San Francisco and sourdough go hand in hand. The city’s foggy climate gives its famous sourdough bread a tangy, complex flavor that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. While everyone knows about Boudin Bakery, I wanted to dig deeper and find the lesser-known spots that locals swear by. After plenty of taste-testing (and more carbs than I care to admit), I found three underrated bakeries in San Francisco that serve up some of the best sourdough in town.
1. Tartine Bakery – The Artisan Favorite
I’ll be honest—I walked into Tartine Bakery expecting to love their pastries more than their bread. But the moment I tore into a slice of their country sourdough loaf, I knew I had discovered something special. The crust was deep golden brown, crackling with every bite, while the inside was soft, airy, and slightly chewy. The tangy flavor was just right—not too overpowering but with enough depth to keep me coming back for more.
The best way to enjoy it? Toasted with butter and sea salt or paired with a thick smear of their house-made ricotta. Tartine may not be a “hidden gem,” but their sourdough absolutely deserves the hype.
📍 Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco
2. The Mill – A Hipster’s Bread Heaven
If you love thick, perfectly toasted slices of sourdough, The Mill is a must-visit. Their approach to bread-making is simple yet precise, and you can taste the craftsmanship in every bite. Their Josey Baker Sourdough has a deep tangy profile with an open crumb that makes it perfect for avocado toast or just enjoying on its own.
I sat at one of their wooden communal tables, watching locals sip coffee and chat while savoring their signature cinnamon toast—another must-try. The Mill is proof that sometimes, the simplest things are the most satisfying.
📍 Location: 736 Divisadero St, San Francisco
3. Arizmendi Bakery – A Community Treasure
Arizmendi is a worker-owned cooperative, which means their focus is on quality, not profit. Their sourdough baguettes and batards have the perfect balance of chewiness and crispness, with a mild tang that pairs beautifully with cheese or soup. The best part? Their prices are surprisingly affordable compared to other artisan bakeries in the city.
I grabbed a loaf fresh from the oven and couldn’t resist tearing off a piece as I walked back to my hotel. Warm, slightly sour, and with just the right amount of crunch—it was everything I wanted in a classic San Francisco sourdough.
📍 Location: 1331 9th Ave, San Francisco
If you’re a sourdough lover, skip the tourist traps and give these bakeries a try. Each one offers a unique take on this iconic bread, and trust me—your taste buds will thank you!