Arsicault Bakery
The Verdict
"Get the plain croissant first. If it's your first visit, that's all you need to understand why this place won best bakery in America."
What you need to know
The Food
The plain croissant is the essential order. Flaky, buttery, deeply caramelized on the outside. The almond croissant is the other order most people are willing to wait for. Pain au chocolat, kouign-amann, and a small selection of other pastries fill out the case. The menu stays tight on purpose.
The Space
Small, focused, counter service. The Inner Richmond original on Arguello is the smallest. A second Civic Center location and a third downtown shop expand access. Weekend mornings draw lines at all of them.
Practical Info
Price: Croissants $5 to $7
Reservations: None. Walk-in only.
Best time: Early morning weekdays for the freshest pastries and shortest line.
Inner Richmond Address: 397 Arguello Boulevard, near Clement Street
Civic Center Address: 245 Hyde Street
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