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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Francisco

Ice cream shops

Made for those who view a frozen treat as the only acceptable way to round out a dining outing.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sherpa House image 1
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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.

Authentic Nepali and Indian dishes feature fresh ingredients with noticeable flavor. Food feels less greasy than typical regional fare and offers incredible hospitality alongside excellent freshness.

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."

"I found the most authentic, flavorful Nepalese food here."

"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.

02
Delam image 1
Persian restaurant

Family-owned Persian restaurant offers a cozy, warm atmosphere that feels like dining in someone's home. The space is beautiful and inviting, with a friendly, unhurried vibe. Guests enjoy juicy, perfectly grilled kabobs and rich, balanced dishes in a setting that emphasizes care and tradition.

Exceptional barg kabob stands out with outstanding quality and deeply flavorful dishes. The food carries a strong sense of family warmth in both taste and atmosphere.

Homemade ice cream finishes the meal with fresh pistachios and saffron caramel flavors. The chef makes Persian ice cream that stands out for its unique taste.

People are saying

"This Persian food, especially the barg kabob, is the best I've had."

"It's a family-owned spot with really kind and welcoming owners."

"You have to get the homemade ice cream; it's honestly so good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

03
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.

Food here is super authentic and fresh with consistently fantastic flavors. The owner personally ensures dishes arrive on time, adding to the attentive service.

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."

"You have to try their milk tea; it's the best I've had outside Hong Kong."

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

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.

04
Tahona Mercado image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with custom hardwood tables and premier tequila and mezcal selection creates a refreshingly remodeled space. Atmosphere feels easy and inviting, suited for casual dining or a date. Tacos stand out with fresh tortillas and unique flavors, complemented by a well-curated market of authentic Mexican products.

Food captures authentic Mexican flavors with fresh, flavorful dishes. Options include vegan-friendly mushroom torta and a wide variety of alcohol, all presented with care.

Soft serve ice cream features buffalo milk and an Abuelita Chocolate flavor. The texture and taste stand out alongside savory dishes like quesabirria tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the tacos."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The staff here are some of the most friendly people I've met."

Good to know

1

Mezcal tasting events are held on select evenings; check the schedule for details.

2

Pop-up events occur on weekends, featuring local vendors and unique offerings.

3

The shop offers a curated selection of authentic Mexican products and artisan goods.

05
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.

Food here delivers authentic Peruvian flavors with dishes that stay very close to the original taste. Classics come out perfectly executed and the overall dining experience feels vibrant and unique.

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 found the food here to be incredibly delicious and tasty."

"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.

06
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.

Omakase offers authentic Thai cuisine with insightful service explaining each course. Portions are generous and the tasting menu delivers innovative flavors at a moderate price.

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."

"The food here is amazing, packed with flavor."

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

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.

07
Do-Re-Mi image 1
Restaurant

Small family-owned restaurant offers colorful decor and hand-drawn art on cups that create a charming, unpretentious atmosphere. The place serves affordable, flavorful onigiri with fresh ingredients and a great rice-to-protein balance. It also features a variety of Asian-inspired dishes and ice cream without long waits.

Food shows attention to detail and is consistently well-made with delicious flavors. The owner cares about quality, making the dishes stand out.

Offers a small selection of Asian flavors like lychee and sesame. Scoops cost $3.80 and are double the size of some competitors. No long lines make it easy to grab ice cream here.

People are saying

"I found the onigiri here to be fantastic and well seasoned."

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-made."

"I found the ice cream to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a variety of dishes, including rice bowls, rice balls, soups, and ice cream.

2

They offer about 7 different kinds of onigiri, which are affordable by local standards.

3

Prices at Do-Re-Mi are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

08
Legends Café & Creamery image 1

New York City charm fills the space with a vibrant, welcoming vibe enhanced by awesome music and a striking mural of legends. The café draws a late-night crowd seeking exceptional shawarma and homemade ice cream waffles, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere until 1 am.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious. Fries come out hot and complement the meals well.

Homemade handmade ice cream waffles stand out alongside the Dubai Chocolate Ice Cream Sundae. The milkshakes and ice cream sundaes come with a friendly service vibe.

People are saying

"I found the shawarma, especially the rib-eye, to be excellent."

"I thought the food here was incredible."

"I'd return just for this amazing Dubai Chocolate Ice Cream Sundae."

Good to know

1

The café is open until 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Legends Café & Creamery accepts credit cards for payment.

3

Expect a great late-night counter service experience.

09
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.

Food here is freshly made, not premade or reheated like at other coffee shops. The menu includes items like a bagel with cream, cucumber, tomato, and extra avocado that are flavorful and healthy for on-the-go meals.

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."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"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.

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.

Soft serve features balanced flavors with strawberry that is not too sweet and matcha that is not too bitter. Mochi is very soft, and food presentation stays consistent and appealing every time.

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."

"The food here is exceptional, especially the banana flavors."

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
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.

Food features amazing duck with excellent sauces full of flavor. Dishes are fresh, delicious, and fairly priced for the quality offered.

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 Cantonese roast duck food here is flavorful with crispy skin."

"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.

12
Super Duper Burgers image 1
American restaurant

Spacious, clean dining area with two televisions creates a casual spot for watching NBA games. The atmosphere is cool and lively, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating including a parklet. Free house-made pickles and vegetarian options add distinctive touches to the American menu.

Food features great quality with burgers, fries, and shakes consistently tasty. Garlic fries have a perfect garlic to fry ratio and sodas come in actual glasses, adding a unique touch.

Soft serve ice cream stands out with its good quality and smooth texture. Shakes and ice cream options maintain a consistently excellent standard.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the shakes."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I'd ever had."

"I thought the soft serve ice cream here was very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted fries and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

House-made pickles are complimentary with any burger purchase.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

13
Dolores Deluxe image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store combines cozy, neighborly vibe with curated, creative offerings like exceptional sandwiches and upscale slushies. Warm interior and outdoor seating invite a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. Frequent live music and rotating vegan menu add to its unique, welcoming energy.

Food here is flavor packed and fresh with a unique twist. Weekend pop-ups bring in local food vendors adding variety and community vibes.

Selection includes local, curated brands like Mitchell’s Ice Cream. Options stand out as part of a great neighborhood store setup for everyday needs.

People are saying

"Their sandwiches are so creative and unique."

"The food here is delicious and the sandwiches are amazing."

"The ice cream here has great prices and excellent service."

Good to know

1

Dolores Deluxe offers a rotating vegan sandwich menu with new options every couple of weeks.

2

One sandwich and one cookie cost $19 in total.

3

They host fun pop-up food events featuring local vendors on weekends.

14
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.

Variety stands out with international and vegan options alongside vegetarian dishes. Food stalls offer everything from Puerto Rican to spicy Chinese noodles and Indian cuisine, all in a vibrant, multi-floor space.

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."

"It's a cool place to hang out and chill after work."

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.

15
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.

Food features Nori rolls, Crudo, and meatballs when available. The dishes combine well with the ambience and service for a satisfying meal.

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 food here is amazing, especially the pizza."

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

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.

16
Japantown Peace Plaza image 1
Cultural landmark

Concrete pagoda anchors an open plaza surrounded by shops and restaurants, evoking a rural Japanese town. Bright neon signs and live flute music create a magical, peaceful atmosphere that shifts from calm to lively. The space connects two mall halves and offers a soothing spot for relaxation and cultural immersion.

Amazing food options include a variety of Japanese dishes, sweets, and imported alcohol. The selection offers a wonderful introduction to the culture with great desserts and supermarket finds.

Sesame seed and peanut butter flavors stand out among the ice cream options. The ice cream tastes rich and pairs well with casual strolls around the plaza.

People are saying

"This mall has so many great Japanese shops and restaurants."

"I found the food options here to be amazing and varied."

"I enjoyed having some ice cream here."

Good to know

1

The Cherry Blossom Festival occurs every April, featuring cultural events and vendors.

2

On the last weekend of each month, a vintage pop-up market showcases unique vendors.

3

Live music and cultural events happen regularly on weekends, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

17
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.

Food comes made to order with options for customization. Quality is generally great and flavors are delicious, though some items like the matcha soft serve may cause issues.

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."

"I found the food to be delicious and great quality."

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.

18
MI REYNA MARKET image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store with fully stocked aisles and a huge selection of cereal and ice cream flavors. Open late night with a friendly, personal atmosphere and fresh produce daily. Prices stay reasonable and competitive for the neighborhood.

A small grocery store with a good selection of food, including higher-end and Mexican specialty items.

A wide range of ice cream flavors fills the freezers, offering many choices. The store stays open late and early, making ice cream available at all hours.

People are saying

"This Late Night Spot's staff gets to know you and goes out of their way."

"I found a good selection of food, including specialty items."

"The staff here really get to know you and provide excellent service."

Good to know

1

MI REYNA MARKET accepts EBT payments for groceries.

2

The store is open late, making it convenient for late-night shopping.

3

They have a wide variety of fresh produce available daily.

19
Subs Inc. image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers huge subs with Dutch crunch bread and fresh, made-to-order ingredients. Atmosphere suits quick grabs with minimal wait times and consistent quality over decades. Ice cream adds a sweet finish to the straightforward, satisfying experience.

Food ranges from really good to bland across visits. Service complements the meals well.

Great ice cream stands out here, especially paired with sandwiches. Options include selections from Subs Inc. and Mitchell’s.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The food here is really, really good."

"I thought the ice cream here was the best in the neighborhood."

Good to know

1

Use the Subs Inc. website for ordering to avoid delays.

2

Expect minimal wait times during lunch hours.

3

The sandwich sizes are large; consider sharing if you're not very hungry.

20
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.

Offers a wide variety of authentic Japanese food including pre-packed options suited for quick meals. Combines food with Japanese drinks like beer and sake, creating a full cultural experience.

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."

"I found so many great Japanese food options here."

"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.

21
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.

Food here is tasty and different, standing out in a city crowded with Chinese restaurants. The menu offers astonishing flavors, and staff quickly find safe options for food allergies.

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."

"The dinner spots here, especially the squab, had super crispy skin and tender meat."

"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.

22
Bi-Rite Market image 1
Grocery store

Light and airy space with an easy layout creates a welcoming atmosphere. Housemade baked goods and top-notch ice cream stand out alongside a meat and deli counter offering quality selections. The vibe blends a gourmet grocery feel with elements of a fast-casual restaurant.

Prepared foods include grab & go salads, heat-up complete meals, and take-home options. Fresh fruit and organic grapes stand out, with prices reasonable for the quality offered.

Homemade ice creams stand out with top-notch quality and next level flavors. They offer a variety of ready-to-eat options alongside fresh produce.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing, high-quality produce and prepared foods."

"The food here is top shelf, especially the produce."

"I thought the ice cream here was next level."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; many items are significantly more expensive than at other stores.

2

The market offers a selection of high-quality, locally sourced products.

3

Bring enough cash as many items are priced at a premium.

23
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.

Food includes delicious dishes and ice cream. Menu pictures use AI-generated images instead of real photos.

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."

"I noticed the food prep area was covered, so you can't see it."

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.

24
Louie's Original image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small, clean hamburger restaurant with comfortable seating and indoor and outdoor options. Atmosphere feels family oriented and low key, often accompanied by 90s rap or 70s music. TVs show sports, creating a relaxed vibe for ordering and unwinding.

Freshly made quality Italian food stands out with exceptional taste. Staff show enthusiastic recommendations and provide great service.

Soft serve ice cream has a rich, creamy texture with a whipped cream feel. The chocolate dip adds a thick, indulgent layer to the custard style ice cream.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were top tier and very good."

"The food here, especially the burgers, is delicious and juicy."

"The soft serve ice cream here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Louie's Original adds an automatic 21.5% gratuity to all orders.

2

Parking is ample and free on the street nearby.

3

The restaurant has a small, delivery-friendly menu focused on burgers.

25
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Showroom spans three floors with multi-purpose furniture and live plants enhancing the space. Atmosphere stays organized and relaxed with a quiet, clean environment. Attached food court offers ample seating and diverse options beyond typical fare.

Food options include a hidden food court beyond the main area that offers delicious and reasonably priced meals.

Soft serve ice cream stands out with its excellent texture and flavor. Strawberry vegan ice cream returns to the menu, adding a plant-based option alongside classic choices.

People are saying

"I found the furniture and home decorations to be beautiful and cost-efficient."

"I found the food here to be the cheapest in town."

"The soft serve ice cream here is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking at IKEA is difficult, with no customer parking available nearby.

2

The parking garage charges $25.95 for 29 minutes, despite claiming $3 for 30 minutes.

3

I parked at 455 Stevenson Street and received validation for free parking for an hour.

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