Top 18 shops for birthday cupcakes in San Francisco
Discover our curated list of top-ranked shops for birthday cupcakes in San Francisco, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Victoria Pastry, Cherry Blossom Bakery, Napoleon Super Bakery, Whole Cakes - SoMa, Cupcakin' Bake Shop. Let's explore together!
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- 1. Victoria Pastry
- 2. Cherry Blossom Bakery
- 3. Napoleon Super Bakery
- 4. Whole Cakes - SoMa
- 5. Cupcakin' Bake Shop
- 6. Daydream Cake Shop
- 7. Whole Cakes - Potrero Hill
- 8. Schubert's Bakery
- 9. SusieCakes - Chestnut
- 10. Mission Minis
- 11. Yummy Bakery & Cafe
- 12. Dragon City Bakery & Cafe
- 13. L.H.Bakeshop
- 14. Pastel
- 15. Grace & Gusto Cakes and Confections
- 16. Novela Cakes
- 17. Tricia’s Sweet Confections
- 18. Oh La La Cake Creations
1. Victoria Pastry
European-style bakery in the heart of San Francisco

Indulge in the sweet delights of Victoria Pastry, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant North Beach neighborhood. Since its establishment in 1911, this iconic bakery has been tantalizing taste buds with a tempting array of cakes, cookies, and authentic Italian treats. Every visit is a flavorful journey, but it's the delectable cookies that never fail to captivate my senses.
Stepping into Victoria Pastry feels like stepping into a confectionery wonderland where each treat is handcrafted to perfection. Despite the modest selection one evening, each offering exuded sheer culinary excellence. For a true taste of bliss, their chocolate ganache cake is simply unparalleled—a velvety masterpiece that beckons to all chocolate connoisseurs. Allow Victoria Pastry to transport you to a realm where every bite is a symphony of flavors, a true testament to the artistry of fine baking.
Stepping into Victoria Pastry feels like stepping into a confectionery wonderland where each treat is handcrafted to perfection. Despite the modest selection one evening, each offering exuded sheer culinary excellence. For a true taste of bliss, their chocolate ganache cake is simply unparalleled—a velvety masterpiece that beckons to all chocolate connoisseurs. Allow Victoria Pastry to transport you to a realm where every bite is a symphony of flavors, a true testament to the artistry of fine baking.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
2. Cherry Blossom Bakery

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at Cherry Blossom Bakery, a charming establishment that never fails to impress. Discover a wide array of freshly baked bread and pastries that are not only delicious but also incredibly budget-friendly. Treat yourself to a culinary journey that is as satisfying to your taste buds as it is gentle on your wallet.
**Updated as of 11/2023:** Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as you revisit Cherry Blossom Bakery, as I did after a five-year hiatus. Witness a remarkable transformation in the quality and flavors of their offerings, elevating your dining experience to a whole new level. Upgrade your rating to a well-deserved four stars and savor the culinary delights that await you at this hidden gem.
**Updated as of 11/2023:** Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as you revisit Cherry Blossom Bakery, as I did after a five-year hiatus. Witness a remarkable transformation in the quality and flavors of their offerings, elevating your dining experience to a whole new level. Upgrade your rating to a well-deserved four stars and savor the culinary delights that await you at this hidden gem.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
3. Napoleon Super Bakery

Indulge in a delightful experience at Napoleon Super Bakery, where Chinese pastries and desserts take center stage. While it may not boast the same fame as its neighbor, Good Mang Kok bakery, locals flock here for its delectable, freshly baked bread and egg tarts. Don't expect lavish decor or ample seating - the real star of the show is the irresistible array of desserts that await you!
Step into this bustling Asian bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked treats tantalizes your senses and the queue is a testament to its popularity. With cash being the currency of choice here, the focus remains firmly on the exquisite pastries. Picture biting into a silky smooth egg tart, its delicate flaky crust still warm from the oven. At Napoleon Super Bakery, every bite is a moment of pure bliss that transports you to pastry paradise.
Step into this bustling Asian bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked treats tantalizes your senses and the queue is a testament to its popularity. With cash being the currency of choice here, the focus remains firmly on the exquisite pastries. Picture biting into a silky smooth egg tart, its delicate flaky crust still warm from the oven. At Napoleon Super Bakery, every bite is a moment of pure bliss that transports you to pastry paradise.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
4. Whole Cakes - SoMa

Whole Cakes in SoMa offers delightful treats like the 4" double chocolate cake, a perfect indulgence. Their crepe cakes in flavors like vanilla and tiramisu promise a delectable experience that I can't wait to try on my next visit. It's my top choice for cakes, with a scrumptious taste that isn't overly sweet. While their prices are a bit steep, the quality, cleanliness, and friendliness of the place easily earns them top marks.
Whole Cakes in SoMa is a must-visit for cake lovers. Their range of flavors like double chocolate and crepe cakes in vanilla, chocolate, green tea, and tiramisu ensures a culinary delight. Although the prices may be on the higher side, the quality, taste, cleanliness, and friendly service are impeccable. This spot easily outshines the cakes from Safeway and Costco, making it my go-to place for special occasions throughout the year.
Whole Cakes in SoMa is a must-visit for cake lovers. Their range of flavors like double chocolate and crepe cakes in vanilla, chocolate, green tea, and tiramisu ensures a culinary delight. Although the prices may be on the higher side, the quality, taste, cleanliness, and friendly service are impeccable. This spot easily outshines the cakes from Safeway and Costco, making it my go-to place for special occasions throughout the year.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
5. Cupcakin' Bake Shop

Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of Red Velvet and Carrot Cake Cupcakes at Cupcakin' Bake Shop where every bite transports you to Grandma's kitchen. Despite the occasional Sunday closure for lunch, the reward of moist and delicious treats makes the wait worthwhile. A visit to this charming shop promises a delightful experience for your taste buds, leaving no crumb behind.
6. Daydream Cake Shop

Daydream Cake Shop offers a unique boba experience in SF, with the option to customize your own drink with the owner's expert guidance. Despite the limited menu selection, the personalized touch and friendly service make it a standout choice. The only downside is the shop's small size and limited seating availability, which can be a challenge during peak hours. In contrast, my experience with Daydream Cake Shop through the Fantuan Delivery App was disappointing, with the cakes not meeting expectations.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. Whole Cakes - Potrero Hill

Nestled in Potrero Hill, Whole Cakes is a charming bakery on 16th St. While its signage may be lackluster, a quick look at a map or pictures will guide you there. Upon stepping in, you'll be greeted by a modest array of whole and sliced cakes, cookies, and pastries. When I ordered a Green tea matcha birthday cake, the requirement to pick it up from this location, not SoMa, was a minor inconvenience. However, the cake itself was a delight - incredibly soft, light, and boasting just the right level of sweetness that resonated with my taste buds.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Breakfast
8. Schubert's Bakery
European-style bakery serving the community since 1911

TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
9. SusieCakes - Chestnut
Retro-style bakeshop
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
10. Mission Minis

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
11. Yummy Bakery & Cafe
Cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing break

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Breakfast
- Lunch
12. Dragon City Bakery & Cafe
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
13. L.H.Bakeshop

14. Pastel

15. Grace & Gusto Cakes and Confections

TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
16. Novela Cakes

TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
17. Tricia’s Sweet Confections

TOPICS
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Italian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
18. Oh La La Cake Creations

TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options