Tartine Bakery is hands down the MVP of breadmakers in America.
No time in San Francisco is complete without a visit to Tartine Bakery. It’s a Bay Area staple that you simply cannot bypass.
Whether you are a tourist toughing it out in Tartine’s legendary lines or a local who’s got their line-dodging game plan down pat, everyone can agree on one thing: it’s got the best sourdough bread you will ever have in your life (ask anyone).
Tartine has an incredible selection on their menu. Take home a loaf of their classic country levain bread, or opt for the extra soft whole-grain porridge loaf or the Danish-style rye. Their bread has a sweet character with those subtle hints of acidity we all love. Baked to perfection, it’s got all the right textures in all the right places.
Their pastries are also not to be ignored. A signature favorite is their perfectly sweet Morning Bun with cinnamon and orange, or try their Frangipane Croissant with brandy-infused almond cream. Their menu seems to go on forever with delectable breads, pastries and other bites both sweet and savory.
The bakery was opened 20 years ago by husband-and-wife team Chad Robertson and Elisabeth Prueitt, and has since gained cult status in the bread world. We all know baking is a science, but this establishment takes it to a whole new level. On a constant mission to improve their process, Tartine Bakery pays special attention to the quality of its ingredients.
The flour, for example, includes all of the germ and oils that are normally taken out of commercial flour due its perishability, giving the bread layers of extra flavor and nutrition. The bakery prides itself on being in constant communication with their millers in order to perfect their craft, and it totally shows in both the look and taste of their delicious rustic bready goodness.
But the proof is in the pudding – head to one of their four locations in the Bay Area to try it for yourself!
Note: Tartine Bakery is currently open for takeout and delivery, with the exception of their Alabama Street location (Tartine Manufactory) which also has outdoor dining.
Location: 600 Guerrero Street (multiple locations)
Hours: Sat-Wed 8am – 5pm, Fri 9am – 5pm
[Featured image: Tartine Bakery]