Backhaus | San Mateo

For discerning food enthusiasts across the Bay Area, Backhaus | San Mateo is a name synonymous with world-class artisanal baking. More than just a local bakery, it has evolved into a highly-respected culinary institution on the Peninsula, known for its deep commitment to craft and quality. Founded by Anne Moser, a native of Germany, Backhaus (which translates to 'Bakehouse') blends traditional European baking techniques with the vibrant seasonality of California ingredients. The result is a menu of breads and pastries—from the flakiest croissants to rustic sourdough loaves—that consistently draw lines out the door.

The establishment's reputation for excellence is not merely local; it has earned significant regional accolades. Backhaus was recently a finalist in the highly competitive San Francisco Best Croissant Competition, where it secured a remarkable 2nd Place—a testament to its ability to rival even the most storied French bakeries in the region. This performance is especially impressive given the stiff competition, with one customer noting that the pastries could "seriously easily rival any Boulangerie shop" in Paris. Beyond the technical skill, the business proudly Identifies as women-owned and maintains a welcoming, LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, making it a comfortable and essential fixture in the San Mateo community. Whether you're in the mood for a complex Espresso drink or a perfect Almond Croissant, Backhaus promises a refined and welcoming "Breakfast" or "Quick visit" experience.

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Backhaus is located in a prime spot within the bustling downtown area of San Mateo, ensuring it is easily accessible for both local regulars and customers traveling from across the Peninsula. The address is 32 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA. This central location contributes significantly to its status as a gathering point for the community.

Accessibility and amenities for patrons are well-considered:

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: The bakery provides an accessible entrance, ensuring all members of the community can enjoy their offerings.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Accessible parking is available, a crucial convenience for visitors in a downtown setting.
• Parking: While being centrally located, the immediate area relies on Paid street parking, so visitors should be prepared for typical downtown parking logistics. The convenience of a short walk, however, quickly leads to the inviting aroma of fresh-baked goods.

The shop’s atmosphere, with its large windows often offering a glimpse into the production process, reinforces its philosophy of transparency and community engagement, making the visit itself part of the experience.

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Backhaus operates as a full-service artisanal bakery and cafe, offering a range of services designed for maximum customer convenience, whether they are dining in or taking their treats on the go.

Services offered include:

• Multiple Service Options: Customers can enjoy the full experience with Dine-in seating, grab their items quickly via In-store pickup or Takeout, or simply stop in for In-store shopping. They also offer Onsite services, though this usually pertains to enjoying the cafe environment.
• Full Espresso and Coffee Bar: The bakery features a comprehensive coffee program, with Offerings including Drip Coffee, Espresso, Latte, Cold Brew, and various specialty drinks like the Cortado and Cappuccino, all designed to perfectly complement the pastries.
• Tea and Juice Selections: Beyond coffee, they cater to diverse preferences with a selection of high-quality teas such as Green Tea and Earl Grey, as well as refreshing juices like Apple Juice and Apple Fizz.
• Flexible Payment Methods: Embracing modern technology, the bakery accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, ensuring a smooth and rapid transaction experience, which is key for a busy "Quick visit."

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The unique features of Backhaus stem from its dedication to traditional European methods, combined with a commitment to local quality, setting it apart as a leader in Bay Area baking.

Key features and highlights include:

• Award-Winning Croissants: The bakery’s flaky, buttery croissants are legendary on the Peninsula, earning a prestigious 2nd Place in the 2025 San Francisco Best Croissant Competition, a significant recognition of their world-class technique and quality.
• German-Inspired Specialties: Owner Anne Moser's heritage is evident in the menu, which includes traditional European items like various Kouign Amann flavors (a caramelized Breton cake) and the use of rye flour and techniques that honor classic German 'Bakehouse' traditions.
• Innovative and Seasonal Menu: The menu extends beyond classics to inventive, highly-praised items such as the Pistachio Raspberry Croissant, the savory Speck & Egg croissant, and rotating seasonal danishes, showcasing creativity while prioritizing local, fresh ingredients.
• High-Quality Ingredients: They are known for sourcing the best, using ingredients like Guittard chocolate in their Chocolate Chip Cookies and making everything from scratch on-site, including pastry fillings.
• Women-Owned and Community-Focused: The business proudly Identifies as women-owned and maintains a core philosophy of having a deep, positive impact on its local community, fostering a warm, LGBTQ+ friendly and transparent environment.

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For California patrons seeking to place orders, inquire about seasonal specials, or confirm business hours at one of the Peninsula's most celebrated artisanal bakeries, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 32 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
• Phone: (650) 200-9493

The San Mateo location serves as the flagship store, known for its consistent quality and welcoming environment in the heart of downtown.

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For California residents, choosing Backhaus | San Mateo is an investment in artisanal quality, award-winning flavor, and local, community-driven business ethics. It is worth choosing for anyone who believes that quality ingredients, meticulous technique, and an authentic culinary vision are paramount.

The primary reason to choose Backhaus is the unmatched quality of their viennoiserie and bread. The 2nd Place win in the San Francisco Best Croissant Competition is a clear indicator that their pastries are among the absolute best the Bay Area has to offer, rivaling even top international bakeries. Customers who have tried their simple Traditional Croissant or the inventive Pistachio Raspberry Croissant attest to a perfect texture and flavor profile.

Furthermore, the bakery's commitment to community, as an LGBTQ+ friendly and women-owned business, ensures a welcoming experience for everyone. The combination of a high-end, European-inspired product—like their rustic bread loaves and Kouign Amann—and a modern, efficient service model (including a full espresso bar and quick, modern payment options) makes Backhaus the definitive choice for a premium, reliable, and delightful bakery experience on the Peninsula.

Backhaus | San Mateo

32 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA