Amazing honey cake
Delicious perogi
Large portion sizes
Wonderful cheesecake pastry
Nice outdoor seating

Cinderella Bakery & Cafe is a delightful gem that truly embodies the charm of San Francisco's dessert scene. As I stepped inside, the warm, inviting aroma enveloped me like a comforting hug, instantly sparking my excitement. One of the first things that captured my attention was their amazing honey cake. It was a slice of heaven; the moist layers danced playfully on my palate, each bite whispering sweet secrets of honey and spice.

As I savored the treats, I couldn't resist trying their wonderful cheesecake pastry. This dessert was not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes—like a piece of art crafted with care. Its creamy, rich filling paired beautifully with the lightness of the crust, creating a perfect balance.

Moreover, the generous portion sizes made sharing (or not!) a tempting possibility. Oh, and did I mention the nice outdoor seating? It offered a perfect spot for a lazy afternoon, allowing me to enjoy my dessert under the sun. Overall, my visit to Cinderella Bakery & Cafe was a whimsical journey, and I left with a heart full of sweetness, already dreaming about my next return. If you’re in the area, this charming café definitely deserves a spot on your dessert itinerary!

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ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique

Highlights
Distinct flavor combinations
Exceptionally beautiful decor
Friendly and attentive service
Visually pleasing pastries
Ideal for takeout near Union Square

Walking into ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique is like stepping into a confectionery wonderland. The ambiance is stunning—a visual feast for the eyes with elegant decor that complements the exquisite pastries on display. I felt a playful thrill as I scanned the menu, each option promising a delightful adventure for my taste buds.

I opted for their signature pistachio and raspberry entremet, a stunning dessert that was as beautiful as it was delicious. The flavor combinations were distinct and harmonious, perfectly balancing the nutty richness of pistachios with the tartness of fresh raspberries. I could hardly resist taking a moment to admire its intricate layers, artfully assembled and mirror-glazed to perfection.

The service was incredibly friendly and attentive—something I always appreciate. With the bustling atmosphere of Union Square nearby, ONE65 also excels in takeout, making it an ideal pit stop for dessert lovers on the go. There’s something delightfully whimsical about balancing such beauty with convenient access. After my visit, I left with a sweet smile, knowing that this patisserie deserves a spot among the best dessert destinations in San Francisco. If you haven’t been yet, treat yourself soon!

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b. patisserie

b. patisserie is a delightful gem that captures the essence of French pastry craftsmanship. Upon entering, the rich aroma of buttery croissants and sweet confections immediately enveloped me. I indulged in their iconic kouign-amann, a glorious fusion of flaky and caramelized layers that dance on the palate. The chocolate tart was equally enchanting, boasting a silky ganache that melted with each bite. The charming ambiance paired with the passionate staff rounds out this pastry haven. If you’re on a quest for unforgettable desserts, b. patisserie is a must-visit where every creation tells a story of culinary artistry.

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The Baked Bear

At The Baked Bear, the world of ice cream sandwiches is transformed into a whimsical delight! I savored a freshly baked cookie sandwich, choosing two warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies cradling a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The delightful contrast of textures was a joyful explosion in every bite. Don’t miss the chance to personalize your own creation with their eclectic mix-ins. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a perfect pitstop for a sweet treat. If you’re searching for decadent desserts, this charming spot deserves a top place on your must-visit list! 🍪🍦✨

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Stella Pastry

Stepping into Stella Pastry feels like a delightful embrace from Italy, where each dessert tells a story of tradition. Their puff pastry impossibilities are a flakey dream, and the cannoli—oh my! Stuffed generously with ricotta cream, they offer a perfect crunch paired with sweet filling. Don’t miss their decadent tiramisu, which dances on the palate with rich coffee notes and a creamy texture that’s simply divine. The atmosphere is bustling yet charming, making it the perfect spot to satisfy any sweet tooth. Stella Pastry is truly a gem for dessert lovers exploring San Francisco!

U:Dessert Story

At U:Dessert Story, every bite reads like a whimsical tale. I indulged in their matcha lava cake, which oozed a perfectly rich filling, paired flawlessly with a scoop of homemade black sesame ice cream. The harmonious blend of flavors sent my taste buds on a delightful adventure! The charming ambiance, adorned with delightful illustrations, added to the experience, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Each dessert tells its own story, inviting you to savor every moment. For anyone with a sweet tooth, this gem is a must-visit on your San Francisco dessert quest! 🍰✨