Food & Drink

Sweet Treats: San Diego’s Top 15 Italian Bakeries

San Diego is a city that has a wide variety of cuisines to offer, but one that stands out is Italian.

From pastas to pizzas, San Diego has some of the best Italian restaurants in the country. But if you have a sweet tooth, Italian bakeries are the perfect place for you to indulge.

Italian bakeries are known for their delicious pastries, cakes, and breads. These bakeries use traditional Italian recipes and techniques to create some of the most delectable desserts you will ever taste.

Whether you are looking for a sweet breakfast pastry or a decadent dessert to finish off your meal, Italian bakeries have got you covered.

San Diego has a plethora of Italian bakeries, but some stand out more than others. In this blog post, we will be reviewing the best Italian bakeries in San Diego. We will be exploring the different types of pastries, cakes, and breads that each bakery has to offer.

From classic cannolis to modern twists on traditional recipes, we will be diving into the world of Italian desserts in San Diego. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to indulge in the best Italian bakeries San Diego has to offer.

1. Izola

Izola
710 13th St #300, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Izola is a must-visit Italian bakery for anyone who loves croissants. They serve the most amazing, fresh and decadent croissants that will leave you craving for more.

The bakery has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and beautiful natural light.

Their ingredients are top-notch, and they don't take shortcuts when it comes to baking.

Izola offers a variety of croissants, sourdough bread, and other delicious treats. If you're looking for a hidden gem in downtown, this is the place to go!

2. Edelweiss Bakery

Edelweiss Bakery
11639 Duenda Rd, San Diego, CA 92127 (Google Maps)

Edelweiss Bakery is a hidden gem, serving up some of the best Italian baked goods in town.

Their wide assortment of pastries, cakes, and breads are all made fresh daily, and they offer a great selection of custom cakes for any special occasion.

The staff is friendly and helpful, and the prices are reasonable.

Don't miss out on trying their German chocolate cake or apple cake. This bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

3. Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe

Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe
2750 Dewey Rd, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe is a must-visit Italian bakery for bread and pastry lovers. The bakery offers a variety of freshly baked artisan breads, including multigrain and rosemary olive oil.

They also have a great selection of pastries, such as chocolate hazelnut twists and cinnamon buns.

The sandwiches are made with fresh bread and ingredients, making them a delicious lunch option. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is inviting.

If you are looking for a bakery that offers quality baked goods and sandwiches, Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe is the place to go.

4. Bread & Cie

Bread & Cie
350 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Bread & Cie is a charming Italian bakery that offers artisanal bread and pastries, as well as salads and sandwiches.

The bakery has a wide selection of baked goods that are made fresh daily, including croissants, scones, and muffins.

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot to grab a coffee and a pastry to start the day. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing prompt service.

Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, Bread & Cie has something for everyone.

5. Hungry Lu's

Hungry Lu's
4920 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107 (Google Maps)

Hungry Lu's is an authentic Italian bakery and deli that serves up fresh bread and delicious sandwiches.

Their baked goods are made in-house daily, and their desserts are definitely worth trying.

The friendly staff welcomes customers warmly, and the interior is sweet and nicely laid out.

From their amazing cannolis to their raspberry filled chocolate drizzled cookie sandwich, Hungry Lu's is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a tasty treat.

6. Blackmarket Bakery North Park

Blackmarket Bakery North Park
4686 30th St, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

Blackmarket Bakery North Park is a trendy Italian bakery with a unique edge.

They offer a variety of delicious desserts and pastries, along with savory sandwiches and artisanal bread.

The outdoor patio is well-appointed and perfect for enjoying a coffee and pastry in the sunshine.

The staff is friendly and provides excellent service. Don't miss their happy hour, where baked goods and breads are 50% off.

European Cake Gallery
3661 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

European Cake Gallery is a long-standing Italian bakery that specializes in crafting delicious pastries, cookies, and pies. They are famous for their custom wedding cakes, which are beautifully handcrafted and taste amazing.

The staff is friendly and always ready to assist customers in selecting the perfect cake or pastry for their special occasion.

The bakery offers a wide variety of treats that are all freshly made with high-quality ingredients. From lemon bars to apple strudel, everything is simply delicious.

The Black Swiss Forest cake and the White Bavarian cream cake with strawberries are highly recommended. If you are in the mood for something sweet and delectable, European Cake Gallery is the place to go.

8. Cafe de l'Opera

Cafe De L'opera
910 J St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Cafe de l'Opera is a charming Italian bakery that offers delicious French pastries and bagels.

Their authentic and made from scratch pastries are a must-try, especially the butter croissant. They also have a good selection of lunch options that are equally delicious.

The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. The almond croissant and the lamb sausage breakfast sandwich are highly recommended.

If you're looking for a cute little cafe to enjoy a pastry and coffee, Cafe de l'Opera is definitely worth a visit.

9. Matteo

Matteo
3015 Juniper St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Matteo is an Italian bakery that offers an array of fresh baked goods including bread, focaccia, croissants, cakes, and artisan pizzas.

The bakery also has a menu for breakfast and lunch. The atmosphere is quaint and welcoming with open windows and outdoor seating.

Matteo is a non-profit business that gives back to various youth organizations in the community.

The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. Visit Matteo for delicious baked goods and support a great cause.

10. Kona Kakes Tropical Cake Bakery

Kona Kakes Tropical Cake Bakery
3960 W Point Loma Blvd Ste. G, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Kona Kakes Tropical Cake Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their Italian-style bakery offers a range of delicious cakes, pies, and breads that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

The bakery is known for its outstanding birthday cakes that are both light and tasty. The cakes are beautifully presented, making them perfect for any celebration.

The caramel macadamia nut cake is a must-try, and their Pina Colada cake is also a favorite among customers. Their wedding cakes are decorated beautifully, and the Lilikoi passion fruit layer is divine.

The bakery is responsive to phone orders and emails, making it easy to place an order. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the prices are reasonable. Kona Kakes Tropical Cake Bakery is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet cravings.

11. Balboa Bakery

Balboa Bakery
5921 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Balboa Bakery is a hidden gem that offers delicious Italian pastries and cakes. Their banana pastries and cookies are a must-try, but their baklava is what really stands out.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the mom-and-pop shop atmosphere adds to the charm.

With counter service and a few tables for seating, it's a great spot to grab a sweet treat and a cup of coffee.

If you're in the area, make sure to stop by Balboa Bakery for a taste of Italy.

12. Leon Bakery

Leon Bakery
4366 Poplar St, San Diego, CA 92105 (Google Maps)

Leon Bakery is a must-visit Italian bakery for anyone who loves fresh bread and pastries.

Their Pan Dulce is some of the best around and the conchas are a must-try.

The owners are well-known in the community and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

If you're in the area, be sure to stop by Leon Bakery for a delicious treat.

13. The Gluten Free Baking Co

The Gluten Free Baking Co
4594 30th St, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

The Gluten Free Baking Co is a wonderful Italian bakery that offers a great selection of gluten-free baked goods.

Customers rave about the brioche loaf and chocolate treats. The cheesecake is also a favorite among visitors.

The bakery is LGBTQ+ friendly and offers vegan and nut-free options. Parking is easy and the customer service is excellent.

It's definitely worth a visit for those with gluten sensitivities or those who simply enjoy delicious baked goods.

14. Tasty Bakery

Tasty Bakery
4344 Convoy St D, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Tasty Bakery is an Italian bakery that offers a variety of delicious pastries and boba tea.

They also make custom cakes for special occasions. Their hotdog bread, pork bun, and taro bun are baked fresh and taste amazing.

The cakes are light, fluffy, and have the perfect amount of icing. Their pate so is the best in town and their customer service is excellent.

If you're looking for a bakery that offers great tasting treats and friendly service, Tasty Bakery is the place to go.

15. Sage French Cake & Coffee

Sage French Cake & Coffee
3860 Convoy St #112, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Sage French Cake & Coffee is an Italian bakery that offers excellent French cakes at affordable prices.

Customers highly recommend the tiramisu and fruit tart. The staff is friendly and always serves with a smile.

The bakery is known for its delicious, light cakes that are the perfect amount of sweetness. The owner is a perfectionist and takes great care in his work.

The shop is small, but the cakes are exquisite. If you want a great piece of dessert that isn't on the heavy side, this is the spot for you.