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Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory: A Sweet Slice of San Francisco History

Experience the magic of handmade fortune cookies at San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in historic Chinatown. A sweet treat and cultural gem!

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Tucked away in Ross Alley in San Francisco's Chinatown, the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory offers a unique glimpse into the handmade creation of fortune cookies. This small factory has been a local institution since 1962, drawing visitors to witness the traditional cookie-making process and sample unique flavors.

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

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
  • Bring cash, as there is a small fee for taking photos of the cookie-making process.
  • Try the free sample of a flat, unfolded fortune cookie fresh off the griddle.
  • Consider purchasing a custom-made fortune cookie for a unique souvenir or gift.
  • Explore Ross Alley, the historic alleyway where the factory is located, known for its colorful murals.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Washington Street and Grant Avenue in Chinatown, walk east on Washington Street towards Ross Alley. Ross Alley will be the first alleyway on your right, marked by red lanterns. The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory is located halfway down the alley on the left at 56 Ross Alley.

  • Public Transport

    From the Ferry Building, walk to the bus stop at Clay Street & Drumm Street. Take the 1 Muni bus towards Geary & 33rd Avenue and exit at Sacramento Street & Grant Avenue. Walk up Grant Avenue, turn left onto Washington Street, and Ross Alley will be immediately on your right. Walk halfway down Ross Alley to find the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. A single ride on Muni is $2.50.

  • Driving

    From the East Bay, take the Bay Bridge (I-80 West) towards San Francisco. Take Exit 2C to merge onto Fremont Street, then continue onto Front Street. Turn left onto Pine Street, right onto Powell Street, and right again onto Jackson Street. Turn right onto Ross Alley. Limited street parking is available; consider using a parking garage. Several parking garages are located near the factory, including the Chinatown Parking Garage (728 Pacific Avenue), Portsmouth Square Plaza Garage (733 Kearny Street), and California Parking (555 Jackson Street). Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $17-$25 for a few hours.

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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 more than just a bakery; it's a living piece of San Francisco history. Founded in 1962, this small, family-run factory has been handcrafting fortune cookies using the same traditional methods for decades. Stepping into the factory is like stepping back in time. The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air as you watch skilled workers deftly manipulate the batter on rotating griddles, insert fortunes, and fold the warm cookies into their iconic shape. The factory produces up to 10,000 cookies a day, and in addition to the traditional vanilla flavor, they offer chocolate, strawberry, green tea, and glazed cookies. You can even customize your own fortune for a special occasion. The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory isn't just a place to satisfy your sweet tooth; it's an experience. It's a chance to witness a disappearing craft, learn about the history of fortune cookies (which surprisingly originated in the United States, not China), and support a local business that's been a part of the community for generations. Be sure to bring cash for a bag of cookies and a small tip if you take photos.

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