Tried Kimchi Panini + Black Sesame Brownie. Would definitely come back for those. Actually pretty excited to try other menus like the matcha tiramisu. Forgot to take photo before I finished the brownie. Sorry. read more

Buoy - What was Black Sesame Brownie. - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

Food and drinks are delicious but they're extremely slow everytime I come with making drinks and food that requires to be heated so you have to go with plenty of time or else you'll be frustrated read more

Super cute place with good cafe but I wish their dinner options were more vegetarian friendly. You basically can't have dinner here as a vegetarian read more

I was not expecting such a delicious Korean meal in San Francisco. In the day it's a quaint dessert place but in the evening is a fine dining experience perfect for business meetings or special event. Highly recommend. read more

Buoy - Dessert and appetizers - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

I've been seeing this cafe pop up all over my socials, and decided to stop by to wfh on a Friday. Buoy is situated on the outskirts of Hayes Valley, near City Hall. On first impression, I loved the spaciousness of the cafe - there's lots of seating, and even a little nook with couches. It's a great place to catch up with friends or do a little bit of work. You order at the counter when you walk in, and retrieve your drinks/food when they call your name. I would describe Buoy as a a Korean cafe. There are a lot of drinks and desserts with Korean ingredients like mugwort (ssuk), rice flour, sweet pumpkin, and black sesame. I was really happy to see the einspanners on the menu, since they aren't available at a lot of coffee shops in SF. There are also some savory food items, like onigiri and paninis (only available starting at 11AM, so we didn't get to try. Looks so good though). I ordered a black coffee einspanner and mugwort tiramisu, and my friend got the latte einspanner and kimchi and tuna onigiris. The coffee was not bad, just a little more bitter than I'm used to. The cream on the black coffee was a nice decadent touch. The mugwort tiramisu didn't have much of a mugwort flavor, but was still a nice sweet treat. Warning--it's really big! Definitely get one to share with 2 or more people. The rice balls were pretty good, but on the smaller side. Great for a snack! My friend and I worked for about 2 hours, and it didn't get very crowded. There's free wifi, which is a nice perk. This is nitpicky, but because the cafe is such a wide open space and the doors were kept open, it got pretty cold/uncomfortable inside. I would come again to try their roll cakes and other coffee items. It's a good option for wfh folks--would recommend! read more

The ambiance here is really cute and quaint. We got the cappuccino, black sesame latte and black sesame brownie. The black sesame latte was a little weird because it tasted more savory and salty/nutty than sweet. The brownie I was really looking forward to but I was disappointed because it was lacking black sesame flavor and tasted more sweet than anything. read more

Buoy - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

(+) this place is chic inside; modern and clean (+) the desserts are beautiful and grear for IG (-) SEATING: not THAT much seating - many 1 person tables occupied on their laptops (-)PARKING: I parked about 3 blocks away, a tad sketch on 1 block so be wary (--) PRICE & SERVICE: def. Quite pricey as 2 desserts and 2 beverages, with 18% grat came to be about $45, and you don't get much for SERVICE - much like any fast food places like McD's---you order at a register, u take a number, and u pick up your food/drinks and silverware/napkins at the register. Little turned off by that when you're in a nice looking place but is a bit tacky on service (or lack of) read more

Absolutely adore this place! Every sweet treat I've tried has been consistently good. The staff are super friendly and welcoming and I like to work on my iPad or laptop here some mornings. Only downside is their pineapple espresso is probably the worst drink I've ever had in my life. read more

Wanted to love it but was just okay! (I had the mugwort latte iced). I will come back to try other drinks and the dessert. My impression of the place would have been fine (the place is cute) but the cashier sort of dampened the mood. Barely acknowledged me and had a very unamused/annoyed expression from the get go. read more

I was needing caffeine and a bite to eat close to my office in Hayes Valley, and found this highly-rated cafe. When I walked in, I could see why the place is so popular- the menu has a curated offering of Korean bake goods and drinks, the decor is gorgeous, ambience is soothing, the overall design of the space is vastly different than the usual vibe you get from most coffee shops in the city. Black Sesame Brownie - decadent, delicious, perfectly textured with the mochi. My Southeast Asian heart was singing with this combo Black Sesame Latte - Not as sweet in sesame flavor like I was expecting, but still well-made The reason for my rating is ENTIRELY based on the service. I was only carrying cash, & before placing my order I asked the barista at the register if they accepted it. She told me they did, so I proceeded to place my order. I was a little over-stimulated, trying to decide what to get since the items I wanted originally were no longer available. The barista, while not rude, didn't seem to have patience for me while I tried to figure everything out. I asked about the baked goodies behind her, as I thought they looked like something else, but she told me it was the fig jam scone. I went ahead with just the first two items. She asked for my name, then gave me the total for my order- $14 and change. I handed her a $20. When giving me back my change, which was $5.80-something, she told me they didn't have coin change so she just gave me a whole $1. I was surprised but didn't complain, since the difference was less than 20 cents. So I stood to the side and waited for my items. A few minutes later I decided I wanted a fig jam scone, since that was the only other thing they had available and it did look good- so I stepped in front of the cash register again and waited patiently. The cashier was making my coffee, but instead of handing it to me, she put it to the side and called out the order, not making eye contact. Okay, fine. There were others being served so maybe she forgot whose the coffee was. I was still standing in front of the register, and while there were other people coming in to order and started lining up after me, I figured it'd be quick since I knew what I wanted, and I thought the cash I had was sufficient. The barista eventually acknowledged me at the register, I asked for a scone. After she rang me up, the scone (priced $6) came out to $6.52- I only had the $1 she gave back to me as change and two $5, and a quarter. When I handed her the two $5, she said she didn't have change "for the big bills." Since all I had on me was cash, I just told her to cancel the order. She said nothing to me, and I just moved back to the side to wait for the brownie. She was conversing with her colleague and smiling so maybe I irritated her, I dunno. She was the same person who frosted my brownie, then called it out for pickup, again not making eye contact or saying my name, which she had asked for when taking my order earlier. As soon as I got the brownie, I grabbed a couple napkins, a sleeve for my coffee, and quickly left. This whole interaction was super awkward, and while I don't think this person was intending to be rude, I felt very unwelcome in the space. Had I paid with card it would have been less of a hassle but I don't know that the person would have been any warmer towards me. I felt like I was an inconvenience when I was just trying to buy something to eat and drink. Though the food and coffee were delicious and high quality, I'm not sure I want to return. Though there's been a big movement towards a cashless society especially in the Bay Area over the last decade or so, the food service industry in general still relies heavily on cash. Accepting cash as a business is still legally required in San Francisco. Most importantly, if a business like a cafe (with items less than $10) accepts cash, why would they not have change for such small amounts? It would be one thing if I came in with a $100 bill. But this was entirely different. This is more a note to the business owners and general manager to keep in mind that when you're in food service, you need to be able to accommodate whomever walks in the door because at the end of the day a paying customer is a paying customer. But to be denied the goods/service when you have legal tender in an appropriate amount because you....don't have more than a $5 and a $1 bill in your drawer seems.....really self-sabotaging. I'm not discouraging anyone from coming here, but know ahead of time that what you are paying for is the high-quality food in a beautiful presentation and atmosphere- and nothing else. Also, be sure to have digital means of payment if not a credit/debit card readily available so as not to be an inconvenience. Maybe I'll return at some point, I really was excited about rice flour being a main ingredient in their baked goods- but it probably won't be anytime soon, as the bitter taste of the whole experience is still in my mouth. read more

new korean cafe with gluten-free desserts made from rice flour. matcha roll cake was a little dry but the cream was delicious. the einspanner was yum though read more

Buoy - matcha roll cake, einspanner - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

Tucked behind Van Ness station, buoy is a cafe with an impressive interior. Ample tables, counter space, lounge area with couches as well. I admire that they have good quality control, had a drink remade just bc they felt that it was different from how they usually prepare it. Panini and side was solid, not something that you would come here specifically for but reliable enough in case you need it. Service was friendly and I will def come back for their desserts and other drinks. Enjoyed the peaceful ambiance as well read more

Buoy - Mushroom panini w/ jujube chai latte - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

Obsessed with this place. It's gorgeous inside, great place for a quiet brunch. I had an amazing latte with I think raspberry? And the most expensive French toast I've ever had - worth every cent. Service was quick and friendly. Everything here looks good I will absolutely be back. read more

Good coffee but pastries were a disappointment. They lacked flavor and can taste the cheap material used

Coconut Latte, Kimchi Panini, Pumpkin Roll Cake... All 10/10 Great interior, lots of seating. Vibes = immaculate read more

I recommend their cacao cookie, ssuk tiramisu, and redbean roll cake. It's an appropriate level of sweetness. I'll come back Servers and owner are all so nice. read more

I was very excited about this place, but the bread and drinks were very mid. On top of that, staff were extremely rude...

Mugwort tiramisu was really good. It's not too sweet and full of flavor. For a roll cake, I ordered a red bean one. As being gluten-free, it was pretty good. I liked it as it wasn't too oily. read more

Buoy - Red bean roll cake, mugwort toeamisu, mugwort latte - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

Such cute vibes + a ton of people studying. Big space but might be hard to find seating. Good was all yummy and aesthetic! Would come back :) read more

Buoy - Mochi brownie, black sesame latte - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

Pivoted to Buoy after realizing that there was no seating in Loquat, and it was too cold to walk around outside with drinks. So glad we happened on this place! Walked right past it at first, but turns out it is the same space as the restaurant, Jang. They rent out the space during the day. Our group tried the pineapple espresso soda, black sesame latte, ssuk latte, and a scone. Everything was good, and there was plenty of seating to catch up with our goods! read more

See all

Omg! What a beautiful place! I'm so impressed the owner is a young lady who makes all the bakery goodies. It was a day to work, I stopped by there. I'm glad I did. Will definitely visit again. read more

See all

It was nice to support . Latte Drink was ok ..dessert was good. Pricy and stuff sold out fast. Not sure I would come back but good luck on concept. read more

Came on a Wednesday afternoon, this was my second time but first time getting items from the food menu. Please read if you're considering getting one of the paninis!!! Customer service: 4/10 Just enough to take our order but otherwise nonexistent. The girl taking our order was curt and acted like she either hated being at her job (I mean girl, i get it, but cmon) or had a personal problem with us. Seeing how she flashed a smile at regulars who came in afterwards I think it might've been the latter, but who knows. My boyfriend and I were polite and non-problematic so her attitude left a bad taste in our mouths and made us feel horrible. Like what did we do to you..?? My boyfriend got the kimchi panini and I got the mushroom tofu panini. For $15-$16 a panini and considering the taste, I'd recommend going to Panera instead. If you don't get the chance to try these items then you're not missing out. Mushroom tofu panini: 4.5/10 Mostly sweet and slightly umami. The mushrooms weren't seasoned, but I love mushrooms so I could forgive that. But it seemed like the only ingredients were cheese, mustard (lots of mustard, it was the most prominent flavor), mushrooms, tofu, and potato chips. I don't know what the chips added to the sandwich other than a crunchy texture, it could be a filler ingredient or a deliberate texture decision but I'm not sure. The tofu used was silken tofu, which I thought was an interesting choice. It neither added or took away anything from the panini, and was not noticeably seasoned (not surprised, because soon/silken tofu is pretty hard to season) If I was blind I never wouldve noticed it. Sneaky invisible protein I guess. Overall, this should've been named "Mushroom mustard panini". With how strong the mustard was, it felt like this panini was mistaken for a Costco hot dog minus the ketchup. Kimchi panini: 5.5/10 The kimchi panini was slightly better, I could tell the kimchi was good quality so that was a pleasant surprise, but it was a bit sweet, so people who aren't a huge fan of sweet and savory won't be a fan. It also had corn and cheese, and unless we missed something else that's it. They changed the ingredients of the paninis since about 6-9 months ago, which is a bummer because looking at the ingredients back then (when it was a kimchi onion jam panini) it sounded like it would've tasted a lot better. Same with the mushroom panini ingredients, it feels like they massively downgraded. I wonder why, but at least I know not to get them again now. Ssuk latte: 9/10 The ssuk latte I got the first time I went was amazing. Light with that nostalgic ssuk herbal taste I love, it brought me back to when my 할머니 would make me my favorite 쑥떡 as a child. It got me scouring the internet for ssuk powder so I could make it at home. I hope it's the same now, I highly recommend it if you are willing to try something new. Ssuk (mugwort) is also great for female hormonal balance and can help with menstrual cramps, for my girlies ;) But please definitely consult a doctor if you plan on drinking/eating mugwort regularly!! TLDR: I'd come back for the drinks but not the food. Skip the food. Can't say anything about the desserts, haven't tried them. Customer service can be subpar and very lacking depending on who you are I guess but at least you don't have to deal with them after taking/picking up your order. Want to love and support this place as a Korean but finding it hard to 3 stars instead of 2 despite the bad experience because of the ssuk latte and the nice clean interior... like I said I really wanna like this place read more

Adorable new cafe that's perfect for grabbing a quick bite or spending the whole day in! Staff are super nice and were happy to give me recommendations. I came here on two separate Saturday mornings and tried a collection of their drinks and desserts. Raspberry & matcha roll cakes - the PERFECT amount of sweetness! They're super cute and delicious. The cake part was soft and light, and the cream was delicious. I especially loved how for the raspberry cake I could taste chunks of real raspberries Ssuk latte - not pictured here but I really loved this caffiene-free, Korean matcha alternative. It has a nice earthy, healthy feeling. Jujube Chai latte - a must try! I liked this even more than the Ssuk latte actually--it's sweeter so it was a nice treat Paninis - they have a kimchi and mushroom paninis; my friend and I got one of each. Perfectly grilled and delicious Black cocoa cookie - I'm a huge dark chocolate fan so this not-super sweet cookie was a nice dessert after my paninis Overall, I really loved the food/drinks, though my favorite part was the atmosphere. I studied here all day, and I'll definitely make this place a regular spot to work and hang out! read more

See all

Update: Business owner is lying about accommodating my request multiple times to save face, no one has ever accommodated my request and to blatantly lie about it is insane. Also, she can't seem to recognize the drink that I purchased and was given in the picture is an einspanner lol. Clearly not made right and never had a business owner straight up lie to duck fault. No idea what she is going on about. read more

Buoy - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

All the drinks are creative and well balanced! I love the Ssuk latte and Ssuk einspanner, it's not too sweet. It's a really nice environment to work, lots of seating, I love this place! read more

Buoy - Ssuk latte, Ssuk Einspanner, Matcha Raspberry cookie - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

The perfect cafe to add to your morning routine :) The drinks are super unique and all amazing, and the staff is really kind! Great vibes read more

Buoy - Salted bread roll - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

We tried the black sesame brownie, the matcha roll, and the matcha raspberry jam cookie, all of which were absolutely phenomenal. These were some of the best gluten free Asian desserts that we've ever had! And the owner, Esther, is so friendly and kind. Definitely check this place out. We will be coming back! read more

The atmosphere is great! Bright and clean. Service is also nice! The staffs are very friendly :) read more

Buoy - Menu - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

I liked this place a lot. The service was a tad slow, but otherwise everything tasted great.

It's on the pricier side and the location was hard to find, but the interior is well designed and the food was incredible. Maybe it was because I was hungry, but the panini had such a nicely infused mushroom flavor and the bread had a crunchy texture. The side of salad was also so flavorful! Then the matcha roll, it was creamy and dense and not too sweet at all! 10/10 I do recommend. And the tea came with a small cup and kettle for me to pour and enjoy slowly as I complete my meal. Overall, this meal was really good!! (The one catch is the price.) read more

Buoy - Mushroom Panini, Matcha Roll, and Peach Black Tea - Desserts Near Me - San Francisco, California

great coffee shop with great desserts. Just look at the beautiful desserts they make. Definitely worth trying.

Unfortunately overhyped in my opinion. The kimchi onion jam panini barely tasted of kimchi and what I presume to be the onion jam made the panini taste like a gross burger. I'd skip this one, but perhaps the mushroom panini tastes better, not sure. The ssuk tiramisu was so overly soaked that it was soggy. It was also overly sweet and only had the slightest hint of mugwort. We couldn't finish this one. The drinks we got were the einspanner and black sesame latte. The einspanner was latte-based but tasted extremely watered down. I did enjoyed sipping the cream on top though. The black sesame latte tasted strangely salty and was just not good. Honestly, best part of this meal was the salad provided with the panini, probably because of the premade tangy dressing. For almost 50 dollars, I expected more from this. read more

See all

the coffee is great (toasted coconut latte being my favorite), along with the selection of unique food and dessert offered here. overall super delicious, id recommend the sesame brownie and maitaki mushroom panini! read more

Amazing food and amazing service! Glad to have accidentally step into the store to find some water for my little puppy. The interior was very well designed and it was quite an experience! Make sure to try all the little treats and decide for yourself! I'd probably stop by here to study a bit while getting ready for my patients! I will be back again!! read more

Love the chocolate cookie with marshmallow and the ssuk drink. Service was amazing too. This is located inside a sushi restaurant so just walk in and it'll be at the front! read more

At $9+, you'll find one of the priciest double espresso to go in the city! I was on my way to public transportation in Hayes Valkey so I didn't quibble. Next time I'll make time to walk a couple of blocks to Blue Bottle on Linda. read more

Buoy is still finding its footing. It's like a kid trying to be a grown up too fast. The space is gorgeous. Lots of tables for people to work and study at, chit chat. There is bar seating and a small space that reminds me of a cute study area but off to the side, a secret of sorts. The lighting needs work as the lampshade covers exposed too much of the bulb, lending to too much brightness and negating the natural light streaming through the curtains. I tried the black sesame latte, which as someone else mentioned, lacked a stronger black sesame taste. As someone who appreciates sesame, I would have liked a stronger paste mixed in with the coffee. Maybe it's an option to add more sesame? I also purchased a matcha raspberry cookie. I liked the overall flavor, but the texture was chalky, too crumbly, and quite dry. It also seems like the sugar was not blended correctly into the dough mixture because I could taste raw sugar. I really do like the space and the concept, but the offerings need improvement. Even the roll cakes in the display case looked dry. Wishing you success. read more

Great service very nice and helpful explained everything down to what to expect from the flavors nice ambiance definitely return to try lunch read more

See all

I had such high hopes for Buoy -- and god knows how difficult it is to start a food-oriented small business in SF so I truly wanted to love it -- but we left disappointed. We dropped by on a weekday afternoon and tried a few of their roll cakes and lattes. GOOD: (+) Really interesting and exciting dessert and drink menus (+) Desserts are the right level of sweetness (as you'd expect from a Korean-inspired cafe and bakery) (+) Lots of seating for parties of 1-4; if I lived nearby I'd be happy to have a new neighborhood spot to work out of (assuming there's WiFI) DISAPPOINTING: (-) Flavors weren't just there; I love red bean, matcha, black sesame, etc. but everything we tried was average, with flavors that were much too mild (and not in a sophisticated, subtle way, but half-hearted way that left you wanting more) (-) Desserts and drinks are really pricey for the quality and portion size. It's SF so I'm used to paying a premium everywhere, but things just fell short of the expectations set by the price (-) Service was the bare minimum, with staff that seemed more interested in talking to each other than helping you out (-) Not Buoy's fault, but the space is seriously lacking in natural light, making it a less than ideal place to spend time in I hope they figure things out, but right now, there are better options in the city for most of what they're offering. read more