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The 11 Best Italian Pastries in San Francisco

When in San Francisco and craving authentic Italian pastries, look no further than the city's vibrant culinary scene. From flaky sfogliatelle to creamy cannoli, there's no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to indulge in some traditional Italian treats, this list of the best Italian pastries in San Francisco will help you navigate the bustling pastry scene and find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.

Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of these top-notch Italian pastries in San Francisco and experience a little taste of Italy right in the heart of the city.

The 11 Best Italian Pastries in San Francisco:

How this guide is ordered

Our San Francisco editors picked these businesses citywide, giving priority to a reputation earned over time, details we have verified and strong, consistent work. Lists are revisited regularly, and we act on readers' notes about closures and moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Compare 11 local options

Liguria Bakery#1
What stands out
  • Fast service and fresh bread

  • Best focaccia ever tried, with a variety of flavors

  • Excellent quality and flavor, with favorites like rosemary and pizza

  • Delicious focaccia, friendly staff, and easy payment options

Liguria Bakery

4.8382 reviews
1700 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Liguria Bakery is a beloved spot for those seeking delicious focaccia in San Francisco. With a rating of 4.8 from 382 reviews, it's clear that customers adore this bakery. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

The bakery offers service options for takeaway and is wheelchair-accessible. Whether you're looking for a quick visit or to grab some dough for homemade pizzas, Liguria Bakery is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Stella Pastry#2
What stands out
  • Nice and pretty Italian pastry place in little Italy. Friendly staff and customers. Cannoli and chocolate biscotti are a must-try!

  • Each bite was a burst of flavor, leaving me craving more. A must-visit for pastry lovers!

  • The strawberry shortcake was the perfect balance of creamy and sweet. A simple but delightful treat for any occasion.

  • Best tiramisu I had so far. Light, moist, and with a warming sensation. A true delight for dessert enthusiasts.

Stella Pastry

4.51,145 reviews
446 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Stella Pastry is a charming pastry shop located in San Francisco, offering a variety of delicious treats. They provide delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, ensuring customers can enjoy their favorite desserts wherever they are. The highlight of this establishment is their great dessert selection, with specialties like cannoli and strawberry shortcake.

Customer reviews rave about the delightful pastries and welcoming atmosphere at Stella Pastry. Here are some key points from their satisfied patrons:

Visit Stella Pastry for an unforgettable pastry experience in the heart of San Francisco!

Cavalli Cafe#3
What stands out
  • Outstanding local Italian cafe with excellent cappuccino, cannoli, and tiramisu. Cute and friendly ambiance.

  • Amazing place with inviting atmosphere, delicious desserts, and top-notch coffee. A must-visit spot in North Beach.

  • Authentic Italian cafe with fresh and delicious tiramisu and cannoli. Great service and an Italian cafe atmosphere.

Cavalli Cafe

4.6298 reviews
1441 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Cavalli Cafe is a charming local Italian cafe located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services such as Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, and more. Known for their Great coffee, Great dessert, and Great tea selection, Cavalli Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, solo dining, and working on a laptop.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Cavalli Cafe:

Dianda's Italian American Pastry#4
What stands out
  • Local bakery with a variety of delicious options including tres leches cake and chocolate desserts.

  • Gorgeous and delicious Easter San Honoree Cake that showcases the bakery's artistic talent.

  • Recommendation to order one of everything because all Italian desserts are delicious.

  • Fantastic traditional Italian bakery with a variety of pastry and Tres Leche cake flavors.

Dianda's Italian American Pastry

4.4730 reviews
2883 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Dianda's Italian American Pastry is a beloved pastry shop located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options including delivery, in-store pick-up, and takeaway. Customers can enjoy their dining options that feature delicious desserts. The bakery is known for their great desserts and is wheelchair-accessible for all customers.

With a rating of 4.4, Dianda's receives positive reviews from satisfied customers. Here are some key points from their feedback:

Customers appreciate the friendly staff and the quality of the pastries offered at Dianda's Italian American Pastry. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by and indulge in their mouth-watering desserts.

Victoria Pastry#5
What stands out
  • Delicious and highly recommended pastries with a friendly staff in a cute, old-fashioned setting.

  • Great desserts in a lovely location, perfect for a sweet indulgence.

  • Must-visit bakery for sampling sweet treats and enjoying the beauty of North Beach.

  • Favorite place for cakes and slices, perfect for celebrations or personal indulgence.

Victoria Pastry

4.5369 reviews
700 Filbert St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Victoria Pastry is a charming bakery located in San Francisco, offering a variety of delicious pastries and cakes. Customers can enjoy delivery, in-store pick-up, and takeaway options. The bakery is wheelchair-accessible and provides restroom facilities, making it convenient for all visitors.

Victoria Pastry is known for its beautiful and tasty treats, as highlighted in customer reviews:

With a stellar rating of 4.5 stars, Victoria Pastry continues to delight customers with its delectable offerings. Plan a quick visit to this bakery to experience the magic of their sweet creations.

La Stazione Coffee + Cannoli#6
What stands out
  • Small coffee shop with good Cannoli. Friendly staff.

  • Delicious full cannolis not too sweet, crispy shells.

  • Fun experience with rich and decadent cannolis in a quiet neighborhood.

  • Outstanding cannolis and great delivery service.

La Stazione Coffee + Cannoli

4.6182 reviews
701 Pennsylvania Ave, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

La Stazione Coffee + Cannoli is a cozy cafe located in San Francisco, United States. They offer a variety of services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the fast service and the availability of great coffee and a great tea selection.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a relaxing spot for breakfast, La Stazione Coffee + Cannoli is the place to be. Don't miss out on this quaint cafe experience!

Alimento#7
What stands out
  • Best gelato in the city, worth the price!

  • Super pleasant staff offering unique ice cream flavors

  • Amazing vegan sandwich and friendly service

  • Delicious, affordable gelato, perfect for late-night cravings

Alimento

4.5296 reviews
507 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Alimento Deli is a charming corner deli spot located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, in-store pick-up, and takeaway, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their delicious menu items. The deli is known for its Siciliano sandwich, gelato flavors, craft beers, and vegan options. Customers have praised Alimento for their friendly service, unique ice cream flavors, and fair pricing. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Giovanni Italian Specialties#8
What stands out
  • Delicious soft serve ice cream and pizza slices

  • Wide selection of Italian market items

  • Friendly service with a cozy atmosphere

  • Great place for a quick snack or to stock up on Italian pantry essentials

Giovanni Italian Specialties

4.833 reviews
629 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Giovanni Italian Specialties is a charming Italian grocery store located in San Francisco that offers a wide range of authentic Italian products. Customers can find everything from olive oil and tomato sauces to fresh pastas and liquors. In addition, the store also serves delicious slices of pizza and creamy soft-serve ice cream that customers rave about.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.8 and positive feedback from satisfied customers, Giovanni Italian Specialties is a must-visit destination for those looking to indulge in authentic Italian flavors in the heart of San Francisco's Little Italy.

Toscano Brothers#9
What stands out
  • Delicious and chewy bagels with an Italian twist

  • Great staff and family atmosphere

  • Unique and flavorful breads and pastries

  • Excellent customer service and friendly staff

Toscano Brothers

4.737 reviews
728 Vallejo St., San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Toscano Brothers is a renowned bakery located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services to ensure their customers' satisfaction, including delivery and takeaway options. The bakery is known for its breakfast selections and quick visit service for those on the go.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Toscano Brothers. Some key points from their reviews include:

With a rating of 4.7, it's clear that Toscano Brothers is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. For a delightful bakery experience in North Beach, be sure to visit Toscano Brothers and indulge in their mouthwatering creations.

Gelato Delicatessen#10
What stands out
  • Delicious ice cream with many varieties of Italian origin.

  • Good quality sandwiches and tasty gelato.

  • Amazing flavors and fair prices.

Gelato Delicatessen

4.544 reviews
503 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Gelato Delicatessen is a charming ice cream shop located in San Francisco, offering a variety of sweet treats to satisfy any craving. Customers appreciate the service options available, such as takeaway, and the quick visit planning for those on the go. The shop is also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy their delicious offerings.

With a rating of 4.5 stars, based on 44 reviews, Gelato Delicatessen has garnered positive feedback from patrons. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Whether you're in the mood for a classic gelato flavor or want to try something new, Gelato Delicatessen is the place to be for a delightful sweet treat experience.

Mara's Italian Pastries#11
What stands out
  • Customers praise the cozy indoor seating and warm hospitality.

  • Visitors love the delicious fruit tart and describe Mara's as the best Italian bakery in the city.

  • Some customers were disappointed with the overpriced pastries and lack of professionalism in customer service.

  • One customer had an extremely negative experience with the quality of the cannoli and the rude staff.

Mara's Italian Pastries

3.7541 reviews
503 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Mara's Italian Pastries is a delightful pastry shop located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options such as Takeaway and Dine-in, making it convenient for customers. The bakery is known for its great dessert selection, including Canolies and Biscotti. Customers appreciate the quick visit planning option, perfect for those on the go.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Liguria Bakery 4.8382
#2Stella Pastry 4.51,145
#3Cavalli Cafe 4.6298
#4Dianda's Italian American Pastry 4.4730
#5Victoria Pastry 4.5369
#6La Stazione Coffee + Cannoli 4.6182
#7Alimento 4.5296
#8Giovanni Italian Specialties 4.833
#9Toscano Brothers 4.737
#10Gelato Delicatessen 4.544
#11Mara's Italian Pastries 3.7541

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Map of Italian Pastries in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to a vibrant Italian pastry scene, with numerous bakeries and cafes offering a wide variety of delectable treats. From traditional cannoli to decadent sfogliatelle, there is something for every dessert lover to enjoy. Discover the best spots to indulge in these delicious pastries with our map of all the Italian pastries in San Francisco.

How to choose Italian Pastries in San Francisco

  1. Centrally located bakeries.
  2. Variety of pastries offered.
  3. Authentic Italian recipes.
  4. Cozy atmosphere.
  5. High-quality ingredients.
  6. Friendly staff.
  7. Online ordering options.
  8. Outdoor seating available.
  9. Catering services offered.
  10. Customization options.
  11. Delivery services available.

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular Italian pastries in San Francisco?

When visiting San Francisco, be sure to try the cannoli, a traditional Sicilian pastry made with a crispy shell filled with sweet ricotta cheese. Another popular option is the sfogliatella, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta, candied fruit, and orange zest. For something lighter, try a sfogliatelle riccia which is a smaller version of the sfogliatella. If you prefer something simpler, bigne or cream puffs are a popular choice. These pastries are filled with pastry cream and can be topped with chocolate or caramel drizzle. Other popular Italian pastries in San Francisco include zeppole (fried dough balls) and amaretti (almond cookies).

Where can I find the best Italian pastries in San Francisco?

When in San Francisco, head to North Beach to find some of the best Italian pastries in the city. This neighborhood is known for its Italian heritage and boasts several bakeries that offer authentic pastries. For a classic experience, visit Boudin Bakery which has been serving up traditional Italian pastries since 1849. Another popular spot is Victoria Pastry Company which is famous for its cannoli and other Sicilian pastries.

Are there any gluten-free options for Italian pastries in San Francisco?

Yes, there are several bakeries in San Francisco that offer gluten-free options for Italian pastries. For a delicious gluten-free cannoli, try Mara's Italian Pastries in the Mission District. They also offer gluten-free versions of classic Italian cookies and cakes. Another option is Seed + Salt in the Marina District, which offers a variety of gluten-free pastries and desserts. Be sure to check with the bakery in advance to confirm their gluten-free offerings.

Can I order Italian pastries for a special event in San Francisco?

Yes, many bakeries in San Francisco offer catering services for special events, including Italian pastries. Whether you're planning a wedding, birthday party, or corporate event, you can order a variety of Italian pastries to impress your guests. Contact local bakeries like Dianda's Bakery or Stella Pastry & Cafe to inquire about their catering options for Italian pastries. You can also customize your order to include a selection of your favorite pastries.

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