Updated Based on analysis of 2,235 Reddit comments
1
Arsicault Bakery
Try the ham-and-cheese croissant; one reviewer especially recommends it warm from the oven.
Arsicault is one of the best bakeries in the world and you will get incredible pastries there!
Absolutely. I prefer this over anything at Arsicault. While I agree the croissant itself is better and flakier at Arsicault, the banana and the crustiness of the pastry at B Patisserie sends it over the top for me.
Worth knowing
Multiple commenters raised availability concerns; one reported "They always sell out of those :(" (branch unspecified).
Multiple commenters raised taste concerns; one reported "I think the C-A Crossiant is overrated, it's too rich and oily." (branch unspecified).
Multiple commenters raised texture concerns; one reported "Yes also they are heavy. One Arsicault croissant is probably my lunch meal and I still won't be comfortable with it because of the sugar and butter. I'd rather split it" (branch unspecified).
2
Tartine Bakery
The morning bun is a repeatedly recommended pick.
Do not miss Tartine
For sourdough specifically I would recommend Tartine or Acme
Worth knowing
Multiple commenters raised taste concerns; one reported "Tartine burns all their croissants and has forever." (branch unspecified).
Multiple commenters raised waiting times concerns; one reported "in the inner sunset, both tartine and arizmendi can get pretty long lines" (branch unspecified).
Multiple commenters raised price and value concerns; one reported "it’s a lot pricier than arizmendi for what i found to be pretty similar bread imo" (branch unspecified).
3
b.patisserie
Try the banana-chocolate-almond croissant; diners specifically recommend it.
I would say the bostock at B Patisserie is a sleeper item.
Kouign-amann at b. patisserie (yes. recommend black sesame one if they still have it
B Patisserie has a super simple chocolate cake that we love. And they have fancier chocolate cake slices too.
4
The Laundromat
Outer Richmond
Laundromat's bagels are better than anything I had while living in New York...they're unreal.
The Laundromat for bagels.
Best in the city and stay fresh till at least 6pm unlike other places. Dozen for $30.
Worth knowing
Multiple commenters raised availability concerns; one reported "has a 4 dozen ordering minimum if you need to order ahead." (branch unspecified).
5
Arizmendi Bakery
Try the Corn-Cherry scone; it’s singled out as a favorite and recommended among the bakery’s picks.
Arizmendi at 9th and Irving.
corn cherry scone at Arizmendi's is one of my forever favs.
Arizmendi
6
Schubert's Bakery
Inner Richmond
Try a slice of the Princess Cake: it’s described as white cake with raspberry filling, kirsch custard and whipped cream, finished with marzipan.
No one ever talks about these two bakeries but I really love Schuberts in the Richmond district for cakes and Ambrosia for cakes, cookies and some pastries.
Schubert's makes great German-style cakes
Schuberts
7
Jane the Bakery
Try the olive-polenta loaf: it’s described as country sourdough baked with Castelvetrano olives and cooked polenta.
There is a bakery called Jane in SF on Geary St.
Jane has nice cookies and a wide variety. They’re not as substantial as Specialities, but they are large.
Jane the bakery - great breakfast burritos / wraps and pastries. Easy delivery too.
8
Noe Valley Bakery
Try the cardamom knot for its well-spiced flavor; cheddar-chive scones are another specifically recommended pick.
try the noe valley bakery
Full quote
noe valley bakery … try the noe valley bakery
Noe Valley Bakery.
I love Noe Valley Bakery. I catch an early tram and can usually get a pastry and back to the station within 6 minutes.
9
Liguria Bakery
North Beach
Try the plain focaccia with a little sea salt; commenters recommend going early because it can sell out.
grab some amazing focaccia at Liguria
You want get to Liguria before 10am or you'll be disappointed - they literally close when focaccia runs out which happens fast in weekends
Great answer. One of the few places I’m happy to wake up early for.
Worth knowing
Multiple commenters raised availability concerns; one reported "they literally close when focaccia runs out which happens fast in weekends" (branch unspecified).
10
The Jelly Donut
Mission
Try the apple fritter: one visitor describes it as large, with a crisp shell, moist interior, apple pieces, and a hint of cinnamon.
I just stood over the sink and ate a regular glazed cruller from The Jelly Donut inspired/reminded by your post. Crullers are not usually my go-to donut but they really do a good job on these. I might have to try the strawberry sometime!
Jelly donuts on van ness is good. One of my go to spots.