Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Chocolate and ice cream

Choosing between a piece of chocolate or a scoop of ice cream is the only decision left to make today.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 1
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 2
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 3
View all
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop features a cute pink retro decor with a cozy, modern vibe and a lively, loud atmosphere. It offers innovative flavors including many vegan and gluten-free options, attracting a trendy crowd. Seating is limited but inviting for enjoying treats on-site.

Rich chocolate flavors include waffle cone bits and dark chocolate brownie. The mint chocolate chip shake stands out with chocolate chunks and cherry bits.

Exceptional quality ice cream features unique seasonal standouts like mango sorbet, affogato, and peanut butter brownie honeycomb. The menu offers fresh, high-level flavors with great service.

People are saying

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

"This late night spot really hit the spot when I was craving something."

"The chocolate ice cream here is exceptional and delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop is open until midnight, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Parking is available in the back, making access easy.

3

On Tuesdays, they offer a free topping with any purchase.

02
Bacio di Latte | Santa Monica, LA image 1

Bright, stylish interior combines with cozy atmosphere and calm music to create a relaxing space. High-quality gelato offers rich, authentic Italian flavors with standout options like pistachio. Indoor and outdoor seating accommodate a steady flow of people seeking a premium ice cream experience.

Belgian chocolate stands out with an exceptional flavor. The hazelnut chocolate and Tiramisu offer rich, intense tastes, while the chocolate mousse and 3 chocolate flavor add variety and depth.

Gelato here stands out for its incredible flavor and pure Italian style. The selection includes vegan options and a variety of interesting flavors like pistachio, all made fresh and rich.

People are saying

"I found the gelato here to be rich, creamy, and truly Italian."

"I thought the ice cream here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"The Belgian chocolate ice cream is exceptional."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in nearby public lots or on surrounding streets.

2

Expect to pay around $18 for an espresso, double espresso, and a cookie.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

03
Dolcenero Gelato image 1
Ice cream shop

Outdoor seating occupies a converted parking lot and small plaza, creating a chill local courtyard atmosphere. Gelato features unique flavors served in cute waffle cones with generous portions. The vibe suits casual, relaxed enjoyment on a busy street with nearby eateries.

Chocolate gelato comes in vegan and sugar free options with rich, dark chocolate flavors. Combinations like chocolate with raspberry, ricotta, and fig stand out.

Gelato features decadent dark chocolate and vegan chocolate options with generous scoops. Sorbets like lemon and raspberry use real fruit and offer a refreshing taste.

People are saying

"The gelato here is so rich and bursting with flavor."

"The vegan gelato here is delicious, especially the chocolate."

"The dark chocolate gelato is rich, decadent, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; free street parking is available a few blocks away.

2

You cannot sit inside; outdoor seating is available.

3

Three scoops cost $7.50, and they charge extra for 'premium flavors'.

04
Yoga-urt image 1
Dessert shop

Open space with big windows and plenty of seating creates a bright, clean, and fun atmosphere. The vibe is lively and welcoming, with games for kids adding to the playful energy. Soft serve is vegan, gluten-free, and probiotic-rich, offering a unique, health-conscious dessert experience.

Rich chocolate ice cream and chocolate shake stand out for their deep flavor. Vegan and gluten-free options like the chocolate bliss brownie bites add variety to the chocolate offerings.

Soft serve here is vegan, gluten-free, and made in-house with a fresh, natural taste. Flavors like peanut butter and strawberry offer a probiotic-rich, dairy-free option that feels healthier than traditional ice cream.

People are saying

"I found the vegan ice cream here to be incredibly delicious and healthy."

"The chocolate flavors here are rich and tasty."

"I had some of the best ice cream Iโ€™ve had in a while."

Good to know

1

Yoga-urt is fully vegan and offers gluten-free soft serve made in-house.

2

The tiny size of the soft serve starts at $6.50, with pints costing around $15.

3

There is a flavor of the week that changes regularly.

05
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Huge space with contemporary decor and a full bar anchors the atmosphere. Live belly dancers provide subtle entertainment without distraction. Outdoor patio welcomes pets and stays comfortable with effective heaters.

Chocolate desserts include the Chocolate Nemesis, which has a rich, intense flavor. Indian Creme Brulee offers a unique twist and pairs well with Chai tea.

Homemade ice cream arrives as a complimentary treat with personalized messages like 'happy birthday' even when it's not a birthday. Unique flavors like Paan Ice Cream add a special touch to the meal's end.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"Gabriel's recommendations for desserts were fantastic."

"The Chocolate Nemesis dessert was excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in a nearby lot, but it's limited.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

Happy Hour offers limited menu items on Fridays from 4-6pm.

06
Handel's Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Old school style window kiosk creates a small town vibe with over 20 homemade flavors offered. The atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, drawing a friendly local crowd despite limited shaded seating outside.

Crunchy chocolate-covered grahams stand out with crispness. The chocolate malt with extra malt offers a rich flavor. Varieties like Monkey Business mix banana, chocolate chunks, and peanut butter for unique tastes.

Homemade ice cream features rich flavors like buckeye, butter pecan, strawberry cheesecake, and brownie dough. Staff are very kind, and the ice cream consistently tastes delicious and fresh.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream was outstanding and delicious."

"This ice cream shop has the best, most delicious flavors I've ever had."

"The chocolate ice cream has a perfect pull and chew."

Good to know

1

Handel's Ice Cream offers over 20 homemade flavors to choose from.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Handicap parking is available, along with additional parking options.

07
L&K Market image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store offers a wide selection of wines, snacks, and European chocolates at reasonable prices. Atmosphere feels friendly and well-stocked, serving as a neighborhood hub with consistent inventory and essentials always available.

Offers a wide range of European and British chocolates along with snacks and ice cream. The Dubai chocolate bar stands out at $10.95, priced lower than nearby stores.

Many ice cream choices sit alongside a variety of British and Euro chocolates. The selection pairs well with snacks and drinks available in the store.

People are saying

"I found the wine selection here to be amazing and extensive."

"The staff here at this Local Spot are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"I found a great selection of ice cream and chocolates here."

Good to know

1

L&K Market has a wide selection of wines, snacks, and everyday essentials.

2

The store is always clean and well-stocked with a variety of products.

3

Prices at L&K Market are reasonable compared to other local stores.

08
Ghirardelli Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop image 1

Chocolate shop offers a spacious interior with cozy seating inside and outside near the pier. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with beautiful decorations and occasional DJ music. It attracts those seeking quality chocolate and classic sundaes in a relaxed setting.

Chocolate ice cream offers a creamy, authentic flavor. The shop sells exclusive chocolate bars and custom assortments not found elsewhere.

Creamy chocolate ice cream offers an authentic rich flavor. The Fudge Sundae pairs velvety fudge with smooth ice cream for a cozy treat near the pier.

People are saying

"I found their chocolate ice cream delicious and creamy."

"The hot fudge sundae was spectacular and amazing."

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

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $11.95 for a scoop of ice cream.

2

A strawberry sundae costs $20, including premium toppings.

3

The shop is conveniently located near the Pier, ideal for tourists.

Discover more

Santa Monica, California

Area guide
Loading Map...