I stopped in here for a little snack and boy, were the options dizzying! Lots of baked treats abound in this charming little bakery-- from a wide range of cookies (dinosaur cookies, walnut cookies, chocolate, baklava, etc) in one display case and single serve pastries in another case(brownies, slice of cakes) and breads off to the side. The half moon shaped chocolate cookie was my pastry of choice though I hope to come again and try the pumpkin bread. They serve coffee, and though there are no tables, the benches right outside are perfect for taking a break and people watching. HMB bakery is a nice little gem and is great for a little treat or for gifts. Check out the cool photos on the wall!
(5)
Rose S.
Great sandwiches, huge and tasty. Don't get the liverworst though. Their doughnuts and breakfast pastries look big and tasty but haven't tried yet. Don't try french pastries, we did and they taste like doughnuts. We didn't want doughnuts.
(5)
Helen L.
I had the artichoke pesto pizza. You would think they got the artichoke down the road at the farm. So much topping! It is a bit greasy, but delicious. I got the pesto bread too. My whole car smelled like pesto. I just love this bakery. It is so old style, traditional, no artificial flavoring, natural ingredients. Yes, some of the baked goods seemed a bit fake looking. There is so much variety. The baklava looked good. The prices are so good that I feel like I can splurged and eat for the whole family. I also had the apple strudel and I liked that it wasn't sweet at all.
(4)
Winglo A.
I came here many times before. I was here yesterday and I got my sweet fixings. Got some apple turnovers, Orange Pound cake, cinnamon rolls and some chocolate cookies. All excellent, the turnover was just great, the crest was baked just right -fluffy. Don't know what more can you ask for.
(5)
donald z.
I don't normally eat donuts but this place have really good custard filled donuts. And pumpkin pies.
(5)
Vanessa R.
How this place has 4 stars is beyond me. Chocolate chip cookies, hard! Butter cookies, bitter. Eclaires, dry. Oatmeal cookies, bland. Coffee, eh. If your starving and want cheap "sweets" make a stop, otherwise keep walking! Totally deceived on this one. Given, I didn't go in the morning, maybe things we're "fresh" but honestly hurt my braces on those cookies.
(1)
Chris C.
Lots of good selections from cookies to eclairs. Awesome pumpkin bread and pumpkin cheesecake! Will definitely be stopping by this place everytime I'm in the HMB area.
(5)
Michaela S.
I've never met a cookie I didn't like. Well, except if it were oatmeal with raisins. Or had nuts in it. Or lemon-y. Okay, so maybe I do prefer some cookies over others, but for the most part, I am somewhat of a cookie whore, and Half Moon Bay Bakery did not disappoint! My friend and I tried their regular chocolate chip cookie (solid), snickerdoodle (equally solid), and white chocolate chip cookie (I didn't try this one but my friend had no complaints about it). Prices are reasonable and affordable. It took a whole lot of will power on my behalf to walk out of there without buying one of everything - cookies, breads, cupcakes, cakes. Yes, I wanted it all. Oink. Parking situation: street parking.
(4)
Roxy G.
It probably does not bode well for Half Moon Bakery that I just went to Bouchon's in Napa a few days prior, but I did not find myself really thrown back by this bakery. Yelp led me here, after taking a scenic drive around Half Moon Bay with a friend. The chocolate chip cookies were pretty much the only thing that caught my attention, the eclairs seemed a bit artificial for lack of a better term, and it reminded me slightly of a mexican bakery in downtown Tijuana. Overall it seems like an "ok" bakery - especially if you live in the area. It does alright... just alright. Nothing to drive 30 miles out of the way for, but certainly a contender in it's local demographic.
(2)
Connie W.
This place has the most delicious cakes (pumpkin, pound, blueberry, etc.)! The first time we came we only got the pumpkin, which we read about. We ended up devouring the entire cake in two days. So yesterday we got two - pumpkin & pound. I don't even want to open them because I know that once we do, it'll be gone in two days. The cakes are so moist and soft, even after it's been opened for a few days. Their carrot cake (sold by the slice) is also delicious. The cake itself is moist and the frosting is just the right amount of sweetness. I've had a few of their cookies, which were just okay. But the cakes - YUM!
(4)
Will A.
On my way back from Ano Nuevo, I stopped by this place to sample some of their baked goods. What a hidden gem! Right on Main Street, take a slight detour on your way back to SF/East Bay and try some of their cookies or grab a nice loaf of bread. Thought their chocolate chip cookies were some of the best I've had. The chocolate rock wasn't as good as I thought, but the raspberry cookies were really good. If you want to buy pumpkin bread, this is the place. They also have Portuguese sweet bread.
(4)
Chelsea J.
This is by far the best place to get pumpkin bread! I joined yelp just to write this view its so good! This is the second year I have gone to the pumpkin festival and both times I went to this bakery just for their pumpkin bread. Word of mouth has it that this is the best pumpkin bread spot, and I don't have to try anywhere else to believe it! Well priced, adorable shop and delicious, moist pumpkin bread! What more can you want?
(5)
Kay G.
VERY good bakery. Their Artichoke and Pesto round loaf is beyond incredible, its a MUST HAVE! Very fresh and moist and just bursting with flavor. I highly recommend this place!!
(5)
Ann B.
Exceptionally great baked goods, too expensive, irresistible nonetheless!
(4)
A B.
Gingersnap pumpkin cookie with milk! This cookie is why I would go back. The crescent chocolate chip cookie was terrible. It was not moist and tasted more like a flour than chocolate chip. Atmosphere was not that welcoming or smelled like a bakery.. Which is odd... I think they could use some renovation but again you're coming for baked goods not a romantic cookie date.
(3)
Lynn W.
I have been to this bakery several times over the years. It never fails that I find something so yummy that I want to go back the very next day! I never get to do that but, wow, what does that say about the bakery? I have had any number of delicious goodies here and not one item was bad. Yesterday was no exception. This was my primary reason for going downtown. We didn't get there until about 3pm so most everything was gone. However they had lots of cookies! Pumpkin cookies, and cinnamon sugar, frosted ghosts and cats and pumpkins for Halloween. My favorite are the cinnamon sugar cookies, buttery and not too crunchy with lots of flavor! This is a gem of a bakery. The locals know it. This is the reason that come afternoon, most everything is gone. But what's left.....is mmmm mmmm good!
(4)
Ken L.
Got the half moon chocolate chip cookie which was okay. My finacee got the ginger cookie which was okay as well.
(3)
Scotty D.
each and every time i visit half moon bay for the art and pumpkin festival this is one of the first places i have to visit. if you don't go early enough there is a line out the door and the selection will be limited. they always have the best pumpkin treat like cookies, bread, loaf and some of the best pumpkin pies. unfortunately i was out in pescardaro today and i stopped in around 2am and they were closed. such a bummer. oh well i will once again try again and take my chances to beat the crowds in mid october.
(4)
Jayson C.
Mmmm. When you walk into this bakery, your mouth begins to immediately salivate. There's so many delicious baked goods to choose from. I've been here twice, once for the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival and another time that was a week before the festival. I guess it's a no brainer that if pumpkins are a local produce then anything baked with pumpkin around Half Moon Bay should taste absolutely delicious. I came into this bakery looking for pumpkin pie, but instead had pumpkin bread. I've only had a few pumpkin breads in the past and this is THE best I've had. Just like most good bakeries, you need to get here early to make sure you get to choose from everything they make, otherwise you'll miss out on some of their goods because they go fast. If you're coming during the Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival, make sure you stop by this place. The people who work here are nice and the decor is worth taking notice.
(4)
Jennifer G.
I purchased two ginger cookies - one for me, and one for my fiance. I ate mine immediately. I ate his on the drive home. Boy, he really missed out.
(5)
Mary G.
I really want to try the artichoke pesto bread. But what I am raving about is the Linguisa cheese bread. Holy mother of all delicious things!!! Man, I love HMB. As Joey Tribbiani would say, "bread - good, cheese - good, meat - goooooood".
(5)
Linh N.
I love, Love, LOVE their pumpkin bread! I have to be honest and say that I haven't had anything else from there because my eyes, brain and stomach automatically hone in on the pumpkin bread. If you are visiting during the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival, get there early. They sell out of this bread of Gods before 11 am (sometimes 10 am). Hoardes of people come here every pumpkin season for their pumplin breads. Not only do I have to purchase ten loaves for the hubby, but I have to make sure to buy some for family, friends and coworkers. If you buy in bulk, you can freeze them and they still taste great! You can't go wrong when the mere mention of pumpkin bread from Half Moon Bay Bakery makes you salivate like Pavlov's dogs and Homer J. Simpson!
(5)
Melissa K.
Cute little shop, lots to pick from, and everything i've had so far is good.
(4)
Ritzy R.
Thank you so much to Desi at the Half Moon Bay Bakery for making us a beautiful and delicious wedding cake! There was only a small amount of cake left after the wedding, it was SO good! Desi did an excellent job navigating through our requests and working with our color and style and budget. We are beyond pleased with the final product! Highly recommended!
(5)
Tara T.
Great, traditional bakery. Nothing is made in "bulk", the goods are always fresh & the focaccia breads & pizzas make for a great little lunch on the beach. It is a very small location, so you won't find a ton of variety, but quality, not quantity, right? This place is REALLY popular and well loved by the locals, so if you want any of the Challa Bread or any of the other items that sell out quickly, you'll need to be there when the shop opens, bright & early, at 6 AM.
(5)
Lolia S.
A teensy, cozy, local bakery that offers donuts, danishes, and cookies. It looks like it's been here for quite some time. During October they always have an array of pumpkin treats including pumpkin cake rolls, pumpkin brownies, mini pumpkin pies, and pumpkin loaf cake. They even have baklava. I didn't see any cupcakes though. I had a Portuguese cinnamon sugar cookie which was quite good: a hard, crunchy butter cookie dusted with ample amounts of cinnamon sugar. They also serve coffee drinks and sandwiches. The pumpkin loaf cake was very good: moist and dense - could have used more spice though. It's nut free. Reminded me a bit of gingerbread. It was $3 for a loaf which seems like a very good price. They had some other loaf cake flavors for the same price. Not a fancy place but simple and good.
(3)
William M.
Great almond joy cookie.
(3)
Larry C.
Decent desserts although maybe a little on the pricy side. Plenty of seating including an interesting indoor atrium.
(3)
Kan L.
overall, i like this place. i do agree with a previous yelper that the cookies are not superb, though i did really like the biscotti. i had a gingerbread man, which probably would have been good if it were fresh. the artichoke/pesto bread (focaccia?) was tasty, though wee bit oily for me. prices are decent. i'd like to come back to try more different thangs.
(4)
L L.
You have to go here to get the desserts (fresh strawberries and rasberry with cream creations). Yummie. Oh, and I didn't even get the wonderful fresh smelling bread. If you do nothing else in Half Moon Bay this place is worth trying out before heading back on the 92 or 1 FWY. Parking was the only pain, I ended up just parking in the B of A lot close by.
(4)
TW M.
Nice selection of sweets here, some unique stuff. When I went they had some awesome seasonal selections. I tried a baked pretzel, hazelnut ring, and a meringue cookie. All delicious. A bit pricey but considering the area it's expected.
(4)
Yna D.
The Artichoke Pesto Bread is one good reason to keep on coming back to Halfmoon Bay. I always get the bread that just come out from the brick oven. This historic bakery makes fantastic bread!
(4)
Don S.
I think it is great that he is keeping the memory of the Half Moon Bay Dragstrip going... And he has great bread........... Wish I was closer so that I could buy his items daily/. Don Smith
(5)
Dolce Vita V.
They have the BEST pumpkin pie!! my rating is for the pumpkin pie!!!
(5)
Vanessa H.
I have been working here for about 3 years now. Here at our bakery we are known for all the historic HMB Drag Strip photographs. I enjoy helping the tourists in finding exactly what they want. The good thing about this bakery is that it is not really expensive like the people at Moonside. Here you get more for less. Were famous for our Homemade Artichoke Pesto bread (not from Pescadero). I recommend stopping by and at least looking around before going to Moonside... and by the way we make amazing donuts. We make our traditional Sweet French bread and sourdough. The only inconvenience is that we do not accept atm or credit card but we do accept check.
(5)
Michael V.
I have been reading ALL the reviews at this Bakery and most of you have "really missed the boat" a lot of has been written may be true??? BUT...it is one of the best kept secrets that locals do not share! most people get to this place looong after the morning doughnuts have been devoured (by locals) and are gone Lol...and you look around for a cookie or another treat. ITS THE DOUGHNUTS :)))))
(5)
Jenny S.
Ehh nothing special. I was craving something sweet as we walked through Half Moon Bay's downtown area and this bakery sure did disappoint ---Chocolate chip cookie: only cost us $1!! just okay tasted like a packaged cookie ---half moon chocolate chip cookie: even cheaper at $.85, this had short bread texture but again wasn't impressed maybe i got the wrong thing? NOTE: Cash only
(2)
Hawley I.
Not bad...I'm sure we went way too late to get the full effect of their talents (closer to 1pm) and the staff was not super friendly; but again, bakers get up super early so I'm sure they've been up and working for the past 12 hours so I didn't expect much. Everything we tried was tasty but nothing was worth calling special attention to.
(3)
Jen G.
A-OK. They have lots of different cookies. I really liked the lemon ricotta -- very lemony. The other cookies were OK.
(3)
Marco M.
Great Pizza. Arrogant and unfriendly staff. Very expensive. Bagel I got tasted old. Bird problem on the outside seating. Lots of poop on chairs and tables. Coffee company is better.
(2)
Rick S.
This feels more like a donut shop than a bakery to a degree, but does have lots of cookies, breads, pastries and other sweet carb delights. I had the Bear's Claw for a morning breakfast snack and it was good. There's another bakery on the same street, Moonside, which has more cakes and pies. HMB Bakery has lots of stuff you can buy quickly and affordably, and is a good casual place. Parking is easy in Half Moon Bay.
(3)
Brent W.
We were passing through half moon bay, and after going to the beach for a little bit we were looking for a quick snack before we drove down to Santa Cruz. We stumbled upon this little bakery in downtown HMB. They have a variety of options, including a serious selection of donuts as well as cookies and I think even some pizza slices. My wife went for a half moon chocolate chip cookie and ginger cookie. The chocolate chip cookie was shaped like a half moon (cute!), and was pretty tasty. It was very cakey, almost like a scone or something, and not that sweet. Overall quite good. The ginger cookie was good too. It was a soft ginger cookie sandwich with this cream cheese icing in the middle. It was mouthwateringly good. I went for the maple bacon donut, which was a round donut with maple frosting and bacon chunks on top. I'm not sure what kind of bacon this was, because it didn't have a lot of fat and was a little bit dry but still super tasty. Maybe it was turkey bacon? Nevertheless, it was a nice addition to the top of a mapley donut. I'd definitely go back for a snack sometime in the future. My favorite was the ginger sandwich cookie.
(4)
Nelly H.
Great old fashioned bakery! Chocolate cupcakes were a hit with the kids, great apple fritter and cruler. Chocolate chip cookies were nice and chewy.
(4)
Katherine F.
Cash only....FYI!! I have wanted to try this bakery...and today we brought Apple Strudel to take home. Goodies are very affordably priced...and they have a great selection of cookies, bars and pastries. The Apple Strudel pastry was flaky, but with no butter it did not sing. The filling was not canned, but it was a bit overcooked for me. Light drizzle of glaze made it sweet . Better than pedestrian...but not stellar. I need to come during *Pumpkin Donut* season!!!!
(3)
Ashley D.
I was so incredibly happy with the way our wedding cake turned out. From the delicious taste (i would know as it was shoved in my face by my lovely husband), the simple decor, to the service, and of course the best most reasonable price I could find. I am so happy we went with HMB Bakery and look forward to getting some red velvet cupcakes to celebrate our 1 year anniversary!!
(5)
Cynthia C.
Loved their cake!!!!! They waited after hours for us to pick up our cake because we were running so late. THANK YOU!!!! You saved us!
I had bacon maple donut. It was good but will be better if they can cut bacon in smaller pieces.
(4)
Amy D.
I bookmarked Half Moon Bay Bakery to try after paddleboarding in the area. The bakery is pretty small, but I liked that almost all their items were neatly labeled and priced. My friend and I decided to purchase a few items to sample: -Butter Cookie ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Not as buttery as I was hoping for, and it had a strange aftertaste. I wouldn't get this again. -Baklava ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Ok, but very sticky/chewy. It also didn't quite taste like any of the baklava I've had in the past for some reason. I wouldn't get this again. -Coconut Macaroon ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Chewy, but a little on the dry side. Skip. -Mexican Wedding Cookie ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Very crumbly, and I didn't enjoy this much. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy any of the items I purchased at Half Moon Bay Bakery on this trip. However, the bf thought they were good so I rounded up my review to 3 stars versus 2 for my experience. Although they had a good selection of items, the presentation could have used some work since some of the items were wrapped really messily, and the display cases looked really old. I would return to try the Artichoke Pesto Bread, which looked really good, but I don't think I would purchase any of the baked goods again unless they look a lot better on my next trip. Parking in this area can be tough, but there are a good number of street parking spots available.
(3)
Robert L.
We live in Oakland, and come to Half Moon Bay infrequently -- usually when we want a break from a hot spell. Our very favorite item that they make is their crullers, especially the chocolate-iced ones. They remind my wife of the crullers of her childhood -- eggy, airy, just the right bite-feel. I love them, too. We get a few and then walk down to the other bakery, where we buy coffee and sit at a table in the enclosed space adjoining it and some other businesses. After we're done, we like to browse in the housewares store adjacent to it.
(5)
Claudia M.
I was in Half Moon Bay for the afternoon and was craving something sweet. I walked into this place and saw mostly cookies and some breads. I practically got one of each in the cookie case and the best was the chocolate chip. The rest tasted old like they had been baked a week prior. I also bought a slice of chocolate cake and walked down the street to sit and have it on a bench. I took a bite and instantly spat it out, it was old, dry and beyond stale. I almost went back to tell them how gross it was but I had my newborn with me and he needed to be fed. Pound cake loaf was also dry and didn't at all taste buttery or fresh. Skip this place, you're better off with a slice of grocery store cake or cookies.
(2)
April A.
Artichoke. Pesto. Bread. Arrive early & bring cash.
(5)
Scott F.
You arent going to get better fresh bread in town.
(5)
Rick H.
We live in town and go here once or twice a month. The tres leches cake they make is wonderful, however, the true secret dish here is the Crumb Doughnut. Every year we do a father's day doughnut expedition, trying donuts and rating them. In Half Moon Bay, we tried the Apple Crumb. It was the top rated doughnut (better than Sunshine Donuts, Safeway and Starbuck's Top Pot Glazed). This year we compared it to the DYNAMO donuts (maple bacon), and the Bombino donuts at the Village Market in the Ferry Building and Pepple Organic donuts at the Ferry Building in SF. The crumb has been our top rated choice the last 2 years. Next year we will try San Jose's donuts against Half Moon Bay's champ. Occasionally, they make their own version of the Bombino - a rasberry doughnut with granulated sugar (not glazed which is their standard), this doughnut is also very good.
(5)
Enrique C.
Not a bad place to grab a sandwich. It's cash only and the sandwich selection is limited but I've been happy with the roast beef and the tri-tip. The roast beef is lean, not fatty and the tri-tip is thinly sliced to perfection with some pink. I've only tried the chocolate chip cookies and I will keep trying them. I purchased a loaf of their artichoke pesto bread during my last visit. It was full of artichoke hearts but the pesto made it a little soggy for my taste.
(3)
J R.
Many attractive temptations, but we weren't blown away by the pink armadillo cookie (that's what I call red velvet after seeing "Steel Magnolias" a couple times too many) with white chocolate chips or the fruit bar. There was nothing wrong with the peanut butter cookie (a bit above average), and the "Walneto" (kind of like a thick pecan sandie, but with walnuts) was quite good. Prices are reasonable, service good.
(3)
Lauren S.
A good bakery with lots of options. Great that it is open on Sundays! I agree with other reviewers that the artichoke pesto bread is delicious and full of artichokes. The raspberry donut was also really good. The coffee was ok.
(4)
Robert C.
I would give it 5 stars but the tourist overwhelm this place. Aside from that, good fatty sugary food.
(4)
Adrienne G.
So yeahhhhh, this place is STILL worth the hype & there are a few new pumpkinny goodies to rave about Pumpkin Custard Donut - OMG is this thing uber-delish! Take a Boston Cream Donut but sub out a pumpkin custard & you've got the *most* delish donut on the planet. Doughy, sugary & the pumpkin / chocolate combo is divine!!!! Also indulged in the Pumpkin Pie - this was light & creamy & had a nice strong gingery flavor. This is a pie I *might* pair w/ whipped cream but def not ice cream. In fact, this pie was go incredibly delish, it needed no pairing whatsoever Pumpkin Bread continues to the the epitome of deliciousness - get this In fact, get 1 of everything! You can thank me later....
(5)
Kalyn D.
We did our wedding cake here. I came in and brought a picture of the cake I wanted and Desi recreated exactly the way I wanted! It came out beautiful. We got the red velvet with raspberry filling and it tasted so good!! I got so many compliments on how good and moist the cake was! Definitely would recommend to anyone!!
(5)
Rimi K.
Delicious Original Baked treats. Quaint and well located in downtown Half-Moon Bay. Ordered: Pumpkin Cookie Cream cheese sandwich - $1.50 It was pretty good and definitely original. Recommend for the Half Moon bay wanderer.
(3)
Michelle C.
Great little bakery for the price. I picked up a yummy brownies for around $2? All I know is that it disappeared before the day was over.....into my belly. I'm not sure if this is a Portuguese Bakery? They had a lot of Portuguese items, like Linguica and Portuguese Bread. My next attempt is to try out some of their pastries. Oh yeah!
(4)
Stephanie C.
The holidays are the absolute WORST time to go on a diet. What the heck was I thinking?! Bread only ONCE a day? Only HALF of a bagel?! Thankfully, I have my trainer to keep in me in check. Anyways, I digress... One of the main reasons we went to the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival, was to stop at the Half Moon Bay Bakery and grab some goodies. The line was out the door and rightfully so. It was stocked with cupcakes, cakes, canolli, donuts, cakes on cakes on cakes. If you have any kind of sweet-tooth, you will find something to get your fix here. I ended up getting one of the Halloween donuts which is basically your standard chocolate donut, covered in orange, black, and yellow sprinkles. Overall, it was pretty good but not the best I've ever had. Service was quick but the only downside is that it's CASH ONLY! If you are in the area, or visiting the Pumpkin Festival, it's a good spot to indulge at.
(3)
Allison M.
Didn't end up getting anything here this time, but hooooly half moon, it looked phenomenal. They had these delicious-looking premade pizza type things, as well as plenty of luscious cookies and brownies, and some slices of carrot cake that were nigh on impossible to resist. Oh, and Diet Coke. A bakery with Diet Coke. It exists in real life as well as in my dreams!
(4)
Jennae H.
I typically visit HMB during the October Pumpkin Festival (Pumpkin pie -- nom, nom, nom!). When visiting, I make sure to pop into the HMB Bakery. The pastries, sweets, and sandwiches are fresh AND delicious, the prices are extremely reasonable, and the service is great. Expect a line inside and outside the store! Note: CASH ONLY
(4)
Ellin C.
This is a cute bakery in downtown Half Moon Bay. Had a sample of their pastries which included their half moon shaped chocolate chip cookie, pumpkin whoopie sandwich, white macadamia nut cookie, and their red velvet cookie. Some of the cookies seemed a little hard, but did really enjoy their white macadamia nut cookie. Like that they have a large selection of homemade breads.
(3)
Catherine L.
The people here are very nice, the bakery is very clean, the placement of the baked goods is very inviting and it's just a quaint and charming bakery. I think I ordered the wrong items or went a little too late in the afternoon because my eclair was a bit dry. Next time I will try it again!
(3)
Pauline D.
THE GOOD: Great baklava ($1.50) and artichoke pesto bread ($5.95). These, should you be in the immediate area, are worth stopping in for... THE BAD: If you're a fresh, crisp-on-the-outside, soft-in-the-middle sort of cookie fiend like me, you'll be extremely disappointed. Bold, underline, italicize that. The pumpkin gingersnap cookie ($1) had all the right holiday flavors, but errs on the side of being soft and cake-like. I like gingersnaps that come with a snap! *snap snap* THE UGLY: I like to try the humble choc chip cookie as a measure against all other bakeries. A bite of my chocolate chip cookie "supreme" ($1) had me thinking in mid-chew, "What on Earth is this...??" Hard, dry, highly flavorless. Where's the butter? The vanilla? The chocolate?? Sure, there were chocolate chips studded all over, but dear lord, it tasted terrible, like an old, generic brand cookie. I can only imagine what the non-supreme, regular choc chip cookie ($0.60) tastes like... Eek. It's just too bad I'm not a fan of sugar cookies because they have tons of them. Maybe those are the way to go... *shrug* Good prices on cookies compared to most in the city, but the quality doesn't quite measure up. I'd rather stuff my face with a bag of Chips Ahoy. Long story short: COOKIE BAD. BREAD GOOD.
(3)
Sarah G.
Everyone loves bakeries. I mean how can you not? It is puffed carbs sometimes covered in chocolate, sometimes in sugar and sometimes even with cream. What is there not to like? Well this small little local bakery I can tell locals must come to all the time. They have a pretty good selection of pastries including some rarer ones like pesto bread and things like that too which made me a little extra intrigued. Sarah H., Adam G. and I all got different things and all of us were pretty happy with our choices, except for one pastry Adam got which just tasted a little bland and empty--not worth the calories really. I had their cinnamon roll and it was packed with cinnamon and spices and Sarah also seemed pretty pleased with her choices of bear claws and such, but also said she had had better before too. But it was cheap and fast and they sell coffee too so perfect for grabbing something on the go (especially since you can't sit in there really ha) and I hear they make a really mean cake, so maybe I need to come back and try that instead!
(3)
Pegi C.
I ordered a cake from Half Moon Bay Bakery two weeks ago. I spoke to the young girl at the counter and told her the specifics, in fact wrote them all down on a piece of a tablet for her. I asked her how much 1/2 sheet cake would cost and was quoted $34.00. I went to the bakery (I live locally) the next week to change the color of the flowers from Purple to lilac (it was a 50th anniversary party cake and their wedding colors were lilac and not purple)So another young girl at the counter brought me the tablet and we corrected the color and I again asked her for the price and she quoted me $34.00.. I asked to pick up the cake around noon on the following Saturday morning. I arrived at the bakery at 12:45 p.m. and the young girl behind the counter told me there was no cake ready. I quickly responded with"I sure hope you are wrong because I have ordered this cake over two weeks ago and have come in twice to check on things." She said she did not see it there. I was getting ready to lose it (but I had my granddaughter with me, so I didn't want to make a scene) when the Baker came out with the cake and said "You said you would be here at noon and she was confused. "Ok "I said and started to pay. They do not take credit cards so I said I would write a check. I asked again for the price and the baker said $45.00. Imagine my surprise when I had been quoted two times $34.00 and then the price was changed. What happened to the "customer is always right" and you honor the price that you quote whether right or wrong? They sure don't follow that protacall. The baker then told me I should never talk to the counter help when ordering but should talk to the baker instead. I promptly responded with "You should not have counter help here that do not know your prices." I have never spoken to a baker before at any bakery--always deal with the counter people. I would be a liar if I said the cake and frosting weren't good because they were(not great however, I have had better from Costco ,but this was a very special occasion so I was willing to pay for what I wanted) however when I asked for raspberries as the filling I expected the raspberries to be fresh not jellied out of a jar, and they were jellied not fresh.Very disappointing!! So here I was caught between a rock and a hard place and they knew it. I needed the cake and so I had to pay this price but unfortunately this has left a sour taste in my mouth and we will never be using this bakery again. And you can be sure I will be telling the locals of my experience.
(1)
Elizabeth K.
This bakery is the real, old fashioned, small town deal. Mark, and his father before him, have been making the best sour dough bread, walnut cookies and focaccia for years. Try the custard-filled donuts -- truly old style and so messy delicious you will need extra napkins. You will not get a better loaf of sour dough bread anywhere. If you are looking for an over-priced tourist trap, that charges $10 for a crappy sandwich, go down the street. This is not your place. If you want the bakery locals have been going to for generations, where very little has changed and that's a good thing, then the Half Moon Bay Bakery is the place to try. P.S. the salami sandwich (on fresh baked bread every day) is artery clogging perfection. And don't expect gourmet coffee or slick service. Deal with it, it's Half Moon Bay.
(5)
Paula O.
So I went here because all the yelpers said to go and try their artichoke pesto bread. So I did. I got there and they weren't bubbly friendly but I think they were tired and probably started to clean up because we didn't get help right away. But we did try the artichoke bread and I just might pick some more up the next time I'm there. It was definitely like no other bread we tried, in a good way. Brought it home, threw it back in the oven and mmm mmm yummy. Our family of 4 finished it in one sitting. Try it if you like artichoke and pesto.
(4)
Jim M.
After a nice long bike ride on the coastal trail we were hungry so we got breakfast and it was great with really good fruit. We also got some pastries (macaroon and something else I've forgotten), all very good. There is a very nice seating area inside and there were plenty of open tables and a restroom. I'll go back next time I'm in the area.
(4)
Ryan E.
muffins were good, cash only was rough since I only had a couple singles and some change in my pocket. If I have more dough (sorry) for the bakery, then I'll give a new review. And a small cup of coffee for over a buck fifty, common, gimme .60 a cup in a joint like this.
(3)
Sean B.
on an afternoon drive from SF we found this place before taking a walk on the beach. in the 4 days we were in the bay area this was the best thing we did. cool town, great bakery and friendly service. I wanted to try 1 of everything.
(5)
John H.
Okay, I've only had their artichoke loaf/bread (baked on site) but I was blown away at the amount of flavor and artichoke hearts. I was almost sick from just about eating the whole thing driving over the hill. I just couldn't stop myself. A few door down you can also get the Pescadero baked artichoke bread, but I think that one is only good if you get it hot outta the oven in Pescadero.
(4)
Jenn Y.
Gingerbread Cream Cheese Pumpkin Cookie come back to me... I was pleasantly surprised by how soft the cookie was and this perfect medley of flavors.The cream cheese was just right, with neither flavor overpowering the other. If you took this goodie to any boutique bakery in the city, they would charge you at least $5 or more. It's a small little shop but just walking past and seeing the neon red Bakery sign will make you want to venture inside. WIth different breads and pastries to chose from, if I was a local, I'd be here all the time. Another happy customer, another good review :)
(4)
David H.
There was plenty of variety, and the items were relatively inexpensive... that's the good. We bought two items: jalapeno bread, and zucchini pie. The jalapeno bread was kind of *meh*. It was a bit too doughy (almost undercooked) for my taste. The jalapeno and cheese combo inside was adequate, but nothing stellar. I loved their sign fo the zucchini pie which is why I was compelled to buy it. "Tastes like Apple Pie!" the sign said... and you know what... it did indeed taste exactly like apple pie... but the main ingredient was zucchini instead. Nifty... although in retrospect, if I wanted to eat apple pie, I'd probably just order apple pie. 3 stars for the novelty of it all.
(3)
Irene M.
I am a 'local' and the French bread is so awesome that it fueled the San Mateo high championship swim team a couple of years. CCS twice. ( The girls thought it had special powers.) HOWEVER! my family are serious pumpkin pie fans and we did side by side tasting around the area and HMB bakery wins hands down. Pre order to not be disappointed. My wicked fav? custard filled, chocolate donuts only they can really do perfectly. I can never get home with the goods. I end up in the car, noshing it down . :)
(5)
Gloria H.
Looks like a neighborhood bakery. There are cookies and sweets in one counter and sandwiches and other savory items in another. Didn't get any of those. Instead, I was drawn to the various cake loaves they displayed on a nearby rack. Every flavor sounded delicious: lemon poppyseed, chocolate chocolate chip, blueberry, apple...of course, I have to get the seasonal one: pumpkin and it was fantastic! It was moist and flavorful, couldn't stop eating it...only wish we got more than one and bought other ones too.
(4)
Raina S.
I sometimes take my daughter here for a cookie after school. This is a genuine, old school bakery (it has been around since the 1920s), and I love it. They have cute, tasty cookies in a variety of colors and flavors. I noticed several Yelpers commented on their breads, so I'll have to give them a try. As a bonus, they have a framed poster of The Three Stooges on the wall. That earns extra points in my book.
(4)
M J.
been coming here since I was a kid they have the best pizza bread. And the prices are still good!
(5)
Judy P.
This is a cute little neighborhood bakery. We got a Banana Walnut Loaf and a bunch of cookies. The cookies were very well made and the loaf was moist and light. Definitely stop by if you're in the area!
(4)
Angelyn C.
Cash only but there's an ATM across the street at the market. I come here for the LInguica Cheese Roll in the morning which is so delicious when its warm and freshly baked. The breakfast pastries are good as well. Other donuts become dry and stale as the day goes by but these don't! Come lunchtime, they're as good as they were when I picked them up in the morning. Can't wait to try the other goodies.
(5)
Old School G.
Stopped by the bakery yesterday. The lady there bakes everything quite nicely. I walked away with some chocolate chip cookies, and mint brownies. Very awesome, a little pricey, but well worth it. Will be back again!
Patricia M.
I stopped in here for a little snack and boy, were the options dizzying! Lots of baked treats abound in this charming little bakery-- from a wide range of cookies (dinosaur cookies, walnut cookies, chocolate, baklava, etc) in one display case and single serve pastries in another case(brownies, slice of cakes) and breads off to the side. The half moon shaped chocolate cookie was my pastry of choice though I hope to come again and try the pumpkin bread. They serve coffee, and though there are no tables, the benches right outside are perfect for taking a break and people watching. HMB bakery is a nice little gem and is great for a little treat or for gifts. Check out the cool photos on the wall!
(5)Rose S.
Great sandwiches, huge and tasty. Don't get the liverworst though. Their doughnuts and breakfast pastries look big and tasty but haven't tried yet. Don't try french pastries, we did and they taste like doughnuts. We didn't want doughnuts.
(5)Helen L.
I had the artichoke pesto pizza. You would think they got the artichoke down the road at the farm. So much topping! It is a bit greasy, but delicious. I got the pesto bread too. My whole car smelled like pesto. I just love this bakery. It is so old style, traditional, no artificial flavoring, natural ingredients. Yes, some of the baked goods seemed a bit fake looking. There is so much variety. The baklava looked good. The prices are so good that I feel like I can splurged and eat for the whole family. I also had the apple strudel and I liked that it wasn't sweet at all.
(4)Winglo A.
I came here many times before. I was here yesterday and I got my sweet fixings. Got some apple turnovers, Orange Pound cake, cinnamon rolls and some chocolate cookies. All excellent, the turnover was just great, the crest was baked just right -fluffy. Don't know what more can you ask for.
(5)donald z.
I don't normally eat donuts but this place have really good custard filled donuts. And pumpkin pies.
(5)Vanessa R.
How this place has 4 stars is beyond me. Chocolate chip cookies, hard! Butter cookies, bitter. Eclaires, dry. Oatmeal cookies, bland. Coffee, eh. If your starving and want cheap "sweets" make a stop, otherwise keep walking! Totally deceived on this one. Given, I didn't go in the morning, maybe things we're "fresh" but honestly hurt my braces on those cookies.
(1)Chris C.
Lots of good selections from cookies to eclairs. Awesome pumpkin bread and pumpkin cheesecake! Will definitely be stopping by this place everytime I'm in the HMB area.
(5)Michaela S.
I've never met a cookie I didn't like. Well, except if it were oatmeal with raisins. Or had nuts in it. Or lemon-y. Okay, so maybe I do prefer some cookies over others, but for the most part, I am somewhat of a cookie whore, and Half Moon Bay Bakery did not disappoint! My friend and I tried their regular chocolate chip cookie (solid), snickerdoodle (equally solid), and white chocolate chip cookie (I didn't try this one but my friend had no complaints about it). Prices are reasonable and affordable. It took a whole lot of will power on my behalf to walk out of there without buying one of everything - cookies, breads, cupcakes, cakes. Yes, I wanted it all. Oink. Parking situation: street parking.
(4)Roxy G.
It probably does not bode well for Half Moon Bakery that I just went to Bouchon's in Napa a few days prior, but I did not find myself really thrown back by this bakery. Yelp led me here, after taking a scenic drive around Half Moon Bay with a friend. The chocolate chip cookies were pretty much the only thing that caught my attention, the eclairs seemed a bit artificial for lack of a better term, and it reminded me slightly of a mexican bakery in downtown Tijuana. Overall it seems like an "ok" bakery - especially if you live in the area. It does alright... just alright. Nothing to drive 30 miles out of the way for, but certainly a contender in it's local demographic.
(2)Connie W.
This place has the most delicious cakes (pumpkin, pound, blueberry, etc.)! The first time we came we only got the pumpkin, which we read about. We ended up devouring the entire cake in two days. So yesterday we got two - pumpkin & pound. I don't even want to open them because I know that once we do, it'll be gone in two days. The cakes are so moist and soft, even after it's been opened for a few days. Their carrot cake (sold by the slice) is also delicious. The cake itself is moist and the frosting is just the right amount of sweetness. I've had a few of their cookies, which were just okay. But the cakes - YUM!
(4)Will A.
On my way back from Ano Nuevo, I stopped by this place to sample some of their baked goods. What a hidden gem! Right on Main Street, take a slight detour on your way back to SF/East Bay and try some of their cookies or grab a nice loaf of bread. Thought their chocolate chip cookies were some of the best I've had. The chocolate rock wasn't as good as I thought, but the raspberry cookies were really good. If you want to buy pumpkin bread, this is the place. They also have Portuguese sweet bread.
(4)Chelsea J.
This is by far the best place to get pumpkin bread! I joined yelp just to write this view its so good! This is the second year I have gone to the pumpkin festival and both times I went to this bakery just for their pumpkin bread. Word of mouth has it that this is the best pumpkin bread spot, and I don't have to try anywhere else to believe it! Well priced, adorable shop and delicious, moist pumpkin bread! What more can you want?
(5)Kay G.
VERY good bakery. Their Artichoke and Pesto round loaf is beyond incredible, its a MUST HAVE! Very fresh and moist and just bursting with flavor. I highly recommend this place!!
(5)Ann B.
Exceptionally great baked goods, too expensive, irresistible nonetheless!
(4)A B.
Gingersnap pumpkin cookie with milk! This cookie is why I would go back. The crescent chocolate chip cookie was terrible. It was not moist and tasted more like a flour than chocolate chip. Atmosphere was not that welcoming or smelled like a bakery.. Which is odd... I think they could use some renovation but again you're coming for baked goods not a romantic cookie date.
(3)Lynn W.
I have been to this bakery several times over the years. It never fails that I find something so yummy that I want to go back the very next day! I never get to do that but, wow, what does that say about the bakery? I have had any number of delicious goodies here and not one item was bad. Yesterday was no exception. This was my primary reason for going downtown. We didn't get there until about 3pm so most everything was gone. However they had lots of cookies! Pumpkin cookies, and cinnamon sugar, frosted ghosts and cats and pumpkins for Halloween. My favorite are the cinnamon sugar cookies, buttery and not too crunchy with lots of flavor! This is a gem of a bakery. The locals know it. This is the reason that come afternoon, most everything is gone. But what's left.....is mmmm mmmm good!
(4)Ken L.
Got the half moon chocolate chip cookie which was okay. My finacee got the ginger cookie which was okay as well.
(3)Scotty D.
each and every time i visit half moon bay for the art and pumpkin festival this is one of the first places i have to visit. if you don't go early enough there is a line out the door and the selection will be limited. they always have the best pumpkin treat like cookies, bread, loaf and some of the best pumpkin pies. unfortunately i was out in pescardaro today and i stopped in around 2am and they were closed. such a bummer. oh well i will once again try again and take my chances to beat the crowds in mid october.
(4)Jayson C.
Mmmm. When you walk into this bakery, your mouth begins to immediately salivate. There's so many delicious baked goods to choose from. I've been here twice, once for the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival and another time that was a week before the festival. I guess it's a no brainer that if pumpkins are a local produce then anything baked with pumpkin around Half Moon Bay should taste absolutely delicious. I came into this bakery looking for pumpkin pie, but instead had pumpkin bread. I've only had a few pumpkin breads in the past and this is THE best I've had. Just like most good bakeries, you need to get here early to make sure you get to choose from everything they make, otherwise you'll miss out on some of their goods because they go fast. If you're coming during the Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival, make sure you stop by this place. The people who work here are nice and the decor is worth taking notice.
(4)Jennifer G.
I purchased two ginger cookies - one for me, and one for my fiance. I ate mine immediately. I ate his on the drive home. Boy, he really missed out.
(5)Mary G.
I really want to try the artichoke pesto bread. But what I am raving about is the Linguisa cheese bread. Holy mother of all delicious things!!! Man, I love HMB. As Joey Tribbiani would say, "bread - good, cheese - good, meat - goooooood".
(5)Linh N.
I love, Love, LOVE their pumpkin bread! I have to be honest and say that I haven't had anything else from there because my eyes, brain and stomach automatically hone in on the pumpkin bread. If you are visiting during the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival, get there early. They sell out of this bread of Gods before 11 am (sometimes 10 am). Hoardes of people come here every pumpkin season for their pumplin breads. Not only do I have to purchase ten loaves for the hubby, but I have to make sure to buy some for family, friends and coworkers. If you buy in bulk, you can freeze them and they still taste great! You can't go wrong when the mere mention of pumpkin bread from Half Moon Bay Bakery makes you salivate like Pavlov's dogs and Homer J. Simpson!
(5)Melissa K.
Cute little shop, lots to pick from, and everything i've had so far is good.
(4)Ritzy R.
Thank you so much to Desi at the Half Moon Bay Bakery for making us a beautiful and delicious wedding cake! There was only a small amount of cake left after the wedding, it was SO good! Desi did an excellent job navigating through our requests and working with our color and style and budget. We are beyond pleased with the final product! Highly recommended!
(5)Tara T.
Great, traditional bakery. Nothing is made in "bulk", the goods are always fresh & the focaccia breads & pizzas make for a great little lunch on the beach. It is a very small location, so you won't find a ton of variety, but quality, not quantity, right? This place is REALLY popular and well loved by the locals, so if you want any of the Challa Bread or any of the other items that sell out quickly, you'll need to be there when the shop opens, bright & early, at 6 AM.
(5)Lolia S.
A teensy, cozy, local bakery that offers donuts, danishes, and cookies. It looks like it's been here for quite some time. During October they always have an array of pumpkin treats including pumpkin cake rolls, pumpkin brownies, mini pumpkin pies, and pumpkin loaf cake. They even have baklava. I didn't see any cupcakes though. I had a Portuguese cinnamon sugar cookie which was quite good: a hard, crunchy butter cookie dusted with ample amounts of cinnamon sugar. They also serve coffee drinks and sandwiches. The pumpkin loaf cake was very good: moist and dense - could have used more spice though. It's nut free. Reminded me a bit of gingerbread. It was $3 for a loaf which seems like a very good price. They had some other loaf cake flavors for the same price. Not a fancy place but simple and good.
(3)William M.
Great almond joy cookie.
(3)Larry C.
Decent desserts although maybe a little on the pricy side. Plenty of seating including an interesting indoor atrium.
(3)Kan L.
overall, i like this place. i do agree with a previous yelper that the cookies are not superb, though i did really like the biscotti. i had a gingerbread man, which probably would have been good if it were fresh. the artichoke/pesto bread (focaccia?) was tasty, though wee bit oily for me. prices are decent. i'd like to come back to try more different thangs.
(4)L L.
You have to go here to get the desserts (fresh strawberries and rasberry with cream creations). Yummie. Oh, and I didn't even get the wonderful fresh smelling bread. If you do nothing else in Half Moon Bay this place is worth trying out before heading back on the 92 or 1 FWY. Parking was the only pain, I ended up just parking in the B of A lot close by.
(4)TW M.
Nice selection of sweets here, some unique stuff. When I went they had some awesome seasonal selections. I tried a baked pretzel, hazelnut ring, and a meringue cookie. All delicious. A bit pricey but considering the area it's expected.
(4)Yna D.
The Artichoke Pesto Bread is one good reason to keep on coming back to Halfmoon Bay. I always get the bread that just come out from the brick oven. This historic bakery makes fantastic bread!
(4)Don S.
I think it is great that he is keeping the memory of the Half Moon Bay Dragstrip going... And he has great bread........... Wish I was closer so that I could buy his items daily/. Don Smith
(5)Dolce Vita V.
They have the BEST pumpkin pie!! my rating is for the pumpkin pie!!!
(5)Vanessa H.
I have been working here for about 3 years now. Here at our bakery we are known for all the historic HMB Drag Strip photographs. I enjoy helping the tourists in finding exactly what they want. The good thing about this bakery is that it is not really expensive like the people at Moonside. Here you get more for less. Were famous for our Homemade Artichoke Pesto bread (not from Pescadero). I recommend stopping by and at least looking around before going to Moonside... and by the way we make amazing donuts. We make our traditional Sweet French bread and sourdough. The only inconvenience is that we do not accept atm or credit card but we do accept check.
(5)Michael V.
I have been reading ALL the reviews at this Bakery and most of you have "really missed the boat" a lot of has been written may be true??? BUT...it is one of the best kept secrets that locals do not share! most people get to this place looong after the morning doughnuts have been devoured (by locals) and are gone Lol...and you look around for a cookie or another treat. ITS THE DOUGHNUTS :)))))
(5)Jenny S.
Ehh nothing special. I was craving something sweet as we walked through Half Moon Bay's downtown area and this bakery sure did disappoint ---Chocolate chip cookie: only cost us $1!! just okay tasted like a packaged cookie ---half moon chocolate chip cookie: even cheaper at $.85, this had short bread texture but again wasn't impressed maybe i got the wrong thing? NOTE: Cash only
(2)Hawley I.
Not bad...I'm sure we went way too late to get the full effect of their talents (closer to 1pm) and the staff was not super friendly; but again, bakers get up super early so I'm sure they've been up and working for the past 12 hours so I didn't expect much. Everything we tried was tasty but nothing was worth calling special attention to.
(3)Jen G.
A-OK. They have lots of different cookies. I really liked the lemon ricotta -- very lemony. The other cookies were OK.
(3)Marco M.
Great Pizza. Arrogant and unfriendly staff. Very expensive. Bagel I got tasted old. Bird problem on the outside seating. Lots of poop on chairs and tables. Coffee company is better.
(2)Rick S.
This feels more like a donut shop than a bakery to a degree, but does have lots of cookies, breads, pastries and other sweet carb delights. I had the Bear's Claw for a morning breakfast snack and it was good. There's another bakery on the same street, Moonside, which has more cakes and pies. HMB Bakery has lots of stuff you can buy quickly and affordably, and is a good casual place. Parking is easy in Half Moon Bay.
(3)Brent W.
We were passing through half moon bay, and after going to the beach for a little bit we were looking for a quick snack before we drove down to Santa Cruz. We stumbled upon this little bakery in downtown HMB. They have a variety of options, including a serious selection of donuts as well as cookies and I think even some pizza slices. My wife went for a half moon chocolate chip cookie and ginger cookie. The chocolate chip cookie was shaped like a half moon (cute!), and was pretty tasty. It was very cakey, almost like a scone or something, and not that sweet. Overall quite good. The ginger cookie was good too. It was a soft ginger cookie sandwich with this cream cheese icing in the middle. It was mouthwateringly good. I went for the maple bacon donut, which was a round donut with maple frosting and bacon chunks on top. I'm not sure what kind of bacon this was, because it didn't have a lot of fat and was a little bit dry but still super tasty. Maybe it was turkey bacon? Nevertheless, it was a nice addition to the top of a mapley donut. I'd definitely go back for a snack sometime in the future. My favorite was the ginger sandwich cookie.
(4)Nelly H.
Great old fashioned bakery! Chocolate cupcakes were a hit with the kids, great apple fritter and cruler. Chocolate chip cookies were nice and chewy.
(4)Katherine F.
Cash only....FYI!! I have wanted to try this bakery...and today we brought Apple Strudel to take home. Goodies are very affordably priced...and they have a great selection of cookies, bars and pastries. The Apple Strudel pastry was flaky, but with no butter it did not sing. The filling was not canned, but it was a bit overcooked for me. Light drizzle of glaze made it sweet . Better than pedestrian...but not stellar. I need to come during *Pumpkin Donut* season!!!!
(3)Ashley D.
I was so incredibly happy with the way our wedding cake turned out. From the delicious taste (i would know as it was shoved in my face by my lovely husband), the simple decor, to the service, and of course the best most reasonable price I could find. I am so happy we went with HMB Bakery and look forward to getting some red velvet cupcakes to celebrate our 1 year anniversary!!
(5)Cynthia C.
Loved their cake!!!!! They waited after hours for us to pick up our cake because we were running so late. THANK YOU!!!! You saved us!
(5)Michelle B.
What a let down. Cannoli with whipped cream?? c'mon!! I'm not a baker and I know that the filling is made with mascarpone or ricotta, not stale tasting whipped butter cream. Blech! What about the creme brûlée cheesecake?? What is that?? It was hard. I let it soften a bit more and it was still as hard as a rubber eraser. Maybe it was because it was the end of the day and may have been sitting there for awhile? I dunno. At least the baklava was good. Not as light and flaky as I'd like but the taste was pretty good. I was tempted to buy the Portuguese sweet bread but didn't see any reviews about it. So I left it alone.
(2)Meme L.
I had bacon maple donut. It was good but will be better if they can cut bacon in smaller pieces.
(4)Amy D.
I bookmarked Half Moon Bay Bakery to try after paddleboarding in the area. The bakery is pretty small, but I liked that almost all their items were neatly labeled and priced. My friend and I decided to purchase a few items to sample: -Butter Cookie ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Not as buttery as I was hoping for, and it had a strange aftertaste. I wouldn't get this again. -Baklava ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Ok, but very sticky/chewy. It also didn't quite taste like any of the baklava I've had in the past for some reason. I wouldn't get this again. -Coconut Macaroon ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Chewy, but a little on the dry side. Skip. -Mexican Wedding Cookie ( yelp.com/biz_photos/half… ): Very crumbly, and I didn't enjoy this much. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy any of the items I purchased at Half Moon Bay Bakery on this trip. However, the bf thought they were good so I rounded up my review to 3 stars versus 2 for my experience. Although they had a good selection of items, the presentation could have used some work since some of the items were wrapped really messily, and the display cases looked really old. I would return to try the Artichoke Pesto Bread, which looked really good, but I don't think I would purchase any of the baked goods again unless they look a lot better on my next trip. Parking in this area can be tough, but there are a good number of street parking spots available.
(3)Robert L.
We live in Oakland, and come to Half Moon Bay infrequently -- usually when we want a break from a hot spell. Our very favorite item that they make is their crullers, especially the chocolate-iced ones. They remind my wife of the crullers of her childhood -- eggy, airy, just the right bite-feel. I love them, too. We get a few and then walk down to the other bakery, where we buy coffee and sit at a table in the enclosed space adjoining it and some other businesses. After we're done, we like to browse in the housewares store adjacent to it.
(5)Claudia M.
I was in Half Moon Bay for the afternoon and was craving something sweet. I walked into this place and saw mostly cookies and some breads. I practically got one of each in the cookie case and the best was the chocolate chip. The rest tasted old like they had been baked a week prior. I also bought a slice of chocolate cake and walked down the street to sit and have it on a bench. I took a bite and instantly spat it out, it was old, dry and beyond stale. I almost went back to tell them how gross it was but I had my newborn with me and he needed to be fed. Pound cake loaf was also dry and didn't at all taste buttery or fresh. Skip this place, you're better off with a slice of grocery store cake or cookies.
(2)April A.
Artichoke. Pesto. Bread. Arrive early & bring cash.
(5)Scott F.
You arent going to get better fresh bread in town.
(5)Rick H.
We live in town and go here once or twice a month. The tres leches cake they make is wonderful, however, the true secret dish here is the Crumb Doughnut. Every year we do a father's day doughnut expedition, trying donuts and rating them. In Half Moon Bay, we tried the Apple Crumb. It was the top rated doughnut (better than Sunshine Donuts, Safeway and Starbuck's Top Pot Glazed). This year we compared it to the DYNAMO donuts (maple bacon), and the Bombino donuts at the Village Market in the Ferry Building and Pepple Organic donuts at the Ferry Building in SF. The crumb has been our top rated choice the last 2 years. Next year we will try San Jose's donuts against Half Moon Bay's champ. Occasionally, they make their own version of the Bombino - a rasberry doughnut with granulated sugar (not glazed which is their standard), this doughnut is also very good.
(5)Enrique C.
Not a bad place to grab a sandwich. It's cash only and the sandwich selection is limited but I've been happy with the roast beef and the tri-tip. The roast beef is lean, not fatty and the tri-tip is thinly sliced to perfection with some pink. I've only tried the chocolate chip cookies and I will keep trying them. I purchased a loaf of their artichoke pesto bread during my last visit. It was full of artichoke hearts but the pesto made it a little soggy for my taste.
(3)J R.
Many attractive temptations, but we weren't blown away by the pink armadillo cookie (that's what I call red velvet after seeing "Steel Magnolias" a couple times too many) with white chocolate chips or the fruit bar. There was nothing wrong with the peanut butter cookie (a bit above average), and the "Walneto" (kind of like a thick pecan sandie, but with walnuts) was quite good. Prices are reasonable, service good.
(3)Lauren S.
A good bakery with lots of options. Great that it is open on Sundays! I agree with other reviewers that the artichoke pesto bread is delicious and full of artichokes. The raspberry donut was also really good. The coffee was ok.
(4)Robert C.
I would give it 5 stars but the tourist overwhelm this place. Aside from that, good fatty sugary food.
(4)Adrienne G.
So yeahhhhh, this place is STILL worth the hype & there are a few new pumpkinny goodies to rave about Pumpkin Custard Donut - OMG is this thing uber-delish! Take a Boston Cream Donut but sub out a pumpkin custard & you've got the *most* delish donut on the planet. Doughy, sugary & the pumpkin / chocolate combo is divine!!!! Also indulged in the Pumpkin Pie - this was light & creamy & had a nice strong gingery flavor. This is a pie I *might* pair w/ whipped cream but def not ice cream. In fact, this pie was go incredibly delish, it needed no pairing whatsoever Pumpkin Bread continues to the the epitome of deliciousness - get this In fact, get 1 of everything! You can thank me later....
(5)Kalyn D.
We did our wedding cake here. I came in and brought a picture of the cake I wanted and Desi recreated exactly the way I wanted! It came out beautiful. We got the red velvet with raspberry filling and it tasted so good!! I got so many compliments on how good and moist the cake was! Definitely would recommend to anyone!!
(5)Rimi K.
Delicious Original Baked treats. Quaint and well located in downtown Half-Moon Bay. Ordered: Pumpkin Cookie Cream cheese sandwich - $1.50 It was pretty good and definitely original. Recommend for the Half Moon bay wanderer.
(3)Michelle C.
Great little bakery for the price. I picked up a yummy brownies for around $2? All I know is that it disappeared before the day was over.....into my belly. I'm not sure if this is a Portuguese Bakery? They had a lot of Portuguese items, like Linguica and Portuguese Bread. My next attempt is to try out some of their pastries. Oh yeah!
(4)Stephanie C.
The holidays are the absolute WORST time to go on a diet. What the heck was I thinking?! Bread only ONCE a day? Only HALF of a bagel?! Thankfully, I have my trainer to keep in me in check. Anyways, I digress... One of the main reasons we went to the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival, was to stop at the Half Moon Bay Bakery and grab some goodies. The line was out the door and rightfully so. It was stocked with cupcakes, cakes, canolli, donuts, cakes on cakes on cakes. If you have any kind of sweet-tooth, you will find something to get your fix here. I ended up getting one of the Halloween donuts which is basically your standard chocolate donut, covered in orange, black, and yellow sprinkles. Overall, it was pretty good but not the best I've ever had. Service was quick but the only downside is that it's CASH ONLY! If you are in the area, or visiting the Pumpkin Festival, it's a good spot to indulge at.
(3)Allison M.
Didn't end up getting anything here this time, but hooooly half moon, it looked phenomenal. They had these delicious-looking premade pizza type things, as well as plenty of luscious cookies and brownies, and some slices of carrot cake that were nigh on impossible to resist. Oh, and Diet Coke. A bakery with Diet Coke. It exists in real life as well as in my dreams!
(4)Jennae H.
I typically visit HMB during the October Pumpkin Festival (Pumpkin pie -- nom, nom, nom!). When visiting, I make sure to pop into the HMB Bakery. The pastries, sweets, and sandwiches are fresh AND delicious, the prices are extremely reasonable, and the service is great. Expect a line inside and outside the store! Note: CASH ONLY
(4)Ellin C.
This is a cute bakery in downtown Half Moon Bay. Had a sample of their pastries which included their half moon shaped chocolate chip cookie, pumpkin whoopie sandwich, white macadamia nut cookie, and their red velvet cookie. Some of the cookies seemed a little hard, but did really enjoy their white macadamia nut cookie. Like that they have a large selection of homemade breads.
(3)Catherine L.
The people here are very nice, the bakery is very clean, the placement of the baked goods is very inviting and it's just a quaint and charming bakery. I think I ordered the wrong items or went a little too late in the afternoon because my eclair was a bit dry. Next time I will try it again!
(3)Pauline D.
THE GOOD: Great baklava ($1.50) and artichoke pesto bread ($5.95). These, should you be in the immediate area, are worth stopping in for... THE BAD: If you're a fresh, crisp-on-the-outside, soft-in-the-middle sort of cookie fiend like me, you'll be extremely disappointed. Bold, underline, italicize that. The pumpkin gingersnap cookie ($1) had all the right holiday flavors, but errs on the side of being soft and cake-like. I like gingersnaps that come with a snap! *snap snap* THE UGLY: I like to try the humble choc chip cookie as a measure against all other bakeries. A bite of my chocolate chip cookie "supreme" ($1) had me thinking in mid-chew, "What on Earth is this...??" Hard, dry, highly flavorless. Where's the butter? The vanilla? The chocolate?? Sure, there were chocolate chips studded all over, but dear lord, it tasted terrible, like an old, generic brand cookie. I can only imagine what the non-supreme, regular choc chip cookie ($0.60) tastes like... Eek. It's just too bad I'm not a fan of sugar cookies because they have tons of them. Maybe those are the way to go... *shrug* Good prices on cookies compared to most in the city, but the quality doesn't quite measure up. I'd rather stuff my face with a bag of Chips Ahoy. Long story short: COOKIE BAD. BREAD GOOD.
(3)Sarah G.
Everyone loves bakeries. I mean how can you not? It is puffed carbs sometimes covered in chocolate, sometimes in sugar and sometimes even with cream. What is there not to like? Well this small little local bakery I can tell locals must come to all the time. They have a pretty good selection of pastries including some rarer ones like pesto bread and things like that too which made me a little extra intrigued. Sarah H., Adam G. and I all got different things and all of us were pretty happy with our choices, except for one pastry Adam got which just tasted a little bland and empty--not worth the calories really. I had their cinnamon roll and it was packed with cinnamon and spices and Sarah also seemed pretty pleased with her choices of bear claws and such, but also said she had had better before too. But it was cheap and fast and they sell coffee too so perfect for grabbing something on the go (especially since you can't sit in there really ha) and I hear they make a really mean cake, so maybe I need to come back and try that instead!
(3)Pegi C.
I ordered a cake from Half Moon Bay Bakery two weeks ago. I spoke to the young girl at the counter and told her the specifics, in fact wrote them all down on a piece of a tablet for her. I asked her how much 1/2 sheet cake would cost and was quoted $34.00. I went to the bakery (I live locally) the next week to change the color of the flowers from Purple to lilac (it was a 50th anniversary party cake and their wedding colors were lilac and not purple)So another young girl at the counter brought me the tablet and we corrected the color and I again asked her for the price and she quoted me $34.00.. I asked to pick up the cake around noon on the following Saturday morning. I arrived at the bakery at 12:45 p.m. and the young girl behind the counter told me there was no cake ready. I quickly responded with"I sure hope you are wrong because I have ordered this cake over two weeks ago and have come in twice to check on things." She said she did not see it there. I was getting ready to lose it (but I had my granddaughter with me, so I didn't want to make a scene) when the Baker came out with the cake and said "You said you would be here at noon and she was confused. "Ok "I said and started to pay. They do not take credit cards so I said I would write a check. I asked again for the price and the baker said $45.00. Imagine my surprise when I had been quoted two times $34.00 and then the price was changed. What happened to the "customer is always right" and you honor the price that you quote whether right or wrong? They sure don't follow that protacall. The baker then told me I should never talk to the counter help when ordering but should talk to the baker instead. I promptly responded with "You should not have counter help here that do not know your prices." I have never spoken to a baker before at any bakery--always deal with the counter people. I would be a liar if I said the cake and frosting weren't good because they were(not great however, I have had better from Costco ,but this was a very special occasion so I was willing to pay for what I wanted) however when I asked for raspberries as the filling I expected the raspberries to be fresh not jellied out of a jar, and they were jellied not fresh.Very disappointing!! So here I was caught between a rock and a hard place and they knew it. I needed the cake and so I had to pay this price but unfortunately this has left a sour taste in my mouth and we will never be using this bakery again. And you can be sure I will be telling the locals of my experience.
(1)Elizabeth K.
This bakery is the real, old fashioned, small town deal. Mark, and his father before him, have been making the best sour dough bread, walnut cookies and focaccia for years. Try the custard-filled donuts -- truly old style and so messy delicious you will need extra napkins. You will not get a better loaf of sour dough bread anywhere. If you are looking for an over-priced tourist trap, that charges $10 for a crappy sandwich, go down the street. This is not your place. If you want the bakery locals have been going to for generations, where very little has changed and that's a good thing, then the Half Moon Bay Bakery is the place to try. P.S. the salami sandwich (on fresh baked bread every day) is artery clogging perfection. And don't expect gourmet coffee or slick service. Deal with it, it's Half Moon Bay.
(5)Paula O.
So I went here because all the yelpers said to go and try their artichoke pesto bread. So I did. I got there and they weren't bubbly friendly but I think they were tired and probably started to clean up because we didn't get help right away. But we did try the artichoke bread and I just might pick some more up the next time I'm there. It was definitely like no other bread we tried, in a good way. Brought it home, threw it back in the oven and mmm mmm yummy. Our family of 4 finished it in one sitting. Try it if you like artichoke and pesto.
(4)Jim M.
After a nice long bike ride on the coastal trail we were hungry so we got breakfast and it was great with really good fruit. We also got some pastries (macaroon and something else I've forgotten), all very good. There is a very nice seating area inside and there were plenty of open tables and a restroom. I'll go back next time I'm in the area.
(4)Ryan E.
muffins were good, cash only was rough since I only had a couple singles and some change in my pocket. If I have more dough (sorry) for the bakery, then I'll give a new review. And a small cup of coffee for over a buck fifty, common, gimme .60 a cup in a joint like this.
(3)Sean B.
on an afternoon drive from SF we found this place before taking a walk on the beach. in the 4 days we were in the bay area this was the best thing we did. cool town, great bakery and friendly service. I wanted to try 1 of everything.
(5)John H.
Okay, I've only had their artichoke loaf/bread (baked on site) but I was blown away at the amount of flavor and artichoke hearts. I was almost sick from just about eating the whole thing driving over the hill. I just couldn't stop myself. A few door down you can also get the Pescadero baked artichoke bread, but I think that one is only good if you get it hot outta the oven in Pescadero.
(4)Jenn Y.
Gingerbread Cream Cheese Pumpkin Cookie come back to me... I was pleasantly surprised by how soft the cookie was and this perfect medley of flavors.The cream cheese was just right, with neither flavor overpowering the other. If you took this goodie to any boutique bakery in the city, they would charge you at least $5 or more. It's a small little shop but just walking past and seeing the neon red Bakery sign will make you want to venture inside. WIth different breads and pastries to chose from, if I was a local, I'd be here all the time. Another happy customer, another good review :)
(4)David H.
There was plenty of variety, and the items were relatively inexpensive... that's the good. We bought two items: jalapeno bread, and zucchini pie. The jalapeno bread was kind of *meh*. It was a bit too doughy (almost undercooked) for my taste. The jalapeno and cheese combo inside was adequate, but nothing stellar. I loved their sign fo the zucchini pie which is why I was compelled to buy it. "Tastes like Apple Pie!" the sign said... and you know what... it did indeed taste exactly like apple pie... but the main ingredient was zucchini instead. Nifty... although in retrospect, if I wanted to eat apple pie, I'd probably just order apple pie. 3 stars for the novelty of it all.
(3)Irene M.
I am a 'local' and the French bread is so awesome that it fueled the San Mateo high championship swim team a couple of years. CCS twice. ( The girls thought it had special powers.) HOWEVER! my family are serious pumpkin pie fans and we did side by side tasting around the area and HMB bakery wins hands down. Pre order to not be disappointed. My wicked fav? custard filled, chocolate donuts only they can really do perfectly. I can never get home with the goods. I end up in the car, noshing it down . :)
(5)Gloria H.
Looks like a neighborhood bakery. There are cookies and sweets in one counter and sandwiches and other savory items in another. Didn't get any of those. Instead, I was drawn to the various cake loaves they displayed on a nearby rack. Every flavor sounded delicious: lemon poppyseed, chocolate chocolate chip, blueberry, apple...of course, I have to get the seasonal one: pumpkin and it was fantastic! It was moist and flavorful, couldn't stop eating it...only wish we got more than one and bought other ones too.
(4)Raina S.
I sometimes take my daughter here for a cookie after school. This is a genuine, old school bakery (it has been around since the 1920s), and I love it. They have cute, tasty cookies in a variety of colors and flavors. I noticed several Yelpers commented on their breads, so I'll have to give them a try. As a bonus, they have a framed poster of The Three Stooges on the wall. That earns extra points in my book.
(4)M J.
been coming here since I was a kid they have the best pizza bread. And the prices are still good!
(5)Judy P.
This is a cute little neighborhood bakery. We got a Banana Walnut Loaf and a bunch of cookies. The cookies were very well made and the loaf was moist and light. Definitely stop by if you're in the area!
(4)Angelyn C.
Cash only but there's an ATM across the street at the market. I come here for the LInguica Cheese Roll in the morning which is so delicious when its warm and freshly baked. The breakfast pastries are good as well. Other donuts become dry and stale as the day goes by but these don't! Come lunchtime, they're as good as they were when I picked them up in the morning. Can't wait to try the other goodies.
(5)Old School G.
Stopped by the bakery yesterday. The lady there bakes everything quite nicely. I walked away with some chocolate chip cookies, and mint brownies. Very awesome, a little pricey, but well worth it. Will be back again!
(5)