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Top picks in San Diego

Ice cream shops

A cold scoop of something sweet is the only thing that can cut through the heat of the afternoon.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pop Pops Paleta image 1
Pop Pops Paleta image 2
Pop Pops Paleta image 3
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Ice cream shop

Tiny shop near an arch offers unique ice cream flavors like sweet corn and salted caramel cheesecake. Cozy atmosphere with friendly staff and colorful decor invites visitors to relax. Outside seating provides plane views, making it a welcoming spot for all.

Ice cream pops come in many unique flavors like sweet corn, cappuccino, and cheesecake filled with salted caramel. The ice cream is less sweet than typical US desserts and features high quality ingredients with delicious toppings.

People are saying

"You have to try the paletas dipped in chocolate; they're so creamy."

"I thought the guava cheesecake was the best dessert I've ever had."

"The ice cream here is amazing and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for catering services at least one week in advance.

2

Pop Pops Paleta offers a wide variety of flavors, including vegan options.

3

Each popsicle costs around $7, with additional toppings available.

02
Stella Jean's Ice Cream Pacific Beach image 1

Ice cream shop serves bold flavors like ube pandesal and mango sticky rice with creamy, natural taste. Offers many vegan options and gluten-free treats. Casual space has indoor air conditioning and a fun, relaxed vibe on the outdoor patio.

Ube pandesal and mango sticky rice stand out as unique ice cream flavors here. The ice cream is exceptionally creamy with clean, bold flavors and no artificial additives.

People are saying

"The ice cream here has such unique and rich flavors, like ube toffee."

"The berry lemon hand pie was so fresh and sweet."

"I loved the unique flavors, they were packed with so much taste."

Good to know

1

They offer many gluten-free and non-dairy options.

2

The ice cream servings include split scoops for variety.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

03
Holy Paleta image 1
Ice cream shop

Offers gourmet customizable popsicles with unique Michoacan flavors like spicy Mango sorbet. Seating is spacious and relaxed, both indoors and outdoors. Prices reflect premium quality and innovative toppings.

Ice cream here features inspired Michoacan flavors with options like spicy Mango sorbet and leche paletas. The ice cream pops and cones offer a unique and delicious taste experience.

People are saying

"I loved the chocolate drizzle and dipping my paleta in chocolate."

"I found the ice cream pops delicious and unique."

"The paletas here are incredibly delicious and rich in flavor."

Good to know

1

Each topping costs $1.75, and a drizzle of chocolate adds $1.50.

2

The basic ice cream costs $7 per serving, making it a bit pricey.

3

Expect to spend about $10 per person on average.

04
Scoops La Jolla Cove image 1
Ice cream shop

Bright shop with ocean view and dog-friendly seating offers a calm, homey vibe. Enjoy Van Leeuwen ice cream in many flavors with half scoops to try more. Plenty of dairy-free and vegan options make it a great spot for all tastes.

Creamy and flavorful ice cream comes from Van Leeuwen, offered in a variety of great quality flavors. Half scoops are available, making it easy to try more than one.

People are saying

"These crepes are so tasty and made right in front of you."

"The ice cream staff here are so friendly and nice."

"The outdoor seating has an amazing ocean view."

Good to know

1

Scoops La Jolla Cove is open until 10pm, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

They offer half scoops of ice cream, allowing you to try more flavors.

3

The shop has dog-friendly outdoor seating for pet owners.

05
Handelโ€™s Homemade Ice Cream image 1

Small ice cream shop offers generous portions and a wide variety of homemade flavors like Black Cherry. Open windows and outdoor seating create an old school feel with a pleasant, fun atmosphere. Fast service keeps lines moving even during busy times.

Creamy texture stands out with a great selection of flavors, including a notable Black Cherry. Service is fast, making it easy to enjoy homemade ice cream treats.

People are saying

"The ice cream here has amazing flavors and a great selection."

"The strawberry cheesecake and Cookie Monster flavors are a kid-friendly hit."

"You have to try the chocolate shake, it's very good."

Good to know

1

The shop opens at 11am.

2

This place gets very busy during peak hours.

3

A small cup of ice cream costs $5 for a single flavor.

06
Cafeina Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop blends Latin American vibes with SoCal style in a calm, vibrant space. Spacious, sunlit patio offers a community library and dog-friendly spots. Unique mazapan ice cream flavors add a sweet twist to the relaxing atmosphere.

Mazapan and horchata stand out as unique ice cream flavors here. The ice cream offers a delicious variety to enjoy on site or take away.

People are saying

"I loved the sweet, festive coffee flavors here."

"The patio is a really cool, peaceful spot to spend time."

"The back patio is a relaxing spot for ice cream."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky if itโ€™s busy; street parking is available.

2

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

3

The patio is a nice place to work or relax.

07
Kiiro Sushi Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious seating and modern casual design create a clean, classy vibe with a family feel. Fried ice cream tempura offers a crispy contrast to the creamy center, with flavors like green tea and cookies and cream. Chill 80's pop tunes keep the mood friendly and welcoming.

Fried ice cream comes in tempura style with options like green tea and cookies and cream. The ice cream tempura offers a crispy contrast to the cold, creamy center.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The sushi here is delicious and very fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

2

There is a large free parking lot available nearby.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

08
Barra Oliba image 1
Restaurant

Cozy, intimate ambiance blends with a stylish, modern design for a chic dining experience. Unique olive oil ice cream offers a distinctive dessert finish. Outdoor seating with heat lamps creates a lively, pet-friendly street vibe.

Olive oil ice cream stands out as a unique dessert made in-house. It pairs well with other dishes and offers a distinctive flavor that finishes the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the Spanish cuisine."

"I enjoyed the amazing wines and the perfect pairings."

"You have to try the olive oil ice cream; it's divine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available with discounted prices on select items.

2

Expect additional charges for bread and small tastings on the bill.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio area for outdoor dining.

09
Yogurt Lounge Serra Mesa image 1
Frozen yogurt shop

Frozen yogurt shop offers variety of flavors and affordable treats in a clean, welcoming space. Friendly, chill vibes make it a popular spot. Many enjoy their favorite ice creams here regularly.

Good flavors make the ice cream stand out. Many people get their favorite ice creams here regularly.

People are saying

"The owner's friendly service makes the frozen yogurt experience so welcoming."

"I thought their smoothies were the best."

"The ice cream here is really good."

Good to know

1

The large acai bowl costs roughly 12 dollars.

2

Yogurt Lounge Serra Mesa offers two different sizes of acai bowls.

3

There is a variety of flavors available at all times.

10
Somisomi image 1
Dessert shop

Fish-shaped cones filled with matcha soft serve offer a unique Asian twist. Vibrant decor and K-pop music create an energetic vibe. Shared picnic tables add a social atmosphere perfect for enjoying creamy, smooth ice cream blends.

Soft serve stands out with matcha, ube, and taro flavors that balance sweetness well. Taiyaki cones hold smooth, creamy ice cream that blends Japanese and American styles.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food, especially the taiyaki, is always nice and hot."

"The soft serve ice cream has unique Asian and Western flavors."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially during busy evenings.

3

There is free street parking available nearby.

11
Portside Coffee and Gelato image 1

Small cafe boasts spectacular skyline views and a cozy vibe mixing upscale marina guests with beachgoers. Gelato shines with rich flavors and creamy texture, offering generous portions and choices like mudpie and waffle cones. Outdoor seating enhances relaxed enjoyment.

Gelato offers rich flavors and a creamy texture with a variety of sorbet and gelato options. Portions are generous and prices reasonable, with choices like mudpie gelato and waffle cones available.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here superb and delightful."

"You have to try the breakfast burrito; it's fantastic."

"The gelato here is rich, creamy, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Portside Coffee and Gelato opens at 6am.

2

The small gelato size costs $5, the medium $6, and the large $7.

3

Seating is available outside the shop.

12
Gelato Vero Caffe image 1
Ice cream shop

Small gelato shop offers authentic gelato with flavors like espresso gelato. Retro feel and outdoor streetside seating create a timeless, classic atmosphere. Welcoming vibe includes indoor and upstairs seating with nearby views.

Authentic gelato stands out here with a good selection of flavors including espresso gelato. The gelato is crafted with care and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"This gelato has the best, smoothest texture and greatest flavor."

"This local spot has the best, freshly made gelato with rich flavor."

"I had the best affogato Iโ€™ve ever had in my life."

Good to know

1

Parking is street parking and can be difficult, especially during peak hours.

2

You can get two flavors in a small cup for about $5.

3

Prices for gelato and desserts have increased recently.

13
Istanbul Doner Kebab image 1

Large space with authentic Turkish vibe offers vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere and loud Turkish pop music. Handmade ice cream shines with pistachio and saffron flavors. Amenities like a juice bar and prayer room add comfort and convenience.

Handmade ice cream features pistachio and saffron flavors that stand out. Turkish ice cream and vanilla options pair well with desserts like baklava.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tastes homemade."

"The kebab here is juicy, tender, and flavorful."

"You have to try the pistachio and saffron ice cream."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait time.

2

Parking can be difficult to find in the Gaslamp Quarter.

3

The menu features a wide variety of Turkish cuisine options.

14
Brites Soft Serve image 1
Ice cream shop

Open floor plan creates a family-oriented atmosphere that invites socializing. Soft serve is low-calorie and keto-friendly, with a wide variety of flavors and healthy toppings. Spotless cleanliness keeps the environment fresh and inviting.

Soft serve here is low in sugar and calories yet still delicious and creamy. The place offers an amazing variety of flavors and maintains spotless cleanliness.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is amazing, I loved all the flavors I tried."

"The soft serve desserts come in so many flavors, I loved cinnamon churro."

"I thought the soft serve here was amazing."

Good to know

1

Brites Soft Serve offers keto-friendly ice cream options.

2

Parking is available downstairs at PB Marketplace, shared with Ralphs.

3

The ice cream contains no artificial colors, flavors, or seed oils.

15
Sunday Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Small shop offers unique Asian-inspired flavors like ube and matcha with creamy textures. Warm, cozy atmosphere features artistic decor and a quick-moving line. Customers enjoy homemade waffle cones and a casual, mom-and-pop vibe.

Unique Asian-inspired flavors like ube, matcha, and pandan stand out with creamy, tasty textures. Custom options such as Honey Jujube and Mango Passion Fruit add variety to the homemade ice cream selection.

People are saying

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

"It's a cozy ice cream shop with artistic decor and a wide mix of flavors."

"I loved the Thai Tea flavor; it was super good and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging during peak hours, but a garage is nearby.

2

The location is small, so seating is limited.

3

Sunday Ice Cream is open late at night.

16
Bobboi Natural Gelato image 1
Ice cream shop

Gelato melts slowly and tastes fresh with standout flavors like pistachio and Moka. Friendly staff offer free samples outside, creating a cheerful vibe. Options include vegetarian and dairy-free choices for all tastes.

Gelato here is all natural and melts slowly, avoiding brain freezes. The pistachio, Mediterraneo, and Moka flavors stand out, with a solid dairy-free selection available.

People are saying

"I thought the gelato here was the best I've had in a while."

"The Natural gelato here has amazing, friendly service."

"The gelato here is authentic Italian."

Good to know

1

They clearly labeled vegetarian options.

2

They offered vegan options.

3

Prices are a bit expensive because it's located by the beach.

17
Nobibi Convoy image 1
Ice cream shop

Colorful shop offers creamy soft serve with unique flavors like avocado and dalgona. Cozy, lively space features Instagrammable decor and clear displays of cotton candy making. Spacious seating suits families, making it perfect for fun, fresh desserts.

Soft serves stand out with creamy texture and potent coffee flavor. Unique flavors like avocado, taro, biscoff, and dalgona offer a fun and carefully crafted ice cream experience.

People are saying

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

"The cotton candy here is super fluffy and cute, perfect for sharing."

"The ice cream shop is really cute and great for kids."

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.

18
Yogurt World UCSD image 1
Frozen yogurt shop

Frozen yogurt shop offers creative rotating flavors like taro and saffron rose with authentic Korean taste. Pricing by weight lets you mix custom amounts with unlimited toppings. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with ample outdoor seating and a cozy interior.

Taro ice cream stands out with its authentic flavor that matches traditional Korean yogurt ice cream. Prices vary by weight, letting you choose custom amounts with unlimited toppings.

People are saying

"I thought the frozen yogurt here was great."

"I loved how unique their flavors were and that they rotated them."

"The taro ice cream here is the best flavor."

Good to know

1

The price is 69 cents per weight, allowing for mix and match of flavors.

2

The flavors rotate depending on the day, offering unique options regularly.

3

The owner posts the flavor schedule on the front window for easy access.

19
Venchi image 1
Chocolate artisan

Chocolate artisan shop blends classy elegance with fun and offers top-tier gelato known for its pistachio flavor. Enjoy gluten free options and large portions perfect for sharing in a warm, welcoming space with outdoor seating and lively music.

Offers large portions of gelato perfect for sharing. Features gluten free chocolate and gelato options except for cones. Known for pistachio gelato and attentive service helping with flavor choices.

People are saying

"Gianna's friendliness made the ice cream experience so much better."

"The white chocolate pistachio was outstanding."

"The staff here is so helpful with vegan options."

Good to know

1

Weekends can get a little wild with the lines.

2

The regular size costs $8.25 for two flavors in a cup.

3

There is no dine-in area.

20
Orchid Persian Cuisine image 1
Persian restaurant

Space blends Persian style with modern art and orchids, creating a calm, family-friendly vibe. Saffron ice cream shines as a specialty, often paired with baklava for rich flavor. Comfortable seating and soothing music add to the relaxing atmosphere.

Saffron ice cream stands out as the specialty, often paired with Baklava for a rich flavor combo. The ice cream also comes in pistachio and pairs well with hot cardamom tea.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and incredibly fresh."

"The saffron ice cream with pistachios and rose petals is heavenly."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and inviting."

Good to know

1

The restaurant recently underwent renovations and introduced a new menu.

2

The chef has been with the restaurant for about 30 years, ensuring consistent quality.

3

The restaurant maintains high cleanliness standards, including the bathrooms.

21
Fosters Freeze image 1
Ice cream shop

Nostalgic ice cream shop shines with classic soft serve and unique cherry brownie flavors. Boisterous, lively atmosphere suits groups and families, though poor acoustics can be a challenge. Casual spot also serves old school burgers with indoor and outdoor seating.

Soft serve stands out as the main attraction with its terrific texture and classic flavors. Ice cream cones, shakes, and unique options like cherry brownie ice cream offer a solid variety for dessert.

People are saying

"I loved their soft serve ice cream; it's the best I've had."

"Their American food, especially the shakes, tasted amazing."

"I loved the yummy junk food burgers here since I was a kid."

Good to know

1

Fosters Freeze offers a variety of menu items including hamburgers, fries, hot dogs, and specialty shakes.

2

There is plenty of parking available for customers.

3

Expect a line during peak hours, but it moves quickly.

22
The Peruvian Spot image 1

Offers authentic Peruvian atmosphere with bright dรฉcor and a family-friendly vibe. Features a kids' play corner visible from dining areas. Serves homemade ice cream with unique flavors like lucuma and passion fruit.

Homemade ice cream features unique flavors like lucuma, passion fruit, and key lime pie. Chocolate cake pairs well with the lucuma ice cream for a rich taste.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be the best I ever had."

"The Peruvian food here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Peru."

"You have to try the lucuma ice cream with chocolate cake pieces."

Good to know

1

They offer free coffee until 10:30.

2

The kids corner makes it special for families with children.

3

Parking is easy and the location is convenient.

23
An's Electronics Repair image 1

Ice cream shop offers creative flavor combos like sweet and fruit sorbets. Vintage gadgets and TVs show flavors, adding nostalgic 90s vibes. Quiet back patio provides a calm outdoor spot for enjoying unique scoops.

Super creative flavor combinations mix sweet and fruit-forward sorbets. Sampling each flavor on the ice cream tour reveals unique and tasty gelato options.

People are saying

"The ice cream staff is so kind and knowledgeable about flavors."

"The flavors here are so unique and delicious."

"The electronic repair shop theme is a really cool concept."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

2

Everything is gluten-free, which is important if that is a concern.

3

They offer free samples of all available flavors before you decide.

24
Pop Pie Co. Pacific Beach image 1

Brightly lit coffeehouse offers a chill vibe with a clean, cheerful environment and outdoor seating. Creative pies and unique ice cream flavors like mango sticky rice shine. Whole ingredient dishes and vegan options make it a top spot for elevated coffee and food.

Unique and crazy flavors like mango sticky rice and guava stand out. The ice cream pairs well with pies, and options like toffee in ube and s'mores offer distinct tastes.

People are saying

"I was obsessed with their delicious pot pies and slices."

"I thought the ice cream flavors were amazing and creative."

"I loved their pot pies and other delicious desserts."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options for pies and ice cream.

3

Dessert pies are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

25
Parfait Paris image 1

Cozy bakery offers authentic French specialties and a quiet, calm vibe perfect for studying or brunch. Kids love the vanilla gelato and macaroons while enjoying cozy music. Ample seating includes indoor and outdoor patios ideal for families.

Hazelnut ice cream and vanilla gelato stand out for their rich flavors. Kids enjoy the gelato and macaroons alongside cozy music.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent and delicious."

"I found the macarons here to be creative and delicious."

"I thought the vanilla gelato here was really good."

Good to know

1

The prices are quite high, with a croissant costing $10 with nuts on top.

2

The macaroons cost $35 for 12 pieces.

3

The Dubai chocolate croissant costs $11.

26
Famous Oasis Ice Cream Parlor image 1

Mexican-inspired ice cream shop offers unique flavors like Gansito and tamarind sorbet with smooth, creamy texture. Casual, family-owned spot has a cash-only policy and slightly overpriced servings. Atmosphere feels welcoming and authentic.

Smooth, creamy, and flavorful ice cream stands out here, with unique options like Gansito and queso flavors. Ice cream bars and fresh-tasting scoops add to the variety and quality.

People are saying

"This ice cream is the best I've ever had."

"I loved their Gansito flavor; it brought back memories of my grandma's house."

"My kids loved their flavors here, it's very Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash.

2

An ice cream cone with one scoop costs 6 dollars.

3

The shop now offers mini bars for $1.

27
Zytoun Gourmet Mediterranean image 1

Cozy indoor and outdoor seating offers bay and ocean views in a clean, authentic Mediterranean setting. Families enjoy the welcoming vibe with music enhancing the relaxed atmosphere. Turkish ice cream and pistachio baklava provide a delicious finish to meals like falafel and chicken shawarma pizza.

Turkish ice cream comes free and pairs well with pistachio baklava. It offers a delicious finish to meals alongside dishes like falafel and chicken shawarma pizza.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Mediterranean."

"The food here is so delicious, especially with outdoor seating."

"You have to try the Turkish ice cream; it's the most delicious I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of halal food options.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.

28
Deckman's NORTH Park at 3131 image 1

Open kitchen with chef's counter offers an engaging dining experience. Unique kefir ice cream pairs with apple and persimmon for a standout dessert. Rooftop bar provides an intimate outdoor vibe with a hidden entrance adding intrigue.

Kefir ice cream pairs with apple and persimmon for a unique pre-dessert. Melon combines with ice cream in a light dessert amuse.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and tasty."

"The cocktails here are spot on and perfectly crafted."

"I loved the kefir ice cream with apple and persimmon."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:00 to 6:30 PM, featuring oysters and small bites.

2

Seating for happy hour is limited to about 10-12 guests, so arrive early.

3

The rooftop offers stunning views during happy hour, enhancing the experience.

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