Illustration of round bread

The Original San Francisco Sourdough™

In 1849, Isidore Boudin struck gold with four simple ingredients: flour, water, salt, and mother dough. See how San Francisco’s history is baked into every bite.

The Mother Dough

Our secret is in our mother dough—a magical combination formed by local varieties of wild yeast and lactobacillus—plus a few other helpful microbes—to create a natural source of fermentation that allows Boudin sourdough to rise without using commercial yeast. The key ingredient in our sourdough since 1849, she thrives only in the fog-cooled climate of San Francisco. Our mother dough imparts the famous Boudin flavor and texture unlike any other bread in the world.

Flour, water, salt, mother dough and a sourdough round loaf

Mix, Shape, Score and Bake

We bake a slice of history into every loaf of our sourdough, using a portion of the original mother dough we’ve nurtured for over 166 years to start each and every batch. It takes up to 72 hours to make our handcrafted loaves from scratch to finish.

Bread Types

In 1849, Boudin became known for baking the best loaf of bread in the City. Today, in addition to our world-famous sourdough, we offer a variety of specialty, sculpted critters, and hearth breads. From everyday meals to special occasions, we’ve got something you will enjoy.

Boudin's Flagship location at Fisherman's Wharf
Illustration of a crab

Boudin at The Wharf

Home of our mother dough—flagship of our brand. This beautiful building is the place to see the bakers at work, dine with a view or in a casual cafe, and learn the full story of our famous sourdough bread and the city that made it possible.

Flagship Info
Boudin employee serving food

Start a Career with Boudin

Join our family and become part of the rich history of Boudin. We believe that when you bake—and break—bread together good things happen.

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Boudin Sourdough bread and Loyalty Rewards Card

Boudin Loyalty Rewards

Calling all sourdough lovers! Join the program that rewards you deliciously. Earn reward points and free Boudin sourdough.

Excludes Bistro Boudin, Catering, and Gift Catalog.

Loyalty Rewards Info