San Diego is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and, of course, its delightful weather. With so much sunshine year-round, what better way to cool off than with some delicious ice cream? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the city’s diverse ice cream scene has something to offer everyone. From classic flavors to unique creations, here’s a guide to the best ice cream in San Diego. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and discover some of the city's coolest spots!
1. Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Address: Multiple locations including North Park, Point Loma, and Pacific Beach
Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream is a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast. Famous for their flight options, you can try multiple flavors in mini cones. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to unique options like honey lavender and Thai tea.
Why Visit:
Ice Cream Flights: Perfect for sampling multiple flavors without committing to just one.
Exotic Flavors: Try something new and exciting with flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Mariposa Ice Cream
Address: 3450 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
Mariposa Ice Cream is a family-owned shop known for its rich, creamy ice cream and welcoming atmosphere. Their flavors are handcrafted and made in small batches, ensuring quality and freshness. Favorites include Mexican chocolate, coconut almond fudge, and their famous brownie sundae.
Why Visit:
Homemade Goodness: Experience the taste of ice cream made with love and care.
Signature Sundaes: Don’t miss their brownie sundae, a local favorite.
3. Salt & Straw
Address: 1670 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Located in Little Italy, Salt & Straw offers a unique ice cream experience with flavors inspired by local ingredients and culinary trends. They change their menu regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Popular choices include sea salt with caramel ribbons and pear & blue cheese.
Why Visit:
Innovative Flavors: Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something different.
Community Focus: Their flavors often highlight local ingredients and partnerships.
Visit Salt & Straw
4. The Baked Bear
Address: Multiple locations including Pacific Beach and La Jolla
The Baked Bear takes the ice cream sandwich to the next level. Choose from a variety of freshly baked cookies and brownies to create your custom sandwich, then select your favorite ice cream flavor. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options, making it a treat for everyone.
Why Visit:
Custom Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create your dream dessert with endless combinations.
Freshly Baked: Enjoy cookies and brownies made fresh daily.
5. Hammond's Ice Cream
Address: Multiple locations including North Park and Point Loma
Hammond’s Ice Cream stands out with its Hawaiian-inspired flavors and extensive selection. They offer unique combinations like haupia (coconut pudding), passion fruit sorbet, and guava cheesecake. The tasting flights allow you to try multiple flavors at once, making it a fun experience for groups.
Why Visit:
Tasting Flights: Perfect for sampling a variety of flavors without committing to just one.
Hawaiian Inspiration: Enjoy a taste of the islands with tropical flavors.
6. Gelato Vero Caffe
Address: 3753 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
For those who prefer gelato, Gelato Vero Caffe is a top choice. This cozy spot offers a range of classic and innovative gelato flavors, all made with high-quality ingredients. The creamy texture and intense flavors set their gelato apart from traditional ice cream.
Why Visit:
Authentic Gelato: Experience the rich and creamy texture of traditional Italian gelato.
Charming Atmosphere: Enjoy your treat in a cozy, inviting setting.
7. MooTime Creamery
Address: 1025 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Located on the picturesque Coronado Island, MooTime Creamery offers a delightful ice cream experience with a nostalgic twist. Their menu features a variety of classic and creative flavors, along with shakes, malts, and sundaes. The retro decor adds to the charm, making it a fun destination for all ages.
Why Visit:
Nostalgic Vibes: Step back in time with their retro-themed decor and menu.
Variety: Enjoy a wide range of flavors and treats, including custom ice cream cakes.
Visit MooTime Creamery
8. Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream
Address: Multiple locations including Carlsbad and Encinitas
Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream is known for its generous portions and rich, creamy flavors. With over 50 flavors to choose from, there's something for everyone. Their ice cream is made fresh daily, ensuring a high-quality experience with every scoop.
Why Visit:
Generous Portions: Get more bang for your buck with their large servings.
Fresh Daily: Enjoy ice cream that’s made fresh every day for maximum flavor.
9. Gelato Paradiso
Address: 789 W Harbor Dr Suite 117, San Diego, CA 92101
Gelato Paradiso offers authentic Italian gelato with an impressive variety of flavors. Located in Seaport Village, it’s a perfect spot to cool off while exploring the waterfront. Their gelato is made in small batches using traditional Italian methods, ensuring a truly authentic experience.
Why Visit:
Authentic Italian Gelato: Made with traditional methods and high-quality ingredients.
Scenic Location: Enjoy your gelato with a view of the beautiful San Diego waterfront.
10. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Address: Multiple locations including Carlsbad and Encinitas
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving up delicious, handcrafted ice cream since 1945. With a commitment to quality and flavor, they offer a wide variety of classic and unique flavors. Their ice cream is made fresh daily, using the finest ingredients available.
Why Visit:
Long-standing Tradition: Enjoy ice cream from a brand with a rich history and commitment to quality.
Wide Variety: Over 100 flavors to choose from, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
11. An's Dry Cleaning
Address: 3017 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
Don’t let the name fool you; An’s Dry Cleaning is an artisanal gelato shop located in North Park. The name is a playful nod to the building’s former tenant, and their gelato is anything but ordinary. Flavors like ricotta & lemon zest and basil gelato showcase their innovative approach to traditional Italian dessert.
Why Visit:
Unique Flavors: Try artisanal gelato with a creative twist.
Cool Ambiance: The quirky theme adds a fun element to your visit.
12. Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop
Address: 643 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop is a haven for chocolate lovers. Indulge in rich, creamy ice cream sundaes topped with Ghirardelli’s famous chocolate, or try one of their decadent milkshakes.
Why Visit:
Chocolate Lover’s Paradise: Enjoy premium ice cream with Ghirardelli’s renowned chocolate.
Prime Location: Perfect spot for a sweet treat while exploring the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter.
Visit Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop
13. Cauldron Ice Cream
Address: 4646 Convoy St Suite 103-A, San Diego, CA 92111
Cauldron Ice Cream brings a touch of magic to the ice cream experience. Known for their innovative flavors and signature “puffle” cone, this spot offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream. Try their famous Earl Grey Lavender or H2O Rose flavors for something truly special.
Why Visit:
Puffle Cones: Enjoy your ice cream in a delicious, soft, and warm waffle cone.
Innovative Flavors: Unique combinations that you won’t find anywhere else.
14. SomiSomi
Address: 4640 Convoy St Suite 101-A, San Diego, CA 92111
SomiSomi offers a delightful blend of Korean and Japanese dessert traditions with their ah-boong, a fish-shaped waffle cone filled with soft serve. Choose from flavors like ube, matcha, and black sesame, and customize with various toppings.
Why Visit:
Ah-Boong Cones: Unique fish-shaped waffle cones that add a fun twist to your dessert.
Asian-inspired Flavors: Delicious soft serve options inspired by Korean and Japanese flavors.
15. Mr. Trustee Creamery
Address: 1467 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Mr. Trustee Creamery is a hidden gem located in University Heights. This small-batch ice cream shop offers a rotating selection of inventive flavors made with high-quality ingredients. Their playful menu includes options like cornbread and blueberry jam, and burnt honey & thyme.
Why Visit:
Small-Batch Quality: Each flavor is crafted in small batches for the best quality.
Inventive Flavors: Enjoy unique and creative flavor combinations.
Conclusion - Best Ice Cream in San Diego
San Diego’s ice cream scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From artisanal gelato to innovative soft serve and nostalgic ice cream parlors, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re looking for a classic scoop, a custom ice cream sandwich, or a unique flavor experience, these spots offer the best ice cream in San Diego.
Take the time to explore each of these fantastic ice cream shops, and you’ll discover that staying cool in San Diego has never been sweeter. Happy scooping!
Further Reading
For more information on San Diego’s best ice cream spots, check out these additional resources:
San Diego Magazine: Best Ice Cream Shops
Eater San Diego: Must-Try Ice Cream Spots
Yelp: Top Ice Cream in San Diego
FAQs
Q: Are there vegan options available at these ice cream shops? A: Yes, many of the mentioned shops, such as Salt & Straw and The Baked Bear, offer vegan options to cater to various dietary preferences.
Q: Do these ice cream shops offer any gluten-free options? A: Yes, several shops like The Baked Bear and Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream provide gluten-free options, including cookies and cones.
Q: Can I find any sugar-free ice cream options in San Diego? A: Some ice cream shops, like Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, offer sugar-free flavors. It’s always best to check with the shop for their specific offerings.
With this comprehensive guide, you're all set to explore the best ice cream San Diego has to offer. Enjoy your sweet adventures in America’s Finest City! Like this article? Explore more!
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