23 Bakeries in CALIFORNIA (Delicious, Affordable & Tasty)

There is a biblical saying, which has since been adopted as a general saying; ‘Man must not live by bread alone,’ the keyword being ‘Alone.’

This means that while you should have other things to live by, bread, which generally implies food in this context, is still essential.

Bread, cakes, donuts, pies, and other numerous snacks are exciting parts of many people’s diets, and you have the bakeries to thank for that.

Commonly known for bread in the early days, bakeries continue to evolve and include other sumptuous snacks to give their customers several choices.

Sit tight on this tasty journey to the Bakeries in California.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Desserts in California.

Bakeries in Healdsburg, California

1. Quail and Condor (Offers Diverse Snacks)

Quail and Condor, a bakery in Healdsburg, offers you some choices regarding the snacks you want.

A quick visit to their website, or outlet on Healdsburg Avenue, will give you the options listed.

Their products range from bread, croissants, and pastry, to some customized gift items such as shirts, mugs, sweaters, and so on.

While there are different kinds of bread to choose from, like Danish Rye, Olive Campagne, and Pain Siciliano, which cost $10 each, there are other loaves of bread that cost as low as $5, such as Baguettte and Epi.

The croissants’ prices are as low as $5 for a plain croissant and go as high as $7 for the Samosa Croissant and Ham & Cheese Croissant.

Cinnamon Rolls, scones, and Biscuits are all in the pastry section.

So, head on to Quail and Condor, or order via their website for a taste that leaves you wanting more.

Address: 149 Healdsburg Ave Healdsburg, CA 95448, US

2. Costeaux French Bakery (Specializes in Artisan Bread)

Costeaux is a family-owned business that has been at since 1923 and is known for its artisan bread.

Although the business is not only the bakery, as they also have a café, it will be in the spotlight for this article.

Located inside Big John’s Market in Healdsburg, where you can pick up your orders, the bakery specializes in making different kinds of bread.

Their bread, prepared over two days, is handcrafted and hand-shaped, honoring the tradition that has been in place since their inception.

Some of the bread on their menu include Multigrain, Sourdough, Cinnamon Walnut, and Ciabatta, which translates to ‘Italian Slipper,’ made with unbleached wheat flour, safflower oil, olive oil, etc.

Enjoy some bread at Costeaux and stamp your name in their century-old history.

Address: 417 Healdsburg Ave Healdsburg, CA 95448, US

3. Downtown Bakery and Creamery (Extensive Dessert Options)

According to different reviews on the internet, Downtown Bakery and Creamery are one of the best spots for breakfast in Healdsburg.

Their delicious assortment of cookies, pastries, croissants, scones, and so on have all been top-rated by customers and tourists, who all vow to return to this incredible bakery.

When not in the mood for their breakfast pastries, their customers can enjoy any bread from their long list of choices.

The visitors still enjoy cakes, including Angel Cake, Chocolate Mousse, Cheese Cake, Lemon Mousse, Tiramisu, and so on, for as little as $30.

Desserts complete meals, and the Downtown Bakery and Creamery offers desserts ranging from the Biscotti that costs a dollar to a 10-inch Fruit Galette of $30.

Ice cream and coffee are other food on their menu, as well as daily Specials that promise to excite.

Address: 308 Center St Healdsburg, CA 95448, US

4. Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar (Known for Bakery Products)

Initially opened the ‘Moustache Baked Goods’ in 2010, the owners also opened Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar later in 2014, and with that, the two outfits became one, under the umbrella name – Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar – before another was opened in downtown Santa Rosa in 2018.

While Noble Folk sells ice cream, they are known for their bakery products like pies, cupcakes, cookies, etc.

Interestingly enough, you can get any of their whole pies, which include Dutch Apple Pie, Maple Pecan, and Peanut Butter Mousse Pie, for the same price of thirty-five dollars.

You can enjoy the cupcakes on the menu, which customers have described with appealing words like ‘delicious,’ ‘sweet,’ and ‘tasty,’; all at prices between four and twenty-four dollars.

Address: 116 Matheson St Healdsburg, CA 95448, US

Also see our article on Ice Cream Shops in California.

Bakeries in Carmel, California

1. Carmel Bakery (European-Styled Baked Goods)

The Carmel bakery, established in 1899 and first owned by Fritz Schweninger, did not come under the Pepe family ownership until 1986.

A piece of history and bakery, the Carmel bakery offers its patrons a chance to be part of its one hundred and twenty-four years of historical existence, the most delicious European-styled baked goods, and a very beautiful atmosphere, all for the price of a meal.

This family-owned bakery is a hub for Scottish shortbread, Italian Biscotti, Bavarian pretzels, and even English scones, making it one of the best places in Carmel, California, to get a tasty lunch and with the fruit drinks they sell; you have a complete meal.

It is a fantastic place for a meal with your family and friends and dates for lovers.

Address: Ocean Ave between Dolores and Lincoln Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, US

2. Lafayette Bakery & Café (Brings Authentic French Bakery)

Whenever you are in the mood for homemade snacks, whether sandwiches, pastries, or bread, with a feel for an authentic French bakery experience outside France, the Lafayette Bakery is the place to be.

France is one of the most romantic destinations in the world because of the attractions, sites, and meals, but only some can make time or are wealthy enough to go there, and that is fine because Lafayette Bakery brings France to you.

Much like the Carmel Bakery, the Lafayette Bakery & Café is family-owned by the Vial family, that moved from Lyon in France to Carmel, California.

The great ambiance, coupled with the welcoming feel from the employees at Lafayette, makes it a restaurant you must visit if you find yourself in Carmel.

Address: 3672 the Barnyard Suite E22 Carmel, CA 93923, US

3. Pavel’s Backerei (Sells Fresh Bread and Pastries)

Pavel’s Backerei sells fresh bread and pastries like their renowned giant doughnuts and Bear claws, some of the customers’ favorites.

Unlike many other restaurants and/or bakeries, you should know that you can pay only with cash, and the bakery is only open two days a week, and boy, do they sell out fast.

So, to get some of their specialties, like the fast-selling chocolate-filled croissant, you must get there very early, considering that you may meet a long line.

Numerous online reviews have dubbed the bakery one of the best in the area, and their European-baked products promise to be loved at first bite.

When in Carmel, California, go for a bite; enjoy a delicious meal with your family, with your friends, and loved ones.

Address: 219 Forest Ave Pacific Grove, CA 93950, US

4. The Bagel Bakery (Diverse Bagel Options)

As the name suggests, Bagel Bakery deals in everything Bagels and is deemed an expert when it comes to Bagels.

Bagel Bakery has been in existence since 1976, and recently, the county’s residents have voted the bakery for having the ‘best and tastiest’ bagels every year, and on their part, the Bagel Bakery never disappoints.

The bakery offers fresh, sweet, and quality bagels served in numerous different ways, such as Italiano, which is bagels with herbs, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, egg, and mozzarella cheese; Andrea’s Fault – bagels with sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, egg, and feta cheese, garnished with some avocado on top, and so on.

So, whether you are passing through or just relocated, the Bagel Bakery is your next stop when you are in Carmel, California, and crave bagels.

Address: 26539 Carmel Rancho Blvd Carmel, CA 93923, US

Also see our article on Pizza in California.

Bakeries in Pacifica, California

1. Mazzetti’s Bakery (Italian-American Family-Owned)

The Mazzetti’s Bakery, situated in Pacifica and established about fifty years ago, is owned and run by an Italian-American family.

They provide fine, top-quality baked goods such as honey bran muffins, focaccia bread, and the derby cake with fresh bananas & strawberries, some of the people’s favorites.

Other sumptuous snacks at Mazzetti’s Bakery include cakes, cookies, pies, cupcakes, and more.

You can walk in to buy their snacks, but it would do you a lot of good to have preordered online at least 24 hours before and walk in to pick up because lines are always long, and there is no guarantee that the snack you want will still be available by the time it is your turn.

To enjoy these delicious snacks with friends, family, or lovers, visit Mazzetti’s bakery and be wowed.

Address: 101 Manor Drive Pacifica, CA 94044, US

2. Rosalind Bakery (Bread and Pastries)

Matt is the founder and owner of the Rosalind Bakery, which he named after his grandmother, Rosalind Rabin, or ‘Mom-Mom,’ as he loved to call her.

The bakery prides itself on making and baking everything on its menu in Pacifica, California.

Interestingly, the wheat from which they get their flour is grown on the salty hills of the northern Pacific ocean and milled by a couple of outfits within the community.

No commercial yeast is used in baking; the baguette and boule rise for about forty hours before being subjected to their heated oven.

On their menu are different kinds of bread and pastries such as the walnut loaf with toasted walnuts and rosemary, the coast side loaf, cinnamon roll, muffins, cookies, croissants, and so on.

You can order online or walk into their outlet anytime in Pacifica.

Address: 450 Manor Plaza Pacifica, CA 94044, US

3. Saltwater Bakery (Gluten-Free Pastries)

One of the reasons Tawnya Marsh founded the Saltwater bakery was the scarcity of gluten-free pastry options in the town, and as a result, one of its best-selling features is the absence of gluten and dairy in all their pastries.

To make the bakery into what it is today, Tawnya Marsh had to put in a lot of sweat and tears, and some may say it’s derivative of the name ‘Saltwater.’

The bakery offers a lovely ocean view from its storefront, making it a perfect spot for friends or lovers to have an excellent time.

You can visit the restaurant; take away your meal, but they currently do not offer delivery services.

However, this does not stop you from enjoying their Lemon Poppyseed Loaf, Banana Walnut Bread, or Spiced Pumpkin Bread for a price of not more than sixteen dollars.

Address: 450 Manor Plaza Pacifica, CA 94044, US

4. Paris Baguette (Neighborhood Community-Based Café)

Paris Baguette is a neighborhood community-based café where people come together to connect while eating their skillfully baked goods.

As the winner of the 2023 annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500 – Baked Goods: Bakery Cafes category – the outfit continues to ensure that the quality of its goods is unwavering and strives to never disappoint its long-standing patrons.

Their chefs and bakers do their best daily to improve their craft and serve their customers better than they did the previous day.

This purposefulness ensures you will enjoy your meal and get your money’s worth at the café whenever you are chanced to visit.

The welcoming atmosphere and beaming smiles that will greet you at the door are worth mentioning as it makes your patronage a memorable and lovely experience.

Address: 655 Broadway, Millbrae, CA 94030, US

Also see our article on Coffee Shops in California.

Bakeries in Bishop, California

1. Erick Schat’s Bakkery (Affordable, Quality & Handcrafted Goods)

Basque sheepherders were the first to introduce the original Sheepherder Bread to California in 1938, and it was handcrafted; as such, it is only befitting that the tradition carries on.

The Original Sheepherder Bread, Cheese Bread, Onion Bread, etc., and all other pastries at the Erick Schatt’s Bakery are made with the finest and purest ingredients with no chemicals at all.

Snacks at Erick’s are simply delicious and tasty and leave you wanting more while your stomach kicks back that it is full.

The affordability of their goods is also a massive boost in the business for the bakery and ensures that the customers get their money’s worth.

Make it a date to go and taste anything on their menu, and you will not regret it.

Address: 763 N Main St, Bishop, CA 93514, US

2. Great Basin Bakery (Emphasizes High-Quality Ingredients)

Two young biologists coming together to start a bakery is not something you see every day, but on a day back in September 2003, Robin Bolser and Brooke Yarnell formed such a partnership, and the Great Basin came into existence.

The Great Basin Bakery, a community bakery, ensures its baked goods are of the highest standard, determined by using the best ingredients and most efficient baking skills.

Great Basin Bakery should be your next stop if you want artisan bread, gourmet cookies, bagels, and many other pastries, like the croissant.

You can rest assured that you will get a mouth-watering meal, outstanding service from the staff, and a friendly, lovely, and pleasant atmosphere, which makes it a good spot for connecting with friends and family.

Address: 275 D South Main St Unit D, Bishop, CA 93514, US

3. Looney Bean of Bishop (Known for Incredible Coffee)

Nothing comes close to the scent that fills the air when bread is baked, when some croissants are being prepared, or when doughnuts are served; nothing.

By simply walking into the Loony Bean’s bakery, you might be filled with the aroma that welcomes you, but for the biological need to eat, you might find yourself satisfied with it.

The Looney Bean of Bishop, as the name suggests, is in Bishop, California, and although making incredible coffee is their stronger forte, they rival other bakeries with their baked products.

So, to get the best of both worlds, pay a visit to the Looney Bean, buy their delicious coffee, and accompany it with any freshly baked pastry from their menu; you are guaranteed a nice and exciting time.

Address: 399 N Main St Suite A Bishop, California 93514, US

4. Jack’s Restaurant & Bakery (Renowned for Breakfast)

Without much talk and mincing words, Jack’s Restaurant & Bakery is one of the best, if not the best, places for breakfast in Bishop, California.

They serve the best muffins, slightly warm, with a cup of coffee that will ‘wake’ you up for the day and get you going.

The staff is always happy to see a customer walk in; as such, you are sure to enjoy fantastic service and have a good time in general.

So, if you are ever in Bishop, California, and searching for a decent place to get a nice meal, Jack’s Restaurant and Bakery is always ready to serve you once they open.

You can visit alone or with friends or go with your family to have an excellent time out.

Address: 437 N Main St, Bishop, CA 93514, US

Also see our article on Date Ideas in California.

Bakeries in Berkeley, California

1. Lavender Bakery & Café (European-Influenced Delicacies)

Lavender Bakery & Café, at inception in 2018, started by serving European-influenced delicacies to neighbors, friends, and eventually to customers.

The bakery serves different kinds of cookies, cakes, pies, desserts, and pastries, giving its customers an authentic European experience.

It is a great bakery that does not compromise on quality ingredients or on efficient baking processes, leaving customers assured that they are putting the finest baked goods in their bodies.

While they do not shy away from the traditional on-site purchase, they offer delivery services with straightforward navigation of their website, which carries a bulky menu from which to choose.

Everything in the Lavender Bakery & Café is top-tier, as they serve next-level snacks, and a visit while in Berkeley, California, will convince you and bring you back to the restaurant.

Address: 1820 Solano Avenue Berkeley, CA 94707, US

2. Acme Bread (Wholesale Bakery with Retail Shops)

In pursuit of better bread than was available to restaurants in 1983, Steven and Suzie Sullivan established Acme Bread to bake bread.

The Acme Bread Company is a tad different from every other bakery discussed in this post in that it is mainly a wholesale bakery.

This means it supplies bread to other retail stores and restaurants around the bay area that would instead buy than bake their bread.

Don’t worry; you can still get a taste of their bread by visiting their retail shop in Berkeley or San Francisco, California.

The Acme Bread Company only had four kinds of bread – Upstairs Bread, Sweet Baguettes, Challah, and Pain au Levain – when the bakery started in 1983, now boast over one hundred different products.

Perhaps, if you visited, you could find one, two, or even a hundred of their products that will give you a pleasant memory.

Address: 1601 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94702, US

3. La Farine (Known for French Pastries)

From their names, you shall know them.

La Farine is a French bakery located in Berkeley, California, the bay area, where most locals start their days with a bun from the bakery, almost like a ritual.

With La Farine, you do not have to be in France to enjoy nice French recipes and delicacies, and this bakery brings them right to you in California.

The bakery has prided itself in its service to the community since its establishment in 1977 and is still doing so, offering some of the finest French pastries, rustic bread, classic cakes, cookies, and delicious fruit.

It is an excellent spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is spacious enough to accommodate even large families at their tables.

The classic environment and the incredible ambiance make the La Farine a place you must go to if passing through Berkeley or its environs.

Address: 6323 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618, US

4. Fournee Bakery (Walk-in Café, No Seating)

Unlike most bakeries, eateries, or café, the Fournee Bakery is a walk-in café, meaning no seats, so you buy and go.

However, this does not stop you from enjoying their delicious gougère, chocolate almond croissant, cheese roll, or the Lorraine quiche with prices as low as four dollars.

This bakery serves very good French viennoiseries, which rival even the ones made in France, if not better.

Fournee Bakery’s farmers’ bread is always fluffy and superb, as is the ham and cheese croissant, one of the customers’ favorites.

You should know there is always a long queue, but there is nothing to fear because the employees are very efficient and bake all day, so the chances of your choice meal being sold out are slim to none.

Address: 2912 Domingo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705, US

Also see our article on High Tea in California.

Bakeries in Napa, California

1. The Model Bakery (Serving Napa Valley)

It is about a century since The Model Bakery made its way into the culinary scene of Napa Valley in California.

The Model Bakery has since then continued to provide the locals and tourists/visitors with pastries, bread, and coffee to quench their hungry bellies.

Recently, the Model Bakery has come to specialize in making artisan bread with the highest quality but still has an array of other products.

However, the bakery only has a seating area outside, none inside, so you have to line up, make your order, and sit outside, where one of the staff will come to give you your meal when it is ready.

Generally, the prices are affordable, the meal is unbelievably delicious, and the ambiance is excellent: you are set to have a good time.

Address: 644 1st St, Napa, CA 94559, US

2. Butter Cream Bakery (Known for Glazed Donuts)

On Jefferson Street in Napa, California, the Butter Cream Bakery’s trademark pink and white stripes painted building continues to shine and welcome hungry customers well over half a century after its establishment in 1948.

The bakery that started as a small donut shop has since grown to become one of the trusted stops for well-flavored, freshly baked products.

While the Butter Cream Bakery has a wide range of baked goods, their bestseller remains the glazed donuts that melt in your mouth once bitten.

However, if the donut does not interest you, feel free to choose from their cookies, pastries, or bread; just be sure to arrive early – especially on weekends – otherwise, you might have to wait in a crowded store to get any of the snacks.

Address: 2297 Jefferson Street, Napa, CA 94559, US

3. Kara’s Cupcakes (Freshly Baked Cakes)

At Kara’s Cupcakes, only freshly baked cakes and cupcakes are on offer, and this is to ensure the utmost consumer satisfaction.

These cakes are made with the best ingredients and skillfully baked in small quantities at a time by hand to ensure that their customers enjoy nothing but the best.

Interestingly, Kara’s Cupcakes make it a matter of necessity to patronize the local community as a way of giving back; as such, all ingredients are obtained from local producers to support the community.

Their menu includes sumptuous enticing flavors and gluten-free and vegan cupcakes catering to those with such a diet.

Whether it is red velvet cake, chocolate cake, or vanilla-flavored cake, you will find whatever cake flavor you want at Kara’s Cupcakes for a pocket-friendly amount.

Address: 610 First Street, Suite 19, Napa, CA 94559, CA 94705, US

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Chinese Restaurants, Italian Restaurants, and Seafood Restaurants in California.

Looking beyond California? Check out our article on the best Bakeries in Texas and Florida’s finest Bakeries.