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San Diego's best

Soft serve ice cream

You have a clear preference for the smooth, consistent texture of soft-serve ice cream.

Based on 604 Opinions
+601
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01
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Fish-shaped cones filled with smooth, unique Asian-flavored soft serve create a distinctive dessert experience. Vibrant, colorful decor and K-pop music set a lively, energetic atmosphere. Seating includes a long picnic table shared with a shaved ice spot, making it a social and bustling place.

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.

Soft serve here has a very smooth texture and is creamy with unique Asian flavors like matcha and ube. Toppings such as Oreo dust and mini macaroons add extra flavor options.

People are saying

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

"The soft serve here is silky smooth and has rich tea 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.

02
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Ice cream shop with nostalgic vibes and old school charm offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere can be boisterous and lively, especially with groups of teenagers, and acoustics are poor. Known for classic soft serve and burgers, it feels like a hometown spot for casual family outings.

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.

Soft serve stands out with its twisters and consistently terrific texture. It offers good, cheap ice cream that draws people back regularly.

People are saying

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

"I thought their soft serve was the best I ever had."

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.

03
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Small interior offers a clean and calm atmosphere with a cute design. The cafe draws a steady flow of people looking for a quiet spot to relax. Thick, creamy soft serve with unique toppings stands out as a signature feature.

Soft serve ice cream is thick and creamy with a toasted marshmallow flavor standing out. Sweet cream pairs well but extra toppings can distract from the core flavors.

Soft serve here is thick and creamy with options like Haikaido soft serve and a toasted marshmallow flavor.

People are saying

"The soft serve here is thick and creamy."

"The soft serve ice cream here is thick and creamy."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only option available near the cafe.

2

The cafe is located on University Avenue, making it easy to find.

3

It's within walking distance of popular local attractions.

04
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Corner dessert shop offers large variety of shaved ice and soft serve with custom toppings charged by weight. Atmosphere mixes indoor and outdoor seating with popular, often busy vibe. Unique flavors like ube and matcha affogato stand out among choices.

Soft serve options like Ube and Tiger stand out with unique flavors and textures. Shaved frozen blocks of ice cream create a different experience, often paired with brown sugar and boba for added taste.

Ube soft serve stands out as a favorite flavor and is highly recommended. Options include tiger milk soft serve and soft serve with brown sugar and boba, with many flavors available.

People are saying

"The matcha affogato ice cream was amazing with authentic matcha."

"The matcha affogato soft serve was amazing and tasted authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect a line during peak hours due to the shop's popularity.

2

Parking is tight; consider using a paid lot nearby for convenience.

3

Prices are around $20 for two small soft serves and one kids' shaved ice.

05
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Small shop with bright pastel blue colors and cute displays creates an inviting, sweet-smelling atmosphere. Mochi donuts and Taiyaki with various fillings stand out as carefully crafted, fresh treats. Outdoor tables and counter seats offer casual spots to relax while enjoying drinks and desserts.

Soft serve options include matcha, vanilla, and a strawberry matcha blend paired with taiyaki and red bean. Fish waffle ice cream and mochi donuts add unique variety. Prices stay reasonable for all these choices.

Soft serve comes in matcha, strawberry matcha, and vanilla flavors, all with a creamy texture and balanced sweetness. Pairing soft serve with taiyaki or Nutella-filled treats creates a unique dessert experience.

People are saying

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

"The strawberry matcha soft serve is amazing."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small and often full; metered street parking is available.

2

Free 45-minute parking is offered in the lot near Gelabong.

3

Gelabong offers a variety of milk alternatives, including oat milk and lactose-free options.

06
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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.

Soft serve ice cream pairs with original churros and Oreo bites for a unique combo. The ice cream is consistently delicious and of very good quality.

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

"The ice cream with warm churros is an amazing combination."

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

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.

07
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Japanese-style bakery offers bright, airy space with indoor and outdoor seating and archway shelving adding architectural depth. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and inviting to loud and lively, supporting socializing and casual dining. Hidden speakeasy and sushi bar add unique features beyond typical bakery settings.

Soft serve features Hokkaido milk with a rich, creamy flavor that matches what you'd find in Japan. Chocolate soft serve is also rich and creamy, while the ice cream overall feels refreshing and different.

Soft serve comes in rich chocolate and creamy Hokkaido milk flavors. Matcha and hojicha options add a nice twist with authentic Japanese taste.

People are saying

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

"The Hokkaido milk soft serve tasted like it just came from Japan."

Good to know

1

Their baked goods sell out before 2pm, so it's best to go early for the most options.

2

The Naruto pastries sell out by 12 noon and are not made again after selling out.

3

ASA Bakery is cashless, so customers need to bring their card or use mobile payment methods.

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Outdoor seating surrounded by large plants creates a mellow atmosphere with plenty of space inside featuring comfortable purple sofas. The place offers healthy, vegan-friendly options including unique items like Dole Whip and acai bowls loaded with fresh fruit. Prices tend to be on the higher side, and the spot manages crowds well during busy times.

Frozen yogurt includes a pineapple Dole Whip served in pineapple juice and a vanilla soft serve option. Many choices cover smoothies, yogurt ice cream, and acai bowls with consistently delicious ice cream.

Soft serve includes Dole Soft Serve and vanilla options. Prices start at $8 for a small serving. The Dole strawberry flavor lacks milk and tastes off.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Dole Whip ice cream here."

"I enjoyed the Dole Soft Serve, it was perfect."

Good to know

1

A medium cup costs over $10.

2

The acai bowls are a healthy alternative, priced around $16.

3

Only six flavors of frozen yogurt are available.

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