Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
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 702 Opinions
+699
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
28 Wishes Ice Cream Shop image 1
28 Wishes Ice Cream Shop image 2
28 Wishes Ice Cream Shop image 3
View all

Small ice cream shop with warm, inviting atmosphere and high energy even late at night. Offers free samples and a unique variety of flavors including Pistachio, Ube, and Vietnamese Coffee. Space is cozy but lacks seating.

Creamy, flavorful ice cream with just the right sweetness stands out here. The Ferrero and mango flavors are especially notable for their rich taste and smooth texture.

Unique ice cream flavors stand out here, including Cinnamon Toast Crunch mixed into the ice cream. The selection offers a variety of cool and unique tastes not found elsewhere.

People are saying

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

"They have great dairy-free flavors and creative combinations."

"I loved their unique ice cream flavors, like Japanese cookies and cream."

Good to know

1

The shop is open until 2 AM on Saturday night.

2

There is no inside seating, but some outside seating is available.

3

Vegan ice cream and sorbet options are available.

02
Paradis Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

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 their Dubai Chocolate ice cream; it's a must-try."

"The dairy-free ice cream options here are outstanding and superb."

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

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.

03
Salt & Straw image 1
Ice cream shop

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."

"The ice cream here has so many unique and delicious flavors."

"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.

04
Settecento DTLA image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio and garden with twinkling lights and live jazz music create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere. Interior features a library-themed decor surrounded by lush greenery. Cocktails and Italian dishes like truffle pizza complement the elegant, relaxed vibe.

Chocolate and vanilla flavors shine in the Coppa di Gelato, which comes with a cute presentation. The berry gelato offers a rich, memorable taste that stands out.

Musical instruments and book columns decorate the bar area, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere. The menu offers a small selection of dishes that stand out as distinctive compared to typical options.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and reasonably priced."

"The food here is delicious and unique."

"The pasta here is perfectly al dente and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 6pm, ending at 5:45pm.

2

Live music is available from Wednesday to Saturday evenings.

3

The restaurant validates parking for $6 for three hours at the Library parking lot.

05
Japanese Village Plaza image 1

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

"I loved the authentic Japanese food and casual sweets."

"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.

06
SOMOCHI DTLA image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop with cozy, cute design and earthy plants creates a welcoming atmosphere. Calm music and art add to the alluring vibe while small outdoor tables invite relaxation. Known for fresh, light donuts and a variety of Korean-inspired treats, it offers a lively yet comfortable experience.

Soft serve stands out with matcha flavor that is refreshing and not too sweet. Mochi and large mouth bass shaped cones add a unique twist to the ice cream experience.

Mochi donuts offer a unique twist on traditional donuts with different flavors that stand out. The spot has a small and cozy atmosphere that adds to its distinct vibe.

People are saying

"I found the mochi donuts to be delicious and not too oily."

"I loved the unique, chewy texture and fun flavors."

"The soft serve ice cream here is delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

SOMOCHI DTLA offers a variety of unique mochi donuts and Korean-style corndogs.

2

Prices at SOMOCHI DTLA can be considered on the higher side.

3

Parking is available nearby, making it convenient for visitors.

07
Chubby Cattle BBQ | Little Tokyo image 1

Compact space balances spacious seating with a modern Yakiniku vibe and steampunk decor. Atmosphere stays fun and energetic without overwhelming noise or smoke. Self-serve unlimited drinks and ice cream add a unique touch to the lively dining experience.

Sides like kimchi and fermented spinach offer a distinct flavor. Service by Johnny P adds a unique touch to the all you can eat BBQ experience.

People are saying

"I loved the melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu quality here."

"The all-you-can-eat ice cream here is amazing!"

"This unique all-you-can-eat BBQ is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, particularly for dinner.

3

There's a pay-to-park lot right next door for $15.

08
Tokyo Haus Sushi & Grill All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious, clean interior features minimalist decor with Japanese-themed artwork and stylish plating that enhances the dining experience. Atmosphere balances casual comfort with an upscale feel, though loud jazz music raises noise levels. Group-friendly seating encourages sharing and socializing.

Desserts include tempura ice cream, green tea ice cream, and mochi ice cream. These offer a mix of traditional and unique flavors to finish a meal.

Presentation stands out with special plates and wood boxes that feel authentic to Japanese cuisine. The all-you-can-eat Premium Sushi offers unique fish dishes served in a wooden box with compartments, while the Salmon steak bowl features a distinctive Teriyaki flavor and assorted vegetables.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat Japanese food has a time limit and leftover charges."

"The sushi presentation here is unique, with special wooden boxes."

"The tempura ice cream was a wonderful way to end the meal."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 11 AM to 3 PM on weekdays.

2

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM.

3

A mandatory 18% tip is added for parties of two or more.

09
Millet Crepe - Little Tokyo image 1
Dessert restaurant

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

"The crรจme brรปlรฉe crepe's caramelized top and creamy custard are amazing."

"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.

10
STILE Downtown Los Angeles image 1

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 Hotel staff were so friendly and helpful."

"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.

11
Camphor image 1
Restaurant

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 Dover sole and sea bream at these dinner spots are phenomenal."

"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.

12
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with black walls and ambient lighting creates an intimate, elegant vibe. A cool cave-like hallway leads to extra seating, adding a unique touch. Music from a DJ keeps energy chill while good acoustics allow easy conversation.

Homemade Thai tea-flavored ice cream stands out here. They also offer a free scoop of this flavor for birthdays.

Dishes feature unique flavors like scallops with ube sauce and black garlic ravioli. The space includes a cool cave-like hallway leading to extra seating, adding a distinct vibe.

People are saying

"The Filipino food here is fresh and creatively elevated."

"The food here has a unique, creative spin on Filipino flavors."

"I tried the homemade Thai Tea ice cream and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot across the street.

2

Sampa does not have a liquor license yet; only mocktails are available.

3

Reservations are recommended for the tasting menu.

Discover more

Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

Area guide
Loading Map...