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  Dessert & Coffee Restaurants

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Blue Bottle Coffee Co.

315 Linden St, San Francisco, CA 94102 · 415-252-7535

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Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

HAYES VALLEY. Named after a 17th-century Viennese coffeehouse, Blue Bottle nurtures an insatiable need to produce the freshest, best and most environmentally-friendly coffees in the area. The two-person operation maintains strict quality control by roasting in small batches, not selling coffee more than 48 hours out of the roaster, and insisting on only organic, pesticide-free beans. The difference in taste is astounding: richer flavor, less harshness and incredible fragrance. Aficionados will rejoice at discovering such a grail.

Bombay Ice Cream

552 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110 · 415-861-3995

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Reservations: Not Accepted
Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

MISSION DISTRICT. Everyone thinks they know what kind of ice cream they like, but this little shop is certain to upend your preferences. Specializing in cold, creamy treats with exotic flavorings, Bombay invites folks to give themselves over to cardamom, lychee, fig, ginger, chai, rose, and a delectable combination of pistachio, almond, and saffron. Delicate and understated, these ice creams will shortly demand your loyalty. More typical American offerings are also available, along with a variety of lassis and savory foods and curries.

Caffe Greco

423 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133 · 415-397-6261

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Reservations: Not Accepted
Dress: CC: Casual
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NORTH BEACH. Greco's European sensibility makes it a classic with city residents and travelers, who come to indulge in perfectly crafted cappuccinos, scrumptious pastries, and a casual but lively vibe. Score an outside table for the best people-watching, or pick an inside perch for quieter purposes. Bagels and focaccia sandwiches provide savory, substantial alternatives, and tiramisu is a fresh, delicious treat any time of day. Attentive, conscientious service makes the place even more appealing.

Caffe Trieste

601 Vallejo St, San Francisco, CA 94133 · 415-392-6739

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Avg. Entrée: $$1 - $15
Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

NORTH BEACH. In the 1950s, this original North Beach location was the first on the West Coast to offer espresso, fast becoming a "beatnik" hot spot. The beans were roasted and prepared by Italian immigrant Giovanni Giotta, who's still at the helm, along with his wife and kids. Coffee lovers find great cappuccino, along with muffins, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. In keeping with tradition, there's live music every Saturday. A classy, relaxed café equally suited for idle afternoons.

Citizen Cake

399 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102 · 415-861-2228

User Rating:  Rating: 3 / 5   (Rate It)

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Avg. Entrée: $$1 - $15
Reservations: Recommended
Dress: BCBC: Business Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

HAYES VALLEY. You'll often find folks stopping by this much-favored cafe for lunch or tea (walk-ins welcome; reservations accepted) for an appetizing bite. However, the airy place is best known for sweets! Homemade ice creams and handcrafted chocolates are top sellers, and there's also a wide variety of cakes, tarts, pies, cookies, and pastries. Everything is made fresh daily, and subtle flavors underscore the richness and depth of these terrific treats. Lunch items available to-go.

DeLessio Market & Bakery

1695 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94103 · 415-552-5559

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Reservations: Not Accepted
Dress: BC, CBC: Business Casual
C: Casual
Outdoor Dining:

CIVIC CENTER. Ask anyone about DeLessio's and their eyes will sparkle with delight as they mention the place's decadent macaroni and cheese, tasty gourmet sandwiches, and impressive buffets. When the topic of desserts and pastries comes up, however, those same eyes absolutely glaze over in awe. Folks can't praise the bakery's bounty enough, whether they go for mini-cupcakes, lemon decadence cake, flaky croissants, scones, chocolate brioche, bread pudding, or any of the other myriad temptations. Perfect for any meal or snack.

Ghiradelli Chocolate Manufactory & Soda Fountain

900 N Point St, Ghirardelli Square Clock Tower, San Francisco, CA 94109 · 415-474-3938

User Rating:  Rating: 3 / 5   (Rate It)

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Avg. Entrée: $$1 - $15
Reservations: Not Accepted
Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

FISHERMAN'S WHARF. Steel yourself and your sweet tooth against temptation – this shop offers an extravagant, total chocolate experience. For some, in fact, it may be too much to take! Enjoy the World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae, and watch chocolates being made right before your eyes at this hometown success story. In addition to candies and chocolate sauces, you'll find specialty dishes like the Earthquake – an eight-scoop, eight-topping sundae! A definite must-visit.

Mitchell's Ice Cream

688 San Jose Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110 · 415-648-2300

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Reservations: Not Accepted
Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

MISSION DISTRICT. Recipient of much renown and affection, family-run Mitchell's produces premium ice creams predicated on a 16% butterfat base. Tropical fruits are shipped in fresh, and the resultant goods have people lining up for a taste (or more). Sweet coconut, purple yam, Thai tea, and avocado number among the more exotic flavors, along with seasonal favorites like cantaloupe and pumpkin. Rocky Road, orange sherbet, and strawberry take care of purists, and a refreshing assortment of sorbets makes even the lactose-intolerant smile. Ice cream cakes and pies can also be fashioned, and take-home containers range from half-pint to three-gallon sizes – just so you know.

Tartine Bakery

600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA 94110 · 415-487-2600

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Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

MISSION DISTRICT. Devoted to premium, organic ingredients, this bakery willingly acknowledges that its menu selections depend on everything from seasonal goods to chef-driven whims. Even with such a (mild) disclaimer, it's pretty well certain you'll go away with a satisfied, happy tummy. The European-styled bakery has folks lining up for delicate tarts, fruit-studded brioche, artisan loaves, airy croissants, and addictive eclairs – and that's just to start. Later in the day, sandwiches are fashioned from great, homemade breads and dressed up with top-quality cheeses and herbs. Drinks include French wines, coffees, and a signature hot chocolate.

Tully's

2455 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115 · 415-929-8808

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Avg. Entrée: $$1 - $15
Dress: CC: Casual
Outdoor Dining: None

PACIFIC HEIGHTS. Created in 1983 by Christopher Calkin and Arnold Spinelli, Tully's offers an array of pastries and coffees. Their full-flavored signature blend depends on slow-roasted arabica beans and makes a great pick-me-up. You can also try an icy "Spin" for a nice twist on the ordinary cup of joe. If coffee's not on the agenda, consider homemade ice cream or shakes studded with fresh fruit and berries.

Restaurants

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Coffee fiend? Sweet tooth? You’re in the right spot — our selections serve rich roast coffees and gourmet desserts. Expect to find specialty shops as well as traditional restaurants with an expert pastry chef. Take the time to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can linger and enjoy music, conversation, or a good book.

 

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