When I lived in the Bay Area, well before my celiac diagnosis, I visited the Ferry Building often. We were headed back to San Francisco for a Giants game, and I worried I might be disappointed if I stopped at my favorite marketplace. The Ferry Building proved amazing—a gluten-free foodie paradise. The Giants, not so much when the Dodgers were in town.
Below are the highlights from my Ferry Building visit: a gluten-free foodie checklist for your next San Francisco trip.
Boccalone Salumeria: Boccalone specializes in small-batch cured meats made from premium pork. Most of their products are gluten free, and they will prepare a gluten-free sandwich using Mariposa Baking Co.’s bread from across the hall. My recommendation: try a meat cone with three kinds of salted pork (don’t miss the mortadella). Keep an eye out for chef Chris Cosentino, who is a co-owner. If you can’t visit in person, Boccalone sells many products online.
Cowgirl Creamery: One of my favorite stops, now even better with a gluten-free snack pack featuring Mary’s Gluten Free Crackers and Cowgirl cheeses in the dairy case. Full boxes of Mary’s Crackers are also available if you’re planning to share or indulge. Tell the counter staff the types of cheese you enjoy and they’ll point out several you’ll love—Cowgirl stocks cheeses from their own creamery as well as selections from around the world. If they have fresh paneer, try it; it’s a rare unaged Indian-style cheese. Cowgirl Creamery products are available at select grocery stores and online.
Far West Fungi: Far West Fungi brings wild mushrooms to the city without the hike. Don’t miss the candy cap ice cream sample—these mushrooms have a cinnamon-maple flavor that’s astonishing. The shop supplies truffles and specialty fungi to many top San Francisco chefs; check the cooler for unusual finds and ask if Oregon white truffles are available—the scent alone is unforgettable.
Mariposa Baking Co.: Housed in a kiosk inside the Ferry Building, Mariposa is a must for gluten-free bakers and shoppers. They offer a wide selection of gluten-free baked goods and frozen items. Pick up a roll for a Boccalone sandwich or gluten-free focaccia to pair with cheese. Many items are dairy-free, nut-free, or vegan, making this stop accessible for many diets. My favorites are the cinnamon rolls, bagels, and focaccia. Ask for a “penguin” for kids—Mariposa’s gluten-free version of a classic filled cupcake. Mariposa sells some products online as well.
Recchiuti Confections: Handmade chocolates in inventive seasonal flavors—this is one of my indulgences. Favorites include burnt caramel and Kona coffee truffles; my daughter adores the peanut butter pucks. While some items are sold online, visiting the shop offers an experience that delivery can’t match. The staff are consistently friendly and knowledgeable. My only suggestion: try to resist taking the whole display home.
Culinaire: A fascinating food and kitchen antique shop. Even if you don’t plan to buy, wandering through Culinaire gives you culinary history and inspiration for your own kitchen.
Stonehouse Olive Oil: Taste pure California olive oil at Stonehouse—but savor it properly. Hold a small amount on your tongue for a moment to reveal the full flavor profile, especially in infused oils like blood orange and Persian lime. If you find an oil you love, bring home a bottle and their famous dipping oil. Stonehouse and other California producers also sell their products online.
Ciao Bella Gelato: No Ferry Building visit is complete without Ciao Bella. Their gelato and sorbet are naturally gluten free unless a mix-in contains gluten. Ask for samples of seasonal flavors—the cranberry and blood orange sorbet is a standout (and it’s dairy free). Sorbets are a great option for dairy-free or gluten-free friends. If you need suggestions, try chocolate hazelnut or coconut. Ciao Bella’s products are distributed more widely, so you may find them in premium grocery freezers.
The Ferry Building hosts farmers’ markets on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It’s a condensed version of San Francisco: waterfront views, vibrant personalities, exceptional food, and a touch of eccentricity—exactly my kind of place.
Frisco love—
KC