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Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory: A Sweet San Francisco Tradition

Experience a San Francisco tradition: witness the art of handmade fortune cookies at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in historic Chinatown.

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Tucked away in Ross Alley in San Francisco's Chinatown, the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory offers a glimpse into the traditional art of handmade fortune cookie creation. Since 1962, this family-owned factory has been delighting visitors with fresh, customizable fortune cookies.

A brief summary to Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Bring cash, as the shop may not accept credit cards.
  • Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have a more intimate viewing experience.
  • Ask about custom fortunes for a personalized souvenir or gift.
  • Be prepared for a quick visit, as the factory is small and can get busy.
  • Try a sample of the freshly baked fortune cookies.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in Chinatown, the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory is easily accessible by foot. Head towards Ross Alley, a pedestrian street between Jackson and Washington Streets. The factory is located at 56 Ross Alley, and the aroma of fresh cookies will guide you.

  • Public Transport

    From the Powell Street Cable Car line (Powell Street & Market - Bay + Taylor line), exit at Powell St & Jackson St. Walk east down Jackson Street past Stockton Street; Ross Alley will be on the right-hand side, between Stockton and Kearny Streets. Alternatively, from the Ferry Building, walk to Clay St & Drumm St and take the 1 Muni bus (Geary + 33rd Avenue). Exit at Sacramento St & Grant Ave, walk up Grant Street, turn left on Washington Street, and Ross Alley will be immediately on your right. A single ride on Muni costs $2.50.

  • Driving

    From the East Bay, take the Bay Bridge (I-80 West) and follow signs to Fremont Street. Continue onto Front Street, turn left onto Pine Street, right onto Powell Street, and right onto Jackson Street. Finally, turn right onto Ross Alley. Several parking garages are available in the vicinity, including the Chinatown Parking Garage (728 Pacific Avenue) and Portsmouth Square Plaza Garage (733 Kearny St). Parking rates typically range from $17-$25 per hour.

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Discover more about Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown at 56 Ross Alley, is a unique and delightful experience. Founded in 1962, this small factory has been handcrafting fortune cookies using the same traditional methods for decades. As you step into the unassuming storefront, the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air. Inside, you'll witness the mesmerizing process of fortune cookie creation. Skilled workers use antique, tailor-made machines to bake thin, circular cookies on rotating griddles. While the cookies are still warm and pliable, a fortune is quickly inserted, and the cookie is folded into its iconic shape. The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory offers more than just the classic vanilla flavor. You can also find chocolate, strawberry, green tea, and glazed cookies. For a unique souvenir, consider ordering a custom fortune or a jumbo-sized cookie. Watching the cookie-making process is free, but there is a small charge (around 50 cents) to take photographs of the workers and the factory interior. Ross Alley itself adds to the charm of the experience. As the oldest alley in San Francisco, it was once known for gambling dens in the 1880s. Today, it's a colorful pedestrian street adorned with vibrant murals celebrating the Chinese community.

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