Just wanted to make clear that this review is just for this past lunch experience. We've had Knead for breakfast a few times in the past and liked the bakery. For lunch today, got two items: Ham & Cheese Sando - they heated it up for us which is nice. Ham & Cheese + mustard on fairly crusty bread. Solid, standard fare. Spring Vegetable Minestrone - mainly kale, some squash?, elbow pasta, and a few beans. Had a little bit of a kick to it. My kids had a spoonful but didn't want any more. The parents thought it was ok, but not something we'd recommend. One odd thing was that we got a $0.88 delivery fee charge for something that we ordered at the counter and got to-go. Just watch out for that. read more

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Food/Pastries/Drinks: 8/10 Service: 8/10 Ambiance: 8/10 Ok this place is so good EXCEPT the price hahaha but good thing the taste is WORTH the price.. which is both a good and bad thing cuz ur like.. "this better taste good" and it does... and now you need to come back for their good tasting pastries. Their almond croissant is to die for.. should've gatekept that. Coffee and matcha are pretty good too. Need to try their lunch menu soon. read more

I was excited to see Knead Artisan Bakery at the bottom level of the Symphony Towers, beneath the Marriott Vacation Club where I was staying. Unfortunately it's only open to the public Monday-Fridays. Since it was a Saturday, it wasn't open when I first went by, BUT it would open later in the afternoon for attendees of the Jacobs Music Center - which I was!! Once we passed security and scanned our tickets, I hoofed it over to Knead to pick up a drink and some pastries. They have a pretty good selection of pastries and drinks. You can bring drinks in the theatre, but because food is not allowed in there, you have to finish before going in. I ordered the Hazelnut Praline Latte, the chocolate almond croissant, and the mixed berries danish. The pastries were amazing and the latte was great too! I contemplated going back after the show to pick up more for breakfast the next morning, but resisted. I regret my decision because I kept thinking about their pastries the next morning! Oh well, there's always next time. read more

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Located on the Ground level past the elevator banks in the Symphony Office Building on B Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Knead Artisan Bakery is a quaint bakery offering a small selection of breakfast, lunch and pastry items. I arrived shortly after their 7 AM opening on a weekday, and the only hot breakfast item available was their personal sized quiche. None of the breakfast items were ready nor were the pastry cases stocked and ready for early customers like me. Service was prompt given I was the only one there. I took my quiche back to my hotel room at the Marriot Vacations Club directly connected to the Symphony building. Despite it was supposedly reheated at the bakery, it wasn't quite warm enough for my liking, and I had to reheat it again. The flavor was good, but for those who like more savory flavors, this may be too bland for them. The crust was thicker than I would have preferred. For $9.99 it is on the verge of being a bit pricey given the small portion size. Given this food experience, this only really has location as a factor for those who are working in the office building or staying at the attached hotel. read more

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After my morning walk, I looked for a new bakery, and found Knead. After looking at the photos, I "needed" to go here! LOL! Located inside the Symphony Towers on B Street, parking can be a bit of a challenge. Since Cako was with me, I needed to find a spot that was shaded and not near too many people in case one of them wanted to be one of those dog saviors. Found the perfect spot on 8th. There's a small sign in front of the entrance and a bigger sign once you're in the lobby. It is a great little spot! Tables and chairs, so if you needed some place to work, this would be a great spot. Looking through the case, I picked the Kouign-amann, butter croissant, pain au chocolat, lemon EVO cake, cinnamon roll, and the orange apricot scone. Pronounced "Queen Aman," very flaky and crispy and sweet!! So good! They have a really good butter croissant! Very good cinnamon roll, though I like mine a little more brown on the top. The pain au chocolat was a little sweeter than what I'm used to, but very good. The lemon EVO cake was amaaaaazzzing! Light and airy! And I really liked the scone! I just sampled each one since I was sharing, except the croissant was for me! The worker was friendly, and made sure each customer had his undivided attention. Again, great place to come to and worth it! read more

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Love Knead Artisan Bakery! Simple coffee shop that makes their own baked goods. I've been twice in 24 hours. Got a croissant, matcha, coffee, cookie, breakfast burrito, croissant egg sando. All of it delicious. The croissant egg sando is really good. The Strawberry Chip Cookie was a surprise. I wasn't sure if I would like it because it wasn't chocolate chip, but wow! Staff is super sweet and make great drinks. If you're staying in the Marriott take the 12th floor elevators in the back past the hotel restaurant to the ground level, the doors open up to the entrance of the cafe. Easy peasy. Cafe is only open until 3p, so stock up on pastries for the rest of your day! read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Inside the same building as the symphony hall. - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

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Fantastic bakery. No wait on a Tuesday in April around 8:30am. Got the baked items for a work event and everyone loved them, especially the morning bun and kouign-amann. Turmeric Latte Acai bowl Earl Grey, Lavender, Milk Chocolate Scone Strawberry Scone Jalapeno Corn Cheddar Scone Chocolate Croissant Kouign-Amann Morning Bun $80 total for 9 items (I got two Morning Buns). read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Turmeric Latte, 4 stars. Tue morning 2025-04-08 - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

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Can't recommend this goodness enough. Milk bread and fresh pastry. Very nice biz owner. She makes great product!!! Buy buy buy read more

This bakery is in downtown San Diego, we came for a family trip to visit the San Diego zoo and we found ourselves unhappy with the pastry served at the Marriott vacation club so we followed the signs to go downstairs and find need bakery. I had a strawberry scone and a lemon poppyseed cookie and wow that was amazing so good so delicious and we wish we would've found it sooner! It's a little tricky to get to this place from the Marriott vacation club, but it is important to know that if you look at the pictures in my review, you'll be able to find it. Look at the signs up top that guide you towards the right side of the building otherwise you'll find yourself walking aroundthe block without finding it. Follow the scent of the fresh baked bread. read more

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What a cute little hidden gem. This is tucked in the lobby of the Symphony Towers building in downtown San Diego. We had a lemon loaf, buttery croissant, and a dirty turmeric latte. The pastries were so fresh and delish. The croissant brought me back to France with the flakey slightly crisp outside and soft buttery inside. The lemon loaf was decadent with just the right amount of sweet and tangy. They have happy hour at 2pm so their fresh pastries are all 20% off. Perfect for an afternoon pick me up or sweet tooth. The ladies at the counter were fun and helpful. I highly recommend visiting if you're in the area. read more

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Knead Artisan Bakery is located on the ground level of the Symphony Towers in the historic Financial District of downtown SD. I came across this business recently at the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival as they were one of the many vendors who were in attendance. The samples of baked goods were impressive enough that I wanted to visit this brick and mortar location. Several tables were set up for on-site dining, but it looked like the majority of customers were ordering their items to-go. Six 'Rise and Shine' items were sold for breakfast between 7:30 and 10:30 am. Another eight choices were available for lunch between 10:30 and 2:00 pm. Beverages consisted of coffee, espresso, latte, tea, and grab & go drinks. A variety of baked products were on display at the service counter. I ended up purchasing a few of these to take home. They were the Lemon & Olive Cake, Blackberry Brioche Tart, and a Seasonal Fruit Galette. The extra virgin olive oil in the lemon cake made the product very smooth and fluffy. The blackberries on the tart provided a fruity contrast to the predominant lemon meringue flavor. The galette contained strawberry rhubarb as a filling to the soft and moist dough. Prices were in the ballpark for gourmet baked goods, however I disliked the 15% service charge that was added to the bill. I thought the limit for such a surcharge was 4% by law. The amount here was essentially a mandatory gratuity. Other than that, my experience at Knead Artisan Bakery was positive. read more

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Saw the sign on the sidewalk so we we went in looking to see what they have. Grabbed a pre-made salad for lunch and it was delish! Mixed greens, strawberries, chicken, feta, candied pecans and balsamic dressing. Perfect lunch on the go! read more

Cute hidden bakery with wide selection on quick coffee/pastries inside. It is absolutely worth checking out and is only a slight de-tour inside the building read more

The song from Cheap Trick goes ...I want you to want me, I need you to need me ... Yeah, Need = Knead.... Knead Artisan Bakery opened recently in downtown San Diego. Located in the Symphony Towers, a corporate building. Parking is a challenge. The head chef, Adrian Mendoza evidently has an impressive resume with previous experience working as head pastry chef at Spago, where I've frequently dined, so I was ecstatic to visit this pastry shop. Walked through the corporate stylishly demure main floor lobby and at the end, you'll see the entry to Knead. The dining room had several tables and seating and was clean. Minimalist decor, ample indoor only seating and a limited selection of baked goods on display. Not out sourced and brought in, Everything is made in house. All the baked goods had the look of hand crafted, hence Artisan. The pastry display case looked dim, needed lighting inside to showcase the pastries. I saw one flying insect twirling fan and there really should be more than one, because if I see a fly/bug/insect it's a turn off. Luckily I didn't witness any little UFOs lol I wanted to get one of each pastry but selected a couple to share. My pup is an almond croissant aficionado so I got her one and also got a pecan maple scone. On subsequent visits, the carrot cake with cream cheese and the pecan almond coffee cake both Gluten Free. The scone tasted subpar, it needed more vanilla extract because it tasted blandish. Most of the pastries looked simple and not fancy. Would be nice to see fancier pastries. The rest of the pastries tasted Not too sugary sweet, scrumptious, so delish and more importantly, did Not give me a negative carb/sugar reaction post eating, that means the ingredients used were higher quality. Coffee, tea and other drinks offered. The menu includes limited options for lunch. The one staffer, Rona behind the counter was cordial, helpful and nice. She answer my questions about the contents of some pastries. With seasonal offerings I was hoping to see the chef and ask if he will make versions of some of my Spago bread and pastry favorites: specifically Kaiserschmarrn...it's perfect for Autumn Fall, presented and plated nicely and just to die for. Or Spago's epi baguette with olives and rosemary seeded lavash served with goat fromagé. Sadly none of the Spago breads is offered here. I'll have to trek a 3 hours drive to Beverly Hills and dine at Spago's. Don't expect fancy Spago breads and pastries. However, the Artisan baked goods at Knead will want you to want it and need you to need Knead! Recommend. read more

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Excellent baked goods. My favorite is the chocolate chip cookie with sea salt. The croissants are also fresh crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The scones are great as well, nice and crusty on the outside and biscuit like on the inside. Chef baker Adrian really knows how to bake. This is a small café/restaurant at the bottom of Symphony Towers, where you can stop by to get a snack or a meal. It also serves sandwiches in addition to baked goods. The decor is really nice, white, light, and spacious. Worth coming back! read more

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Stayed at the Marriott and went here for breakfast everyday during our stay. Everything is delicious. Highly recommend their açaí bowl and ham and cheese sando. Never got to try the breakfast burrito because they always sold out. Quiche and onion scone were also delicious. Would have had the time to try all of their pastries!! read more

This review is just based on the onion and cheddar scone. One of the best savory scones I've had. I would definitely come back if I'm ever in the area. read more

I was excited to see a bakery in the area! So of course I sprinted my butt on over! Upon entering Symphony Towers, a large sign that read Fresh Croissants at 9 AM. The pastry selections were wonderful, but decisions had to be made. I enjoyed my pastry and latte. The staff who took my order was friendly, personable, and patient. read more

I've been dying to try this place after I found out that their pastry chef is from Wayfarer! I picked up one of their savory scone options (olive, rosemary, feta) plus a ham and cheese croissant. Savory scone: 5/5! Incredible. I love the scones at Wayfarer so I was so excited to try this, and it was really good! Lightly buttery, good amount of olives and cheese mixed in so that the flavor was strong but not overwhelming. I'll be coming back for their other scone options. Ham & cheese croissant: 4.5/5! I toasted this lightly in the oven and it was perfectly crispy, with the right ratio of ham and cheese. It didn't blow me away, but this was super solid. read more

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What a hidden gem! Tucked away at the bottom of the Symphony Towers. They sell coffee, tea, baked goods (including sandwiches). Service - quick and friendly Food - the egg and cheese croissant is wonderful, scrambled eggs with bechamel sauce, Gruyère, and chives. Kouign Amann (a tad overly crispy - but still good) Ambiance - so clean and lovely, will be back! read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

I tried this bakery at the Del Mar Food Festival and this was the only booth we went back to not once, not twice... but three times lol Their strawberry chip cookie was life changing. The staff was extremely nice and friendly too. I can't wait to stop by the location and order the strawberry cookies by the dozen read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

Amazing bakery!! Staff is always kind. The bread is out of this world. Their chocolate croissants takes you back to Europe. Have yet to have something we haven't loved at knead. The neutral tones and the design of the space is very welcoming. Not only one of the best bakeries in San Diego, but one if the best bakeries I've tried anywhere! read more

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Good baked goods but had a non negotiable 4% "delivery fee" added to a counter order that is not disclosed anywhere pre purchase. Don't support restaurants that don't pay their employees. Won't be back. read more

We picked up a few pastries from the bakery, and let me tell you... the best croissant I have had! It was soft and buttery... perfection! The staff is always nice and greets you when you walk in, and makes sure to ask you how your day is going! The space has a few small tables, enough space for you to enjoy your coffee and pastry or sandwich, which are also amazing. If you are in the area, please stop by. You won't regret it! read more

We picked up a selection of pastries at this new bakery this week. I am normally not a huge fan of pastries, but I have to say a number of these were really really good. They had an almond lemon and chocolate croissant, which was great. Service was very good and friendly and the ambience is nice and brand new. They have a handful of small tables and it is clean and inviting. The only downside to this location is parking in the area. But if you are within walking distance, this is a nice little shop to have coffee or pastries in the morning. They also do sandwiches. read more

April 25, 2025 - We saw the signage and stopped in. WOW, what a selection! The almond croissant was spectacular. The croissant with the soufflé eggs and cheese was wonderful. The aroma was great and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. It is a shame that there is not more advertising for this bakery, but I understand why there isn't...the Marriott has its own restaurant. Perhaps Knead artisan bakery can put a sign upfront and/or outside somewhere to draw even more business/attention because as it is, it is a hidden gem!! read more

Food and service was absolutely amazing. I was immediately greeted by a kind gentleman, who was very easy to speak with and answered all my questions. I got the almond croissant and the gluten-free carrot cake and was absolutely amazed with the tastes and moisture of each, I think about there almond croissant every day now. read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Gluten-free carrot cake, almond croissant, and an Americano - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

Delicious breakfast this morning in downtown San Diego. Knead Artisan Bakery is located inside an office building (G/F), totally worth going in and tasting the amazing croissants and coffee / tea. We had an incredible Ham & cheese croissant (100% like in Paris), an almond croissant, a vanilla latte and an English breakfast tea. For sure I would like to taste the amazing breakfast burrito during my next visit! read more

Nice interior Pretty elegant space The croissant with eggs :) Friendly staff A few tables inside Everything looked delicious on display Plan for downtown parking. read more

Service very slow, I noticed half the staff have bad attitudes and should be granted their wish and not work there! Been coming since they open, work in the building. Pastries over all very good, but dealing with unprofessional staff ruins the experience. read more

The vibe is solid and seating is easy to find, plus no upcharge for milk alternatives, which is a nice touch. Decent coffee. Pastries over rated. 4% service charge. I understand it goes directly to staff--almost like a customer-funded wage supplement that will be charged very off-putting, especially when nearby spots like the one across the street, the 12th floor café, or the one down the street don't tack on a service fee. read more

Housed within the San Diego Symphony building, with a beautiful and tranquil decor. The menu isn't vast, but it is absolutely delicious! The breakfast sando is a favorite of mine! read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Breakfast Sando - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

Decent pastries, but poorly run business. The bakery opens at 7 AM and we visited around 7:30 AM. Barely a quarter of the counters were filled. Worker stated that they fill the counters as items come fresh out of the oven. We looked past the lack of selection and ordered from the existing items. Pastries are decently priced for artisanal, but we were charged a 22 cent " delivery fee" for each item we purchased. Why is there a delivery fee when we're buying in-person? read more

Went there for lunch and the pastrami breakfast sandwich was still available. Delicious and had a runny yolk still. read more

Knead Artisan Bakery - Pastrami Breakfast Sandwich - Bakeries Near Me - San Diego, California

Knead is a unique bakery tucked away in middle of the lobby of Symphony Tower. The staff was helpful but seemed easily aggravated. The shop has a very modern atmosphere with electronic menus and a huge tray of pastries. I tried the Mexican Hot Chocolate Scone and the Raspberry and Lemon Tart. The scone was not very flavorful and tasted rather bland. I would not recommend ordering it. The lemon and raspberry tart was really sweet and had a delicious crust. The bakery was alright, but I was admittedly disappointed as I heard great things but I did not find it remarkable. read more

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I found this amazing bakery before seeing a performance at the symphony. First I noticed a line and decided to check out the offerings before heading to the back of the line. After seeing the pastries and the in the display case followed by the talented chef that created them, I knew this place was the real deal. I'll tell you what. This was some of the best pastries I've had in years, maybe ever! I wish I could have tried everything but will just have to wait for future visits. The chef, Adrian has been baking delicious pastries, breads and other baked goods for many years. He's a really talented & passionate pastry chef. I can confidently say that anything chef Adrian makes would be fantastic. I know this from tasting the treats and baked goods he's made over the years at different restaurants/ bakeries in San Diego. I'll definitely be back here when I'm in the area. I just wish I lived closer. read more

I live in the area and walked to this bakery for their Friday morning sourdough bread sale. The staff were happy and helpful, the bakery is a beautiful space, and the sourdough is the best bread I have ever had in my life (not an exaggeration). Will be a frequent visitor! read more

Overpriced and understaffed. Pastries are pretty good but coffees are inconsistent. On my last visit, there was a decent line and only had one person ringing people up and then making the drinks turning the line into a painful crawl. I ended up leaving and skipping coffee that day, at least I saved some money. read more

The pastries are fresh from the oven, so they ate delicious. The service is fast. Although is a big building its kinda hidden but it's cozy and clean. read more

Amazing pastries but the service charge at the very end of the checkout process was a surprise. You have to pay a service fee related to the University Club. Walk a few blocks for better pastries at Rikka Fika, Blackmarket bakery, Izola and ASA bakery. read more