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Chocolate and soft serve spots in California

Made for those who want the immediate, cooling satisfaction of soft serve without compromising on the intensity of real chocolate.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
L'moon Creamery - Pasadena image 1
L'moon Creamery - Pasadena image 2
L'moon Creamery - Pasadena image 3
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Small space with bright orange accent wall and bunny neon sign creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Soft serve and boba feature strong, authentic Thai tea flavors that stand out. Limited seating includes benches inside and outside, with a relaxed, low-key vibe.

Chocolate chip walnut cookies come packed with gooey chocolate and walnuts and have a chunky, slightly chewy texture. The dark cocoa chocolate chip cookie offers a fudgy, rich dark chocolate experience similar to Levain's style.

Silky smooth Thai tea soft serve stands out with a flavor as authentic as in Bangkok. It comes with options like honey boba and is not too sweet, making it a unique treat.

People are saying

"The Thai Tea soft serve is creamy and sweet, but not overly so."

"The chocolate chip cookies are gooey, chunky, and so good."

"The Thai soft serve is creamy, sweet, and delicious."

Good to know

1

They only accept card payments; cash is not accepted.

2

Parking may be challenging due to busy streets and limited nearby options.

3

There are no tables or public bathrooms; only a bench is available for waiting.

02
Nobibi Convoy image 1
Ice cream shop

Colorful ice cream shop with Instagrammable decor and clear glass displays showing cotton candy and ice cream making. Atmosphere is cozy and welcoming but can be loud due to music. Spacious seating area suits families and groups, with a focus on fun, unique desserts and fresh ingredients.

Chocolate flavors come with Biscoff crumble and swirl options. Ice creams include Dubai Chocolate and combinations with vanilla, cereals, sprinkles, and cotton candy. Drinks feature dalgona cocoa coffee cold.

Soft serve here stands out for its careful crafting and potent coffee flavor. Unique options include an avocado ice cream topped with crushed corn flakes and fresh avocado slices.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so smooth and not too sweet."

"The chocolate ice cream here is rich, creamy, and perfectly paired with biscoff crumble."

"This soft serve is the best I've had outside of Japan."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider street parking or nearby lots.

2

No cash is accepted; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

3

The menu features a variety of ice cream flavors, milk tea, and cotton candy.

03
Fosters Freeze image 1
Ice cream shop

Original ice cream shop with nostalgic 70s and 80s vibe offers best soft serve and flavorful combinations. Atmosphere feels old school and welcoming, attracting those seeking classic treats. Prices tend to be on the higher side but reflect the quality of ice cream served.

Chocolate treats include chocolate dipped soft serve cones and a chocolate dipped waffle cone that tastes like an adult drumstick. Shakes and parfaits feature chocolate cherry brownie combinations and classic chocolate malts.

Soft serve stands out with its rich chocolate dipped cones and a Chocolate Twist Ice Cream flavor. It comes in various forms like cones, sundaes, banana splits, and blizzards, all maintaining a consistent, classic taste.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is incredibly good."

"I loved the chocolate soft serve, especially the dipped cones."

"I thought the soft serve was out of this world."

Good to know

1

The price of a chocolate dipped ice cream cone is $6.50.

2

Parking is limited, so most people take food to go.

3

The card machine was not working initially, so cash may be needed.

04
626 Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Small ice cream shop with dim, warm lighting and moody, intimate ambiance feels like a late-night club or 1960s coffee house. Customers enjoy unique, freshly made flavors and can sample before buying. Outdoor seating with plastic stools and music adds to the funky, eclectic vibe.

Malted Chocolate offers a real chocolate malt taste that stands out from typical chocolate flavors. The mint ice cream differs from usual mint chocolate varieties, and the Hojicha Chocolate swirl adds a unique twist.

Soft serve features unique Asian flavors like hojicha with a creamy, roasted taste. All soft serves are made in-house, not too sweet, and come with distinctive toppings that complement the flavors well.

People are saying

"The ice cream flavors here are so unique and interesting."

"The malted chocolate flavor was thick and excellent."

"The soft serve here is so smooth, rich, and creamy."

Good to know

1

The shop is only open on weekends.

2

There is about a 30 min wait line during peak hours.

3

A small cup of ice cream costs about $10.

05
Hokey Pokey LA image 1
Ice cream shop

Small ice cream shop with vinyl records playing and a cozy, cute interior featuring booths and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels positive and lively, drawing a crowd that enjoys vegan-friendly soft serve options. Free samples and an extensive record collection add to the unique vibe.

Chocolate offerings include a raspberry and white chocolate shake with real raspberries and white chocolate pieces, plus a chocolate mousse waffle cone that stands out. The chocolate mousse itself is rich and well balanced, often paired with toppings like honeycomb and chocolate coated almonds.

Soft serve features a creamy, velvety texture with a subtle sweetness and crunchy toffee blended in. Every flavor is made fresh on the spot, offering a richer, more indulgent taste than typical soft serve.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is delicious, especially the Hokey Pokey flavor."

"The Hokey Pokey soft serve was literally perfect."

"The chocolate ice cream here is sweet, but not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Hokey Pokey LA offers both dairy and non-dairy options for lactose intolerant people.

2

Parking at Hokey Pokey LA is a challenge because it is inside the mall.

3

Century City Mall offers one hour free parking.

06
Claws and Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Bright space with pink and green decor and a rose-covered ceiling creates a fun, youthful vibe. Several claw machines and board games offer interactive entertainment alongside soft serve made from natural ingredients. Seating includes tall stools with views, making it suitable for hanging out or studying.

Dubai Chocolate stands out with its layered texture and rich flavor, featured in both specialty desserts and ice cream. The ice cream pairs well with mini donuts, though the $10 version leans on the sweeter side.

Soft serve features light, creamy textures with flavors like durian, coconut pandan, and matcha made fresh in house. Options include unique combinations such as smashed avocado with durian and strawberry shortcake, all using real natural ingredients.

People are saying

"The Dubai Chocolate soft serve ice cream is amazing."

"The Dubai Chocolate soft serve is vanilla ice cream with pistachio cream."

"The Dubai chocolate soft serve with pistachio cream is my favorite."

Good to know

1

The claw machines accept cash or coins only.

2

Each try at the claw machine costs a dollar and lasts about 15 seconds.

3

The deep fried spam musubi costs $6.

07
Tacomasa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open kitchen and glass walls create an airy, homey atmosphere with loud Mexican music setting a lively tone. Outdoor wrap-around seating offers a people-watching patio that enhances the vibrant vibe. The space feels warm and welcoming, blending casual dining with energetic surroundings.

Soft serve uses Abuelita Mexican chocolate for a rich, creamy flavor. Chocolate appears in ice cream and a secret swirl with vanilla on the menu.

Soft serve features a creamy texture with a rich Abuelita Mexican chocolate flavor. Options include vanilla and a secret menu swirl of chocolate and vanilla.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, thanks to Jose's warm and attentive service."

"The handmade tortillas here are fresh and might be even better than the tacos."

"The Abuelita soft serve is super rich and creamy."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend around $40 for three people after tax and tip.

2

The tacos cost $5 each, which I considered a bit pricey.

3

They are closed on Sundays.

08
Swirls Soft Serve image 1
Ice cream shop

Small indoor space with outdoor seating welcomes guests alongside their dogs. Playful vibe shines through fun videos and a wide variety of soft serve flavors with large portions and numerous toppings. Friendly atmosphere invites relaxed enjoyment in a hidden spot.

Dubai Chocolate Strawberry stands out with its rich flavor and popularity among kids. The vanilla/chocolate swirl with Oreo and peanut butter drizzle adds a sweet, textured twist for chocolate lovers.

Soft serve comes in gelato-style and non-dairy Dole whip options like pineapple and mango. Toppings include toasted coconut, Graham crackers, and peanut butter drizzle, adding extra flavor and texture.

People are saying

"I loved the wide variety of creative soft serve flavors here."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my daughter loved the great tasting treats."

"You have to try the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Swirls Soft Serve has a buy one get one free promotion available.

2

There is ample parking available in the plaza.

3

Kids sizes are available due to the large portion sizes.

09
South Swell Hand Dipped Ice Cream image 1

Pink decor and floors create a cozy beach-town vibe with outdoor seating and fun music playing. The place offers top-notch soft serve and frozen bananas with numerous toppings and dips, including gluten-free and dairy-free options. It draws a busy crowd with lines out the door and a family-run atmosphere.

High quality chocolate coats ice cream bars and frozen bananas, offering a rich texture. Customization includes various chocolate dips, nuts, and toppings like caramel, toasted coconut, and graham cracker.

Variety of ice cream bases includes vanilla, chocolate, swirl soft serve, frozen banana, and dairy-free options. Dipped soft serve and swirl with parent trap stand out as notable choices.

People are saying

"I thought the soft serve ice cream here was pretty good."

"I loved the ice cream dipped in chocolate with toppings."

"I thought the soft serve was pretty good and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during summer nights; arrive early to avoid being cut off.

2

Seating is limited, especially on hot days, so plan accordingly.

3

The ice cream is a bit pricey, with larger servings costing around $8.

10
Mister Softee image 1
Ice cream shop

Small ice cream shop offers soft serve with a super soft and fluffy texture and a wide variety of toppings and flavors, including vegan options. The atmosphere feels eclectic and fun, making it a popular spot for families and casual visits.

Small chocolate cups dipped in chocolate stand out, especially the Kryptonite. The chocolate dipped cone with peanut topping tastes like a richer Nestle Drumstick. Chocolate vanilla swirl and chocolate with pineapple offer unique flavor combos.

Soft serve here stands out for its creamy texture and classic flavors. Options include sundaes, splits, shakes, and Dole Whip, all made with smooth, rich ice cream.

People are saying

"The soft serve ice cream here is simple yet amazing."

"This place is great for kids; my children loved it."

"I thought the soft serve here was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Mister Softee offers a variety of toppings and flavors for soft serve.

2

Prices at Mister Softee are fair for the area.

3

Vegan options are available at Mister Softee.

11
Pepper Tree Frosty image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop with a 50's retro vibe and family-owned charm offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area surrounded by pepper trees and colorful flowers. Atmosphere feels unpretentious and social, often busy with groups enjoying soft serve and classic treats. Setting includes vintage benches and a wishing well, creating a nostalgic, peaceful spot to relax.

Chocolate banana shakes and chocolate dipped cones stand out as popular treats. Unique options include a chocolate dipped corn dog and chocolate dipped cheesecake on a stick.

Soft serve comes in strawberry and vanilla flavors, with the strawberry being a standout choice. Options include chocolate-dipped cones, sundaes, and shakes featuring soft serve ice cream.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream here was awesome."

"I thought the soft serve ice cream here was delicious."

"I always get the chocolate banana shake."

Good to know

1

The shop is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

2

Expect a variety of soft serve flavors and unique shakes.

3

The prices are considered affordable compared to similar establishments.

12
Coucou image 1
French restaurant

Small interior with bar-focused layout creates a cozy, hip vibe reminiscent of a New York City bistro. Attention to detailed decor and a European garden patio enhance the intimate atmosphere. Space feels lively and stylish, suited for date nights or drinks with friends.

Chocolate mousse stands out with its rich texture and deep flavor. It appears consistently as a dessert choice.

Soft serve comes as a sundae and a dessert option that pairs well with meals like steak au poivre. Kids enjoy the creamy texture, making it a popular choice for family outings.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are outstanding and perfectly balanced."

"I loved their soft serve sundae, it was incredible and fun to eat."

"The chocolate mousse was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three items for $33, including food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy.

3

A 20% service fee is automatically added to all bills.

13
Banan - Noe Valley image 1
Dessert shop

Bright, clean space with a modern beachy vibe featuring surfboards and plants creates a welcoming atmosphere. Energy stays lively even when busy, attracting those seeking healthy, vegan-friendly soft serve made primarily from bananas and honey. Limited seating and a unique color palette add to the distinct, casual experience.

Chocolate here has a rich flavor that is not too sweet. The chocolate banana base stands out as tastier than the original, especially when paired with brownies or toppings for a great combination.

Banana-based soft serve offers a mild smoothie flavor with a great consistency and no unnecessary ingredients. The vegan option is dairy-free and not too sweet.

People are saying

"I found the dairy-free soft serve to be surprisingly good."

"The chocolate flavor here is so rich and decadent."

"The banana soft serve tasted like a mild smoothie."

Good to know

1

The small cup with toppings costs over $9, which may be considered pricey.

2

You can request a sample to try different flavors before ordering.

3

Banan is a dairy-free option, suitable for lactose intolerant individuals.

14
IceChurro image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop offers fresh churros and delicious ice cream churro combos in a fun, lively atmosphere with pavers that signal order readiness. The place attracts families and couples looking for a sweet treat after outdoor activities. Energy stays upbeat despite occasional chaos.

Double chocolate churros stand out with rich flavor and generous portions. Hot chocolate pairs well, especially on cold days, complementing the chocolate dip served alongside churros.

Soft serve here varies from top-notch vanilla to just okay. Machines sometimes donโ€™t work and the ice cream melts quickly. Prices can be ridiculously high for small servings.

People are saying

"These churros are perfectly golden, crispy, and light."

"I thought the soft serve here was the best I tried."

"The Dubai double chocolate churro was a delicious surprise."

Good to know

1

IceChurro is open late for evening visitors.

2

Bring your own napkins as they are not provided.

3

Expect a confusing kiosk setup for ordering food.

15
Dr.ink image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with modern, minimalist dรฉcor and floor-to-ceiling windows creates a bright, cozy atmosphere. Soft music and carefully selected furniture set a relaxed, trendy vibe. Limited seating makes the space feel tight when busy, but quirky details and creative menu options add charm.

Dark chocolate drinks include a dark chocolate mocha and a peanut butter mocha topped with a peanut butter wafer. The iced dark chocolate drink blends coffee and chocolate well. Customization options like coconut milk substitution are limited.

Soft serve here is rich and tasty with a delicious flavor that stands out. It often surprises visitors who recognize the spot as an ice cream place.

People are saying

"The black sesame latte is iconic and perfectly balanced."

"I loved my dark chocolate latte; it was a nice blend."

"The soft serve here is so rich and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends.

2

Ordering ahead is recommended on weekends to avoid waiting.

3

Expect wait times of around 15 minutes during busy weekend hours.

16
Confetti Italian Ice & Custard image 1

Ice cream shop with clean interior and friendly staff creates a welcoming atmosphere full of fun energy. Customers enjoy a wide variety of unique flavors and custard options that stand out from typical frozen treats. The place offers thoughtful touches like free ice packs for takeout to keep desserts fresh.

Frozen chocolate custard stands out with its rich, creamy texture. Flavors like cookie dough, espresso, and chocolate custard mix well in parfaits and scoops.

Unique combinations mix soft serve, ice cream, and Italian ice in layered treats. Careful layering creates a visually appealing and tasty experience.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream here was amazing and unlike anything I had before."

"The unique flavor combinations here are delicious and keep the menu interesting."

"You have to try their frozen chocolate custard; it's the best ever."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a huge variety of flavors and fun options.

2

Parking is available in a large lot next to the shop.

3

To use the restroom, request the key from an employee.

17
Bob's Freeze image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop with a 1960s Southern California vibe offers soft serve and dipped cones known for being authentic and quick. The place operates on a cash-only basis with no seating available. Prices are reasonable, and the menu has remained largely unchanged for decades.

Chocolate dipped soft serve cones come with a refreshing and satisfying coating. The chocolate on dipped cones recently changed and tastes more like plastic than real chocolate.

Soft serve comes in classic flavors with a menu unchanged for decades. The chocolate dipped cone offers a refreshing, satisfying treat, and the soft serve slush floats add a unique twist.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"I got the chocolate dipped soft serve cone."

"I found the soft serve here to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Bob's Freeze accepts only cash; no credit or debit cards are accepted.

2

Prices for ice cream have increased from about $1.50 to almost $3 for a small cone.

3

There is no inside or outside seating available at Bob's Freeze.

18
Crispy Cones - Carlsbad image 1

Fresh-made warm cinnamon sugar crispy cones define the dessert experience here, paired with quality soft serve and toppings integrated throughout. The space feels fun and welcoming but can get crowded with long lines and limited cooling. Customization options are abundant, making it stand out from typical ice cream shops.

Chocolate ice cream here is super smooth and creamy. Brownie chunks mixed in add a perfect texture. The chocolate soft serve also stands out for its rich flavor.

Soft serve features a smooth, pure vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy cones and a variety of toppings and sauces for a unique twist on the classic dessert.

People are saying

"The fresh-made warm cones with ice cream are ridiculously good."

"The soft serve cones are a delicious, crispy, cinnamon sugar creation."

"The chocolate cones are fresh-made, warm, and crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, often around 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

2

Many toppings and spreads may be out of stock, so check availability first.

3

The price for four ice creams can exceed $40, so budget accordingly.

19
Curbside Creamery image 1
Ice cream shop

Tiny ice cream shop with outdoor seating in a quaint alley creates a familial, jovial atmosphere. Offers a wide selection of vegan and dairy options, including on-site waffle cones and rotating soft serve flavors. Lines form during warm weather, and the place stays open late into the evening.

Dark chocolate soft serve stands out with a rich, creamy texture. The chocolate waffle cone adds a decadent crunch. Vegan options include a peanut butter-chocolate ice cream made with cashew milk and a salted caramel twist with dark chocolate.

Soft serve comes in dairy dark chocolate and multiple vegan flavors like chocolate and vanilla bean. It serves on homemade waffle cones and rotates daily with tasty options.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so delicious and flavor forward."

"They have a great selection of dairy free ice cream options."

"I thought the dairy dark chocolate soft serve might be the best I ever ate."

Good to know

1

Every Thursday, they create a new soft-serve ice cream flavor.

2

Expect long lines during the summer months.

3

Curbside Creamery does not allow samples of their ice cream.

20
Saluhall SF image 1
Food court

Food court combines open, light-filled design with multiple levels hosting diverse restaurants and bars. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy with a refreshing vibe that connects to a nearby retail space. Frequented for local food options and a cooking school, it offers a lively yet chill environment.

Chocolate appears in soft serve and a gooey cake that resembles a brownie. The chocolate soft serve includes sprinkles for added texture.

Vegan soft serve stands out with large portions and unlimited toppings. Regular soft serve options include vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry sorbet flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of food options and vendors here."

"The chocolate soft serve here is amazing with huge portions."

"I loved the vegan soft serve with unlimited toppings."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens on Mondays at Saluhall SF.

2

The downstairs area opens at 8 AM for breakfast and coffee.

3

Happy hour runs after 5 PM on Thursdays with specialty drinks.

21
Boba Moba image 1

Cafe offers a clean, modern vibe with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of outdoor seating. It attracts people looking for high-quality desserts like Dubai Chocolate Sundae and creative boba drinks. The space feels cozy and perfect for enjoying sweet treats in a relaxed setting.

Chocolate desserts feature rich, crispy textures with toppings like pistachio cream and crunchy bits. The Dubai Chocolate Sundae combines perfect crunch with soft serve vanilla, while chocolate-covered strawberries and ice cream offer smooth, balanced flavors.

Soft serve features healthy, wholesome ingredients and an organic option. The Dubai Chocolate Sundae pairs crunchy chocolate with smooth vanilla soft serve.

People are saying

"Their matcha drinks are smooth, flavorful, and not too sweet."

"You have to try the Dubai chocolate strawberries; they're so delicious."

"The Dubai Chocolate Sundae has the perfect crunch with soft serve."

Good to know

1

Boba Moba is takeout only, with no indoor seating available.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

They accept credit cards and mobile payments, but not personal checks.

22
JARS by Fabio Viviani image 1

Bright, clean dessert shop with a cozy vibe and fun atmosphere. Desserts come in small jars, offering innovative flavors that blend cake and pudding textures. No seating is available, and the shop draws a crowd looking for a sweet, quick treat.

Chocolate desserts include a Dubai chocolate ice cream and a Raspberry Double Chocolate Cake JAR. The triple chocolate and banana cream treats blur the line between cake and pudding, while the German chocolate cake offers a classic option.

Soft serve comes in smooth, refreshing textures with flavors like Oreo Cookies and Cream and seasonal Pumpkin Cheesecake. Milkshakes and cold drinks complement the soft serve options well.

People are saying

"Their soft serve ice cream in unique jar flavors is so satisfying."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with the desserts."

"Their soft serve and cake jars are so good and beautifully layered."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a buy one get one free special.

2

They regularly feature seasonal flavors and fun events.

3

Desserts are served in 6 oz jars, making them easy to enjoy on the go.

23
XRO Fresh Churro Bar image 1

Small space with upscale Mexican decor offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays lively and vibey, attracting people who study or work there. Known for fresh churros paired with soft serve, it combines a cute, bright cafe vibe with affordable prices.

Churros come with excellent Spanish chocolate. Hot chocolate offers several flavors, including lemonade, horchata, and blended chocolate, but some flavors taste like Swiss Miss.

Fresh churros come with vanilla soft serve or a twist soft serve option. The soft serve pairs well with warm churros and various toppings.

People are saying

"I found the churros here to be amazing and delicious."

"These churros with Spanish chocolate are the best I've ever had."

"I loved the soft serve with fresh warm churros."

Good to know

1

Prices at XRO Fresh Churro Bar are around $6 for a churro.

2

The shop offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Parking can be challenging to find around the area.

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