During my time living in San Francisco, I got to explore the city’s best dessert spots. With so many incredible options, narrowing it down was no easy feat. Whether you’re craving something nostalgic, trendy, or just want an excuse to treat yourself, here are my absolute favorites — from small-batch ice cream and homemade cakes to Japanese-inspired sweets and craft boba.
Smitten Ice Cream — Ice Cream Made Fresh in Front of You
One of my all-time favorites — and I’m genuinely bummed I can no longer get it. Located in Hayes Valley, Smitten is one of those places that’s just so satisfying to visit. You feel like a mad scientist watching liquid nitrogen smoke billow up from the ice cream mixer. The technique produces an incredibly smooth texture and bold flavor.
Try: A seasonal special.
Good to know: Only 1 location in SF, so it can get crowded — but lines move fast. Expect a wait on sunny afternoons.
Bonus: The SF location also offers limited-edition non-dairy popsicles made with coconut milk.
Loving Cup — Build-Your-Own Sweet Treat
This one is for all the froyo lovers. Loving Cup lets you build your own frozen yogurt concoction: pick your size, choose a base (chocolate, vanilla, or non-dairy), select 25 mix-ins, and enjoy. Can’t decide? No worries — they also have pre-set flavors (like Strawberry Shortcake) to take the guesswork out of it.
My favorite: Vanilla base with cookie dough or Oreo.
Top Tip: Toppings can add up quickly, so choose wisely.
SusieCakes — Old-School Bakery Vibes
Oh, SusieCakes — the sweet treat I’d always grab on my walks around the neighborhood. They nail the homemade feel with everything made from scratch using real ingredients: layer cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and bars.
Their cake is moist, flavorful, and doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish afterward. The best part is you can order by the slice if you don’t want to overindulge.
My go-to: Slice of red velvet cake.
Tip: Pre-order if you want to get a full-size cake or multiple cookies for birthdays or celebrations.
Bi-Rite Creamery — A Local Favorite
You can’t leave San Francisco without trying this local favorite. Located within walking distance to Dolores Park, Bi-Rite is a beloved neighborhood staple. Handmade, Bi-Rite is known for small-batch ice cream made with high-quality, local ingredients. They make everything that goes into their ice cream, including the brownies, chocolate cookies, marshmallows, almond toffee, and the cake soaked in espresso and brandy for the Tiramisu.
Try: One of the seasonal flavors.
Good to know: Expect a line, but it’s absolutely worth the wait.
Boba Guys — Craft Boba & Creative Drinks
Boba Guys took San Francisco by storm by elevating the classic milk tea experience with high-quality ingredients and house-made syrups. I was thrilled when I got the chance to do a virtual boba class with one of the founders during the COVID lockdown. If you haven’t tried craft boba, this is the place to start.
My favorite: Strawberry matcha latte with boba.
Tip: Lines on the weekend will get LONG, but if you can go during the week when people are at work, you won’t wait as long. Some locations aren’t as busy as others, depending on the day and time.
Uji Time Dessert — Japanese-Inspired Soft Serve
Plan for a fun stop in Japantown and check out Uji Time. This is another great build-your-own dessert spot, and the presentation alone is worth the visit. I highly recommend trying the Original Taiyaki as your base — it’s a fish-shaped pastry that’s crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. They also offer filled taiyaki options like red bean and Nutella.
Looking for something smaller? They also have mochi, milk tea, lattes, and more — plus vegan options are now available.
Try: Matcha or black sesame soft serve in a taiyaki cone.
Good to know: Great spot for unique flavors and fun presentation.
CREAM — Ice Cream Sandwiches Done Right
A Bay Area classic now available in San Francisco, Cookies Rule Everything Around Me — better known as CREAM — is a must for any ice cream sandwich lover. The best part? Full customization: choose your cookies (yes, you can mix and match two), your ice cream, and your toppings. Over the years, CREAM has expanded its menu to include sundaes, milkshakes, cakes, and pints.
My go-to: Chocolate chip and snickerdoodle cookie combo with cookies-and-cream ice cream.
Good to know: They’re open late, making it a perfect late-night dessert.