The famous Ferry Building and clock tower is one of the most recognizable pieces of architecture in a city known for its design. Originally a transportation hub during the Gold Rush, the space has been restored and repurposed as both a ferry terminal and a food market (come on the right day and you can also enjoy the ferry plaza farmers market). Focusing on local and artisan producers, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a one-stop-shop for trying several of the Bay’s most popular local brands. Grab something to-go and then enjoy your food at the elevated platform outside that provides the perfect view of the Bay Bridge and the bay ferries.
Eat Your Way Through the San Francisco Ferry Building
Humphry Slocombe
Humphry Slocombe is scooping up creative creamy flavors for a perfect-any-time treat. Picking a cup or cone will be the easiest decision you make because you will want to try all their inventive flavors, from Smoked Almond Brittle to Matchadoodle. Two of their standouts are the boozy Secret Breakfast (made with Bourbon and corn flakes) and Blue Bottle Vietnamese Iced Coffee, created in partnership with a local coffee shop. Open afternoon till late, go patient and expect a line.
Mariposa Baking Co.
Calling all celiacs, Mariposa Baking Co. might be your mecca. Every delicious goodie on display here is prepared gluten-free in a dedicated GF facility. Their hand-crafted classic desserts range from cinnamon rolls and double chocolate chip cookies to cupcakes and bread loaves. Grab a table and order breakfast or lunch, with sandwiches and savory options. Plan to bring a tote bag to grab extra goodies to take home, like the pizza crust and bagels. Finally, a place where you really can have it all.
Blue Bottle Coffee
The signature white cups with the blue bottle logo can be found all over town, and now Blue Bottle Coffee boasts not one but two locations in the Ferry Building. Their commitment to freshness and peak flavor have found success and expansion supporting locations in NYC and Chicago, as well as in Korea and Japan. Order your coffee hot or iced and enjoy as you wander the waterfront. A limited food menu is available with breakfast bites and snacks, including sugar-studded Liege waffles.
Hog Island Oyster Company
Seafood lovers, rejoice! Hog Island Oyster Company is here for you, with sustainable seafood fresh from nearby Tomales Bay. The seasonal menu features their namesake oysters, complemented by a craft cocktail program, as well as salads, small plates and entrees. Diners can sit inside and watch staff shucking at the raw bar or outside in the fresh sea salt air. Share a steamer or a rustic seafood stew from their seasonal menu and toast with a pick from their extensive wine list.
Miette Patisserie
This adorable French dessert shop is a confection itself, with brightly colored pastel shelving and gorgeous cakes and cookies on display. Miette Patisserie specializes in cupcakes, macarons and candies with classic French recipes and fresh, organic fruits. The miniature desserts are beautifully packaged to make every purchase feel like a gift, whether you’re purchasing for yourself or someone else.
