Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

The reason we took a detour down this small alley is to visit a true local gem: the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory! But before we dive into that, let’s talk about the “Golden Gate” label. You’ve probably noticed that everything in this area seems to be named Golden Gate something, right? Well, it all stems from the strait that connects the Bay of California to the Pacific Ocean. Previously known as the “Boca del Puerto de San Francisco” (the entrance to the Port of San Francisco), it wasn’t named the Golden Gate until 1848. This naming credit goes to John Charles Frémont, who thought the bay’s entrance resembled that of Istanbul’s Chrysoceras, or “Golden Horn.” Now, back to the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory! You most likely know what fortune cookies are. For those who don’t, they are those delightful little half-moon-shaped treats often carrying messages of good fortune. While they might seem like a product straight from the land of the rising sun, they actually were invented right here in San Francisco. Despite claims from Los Angeles, court sided with Makoto Hagiwara, a San Francisco resident of Japanese descent, as the true inventor. The exact origins of fortune cookies are shrouded in mystery, with some theories suggesting they evolved from a Chinese tradition where soldiers exchanged messages via small cakes, or perhaps from Japanese shortbread shared between loved ones. Regardless, fortune cookies have become a beloved treat across the United States, cherished more for their messages than their taste.
This humble workshop opened in 1962 and makes around 10,000 of these treats daily. They are shipped all across the globe. What’s truly special is that it’s one of the last remaining places in the US where these cookies are still crafted by hand. Each disc is meticulously folded while still piping hot. Feeling intrigued ? Well, you’re in luck! You can step inside and take a tour of the factory. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at making your very own fortune cookie. For a truly personalized touch, you can order custom fortune cookies with messages of your choosing. Just be sure to plan ahead !