California’s food scene is unmatched, and when it comes to bakeries, the Golden State is home to some of the best breads and pastries in the country. From French-inspired patisseries in San Francisco to artisan bread makers in Los Angeles, California has no shortage of spots where locals and travelers alike line up for buttery croissants, crusty sourdough, and indulgent pastries. If you’re planning a foodie trip in 2025 or simply want to know where to grab the best baked goods, here are the 20 best bakeries in California you absolutely must try.
1. Tartine Bakery – San Francisco
When people think of legendary bakeries in California, Tartine is the first name that comes to mind. Famous for its world-class sourdough bread and decadent morning buns, Tartine has built an international reputation.
Specialties: Country sourdough, morning buns, croissants, and seasonal fruit tarts.
Why Visit: Tartine’s sourdough has a perfect balance of a crispy crust and airy interior, making it worth the long lines.
Location: San Francisco, with other locations across the Bay Area.
Website: Tartine Bakery
2. Bouchon Bakery – Yountville (Napa Valley)
Created by world-renowned chef Thomas Keller, Bouchon Bakery is a must-visit for anyone exploring Napa Valley. Known for its French-inspired pastries and impeccable craftsmanship, this bakery is as close to Paris as you’ll get in California.
Specialties: Macarons, éclairs, croissants, and artisan breads.
Why Visit: Perfect for pairing with Napa’s wine tastings, their pastries are as luxurious as the vineyards nearby.
Location: Yountville, Napa Valley.
3. Porto’s Bakery – Los Angeles Area
Porto’s has become a household name in Southern California, drawing in crowds daily with its Cuban-inspired baked goods. Family-owned since the 1970s, Porto’s combines tradition with unbeatable flavor.
Specialties: Cheese rolls, potato balls, Cuban sandwiches, and guava pastries.
Why Visit: Affordable, delicious, and massive portions—no wonder Porto’s always has a line out the door.
Location: Multiple locations across Los Angeles, including Glendale, Burbank, and Downey.
Website: Porto’s Bakery
4. Craftsman and Wolves – San Francisco
A modern, innovative bakery, Craftsman and Wolves is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional baking. Their bold and artistic pastries have made them a favorite among food lovers seeking something unique.
Specialties: The “Rebel Within” (a soft egg baked inside a savory muffin), chocolate pastries, and creative seasonal cakes.
Why Visit: Perfect for adventurous eaters who want more than just a croissant.
Location: Mission District, San Francisco.
Website: Craftsman and Wolves
5. La Brea Bakery – Los Angeles
Founded in 1989, La Brea Bakery is one of the pioneers of artisan bread-making in the U.S.. Their breads are served in restaurants nationwide, but nothing compares to visiting the flagship bakery in Los Angeles.
Specialties: Sourdough, rustic loaves, baguettes, and seasonal baked goods.
Why Visit: A perfect mix of history and quality—La Brea remains a cornerstone of California’s bakery scene.
Location: Los Angeles.
Website: La Brea Bakery
6. Dominique Ansel Bakery – Los Angeles
The creator of the world-famous Cronut®, Dominique Ansel’s Los Angeles bakery brings French creativity with a California twist. Every visit feels like a culinary adventure.
Specialties: Cronut®, cookie shots, frozen s’mores, and seasonal pastries.
Why Visit: Known for constantly reinventing desserts, Dominique Ansel Bakery is ideal for those who want to try something Instagram-worthy and delicious.
Location: The Grove, Los Angeles.
7. Arizmendi Bakery – Oakland & Bay Area
A beloved worker-owned cooperative, Arizmendi Bakery is known for its community spirit and incredible daily bread and pizza offerings. Everything is baked fresh with organic ingredients.
Specialties: Daily-changing sourdough breads, scones, cookies, and gourmet vegetarian pizzas.
Why Visit: Affordable, ethical, and delicious—perfect for locals and travelers who support community businesses.
Location: Oakland and other Bay Area neighborhoods.
Website: Arizmendi Bakery
8. Mr. Holmes Bakehouse – San Francisco & Los Angeles
If you’ve seen the neon “I Got Baked in San Francisco” sign on Instagram, you’ve seen Mr. Holmes Bakehouse. Known for trendy pastries with bold flavors, this bakery is both stylish and tasty.
Specialties: Cruffins (croissant + muffin hybrid), matcha croissants, and unique seasonal bakes.
Why Visit: It’s the perfect mix of creative pastries and social media-worthy vibes.
Location: San Francisco & Los Angeles.
Website: Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
9. Proof Bakery – Los Angeles (Atwater Village)
A local gem in Atwater Village, Proof Bakery is famous for its meticulously crafted pastries and excellent coffee. This bakery has a loyal following for a reason.
Specialties: Almond croissants, quiches, tarts, and seasonal cakes.
Why Visit: Small but mighty—Proof focuses on quality over quantity, making every bite unforgettable.
Location: Atwater Village, Los Angeles.
Website: Proof Bakery
10. Sycamore Kitchen – Los Angeles
A rustic-chic bakery and café, Sycamore Kitchen offers both sweet and savory treats. It’s a great brunch spot for those who want something hearty and freshly baked.
Specialties: Salted caramel pecan babka rolls, blueberry cornmeal cakes, and artisan breads.
Why Visit: Combines a cozy café atmosphere with bakery-level creativity, making it perfect for a laid-back meal.
Location: Los Angeles.
11. Manresa Bread – Los Gatos, Palo Alto & Los Altos
Born from the Michelin-starred Manresa Restaurant, Manresa Bread has earned a cult following for its naturally leavened breads and pastries.
Specialties: Kouign-amann, chocolate croissants, levain breads, and seasonal galettes.
Why Visit: This is where fine dining and artisan baking meet, with unmatched attention to detail.
Location: Los Gatos, Palo Alto, and Los Altos.
Website: Manresa Bread
12. SusieCakes – Multiple Locations Across California
SusieCakes is the go-to bakery for classic American desserts made from scratch. From cupcakes to celebration cakes, this bakery is all about nostalgia and sweetness.
Specialties: Old-fashioned layer cakes, cupcakes, and seasonal pies.
Why Visit: Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anyone craving simple, comforting treats.
Location: Multiple locations across California including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
Website: SusieCakes
13. Jane the Bakery – San Francisco
A neighborhood favorite, Jane the Bakery focuses on organic ingredients, natural fermentation, and creative flavor combinations.
Specialties: Sourdough loaves, cookies, and hearty sandwiches.
Why Visit: A great spot for bread lovers, with a loyal local following.
Location: San Francisco.
14. Sweet Lady Jane – Los Angeles & Santa Monica
Known for its elegant presentation and delicious cakes, Sweet Lady Jane has been a staple in Southern California for decades.
Specialties: Triple berry cake, chocolate cakes, and seasonal pies.
Why Visit: If you’re looking for a beautiful cake for a celebration, this is the place.
Location: Multiple locations in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and beyond.
Website: Sweet Lady Jane
15. Copenhagen Pastry – Culver City & Pasadena
If you love authentic Danish pastries, Copenhagen Pastry is a hidden gem. Everything is baked fresh daily using traditional Scandinavian recipes.
Specialties: Kringle, spandauer (Danish custard pastries), and cinnamon rolls.
Why Visit: Affordable, authentic, and always fresh—it’s like a little slice of Denmark in California.
Location: Culver City & Pasadena.
Website: Copenhagen Pastry
16. Dominique’s Sweets – Sacramento
A rising star in Northern California’s bakery scene, Dominique’s Sweets focuses on scratch-made pastries and breads with French technique and local California ingredients.
Specialties: Seasonal fruit tarts, baguettes, and buttery croissants.
Why Visit: It’s a community favorite in Sacramento that feels both modern and artisanal.
Location: Sacramento.
Website: Dominique’s Sweets
17. The Mill – San Francisco
Known for its beautifully crafted sourdough bread and famous thick-cut toast, The Mill is a collaboration between Josey Baker Bread and Four Barrel Coffee.
Specialties: Sourdough loaves, seeded breads, and their signature toast topped with seasonal spreads.
Why Visit: Perfect for bread and coffee lovers — a minimalist yet unforgettable bakery experience.
Location: Divisadero Street, San Francisco.
Website: The Mill SF
18. Miette Patisserie – San Francisco
Miette is a charming, whimsical bakery specializing in cakes, cupcakes, and candies that look straight out of a fairytale.
Specialties: Gingerbread cupcakes, macarons, and flower-decorated cakes.
Why Visit: It’s one of the prettiest bakeries in California, with pastries as delightful as the décor.
Location: San Francisco Ferry Building & Hayes Valley.
Website: Miette Patisserie
19. Breadbelly – San Francisco
Breadbelly brings Asian-inspired flavors to classic California pastries. This modern bakery has quickly become a hotspot for foodies.
Specialties: Kaya toast (with coconut jam), Asian-inspired cakes, and croissant sandwiches.
Why Visit: A unique fusion bakery that reflects San Francisco’s diverse culinary culture.
Location: Inner Richmond, San Francisco.
Website: Breadbelly
20. Blackmarket Bakery – Costa Mesa, Santa Ana & San Diego
Playful, creative, and delicious, Blackmarket Bakery takes traditional baked goods and adds fun twists. The bakery’s bold flavors and retro vibe keep fans coming back.
Specialties: Peanut butter bars, chocolate cake, cookies, and fresh breads.
Why Visit: A funky bakery with personality — great for anyone who loves bold desserts.
Location: Costa Mesa, Santa Ana, and San Diego.
Website: Blackmarket Bakery
Final Thoughts: Why These Museums Matter in 2025
California’s bakery scene in 2025 is more exciting than ever, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity. From world-famous sourdough in San Francisco to Cuban pastries in Los Angeles and Danish delights in Pasadena, every region offers something unique. Whether you’re a local foodie or a traveler on a culinary adventure, these bakeries prove why California remains a dream destination for bread and pastry lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the most famous bakery in California?
Tartine Bakery in San Francisco is often considered the most iconic.
Q2. Which bakery is best for affordable treats?
Porto’s Bakery offers delicious pastries at budget-friendly prices.
Q3. Do these bakeries have vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes, several like Tartine and Craftsman and Wolves provide options.
Q4. Are these bakeries tourist-friendly?
Absolutely—many are popular food destinations for both locals and visitors.
Q5. Which bakery is best for cakes?
Sweet Lady Jane and SusieCakes are top choices for celebration cakes.
Related Post you may like:
I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
Somebody essentially help to make significantly articles Id state This is the first time I frequented your web page and up to now I surprised with the research you made to make this actual post incredible Fantastic job
Thank you so much for your kind words, I truly appreciate it!