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- Great dessert
oChef » The Baked Bear – San Francisco
The Baked Bear - San Francisco
Photo from The Baked Bear
The Baked Bear at a glance
San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf
- 🍰 Dessert Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 19 of the guests
#835 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#2 Dessert Restaurant out of 8 in San Francisco
Good
7.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
196
Reviews
78.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Customizable desserts
- Attentive service
Frequently criticized
- Long waits
- High cost
The restaurant The Baked Bear is a popular dessert restaurant nestled in the vibrant Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood of San Francisco. You’ll discover a fantastic array of great dessert options here, perfect for satisfying any sweet craving.
This spot offers a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a quick bite or a relaxed treat. Whether you’re exploring the city or just looking for a delightful dessert experience, you’ll find it here.
Overview: Introducting The Baked Bear
The Baked Bear offers a delightful experience for those seeking a customizable sweet treat, with many customers praising the creative options and the quality of their offerings. The staff often receives positive remarks for being attentive and helpful, contributing to a pleasant visit.
However, be prepared for potential waits, as popularity can lead to significant lines, and some find the overall cost a bit high for what’s offered. Despite these minor points, the focus remains on the enjoyable dessert creations.
The casual setting, often near other attractions, adds to its appeal, making it a popular stop for a unique indulgence. The ability to craft your own ice cream sandwich with various cookies and flavors is a consistent highlight, making it a memorable stop for many.
Good
7.8
out of 10
196
Reviews
78.1%
Satisfaction
36
negative
7
neutral
153
positive
The Baked Bear achieves a respectable overall score of 7.8, indicating a generally good experience, with customer satisfaction also landing in the good range at 78.1%. This positive sentiment is built on a foundation of 153 positive remarks against 36 negative ones, out of 196 total customer comments.
The Food (8.3) stands out as a clear strength, consistently impressing patrons with its quality and customization. While the Ambience (7.6) is also well-regarded for its casual and convenient setting, Service (6.7) is considered good but has room for improvement, often impacted by long lines.
The primary area for concern is Value (4.9), which customers frequently find to be average, suggesting that while the treats are enjoyed, the price point can be a deterrent for some.
What people like
- Customizable ice cream sandwiches
- Warm cookies
- Attentive, quick service
What people don't like
- Significant wait times
- High price point
- Limited menu variety
If you’re in the mood for a highly customizable and satisfying dessert, The Baked Bear is certainly worth considering. Its 8 recommendation score reflects a strong likelihood that you’ll enjoy the creative ice cream sandwiches and the friendly service.
Just be mindful of potential wait times, especially during peak hours, and be prepared for a price point that some consider on the higher side. Ultimately, this spot delivers on its core promise of delicious, personalized treats.
It’s a solid choice for a sweet indulgence, particularly if you prioritize unique food experiences over strict budget adherence. Go in with an understanding of its popularity and pricing, and you’re likely to leave content.
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Verdict: Our expert take on The Baked Bear
Food (8.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to the food, guests are generally thrilled, with a fantastic 87.2% customer satisfaction and a solid 8.3 score. Many of the 123 positive comments rave about the delicious ice cream sandwiches, the extensive customization options, and the delightful warm cookies, making for a truly satisfying treat. However, a handful of the 16 critical remarks suggest there's room for improvement in certain areas.
Some wished for more unique flavors and a wider variety of options, particularly regarding gluten-free choices, which occasionally disappointed or were unavailable.
Food
141
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
16
negative
2
neutral
123
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Customizable ice cream sandwiches
- Warm, fresh cookies
- Delicious dessert options
What people don't like
- Limited flavor variety
- Few gluten-free options
- Occasional item unavailability
Often praised
- ice creamThey have many different kinds of cookies, and you can pick 2 different cookies for your sandwich. They have about a dozen different types of ice cream; we got the Bear Tracks, which is cake batter flavor with cookie dough and Oreo. The toppings are extra, so we got Fruity Pebbles because we wanted extra sugar, haha.
- cookiesI liked the fact that you can customize your sandwich. They have many different kinds of cookies, and you can pick 2 different cookies for your sandwich. They have about a dozen different types of ice cream; we got the Bear Tracks, which is cake batter flavor with cookie dough and Oreo.
- ice cream sandwichA basic sandwich is about $10, but with toppings, it can easily creep up to $13 to $15. It was good, but we're not sure if it was worth $13. Since we were on vacation and splurged, the location and environment made it worth it.
- ice cream sandwichesYou have to stop here when visiting San Francisco. They offer a unique make your own ice cream sandwiches experience. I highly recommend you DO IT!
- foodThe food tastes super good
- cookie basesGood selection of cookie bases
- dessertPerfect place for dessert!
- optionsfreedom to choose from all the options and armar tu helado a tu eleccion.
- warm cookiesMy experience was centered around a delightful treat: a Cookie Bowl with Birthday cake ice cream and sprinkles. Although I forgot to take a picture, this is a must-stop spot if you are in the mood for ice cream and warm cookies!
- warm the cookiesIt was made with Cookie Monster cookies and cookie dough ice cream, and it was absolutely incredible. A pro tip for fellow diners: ask them to warm the cookies for an even better experience.
Frequently criticized
- cookiesI'm sad to say, but unfortunately, these cookies turned out differently than I had expected. I was so excited to try these that I bought a box of cookies for my family and me.
- varietythere would be more variety on the website
- GhiradelliMy experience was far better than Ghiradelli! This is one of the best places to get Ice Cream in the Fisherman's Wharf area.
- browniesMy first visit to this restaurant was a bit disappointing as they were out of brownies. However, I returned the next day and was pleased to find they had everything available.
- cookie/brownie mixBoth the cookie and brownie tasted like they have been baked several days ago.
- eating experienceNur etwas schwer zu essen.
- familyI've been searching for some good homemade chocolate chip cookies, so I picked them. Well, the box was cute; unfortunately, my family and I did not enjoy them. The picture above is what's left.
- flavorsOut of a lot of flavors
- gluten free cookie optionswish there were 2 gluten free cookie options
- gluten free ice cream optionsat least 2 gluten free ice cream options
If you're craving a highly customizable and delicious ice cream sandwich, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that while the core offerings are fantastic, some specific dietary options or unique flavors might be limited.
Service (6.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 37% of the guests
The service here often shines, with many customers praising the friendly and quick interactions and warm welcome from staff, often mentioning specific girl working or folks running the spot. This contributes to a solid score of 6.7, reflecting a generally positive experience, with 17 positive remarks out of 28 total. However, customer satisfaction is a bit more mixed at 60.7%, largely due to operational challenges.
Many encountered frustrating waiting time and long line issues, with some even finding the place not open or seeing customers walked away due to confusing restaurant closure information, as noted in 11 negative comments.
Service
28
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
11
negative
0
neutral
17
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, quick service
- Attentive, patient staff
- Warm welcome
What people don't like
- Long waiting times
- Unexpected closures
- Confusing signs/info
Often praised
- serviceThe portion sizes were also generous. The service was super quick, with ordering done at the counter. The ambiance is very casual, with outdoor seating that's enclosed and protected from the wind.
- Cute girl at the windowCute girl at the window was also a plus
- MonicaMonica is a really great employee
- Sarasuper amable and cariñosa
- ServiceService:5
- customer servicesuper in customer service
- folks running the spotThe folks running this spot are so nice and attentive!!
- girl thereThe girl there was great and patient
- girl workingshe did amazing.
- good recommendationswith good recommendations feel free to ask for the different flavours and combinations
Frequently criticized
- waiting timeMy experience at this restaurant was marked by a significant wait. We have been waiting here over 30 minutes, and during that time, I observed that a lot of customers walked away. It would be helpful if the restaurant posted the estimated wait times on a sign, but that would imply they could actually manage to serve customers within a reasonable timeframe, given our 30-minute wait.
- customers walked awaythey have had a lot of customers walk away
- linethe line was super long
- line out the doorusually a line out the door
- long lineSuper long line because one poor girl working by herself
- menu markingit would have been helpful if the menu was marked somehow
- not opennot open at all when we came by
- restaurant closureonly to find out it was closed
- signread a sign that says "back in 30 minutes."
- website informationWebsite said it was open
So, should you visit? If you catch them when things are running smoothly, you'll likely enjoy the friendly staff and quick service. However, be prepared for potential long waits or unexpected closures, which can definitely dampen the experience.
Ambience (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 22% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.6 and a customer satisfaction rate of 71.4%, its clear most folks enjoy the setting. Many appreciate the overall atmosphere, especially the outdoor seating and the unique location and environment by the pier, often described as a hidden gem.
Out of 14 comments, 10 were glowing about the ambiance. However, there are a couple of points to consider. While the seating is generally liked, some found it limited, and a few felt it wasnt among the most attractive places.
These 2 critical observations, though few, suggest there's a little room for improvement in certain aspects of the physical space.
Ambience
14
Reviews
71%
Satisfaction
2
negative
2
neutral
10
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fun pier atmosphere
- Casual outdoor seating
- Hidden gem vibe
What people don't like
- Limited seating space
- Less attractive look
Often praised
- atmosphereatmosphere was also rated highly
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambianceReally casual, sit outside place! Really casual, sit outside place! Really casual, sit outside place!
- atmosphere by the pierThe atmosphere by the pier with the other food trucks is also so fun.
- hidden gemdefinitely a hidden gem :)
- location and environmentbecause of the location and environment it was worth it
- outdoor seatingsome outdoor seating enclosed from the wind.
- seatingPlenty of seating at picnic tables
- street car stopI love that its next to the street car
stop
Frequently criticized
- attractive placesNot the most attractive places
- seatingthe seating is limited
If youre looking for a casual, fun outdoor vibe, especially by the pier, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared that seating might be a bit snug, and its more about the relaxed atmosphere than a super polished look.
Value (4.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 19% of the guests
While the overall customer satisfaction sits at a rather poor 23.1%, some diners found good value, especially regarding the price and price per person. With 3 positive remarks out of 13 total, a few felt the food quantity was generous for what they paid, making it a worthwhile experience. However, the value aspect generally leans towards the negative, reflected in an average score of 4.9.
Many customers, accounting for 7 negative comments, felt the price point was high, finding items expensive and noting extra costs for toppings and delivery fee.
Value
13
Reviews
23%
Satisfaction
7
negative
3
neutral
3
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Good portions for price
What people don't like
- Overall overpriced
- Extra cost for toppings
- High delivery fees
Often praised
- Price per personPrice per person:$1–10
- priceMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic! The food tasted super good and there was plenty of it for the price. I highly recommend getting the snicker doodle cookie – it was life-changing!
- price per personPrice per person:$1–10
Frequently criticized
- $40The picture above is what's left. $40 gone to waste. I'm hoping I can give them away.
- delivery feeI was so excited to try these that I bought a box of cookies for my family and me. I even paid the $7 delivery fee. I've been searching for some good homemade chocolate chip cookies, so I picked them.
- expensiveQuite expensive
- overalloverall over priced
- priceeasily spend 20 bucks on 2 people
- price pointthe price point is on the high side
- toppingstoppings are available but at extra cost
When it comes to value, this spot is a bit of a mixed bag. While some find the portions generous for the price, be prepared for a potentially expensive bill, especially with extra toppings and delivery fee. If you're budget-conscious, scrutinize the menu carefully to avoid surprises.
How are the prices at The Baked Bear?
On average, you’ll spend around 11 per person – from 19 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $11–$20 category. For a Dessert Restaurant, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Interestingly, prices are quite spread out, with almost as many guests spending in the $1–$10 range as in the $11–$20 range. This suggests a nice mix of options, from budget-friendly treats to slightly more indulgent desserts.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 19 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, for a Dessert Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It offers a good range of options, making it accessible for different budgets while still providing quality desserts.
Customer Reviews: what people think about The Baked Bear
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
7
Delicious Ice Cream, Limited GF Options
My experience at this ice cream sandwich business was enjoyable, centered around a loved ice cream sandwich and the presence of a very nice woman working. The atmosphere was also a highlight, rated at 5. While the ice cream itself was very delicious, I do wish there were more gluten-free cookie options and gluten-free ice cream options.
I had hoped for more variety than the single chocolate chip cookie and non-dairy chocolate chip ice cream available on the day of my visit, especially since the website suggested more choices. Despite this, the quality of the dessert was excellent.
- ice cream sandwich9
- woman working9
- ice cream9
- gluten free cookie options3
- gluten free ice cream options3
- variety4
Price per Person
- $1–$10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Phenomenal Ice Cream Sandwiches!
My experience was fantastic! The service was friendly and quick. There was plenty of seating available at picnic tables.
The ice cream sandwiches were phenomenal, and I loved the choices available. They were very generous with the toppings. A single cookie was large enough for normal humans to share; even teens struggled to finish one by themselves.
I absolutely love it!
- service9
- seating8
- ice cream sandwiches10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Incredible Ice Cream Sandwich!
I visited this restaurant on a Friday evening specifically for dessert. My experience was centered around an amazing ice cream sandwich. It was made with Cookie Monster cookies and cookie dough ice cream, and it was absolutely incredible.
A pro tip for fellow diners: ask them to warm the cookies for an even better experience.
- ice cream sandwich10
- Cookie Monster cookies9
- cookie dough ice cream9
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Delicious Cookies and Ice Cream!
My experience at this establishment was wonderful. The cookies were wonderfully fresh, and the ice cream was absolutely delicious! I had anticipated it being overly sweet, but it was not.
There are a great many options available. I highly recommend experiencing this establishment during your visit!
- cookies9
- ice cream10
- sweetness8
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Delicious Ice Cream Sandwiches!
My experience at The Baked Bear was fantastic! I really loved enjoying a good ice cream sandwich. The cookies were super chewy and tasty, especially when heated up.
The ice cream was also delicious and creamy. Overall, it was a great experience.
- cookies10
- ice cream9
- ice cream sandwich10
What The Baked Bear offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Crowd
- Tourists
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Seating
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
Does The Baked Bear offer options for specific dietary needs?
Yes, at The Baked Bear, you’ll find excellent vegan and vegetarian options available, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dessert regardless of your dietary preferences. It’s also a great spot for a quick bite in Fisherman’s Wharf.
What is the atmosphere like at The Baked Bear, and is it accessible?
The Baked Bear offers a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed dessert experience in San Francisco. You’ll also find it very accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring everyone can comfortably enjoy their visit.
How does The Baked Bear generally rate?
The Baked Bear holds a 7.8 score with 78.1% customer satisfaction. Its Food (8.3) is a strong point, while Ambience (7.6) and Service (6.7) are good. Value (4.9) is where it struggles, often perceived as average.
What do customers enjoy most about The Baked Bear?
Many customers appreciate the customizable ice cream sandwiches, with a wide selection of cookies and ice cream flavors. The staff are frequently described as nice, attentive, and helpful, often providing good recommendations.
Are there any common complaints about The Baked Bear?
Customers frequently mention significant wait times and long lines, which can be a source of frustration. The pricing is also a concern for some, with items considered expensive, especially when adding toppings.