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The 16 Best Ice Cream in San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, CA, known for its diverse culinary scene, is also home to some of the best ice cream shops in the country. Whether you're in the mood for classic flavors or looking to try something more unique, San Francisco has a little something for everyone.

From traditional ice cream parlors to trendy liquid nitrogen creations, the city offers a wide variety of options for ice cream lovers. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to indulge your sweet tooth. That's where this list comes in handy, highlighting the 16 Best Ice Cream in San Francisco, CA to help you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of ice cream in San Francisco, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Quick overview

Our top picks

Choose a business to go straight to its entry.

#1
Philmore Creamery
4.8423 reviews
#2
Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes
4.8409 reviews
#3
Mitchell's Ice Cream
4.73,788 reviews

All options

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Philmore Creamery, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • Customers are delighted by the intense flavors and high-quality ingredients used in the gelato.

  • The small space offers a cozy atmosphere, and customers can enjoy their treats inside or outside the shop.

  • Many customers appreciate the generous scoops and the opportunity to try multiple flavors in one order.

  • The authenticity of the gelato and the unique flavor combinations make Philmore Creamery a must-visit for gelato enthusiasts in the city.

Philmore Creamery

4.8423 reviews
1840 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Philmore Creamery is a beloved ice cream shop located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of gelato flavors made with high-quality ingredients that keep customers coming back for more. The shop provides delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, takeaway, and dine-in options to cater to their customers' needs. The gelato is described as fresh, flavorful, and authentic, with unique options like tiramisu, passion fruit sorbet, and Gianduia Crunch Gelato.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes, San Francisco#2
What it does well

  • Delicious ice cream and accommodating service. The owner was super nice and offered plenty of samples at reasonable prices.

  • Great selection of flavors and quality ice cream. The owner even interacted with customers' pets, providing a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Hidden gem serving premium Mitchell's ice cream. The owners are a sweet couple who remember their customers' orders, making each visit special.

  • Best ice cream in town served by a cute happy couple. A romantic area to enjoy ice cream before taking a stroll to nearby attractions.

Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes

4.8409 reviews
2801 Leavenworth St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes is a popular ice cream shop in San Francisco that offers a variety of delightful treats to its customers. The shop provides service options such as takeaway and accessibility features like a wheelchair-accessible entrance. Customers can enjoy not only delicious ice cream but also coffee in this charming establishment.

The positive reviews from satisfied customers speak volumes about the experience at Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes:

These glowing reviews highlight the delightful treats and welcoming atmosphere that customers can expect at Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes.

Mitchell's Ice Cream, San Francisco#3
What it does well

  • Customers rave about the extensive flavor options available, from classic favorites to unique creations like mango and Mexican chocolate.

  • The friendliness and attentiveness of the staff make the experience even sweeter.

  • Parking isn't a hassle with a free parking lot available, and the shop is LGBTQ+ friendly.

Mitchell's Ice Cream

4.73,788 reviews
688 San Jose Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Mitchell's Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop in San Francisco that has been serving delicious frozen treats for decades. With a rating of 4.7 from numerous satisfied customers, it's clear that Mitchell's is a local favorite.

Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, Mitchell's Ice Cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with its flavorful ice creams and sorbets. Give them a visit and indulge in a scoop (or two) of their delectable treats!

Salt & Straw, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • Gorgeous flavors like pear blue cheese, cereal series, and lavender honey.

  • Clever spoon return system and accommodating staff for vegan options.

  • Great vegan selections like lemon Mavi gold amoro sherbert and vegan peanut butter brittle.

  • Hefty serving sizes and delicious flavors like sea salt with caramel ribbons, salted malted chocolate chip cookie dough, and peanut butter brittle caramel fudge.

Salt & Straw

4.71,925 reviews
586 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Salt & Straw is a beloved ice cream shop located in San Francisco, CA. With a stellar rating of 4.7 stars out of 5, it's clear that customers can't get enough of their delicious flavors and excellent service. They offer a variety of services including no-contact delivery, in-store pick-up, dine-in, and more to accommodate every customer's needs.

Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

If you're in the mood for a sweet treat, look no further than Salt & Straw for a memorable experience!

Salt & Straw, San Francisco#5
What it does well

  • If I could pick one place to buy ice cream cones from it would be here! Try anything on the menu, it won't disappoint.

  • Flavors are unique and of amazing quality. The Salted, Malted, Cookie Dough is a must-try! Prices are great for the quantity served.

  • The Vegan ice cream is AMAZING! Creamy, unique flavors that are highly recommended. The sorbets are also refreshing and delicious.

  • Super fun corner shop with incredible ice cream and made on the spot waffle cones. Quality and taste are fantastic, a must-visit.

Salt & Straw

4.71,654 reviews
2201 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Salt & Straw is a renowned ice cream shop located in San Francisco. They offer a wide range of unique and delectable ice cream flavors that customers rave about. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.7, Salt & Straw ensures that each customer has a delightful experience with their diverse flavors and excellent service. It's a perfect spot to indulge in some top-notch ice cream creations!

Garden Creamery, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • The intense and true-to-name flavors combined with creamy and rich textures make Garden Creamery the best ice cream spot in San Francisco.

  • Customers appreciate the unique and creative flavors, such as Ube Pandan and Vietnamese Coffee Coconut Slush, crafted with quality ingredients.

  • Although there might be a wait due to the popularity of the spot, the staff is friendly, patient, and happy to guide you through their exotic flavor selection.

  • If you're a fan of adventurous flavors like durian, hojicha, Thai tea, and more, Garden Creamery is the perfect place for a flavorful and delightful ice cream experience.

Garden Creamery

4.71,095 reviews
3566 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Garden Creamery is a beloved ice cream shop located in San Francisco that offers a variety of delicious and unique flavors to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're looking for something traditional or adventurous, Garden Creamery has something for everyone. The store provides in-store pick-up, takeaway, and dine-in options for your convenience. With wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilets available, they ensure a comfortable experience for all customers.

Customers rave about the exceptional flavors and friendly service at Garden Creamery. Here are a few key points summarizing their reviews:

Experience the magic of Garden Creamery for yourself and indulge in a scoop (or two) of their delectable ice cream creations!

Bi-Rite Creamery, San Francisco#7
What it does well

  • Wide range of unique and flavorful ice cream options

  • Generous portion sizes with up to two scoops per order

  • Warm and inviting atmosphere for a delightful ice cream experience

Bi-Rite Creamery

4.62,695 reviews
3692 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Bi-Rite Creamery is a beloved ice cream shop in San Francisco that offers a variety of flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth. Customers rave about the delicious and creamy ice cream, with popular flavors like spicy mango coconut, sesame, and honey lavender. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.6 and numerous positive reviews, Bi-Rite Creamery is a must-visit destination for ice cream enthusiasts looking for a memorable and delicious treat.

Swensen's, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • Generous single scoops and great ice cream fundamentals

  • Delicious flavors like super pink peppermint and toasted almond

  • Friendly and efficient service

Swensen's

4.6888 reviews
1999 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Swensen's is a beloved ice cream shop located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of service options such as delivery, in-store shopping, and takeaway. The shop is known for being family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly, providing a welcoming environment for all. Customers praise their delicious ice cream flavors and old-school feel, with many highlighting the friendly service and generous portions. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Visit Swensen's for a delightful ice cream experience that has stood the test of time!

San Francisco's Hometown Creamery#9
What it does well

  • Customers rave about the yummy flavors and rotating options, such as classic vanilla and non-dairy chocolate sorbet.

  • Many visitors also appreciate their homemade waffle cones and baked goods like soft cookies and Rice Krispies treats.

  • The friendly staff is commended for their helpfulness and patience in letting customers sample various flavors before making a decision.

San Francisco's Hometown Creamery

4.6822 reviews
1290 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

San Francisco's Hometown Creamery is a beloved ice cream shop in San Francisco that offers a variety of delicious flavors and treats. With a rating of 4.6, this spot has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic scoop or a unique flavor combination, San Francisco's Hometown Creamery is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.

Polly Ann Ice Cream, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • Longtime institution with plenty of flavors and a chance to spin the wheel for free ice cream!

  • Extensive options and delicious ice cream flavors like pistachio-almond and chocolate-peanut butter.

  • Highly helpful staff willing to make custom creations and offer generous samples.

  • Unable to resist the delightful ice cream flavors, excellent customer service, and welcoming environment.

Polly Ann Ice Cream

4.6755 reviews
3138 Noriega St, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

Polly Ann Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop located in San Francisco, CA. With a stellar rating of 4.6, it's no surprise that this spot has gathered a whopping 755 reviews from satisfied customers. Offering a variety of service options such as delivery, in-store pick-up, dine-in, and more, Polly Ann Ice Cream caters to every ice cream lover's needs.

Customers rave about their experience at Polly Ann Ice Cream. Some key points from the reviews include:

If you're in San Francisco and have a sweet tooth, make sure to visit Polly Ann Ice Cream for a delightful treat that will surely leave you coming back for more.

Amorino Gelato, San Francisco#11
What it does well

  • Amazing gelato flavors with beautifully crafted flower petal designs

  • Unique and delicious options like the cube gelato and macaron-topped cones

  • Excellent service and friendly staff willing to offer samples to help customers decide

  • Cozy location in a convenient spot near Chinatown's entrance

Amorino Gelato

4.6451 reviews
338 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Amorino Gelato - San Francisco is a charming ice cream shop located in downtown San Francisco. The shop boasts a wide array of delectable gelato flavors, beautifully presented in rose petal designs that are as visually stunning as they are tasty. Customers rave about the quality and richness of the gelato, with flavors like Hazelnut Chocolate and Amorino Dark Chocolate standing out as favorites. The friendly staff at Amorino are always ready to offer samples and help customers make their selections.

Milkbomb Ice Cream, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • Delicious ice creams with unique flavors

  • Friendly service and warm atmosphere

  • Creative ice cream sandwich offerings

Milkbomb Ice Cream

4.6347 reviews
1717 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Milkbomb Ice Cream is a delightful ice cream shop where customers can indulge in a variety of unique and creative flavors. The business offers service options like delivery and takeaway, making it convenient for ice cream lovers to enjoy their treats. For those planning a quick visit, Milkbomb Ice Cream provides an array of payments options including credit cards and debit cards.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Milkbomb Ice Cream, highlighting the following key points:

So, whether you're craving a classic flavor or looking to try something new and exciting, Milkbomb Ice Cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Visit their website to learn more about their menu and current offerings.

Smitten Ice Cream, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • The nitrogen ice cream experience at Smitten was described as the best dessert in San Francisco, showcasing the genius and creativity of California flavors.

  • Customers appreciate the quality and variety of options available, with one reviewer excited to come back for more.

  • While some may find the liquid nitrogen process a gimmick, the majority of visitors praise the freshness and consistency of the ice cream, ranking it at the top of their list in San Francisco.

  • There are compliments for the exceptional customer service provided by the staff, making every visit a delightful experience for all customers, including those with dietary restrictions such as vegans.

Smitten Ice Cream

4.5776 reviews
904 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Smitten Ice Cream is a popular ice cream shop located in San Francisco, known for its unique liquid nitrogen ice cream-making process. Customers rave about the flavorful and creamy ice cream, as well as the innovative experience of watching it being made right in front of them. The shop offers a variety of flavors, including the popular sweet and salty mix of cookie dough ice cream with pretzels in a waffle cone.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Joe's Ice Cream, San Francisco#14
What it does well

  • Great place for ice cream with solid, no-frills options

  • Homemade ice cream with a variety of unique flavors

  • Cozy indoor seating and outdoor options to relax and enjoy

  • Excellent customer service and quick service

Joe's Ice Cream

4.5514 reviews
5420 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Joe's Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop located in San Francisco that offers a delightful selection of homemade treats. With a rating of 4.5 stars, customers rave about the quality and flavor of the ice cream, as well as the friendly service and cozy atmosphere.

Whether you're craving a classic flavor like rocky road or feeling adventurous with options like dalgona or earl grey, Joe's Ice Cream has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this neighborhood gem for a sweet treat or a quick bite to eat!

Over The Moon Creamery, San Francisco#15
What it does well

  • Creamy and delicious ice cream! You can have it in a cookie instead of a cone or cup.

  • The service was great, and the ice cream flavors were amazing.

  • One of the best ice creams with helpful staff and a delightful experience.

  • The Nutty cone dip was one of the coolest ice creams ever tried!

Over The Moon Creamery

4.4367 reviews
2144 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Over The Moon Creamery is a delightful ice cream shop located in San Francisco that offers a variety of services such as delivery, in-store pick-up, takeaway, and dine-in. The establishment is wheelchair-accessible and accepts credit cards and NFC mobile payments for convenience. Customers rave about the creamy and delicious ice cream served at Over The Moon Creamery. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you are looking for classic flavors or unique combinations, Over The Moon Creamery is the place to satisfy your sweet cravings.

CREAM, San Francisco#16
What it does well

  • Irresistible ice cream toppings

  • Wide variety of conventional and unconventional flavors

  • Beautifully crafted ice cream sandwiches

  • Great vegan options available

CREAM

4.1588 reviews
3106 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

CREAM is an exciting ice cream shop located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of service options like delivery, in-store pick-up, takeaway, and dine-in. The colorful and vibrant atmosphere makes it a fun place to enjoy some delicious treats.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Visit CREAM for a memorable ice cream experience where you can indulge in delightful sweets and enjoy a welcoming environment.

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Philmore Creamery 4.8423
#2Norman's Ice Cream & Freezes 4.8409
#3Mitchell's Ice Cream 4.73,788
#4Salt & Straw 4.71,925
#5Salt & Straw 4.71,654
#6Garden Creamery 4.71,095
#7Bi-Rite Creamery 4.62,695
#8Swensen's 4.6888
#9San Francisco's Hometown Creamery 4.6822
#10Polly Ann Ice Cream 4.6755
#11Amorino Gelato 4.6451
#12Milkbomb Ice Cream 4.6347
#13Smitten Ice Cream 4.5776
#14Joe's Ice Cream 4.5514
#15Over The Moon Creamery 4.4367
#16CREAM 4.1588

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On the map

Map of Ice Cream in San Francisco, CA

Looking for the best ice cream in San Francisco, CA? Look no further! Our map highlights all the top-rated ice cream shops in the city, from classic flavors to trendy artisanal creations. Whether you're craving a simple scoop or a decadent sundae, this map will guide you to the perfect sweet treat in the Bay Area.

How to pick Ice Cream in San Francisco

  1. Location.
  2. Flavor options.
  3. Price range.
  4. Ambiance and decor.
  5. Special dietary options available.
  6. Customer reviews.

Common questions

What are the most popular ice cream shops in San Francisco?

San Francisco offers a wide variety of ice cream shops for every taste. Some of the most popular options include Humphry Slocombe known for its unique flavors like Secret Breakfast, Smitten Ice Cream using liquid nitrogen to make their ice cream, and Bi-Rite Creamery with its delicious salted caramel ice cream. Other notable mentions in San Francisco include Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous in the Dogpatch neighborhood, Marco Polo Italian Ice Cream serving classic Italian gelato, and Swensen's with its old-fashioned charm. Whether you prefer classic flavors or experimental creations, San Francisco has a ice cream shop to satisfy your cravings.

Are there any vegan or dairy-free ice cream options in San Francisco?

San Francisco is known for its foodie culture, and that extends to vegan and dairy-free options for ice cream as well. Popular spots like Little Giant Ice Cream offer vegan flavors made with alternative milk like coconut or almond milk. Other San Francisco ice cream shops like Loving Cup specialize in dairy-free sorbets and ice cream sandwiches made with vegan ingredients. Bi-Rite Creamery also offers a selection of dairy-free flavors alongside their regular menu. Whether you're a vegan or simply looking to avoid dairy, San Francisco has plenty of options to enjoy ice cream without compromising on taste.

What are some unique ice cream flavors to try in San Francisco?

San Francisco is a hub for food innovation, and that extends to ice cream flavors as well. Some unique options to try include Ube ice cream at Garden Creamery, which features the purple yam from the Philippines. Smitten Ice Cream offers Earl Grey ice cream that tea lovers will enjoy, while Humphry Slocombe is known for its Secret Breakfast flavor made with bourbon and cornflakes. Red Bean ice cream at Mitchell's Ice Cream is a nod to traditional Asian desserts. For adventurous ice cream enthusiasts, San Francisco has a range of unique and creative flavors to tantalize your taste buds.

Can I find locally sourced or organic ice cream in San Francisco?

San Francisco values local and organic ingredients, and that ethos extends to its ice cream shops as well. Humphry Slocombe uses locally sourced dairy for their ice cream, while Bi-Rite Creamery partners with local farms for their ingredients. Smitten Ice Cream makes their ice cream from scratch using organic milk and cream, and Garden Creamery offers organic fruit for their sorbets. San Francisco also has ice cream shops like Mission Pie that emphasize local and sustainable ingredients. If you're looking for locally sourced or organic ice cream in San Francisco, you'll have plenty of options to choose from that prioritize quality and sustainability.

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