Explore the best ice cream shops in San Diego, from popular spots like The Baked Bear and Salt & Straw to unique flavors like Lavender Honey and Avocado. Discover vegan and dairy-free options, ice cream trucks, and farm-to-table delights at local favorites like MooTime Creamery and Stella Jean’s Ice Cream.
Popular Ice Cream Shops in San Diego
San Diego is home to a vibrant ice cream scene, with numerous shops offering a delightful array of flavors and unique creations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these popular ice cream shops are a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast.
The Baked Bear
If you’re looking for a truly indulgent ice cream experience, The Baked Bear is the place to go. This iconic San Diego ice cream shop is known for its customizable ice cream sandwiches that are made with freshly baked cookies. With a wide selection of cookie flavors and ice cream flavors to choose from, you can create your own perfect combination.
Salt & Straw
Salt & Straw is a beloved ice cream shop that originated in Portland and has made its way to San Diego. This artisanal ice cream parlor is known for its unique and inventive flavors, which are made with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. From classics like sea salt with caramel ribbons to more adventurous flavors like strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper, Salt & Straw offers a taste experience like no other.
Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream has been a San Diego favorite for over 40 years. This family-owned ice cream shop prides itself on using only the finest ingredients to create their rich and creamy ice cream. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, including traditional favorites like chocolate and vanilla, as well as more exotic options like passion fruit and green tea, Hammond’s has something for everyone.
Gelato Paradiso
If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian gelato, Gelato Paradiso is the place to be. This charming gelateria offers a delightful selection of gelato flavors, all made in-house using traditional Italian techniques. From classics like pistachio and stracciatella to unique flavors like lavender honey and blood orange sorbet, Gelato Paradiso transports you to the streets of Italy with every spoonful.
Mariposa Ice Cream
Mariposa Ice Cream is a hidden gem in San Diego, tucked away in the neighborhood of Normal Heights. This small-batch ice cream shop prides itself on using locally sourced and organic ingredients to create their delicious flavors. From their signature honey lavender to their decadent dark chocolate orange, Mariposa offers a range of flavors that are sure to satisfy any ice cream lover’s cravings.
Unique Ice Cream Flavors in San Diego
When it comes to ice cream in San Diego, there is no shortage of unique and adventurous flavors to tantalize your taste buds. From floral notes to unexpected combinations, the local ice cream scene offers a wide range of flavors that are sure to surprise and delight. Here are some of the most unique ice cream flavors you can find in San Diego:
Lavender Honey
Have you ever tasted the essence of a summer meadow in a scoop of ice cream? Look no further than Lavender Honey ice cream. This floral-infused treat combines the delicate flavors of lavender with the sweetness of golden honey. The result is a creamy and indulgent ice cream that is both refreshing and comforting.
Thai Tea
Transport yourself to the bustling streets of Bangkok with a scoop of Thai Tea ice cream. This flavor is inspired by the popular Thai beverage, made with black tea, spices, and condensed milk. The ice cream version captures the rich and creamy taste of Thai tea, with hints of vanilla and a subtle spiciness. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and exotic flavors.
Avocado
San Diego is known for its love of avocados, so it’s no surprise that Avocado ice cream has become a local favorite. This creamy green treat showcases the natural richness and buttery texture of ripe avocados. It’s like enjoying a frozen version of guacamole, but with a touch of sweetness that makes it a perfect dessert.
Horchata
Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made from rice, cinnamon, and sugar. In ice cream form, it becomes a cool and refreshing treat with a hint of warmth from the cinnamon. Horchata ice cream is smooth and creamy, with a delicate balance of flavors that will transport you to the streets of Mexico.
Brown Butter Sage
For those looking for a more savory ice cream experience, Brown Butter Sage is a must-try flavor. This unique combination pairs the nutty richness of brown butter with the earthy aroma of sage. The result is a surprisingly delicious and sophisticated ice cream that will satisfy even the most adventurous palates.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options in San Diego
When it comes to catering to diverse dietary needs, San Diego’s ice cream scene doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply prefer to avoid dairy, there are several fantastic options for you to indulge in. Let’s explore some of the best vegan and dairy-free ice cream shops in San Diego.
Plant Power
Plant Power is a popular vegan fast-food chain that offers more than just burgers and fries. They also serve up a delectable selection of dairy-free ice cream. Made from plant-based ingredients, their ice cream is not only cruelty-free but also bursting with flavor. From classic chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like matcha green tea and salted caramel, Plant Power has something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Peace Pies
If you’re looking for a refreshing and guilt-free treat, Peace Pies is the place to go. This vegan and raw food café specializes in creating delicious desserts that are both nutritious and indulgent. Their dairy-free ice cream is made from wholesome ingredients like coconut milk, cashews, and dates. With flavors like chocolate avocado, strawberry cheesecake, and mint chip, Peace Pies proves that you don’t need dairy to enjoy a creamy and satisfying ice cream experience.
Kindred
For those seeking a unique and trendy vegan ice cream experience, Kindred is a must-visit. This stylish bar and restaurant not only offers an impressive selection of plant-based dishes but also boasts an array of dairy-free ice cream flavors. From lavender honey to Thai tea, each scoop at Kindred is a burst of delightful and unexpected flavors. Their ice cream is made in-house using creative combinations of ingredients that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Cinnaholic
If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and ice cream, Cinnaholic is the perfect place for you. This vegan bakery specializes in customizable cinnamon rolls, but they also offer a range of dairy-free ice cream flavors. Their creamy ice cream is made from soy milk and comes in enticing flavors like snickerdoodle, peanut butter, and rocky road. At Cinnaholic, you can have your cinnamon roll and ice cream too, all without any animal products.
An’s Dry Cleaning
An’s Dry Cleaning is not your typical ice cream shop. This unique establishment takes inspiration from the world of laundromats and serves up vegan and dairy-free ice cream in the most creative way. Their flavors are daring and unexpected, with options like matcha Oreo, black sesame, and Thai iced tea. The presentation is also out of the ordinary, with ice cream scoops shaped like miniature clothing items. An’s Dry Cleaning is an experience that combines novelty, flavor, and vegan-friendly options.
Ice Cream Trucks and Stands in San Diego
If you’re in San Diego and looking for a fun and delicious way to cool off, you’re in luck! The city is home to a variety of ice cream trucks and stands that offer a wide range of tasty treats. From classic flavors to unique creations, these mobile and stationary ice cream shops are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options:
Mr. Frostie
One of the iconic ice cream trucks in San Diego is Mr. Frostie. This vibrant and cheerful truck has been serving up frozen delights for years. With its eye-catching design and nostalgic charm, Mr. Frostie is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They offer a variety of classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, as well as some creative twists like cookie dough and mint chocolate chip. Whether you’re craving a cone, a sundae, or a milkshake, Mr. Frostie has you covered.
The Ice Cream Truck
Another popular ice cream truck in San Diego is simply called The Ice Cream Truck. This mobile dessert shop brings joy to neighborhoods all across the city. With its colorful exterior and playful music, it’s hard to resist the temptation of stopping by for a frozen treat. The Ice Cream Truck offers a wide selection of flavors, from traditional options like rocky road and butter pecan to more unique choices like lavender honey and Thai tea. They also have a variety of toppings and sauces to customize your dessert just the way you like it.
Mariposa Ice Cream Cart
If you’re strolling through a park or exploring a local event in San Diego, keep an eye out for the Mariposa Ice Cream Cart. This charming cart is a favorite among families and individuals looking for a refreshing snack. Mariposa Ice Cream offers a range of flavors that cater to all taste buds. From classics like chocolate and vanilla bean to adventurous options like avocado and horchata, there’s something for everyone. The cart also serves up delicious dairy-free and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a scoop of happiness.
SuperCool Creamery Truck
For a truly unique ice cream experience, make sure to visit the SuperCool Creamery Truck. This innovative ice cream truck takes the art of frozen desserts to a whole new level. Using liquid nitrogen, they create made-to-order ice cream right before your eyes. The process of freezing the cream with liquid nitrogen creates a smooth and creamy texture that’s hard to beat. You can choose from a variety of flavors and mix-ins to create your own personalized creation. It’s a spectacle that not only tastes incredible but also provides a memorable experience.
Bobboi Natural Gelato Stand
Last but certainly not least, Bobboi Natural Gelato Stand is a must-visit for gelato enthusiasts in San Diego. Located in the heart of Little Italy, this stand offers a selection of artisanal gelato made with high-quality ingredients. Bobboi takes pride in sourcing local and organic produce whenever possible, resulting in flavors that burst with freshness and vibrancy. From classic Italian favorites like pistachio and stracciatella to unique creations like rosewater raspberry and black sesame, there’s always something new and exciting to try at Bobboi.
Local Ingredients and Farm-to-Table Ice Cream in San Diego
When it comes to indulging in ice cream in San Diego, you have a plethora of options to choose from. However, if you’re someone who appreciates the use of local ingredients and supports the farm-to-table movement, then this section is for you. In this section, we will explore some of the best ice cream shops in San Diego that prioritize using locally sourced ingredients and offer a farm-to-table experience.
MooTime Creamery
MooTime Creamery is a beloved ice cream shop located in Coronado Island. This charming shop takes great pride in using locally sourced ingredients to create their delectable ice cream flavors. From their classic vanilla made with fresh cream from local dairies to their unique seasonal flavors featuring fruits and herbs from nearby farms, MooTime Creamery ensures that every scoop is a true taste of San Diego.
The Scooped Cookie Dough Bar
For those who can’t resist the temptation of cookie dough, The Scooped Cookie Dough Bar is a must-visit in San Diego. This innovative ice cream shop not only offers a variety of cookie dough flavors but also sources their ingredients locally. They believe in using high-quality, organic ingredients from nearby farms to create their safe-to-eat cookie dough. Indulge in flavors like Chocolate Chip, Brownie Batter, and even Vegan options, all made with love and local ingredients.
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream is a hidden gem in San Diego that prides itself on using local and organic ingredients in their ice cream creations. With a focus on sustainability, they work closely with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that their flavors are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. From their creamy Salted Caramel made with locally harvested sea salt to their refreshing Lemon Lavender made with organic lavender from a nearby farm, Stella Jean’s offers a farm-to-cone experience like no other.
Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream is a family-owned business that has been serving San Diego since 1979. They are dedicated to using the freshest ingredients available and supporting local farmers. With flavors like Strawberry made with locally grown strawberries and Mint Chip made with fresh mint leaves, Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream captures the essence of San Diego’s agricultural abundance in every scoop.
Mariposa Ice Cream
Mariposa Ice Cream is a local favorite that has been delighting San Diego residents for over 50 years. They are committed to using only the finest ingredients, including those sourced from local farms. Their flavors range from classic favorites like Chocolate and Vanilla to unique creations like Avocado and Mango made with locally grown fruits. Mariposa Ice Cream truly embodies the farm-to-table philosophy, allowing you to savor the taste of San Diego in every bite.
When you choose to indulge in ice cream from these local ingredients and farm-to-table focused shops, you not only treat yourself to a delicious dessert but also support the local community and sustainable agriculture. So, the next time you’re craving a scoop of ice cream, consider these San Diego gems that prioritize freshness, quality, and the use of locally sourced ingredients.
