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Downtown LA's best

Unique ice cream spots

An ice cream shop that offers something unique, rather than the same tired flavors found everywhere else.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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01
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Tiny shop with no seating offers a grab and go vibe and a welcoming atmosphere. Ice cream features eggless, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options with creative, flavorful selections. Cleanliness stands out amid a sketchy surrounding.

Ice cream here features fresh fruits with no artificial flavors and comes in very big portions for the price. Unique flavors like horchata and Dubai chocolate topped with pistachio sauce add variety and richness.

Super unique flavors stand out with a chance to sample before choosing. The ice cream offers high quality and bold taste.

People are saying

"You have to try the Dubai chocolate ice cream, it tastes like Dubai."

"The staff here is exceptionally friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Toppings cost an extra dollar or one fifty each.

2

The smallest cup costs about $7.

3

Parking is difficult; consider parking elsewhere and walking.

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Small space with cozy, casual vibe and minimal warm decor offers unique, constantly changing ice cream flavors including vegan options. Indoor seating is limited but complemented by cute outdoor seating shared with neighbors. Loud, inappropriate music contrasts with the inviting atmosphere.

Handmade ice cream features unique flavors like salted caramel and cookie dough. Vegan options taste just as good, and seasonal varieties add fresh choices regularly.

Unique flavors stand out with options like honey lavender and vegan choices. The ice cream has a chewy texture that adds to the distinct experience.

People are saying

"The lavender ice cream here is fantastic."

"I loved their unique flavors you can't find anywhere else."

Good to know

1

Ice cream costs around $20 for two people.

2

There is no parking available at the shop.

3

The shop offers a large variety of unique flavors.

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Market occupies historic industrial warehouses with vintage architecture and an open layout. Atmosphere feels like a casual neighborhood festival with live DJ music and a lively crowd. Features include outdoor bar, ample seating, and diverse vendors offering food, drinks, and merchandise.

A farmerโ€™s market style vibe fills the space with a variety of unique shops and restaurants. Food options stand out with plenty of unique foods alongside aisles of artwork, vintage clothes, and accessories.

People are saying

"I found so many unique foods and creative options to try."

Good to know

1

Entry to the market is free.

2

The market is open only every Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

3

Parking is free for the first two hours in a six-floor structure.

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Modern Indian restaurant with stylish decor and a Gatsby-inspired bar creates an elegant atmosphere. Bollywood-inspired DJ music adds lively energy and encourages dancing. The space feels open and vibrant, attracting groups for social dining and celebrations.

Gulab jamun cheesecake blends silky mascarpone with a creme brulee top and saffron pistachio ice cream. Mango purรฉe pairs with ice cream, mascarpone, and ghewar for a well-balanced, indulgent treat.

Every dish offers unique flavors from different regions of India. Items like the past mango ghewar and Kerala achappam stand out as memorable and craveable.

People are saying

"The dishes here are so unique, with creative reinventions of traditional flavors."

"The saffron pistachio ice cream had a great pistachio flavor."

Good to know

1

Brunch on Sundays features live music, with dancing starting around 1:30pm.

2

A special prix fixe menu is available during brunch and special events.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure accommodation.

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Small dessert spot offers unique crepe service with self-order kiosks and indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively despite tight space and occasional crowding. Crepes stand out as rich and flavorful, especially crรจme brรปlรฉe varieties.

Creme brulee crepes come with matcha, vanilla, or chocolate ice cream and often include strawberries, bananas, Nutella, or custard. Caramel crepes feature cinnamon apple and ice cream, with vanilla ice cream added at no extra cost.

Crepes feature a unique texture from millet flour and come made to order with a distinctive serving style.

People are saying

"These crepes are so unique, with a perfectly thin and crispy texture."

"The crรจme brรปlรฉe crepe with ice cream was so good."

Good to know

1

This location does not accept cash; only cards and Apple Pay are accepted.

2

The place gets packed quickly due to its popularity and has limited seating.

3

Parking is difficult; consider using Japanese Market Plaza or street parking.

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Cobblestone paths and wooden facades mimic traditional Japanese shopping streets, creating an immersive small-town feel. Bright red lanterns and a 50-foot replica fire lookout tower add to the authentic Edo-period design. The plaza buzzes with lively energy, especially on weekends, drawing crowds to its outdoor dining and arcade games.

Mochi ice cream stands out with its chewy texture and sweet filling. Multiple spots offer bakery goods and ice cream, including cafes serving boba and other sweet treats.

Lively atmosphere blends with unique little shops selling traditional crafts, kimonos, and anime merchandise. Red lanterns and Japanese-style architecture create a distinct vibe not found elsewhere.

People are saying

"You'll find unique shops selling Japanese gifts and anime."

"I was never disappointed with this ice cream."

Good to know

1

The plaza hosts cherry blossom events in spring with sakura-themed stalls.

2

Nisei Week Japanese Festival in August includes Obon dancing, taiko drums, and a parade.

3

Parking can get crowded and expensive on weekends.

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Japanese restaurant offers a beautiful space with calm, peaceful vibe suited for intimate dining. Loud 90s music and low lighting create a lively yet dim atmosphere. Bar seating provides views of kitchen prep and creative Japanese dishes stand out alongside interesting cocktails inspired by Japanese whiskey.

Grilled brownies come topped with matcha ice cream for a unique dessert. The combination of green tea ice cream and warm brownie stands out as a special treat.

Squid ink karaage stands out with its perfectly fried chicken and amazing presentation. Fusion dishes blend Asian flavors in a brilliantly crafted way, complemented by a drink menu full of unique cocktails.

People are saying

"The squid ink karaage is uniquely crispy and bold."

"You have to try the ice cream and brownie here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Parking validation is available to avoid extra charges.

3

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm with $10 Japanese highballs.

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Ice cream shop inside a busy food hall offers unique, high-quality flavors made in-house without preservatives. The atmosphere is lively and casual, fitting for grabbing a cone while exploring. Prices are steep with small portions, and long lines reflect its popularity.

Rich, authentic ice cream flavors like lemon and Marion berries and cinnamon stand out. Everything is made in-house without stabilizers or preservatives, delivering a fresh, addictive taste.

Ice cream features unique combinations and flavors that stand out. Other dessert spots in the market offer different kinds of uniqueness.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so creamy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

McConnell's is the only ice cream location at Grand Central Market with late hours.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially in the evening.

3

Ice cream costs $6 per scoop, with a double scoop priced at $10.50.

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Hotel combines art deco and brutalist styles with a modern art flair in its design. Rooftop features a heated swimming pool, bar, and lounge area with excellent city views. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful during the day to loud with music late at night.

Rooms feature a unique use of space and offer beautiful views. The atmosphere blends a cool, distinctive vibe with thoughtful touches like a white noise machine and complimentary skin care masks.

People are saying

"The staff here is super friendly and helpful with your ice cream."

"The staff here are so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Parking is not available on site.

2

The area around the hotel can be unsafe, especially at night.

3

Rooftop parties occur Thursday to Sunday, often with loud music until 3 a.m.

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Minimalist Japanese design shapes a chic, peaceful space with volcanic rock accents and outdoor seating warmed by heat lamps. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, suitable for conversation rather than traditional omakase formality. High-quality Asian-inspired cocktails complement the refined setting.

A unique Japanese atmosphere shines through the minimal, sleek interior and beautiful decor. Cocktails and dishes come out perfectly balanced and distinct, including a standout Caesar salad.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful and unique decor creating a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking is street only and very limited.

2

Valet parking costs $13.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality offered.

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Michelin-starred French restaurant occupies a restored warehouse with high ceilings and all-white decor creating a refined, modern atmosphere. Open kitchen adds lively energy as diners watch chefs at work. Space feels upscale and comfortable, blending style with thoughtful details throughout.

Ice cream comes as a side to bread pudding, adding a lightly sweetened and fluffy contrast that balances the dessert well.

Dishes use completely different cooking methods and balance elegance and comfort. Creative plates like Sea Brim crudo and beef tartar stand out, while scallop dumplings offer a sweet aroma with dill that lightens the cream.

People are saying

"The food here is unique, with a bold fusion of French and Southeast Asian flavors."

"The chicken here is one of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 with a $2.50 convenience charge.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

3

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual is preferred.

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