b. Patisserie: Best Bakery in San Francisco

Let me just start off by saying that I love a good pastry. In the past, one of my go-to items was a plain butter croissant. That is until I had a kouign amann. The best way to describe a kouign amann is a croissant on steroids. It has the soft, flaky layers that you expect from a croissant but it's baked with a simple syrup running through it that allows the top to caramelize and provides a sweet surprise in the center. It's the perfect breakfast or snack when you need a little sugar to get through your day.

I've been fortunate enough to try a kouign amann from a few different bakeries but I still haven't found anything better than at b. Patisserie. It's really not surprising considering the owner (Belinda Leong) has had stints at Gary Danko, Manresa, and Pierre Hermé. Her version of the kouign amann is definitely indulgent but it manages to be light and airy with just the right amount of sweetness. I won't name names but other bakeries' kouign amanns have either been to bread-like or drowning in sugar. Plus, b. Patisserie offers chocolate and seasonal versions of the kouign amann. (Their black sesame and strawberry guava versions have been my favorite to date.)

b. Patisserie isn't just a one hit wonder either. While everything I've had there has been consistently delicious, their French flan tart, chocolate banana almond croissant, and macarons definitely stand out in my mind. I've taken many out-of-towners there and I know they would agree as well, so be sure to stop by the next time you have a chance!

b. Patisserie - San Francisco

2821 California Street

San Francisco, CA 94115

b. Patisserie - Waikiki

2330 Kalakaua Avenue, Space 160

Honolulu, HI 96815