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Local picks

Ice cream desserts in San Francisco

Ice cream that stands on its own merits rather than just serving as a vehicle for toppings.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Matcha Cafe Maiko image 1
Matcha Cafe Maiko image 2
Matcha Cafe Maiko image 3
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Dessert shop

Small dessert shop offers cozy, charming ambiance with no seating, encouraging quick visits or takeout. Matcha soft serve and ice cream stand out for their rich, authentic flavor and creamy texture. Busy atmosphere often leads to lines, reflecting its popularity for high-quality matcha products.

Desserts here come in large portions and taste delicious. This spot stands out as a solid dessert destination in Chinatown.

Soft serve here stands out with its rich matcha flavor and creamy texture. The matcha ice cream is smooth, not too sweet, and rivals what you'd find in Japan.

People are saying

"I had the best matcha soft serve, it was so rich."

"The matcha ice cream is rich, creamy, and has an authentic flavor."

"The matcha desserts are rich, creamy, and authentic."

Good to know

1

The cafe gets busy often, so expect a wait.

2

There is no seating inside the cafe.

3

Prices are high for the portion sizes.

02
Koolfi Creamery and Cafe image 1

Ice cream shop offers Indian-inspired flavors with dosa-flavored cones and unique kulfi varieties. Outdoor seating creates a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where people talk and joke comfortably. Tastings help visitors explore an extensive, inventive menu.

Unique desserts feature prominently, with flavors like jackfruit that evoke familiar cold treats. The team offers responsive planning to tailor dessert experiences for events.

Unique ice cream flavors include Malai Koolfi and jackfruit with tropical fruit from Kerala. Vegan sorbets are light and not too sweet, and dosa-flavored cones pair well with the ice cream.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is delicious with unique Indian-inspired flavors."

"The desserts here have a delicious Indian twist, like the Mysore Pak."

"The guava chili kulfi had a perfect blend of sweetness and spice."

Good to know

1

Koolfi Creamery offers a rotating selection of unique Indian-inspired ice cream flavors.

2

They cater to dietary restrictions, ensuring options for everyone.

3

Tastings of multiple flavors are available to help you choose.

03
Sherpa House image 1
Asian restaurant

Family-owned Asian restaurant offers traditional decor and an open kitchen with booth and table seating arranged comfortably. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy, with glimpses of Nepal and the Himalayas creating an inviting vibe. The place serves authentic Nepali dishes with fresh flavors that stand out in the area.

Complimentary dessert comes with meals and often includes vegan options. The owner sometimes offers free chai alongside sweets.

Creamy, rich desserts include homemade mango and pistachio ice cream. The mango flavor is popular with kids and all ice creams are made in-house.

People are saying

"The food here was so good, truly spectacular."

"The rice pudding and mango ice cream desserts are delicious."

"The homemade mango ice cream is creamy, rich, and loved by kids."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accommodates various food allergies.

2

Sherpa House offers both Indo-Chinese options and Nepalese cuisine.

3

Sherpa House is easy to get to on L-Taraval with plenty of street parking nearby.

04
Maruwu Seicha - SF Japantown image 1

Small shop with minimalist decor featuring wood panels and dark green highlights creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Busy with a steady flow, it offers outdoor seating and a kiosk for quick orders. Known for award-winning matcha and creamy soft serve, it draws a crowd despite higher prices.

Little dessert tarts come in fantastic flavors. A variety of Japanese desserts and drinks offer more to explore on another visit.

Soft serve matcha ice cream offers an intense and rich flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. Ube ice cream delivers a robust and mind-blowing taste, while the texture stays creamy and silky, avoiding any watered-down feel.

People are saying

"I thought the matcha here was really good and creamy."

"I thought the matcha soft serve was amazing and earthy."

"The soft serve ice cream here is so smooth and milky."

Good to know

1

Ordering at the register is much faster than using the self-service iPad.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices are on the high side, with matcha lattes costing nearly $8.

05
Hed 11 image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space blends modern Thai elegance with clean wooden decor and matching pottery. Atmosphere feels warm and sophisticated, inviting yet polished, suited for upscale dining. Unique dishes and thoughtful details create a distinct experience beyond typical Thai restaurants.

Creative desserts include a Banana Split Andy Warhol–inspired dish and a frozen coconut banana ice cream on a crispy, buttery crumble. Mango Sticky Rice appears as a birthday special, with sorbet adding a flavorful touch.

Frozen coconut banana ice cream sits on a crispy, buttery, and slightly salty crumble. The banana ice cream dessert offers a cute finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The Thai-inspired dishes here are uniquely creative and thoughtfully composed."

"Andy Warhol's Banana Ice Cream was a standout dish."

"The banana desserts here are creative and impressive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $40 lunch menu with five courses.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait between dishes during dinner service.

3

Hed 11 offers a vegan option along with meat dishes.

06
Jules image 1
Pizza restaurant

High ceilings and an open kitchen with a wood fire pizza oven create a lively atmosphere filled with warm woodwork and eclectic light fixtures. The space feels cozy and welcoming despite being loud and sometimes hot due to limited ventilation. Reservations are common as the place draws a busy crowd.

Desserts include two ice cream options that stand out. Everything from appetizers to dessert tastes delicious here.

Burnt Date and Black Sesame ice creams stand out with unique, creamy flavors. Anise Sambuca ice cream comes with a chocolate shell and a slight licorice taste from anise, sambuca, and fennel pollen.

People are saying

"This fungi pizza is creative, balanced, and absolutely delicious."

"The burnt date and black sesame ice cream is worth trying."

"I'll be back for that exceptional crust."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required weeks in advance due to high demand.

2

Expect a 2.5-hour wait for walk-ins on busy Saturday evenings.

3

Outdoor seating takes about 30 minutes to prepare.

07
La Copa Loca Gelato Noe Valley image 1

Bright, newly renovated space offers lots of seating and a welcoming atmosphere with board games to enjoy. Gelato features unique, intense flavors made locally by an Italian master, creating a dense and silky texture. Equipment noise can be loud, but the overall vibe is lively and comfortable.

Offers a great dessert spot that fits well after dinner. Serves gelato that adds a sweet finish to the neighborhood.

Offers amazing homemade gelato crafted by an Italian master with wonderful flavors like pistachio, hazelnut, and walnut. The gelato is consistently really well done and pairs well with crepes for dessert.

People are saying

"I found the gelato here to be delicious and super fresh."

"The gelato here is delicious with so many wonderful flavors."

"The gelato's lower fat content lets its flavors come through more intensely."

Good to know

1

They offer snackable kids sized scoops for less than $5.

2

They make their gelato locally on Treasure Island.

3

They have many flavors to choose from, including a variety of sorbets.

08
Mariposas image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with funky decor featuring jungle walls and lit butterflies creates a neon-lit ambiance. Atmosphere is lively and fun but can be noisy and cold. Music complements the vibe, attracting a crowd that enjoys quality food and cocktails.

Lucuma ice cream stands out as a delicious dessert option. Other sweets include tres leches and arroz con leche, which pair well with dinner and drinks.

Lucuma ice cream stands out as a flavorful dessert option. The house ice cream pairs well with drinks and complements dinner nicely.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is amazing, with a nice acidity."

"I loved the lucuma ice cream for dessert."

"I thought the lucuma ice cream was a delicious dessert."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted for private events and large parties with one day's notice.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other Peruvian restaurants in the area.

3

The menu has limited options for lactose and gluten-free diets.

09
606 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Space blends modern elegance with traditional charm in a cozy, inviting atmosphere that suits casual and date dining. Jazz music adds a lively touch while the interior feels tastefully remodeled and clean. Noise levels rise during busy times, creating a vibrant energy.

Asian desserts include sesame balls and come with occasional complimentary treats from management. The dessert selection pairs well with an excellent range of beer and wine.

Banana ice cream stands out here with its homemade quality and complimentary scoops that add a special touch. It offers a particularly enjoyable flavor that makes celebrations a bit sweeter.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The homemade banana ice cream made my daughter's birthday eve special."

"The staff here are so kind and attentive, making the desserts even better."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially during holidays.

2

Parking is difficult to find near the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and offers a clean environment.

10
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.

Desserts focus on healthy-forward and dairy-free options with a refreshing, not heavy feel. The chocolate banana with brownies and passion fruit desserts stand out as yummy and unique choices.

Soft serve ice cream here is dairy-free and no sugar added, made from bananas. The banana brûlée flavor stands out as delicious and the vegan options are surprisingly good.

People are saying

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

"This banana soft serve ice cream is healthy and delicious."

"I loved the healthy-forward desserts here."

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.

11
OISHII MATCHA image 1

Small cafe with a calm, modern vibe and glass divider that adds charm. Seating includes a bench inside and several small outdoor tables, encouraging a relaxed pace. Known for matcha soft serve with a strong, earthy flavor and creamy texture.

Offers a wide range of matcha desserts including lattes, ice cream cones, and boba sundaes. Focuses on fresh matcha flavors in a casual setting.

Soft serve options include ube, matcha, and a ube matcha swirl. The matcha ice cream has a rich, earthy flavor** with balanced sweetness and high-quality matcha taste. Staff offer generous samples and helpful advice on tea flavors.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and offered me matcha advice."

"The staff offered me matcha and ube ice cream samples."

"The matcha desserts here are very good."

Good to know

1

Most orders are to go due to the lack of space inside.

2

The establishment does not have a bathroom for customers.

3

They ran out of Black Sesame and Hojicha flavors on that day.

12
Mellis Cafe image 1

Small cafe with outdoor seating and cozy atmosphere offers a friendly vibe that shifts from bustling mornings to homey evenings. Arabic pop music plays softly in the background, enhancing the welcoming environment. Few tables outside provide a quiet spot to enjoy flavorful coffee and sandwiches.

Desserts come in an abundant variety with a focus on baklava and a standout pistachio dessert. They consistently earn high marks for taste and quality.

Fresh and satisfying, the ice cream comes alongside no frills desserts and treats. People enjoy the good cakes and varied sweet options including sandwiches and pastries.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and flavorful."

"I found the desserts here to be delicious."

"The ice cream here is so fast and friendly."

Good to know

1

Mellis Cafe opens at 5:00 a.m. and stays open until midnight.

2

Expect reasonable prices for sandwiches and breakfast items.

3

Mellis Cafe is ideal for quick breakfast and coffee options.

13
Go Duck Yourself 去你鸭的 image 1

Industrial-style interior with a steampunk design and an open kitchen creates a modern, cozy vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending casual friendliness with stylish decor. Regulars enjoy bone-free Cantonese barbecue duck in a neighborhood setting.

Desserts include a bao trio with unique flavors and sesame buns served with condensed milk for dipping. Plates are cleared quickly, sometimes before finishing dessert, which can affect the experience.

Soft serve ice cream stands out with a new chocolate flavor that tastes great. Service moves quickly, sometimes bringing the bill before dessert is finished, and soft serve often gets eaten outside due to plate clearing.

People are saying

"The Cantonese Roast Duck here has incredibly crispy skin and juicy meat."

"The dessert buns are a great way to finish."

"The soft serve ice cream here is surprisingly good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary on weekends to secure a table.

2

The duck dish costs $30, which may be considered high for the portion size.

3

Parking is generally easy to find off Cortland Avenue.

14
Kiss of Matcha image 1

Small, traditional Japanese-style tea house with a cozy minimalist interior and strong tea aroma. Atmosphere feels warm and calming despite limited seating and occasional crowding. Known for creamy, deeply flavored matcha soft serve that stands out among similar spots.

Matcha-themed desserts and ice cream stand out with high quality and unique flavor. A good selection of desserts pairs well with drinks, offering exceptional value through mystery dessert deals.

Soft serve features a creamy texture with a deep matcha flavor that matches authentic Japanese ice cream. Vanilla and sesame ice cream options pair well with toppings like boba and Ferrero Rocher.

People are saying

"The matcha soft serve is creamy with a strong, grassy flavor."

"The matcha ice cream has a really strong, concentrated flavor."

"The matcha desserts here are rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times after 2pm; visit in the morning for shorter waits.

2

They offer a rewards program with $2 ice cream on Tuesdays.

3

Street parking is available, but the area can be busy.

15
Pink Pink Tea Shoppe image 1

Modern tea house with pastel hues and Japanese-inspired decor creates a cheerful, inviting atmosphere. Ordering happens via tablet kiosks, and seating is limited to tables near the front for quick stops. Unique offerings include mango pudding in reusable jars and a variety of ice cream flavors, making it a bright spot during shopping trips.

Peach ice cream stands out as a dessert highlight. The mango coconut milk serves as a dessert option, not just a drink. Desserts come with delicious flavors and pair well with boba.

Offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors including peach, Black Pink swirl (peach and coconut), and Hokkaido milk. Soft-serve options come in cones, and prices run around $6.50 for specialty scoops.

People are saying

"The peach oolong milk tea has amazing flavor."

"The mango pudding dessert is creamy, rich, and delicious."

"The peach ice cream here is the best dessert ever."

Good to know

1

Half of the menu was out of stock on Saturday early afternoon.

2

The tea costs $8 before tip, which may be considered expensive.

3

The location is in the mall with limited seating available.

16
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop image 1

Chocolate flows from a central fountain wall surrounded by neat displays of mini chocolates and vintage milling machines. Busy with families and tourists, the atmosphere blends retro style with a historic setting but feels somewhat soulless and commercial. A viewing area offers a glimpse into chocolate-making, while the space remains large enough to avoid crowding.

Hot fudge sundae stands out as a popular choice. Desserts here are consistently really good and the cozy vibe suits enjoying a sweet treat or warm drink.

Offers great ice cream sundaes and chocolate shakes with a flavor that is not too sweet. The ice cream is consistently worth the price and draws a crowd despite parking challenges.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great selection of high quality chocolate."

"The Ghirardelli Sundae is a must-try for tourists."

"I loved the ice cream; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait to order during busy times.

2

The shop closes at 8pm, so arrive well before closing time.

3

Sundaes cost around $15, but they use high-quality ingredients.

17
Ghirardelli Experience image 1

Brick building with ocean views and a spacious dining room offers a peaceful atmosphere despite occasional crowds. The place features free chocolate tastings and a mix of arcade, mini golf, and gift shops, creating a fun environment for multiple ages.

Desserts offer good volume and come with a generous amount of toppings. Ice cream and frozen chocolate stand out as delicious options served at the table.

Ice cream here is insanely rich and comes in various flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and salt caramel. It pairs well with frozen chocolate and makes for a delicious dessert experience.

People are saying

"You have to try the ice cream and chocolate squares here."

"I thought the ice cream here was the best I ever had."

"The desserts here are super delicious and generously topped."

Good to know

1

The peppermint bark event includes free Christmas activities for visitors.

2

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

3

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot nearby.

18
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.

Vegan desserts stand out with 100% vegan options and artistic creations by Asmo. A wide range of sweets complements diverse food choices including burgers, Asian, and Hispanic dishes.

Soft serve comes in large portions with a vegan option and unlimited toppings. Strawberry sorbet and regular soft serve offer solid flavor choices.

People are saying

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

"The soft serve ice cream here is amazing, with huge portions."

"You have to try the vegan desserts; they're some of the best creations."

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.

19
Japan Center Malls image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern cultural exhibits, featuring wooden bridges, red lanterns, and a towering pagoda. Atmosphere feels vibrant yet relaxed, with festive decorations and lively sounds from eateries and shops. Visitors engage in cultural activities and enjoy unique entertainment like old-school arcades and claw machines.

Many spots offer dessert shops and bakeries alongside restaurants. Matcha Cafe Maiko serves hojicha ice cream and matcha desserts. Various Japanese sweets and treats are easy to find here.

Matcha soft serve and hojicha ice cream stand out for their creamy and authentic flavors. Unique treats like gold-covered ice cream add a rich and unusual twist to the offerings.

People are saying

"This mall has tons of anime goods, manga, and unique collectibles."

"You can find delicious desserts and treats you won't find elsewhere."

"The matcha ice cream here is so creamy and authentic."

Good to know

1

The mall hosts special events like the Cherry Blossom Festival, attracting lively crowds.

2

Monthly pop-up events at OKMARKETPLACE offer unique shopping experiences.

3

Parking can be difficult to find, especially in busy times.

20
Four Kings 四大天王 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Small space with izakaya-style decor and walls adorned by classic Cantonese artists creates a nostalgic, cozy vibe. Energetic atmosphere buzzes with 80s and 90s Canton-pop music and lively chatter. Tight bar seating and warm service add to the intimate, vibrant experience.

Soft, powdery shaved ice comes with sweet milk, red bean, boba pearls, and vanilla ice cream. Mango pudding features interesting textures and pairs with very good ice cream.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the spicy XO escargot."

"You have to try the salted egg taro puffs; they're delicious."

"The XO Escargot with milk bread was surprisingly good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, and should be made at least three weeks in advance.

2

Expect a long wait if you arrive without a reservation, especially after 5:30pm.

3

Certain signature dishes may be unavailable if you arrive late, so plan accordingly.

21
A Buttercup Dessert House image 1
Dessert restaurant

Vibrant and playful dessert spot with chic, cute decor and a chilled out vibe. Spacious seating includes comfortable chairs and thoughtful details like neon signs and homey touches. Known for massive portions and authentic Asian desserts with balanced flavors.

Desserts feature authentic Asian flavors like pandan and Thai tea with extra sauce and pearls. The menu is diverse and reasonably priced, served in a vibrant, playful atmosphere with friendly staff.

Matcha ice cream stands out as the best in San Francisco, served atop desserts. Thai tea ice cream comes with hot roti on a sizzling plate. Vanilla ice cream and coconut shavings accompany the subtly sweet pandan toast.

People are saying

"The pandan toast is flavorful, not too sweet, and a must-try."

"The desserts menu has drastically decreased and portions are smaller."

"The pandan toast comes with delicious vanilla ice cream."

Good to know

1

The dessert house is open until 11 PM, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

There is a minimum charge of $7 per person for groups larger than five.

3

Parking can be challenging depending on the time and date of your visit.

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