San Diego's Best Ice Cream [Updated 2024]

From sweltering summer days to indulgent cravings, I've made it my mission to sample every frozen treat this sunny paradise has to offer. With 13 ice cream shops checked off my list (and counting), I can confidently say that San Diego has some seriously sweet contenders for the title of "best ice cream.

" So, join me on this lighthearted adventure as we uncover the top scoop spots in America's Finest City. Get ready for a delicious journey through flavor-packed cones, creamy sundaes, and mouthwatering gelatos.

Let's dive into the ultimate guide to finding the best ice cream in San Diego!

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop

Highlights
Clean and great service
Delicious hot fudge
Friendly and helpful
Wide walkable aisle
Fun family place

Let me start by saying that this place is a chocolate lover's paradise. As soon as I walked in, the sweet aroma of cocoa hit me like a warm hug. The shop was clean and well-maintained, and the staff greeted me with friendly smiles.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the ice cream. Oh boy, it was a decadent delight! I opted for their classic hot fudge sundae, and boy oh boy, was it a treat for my taste buds! The hot fudge was rich and velvety, cascading over the creamy vanilla ice cream in a tantalizing swirl. Each spoonful was an explosion of flavors that made my heart skip a beat.

What impressed me most about Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop was their commitment to customer service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my visit was enjoyable. They were knowledgeable about their menu and offered helpful suggestions based on my preferences.

Another thing worth mentioning is the wide walkable aisle in the shop. It allowed customers to comfortably browse through the tempting array of chocolate goodies without feeling cramped or rushed. It truly added to the overall experience.

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop is not just an ice cream parlor; it's a fun family destination. Whether you're treating yourself or enjoying a day out with loved ones, this place offers something for everyone.

In conclusion, if you're looking for delicious ice cream served with exceptional service in San Diego, Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop should be at the top of your list. Don't miss out on this sensational experience!

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Mariposa Ice Cream

Highlights
Warm and cozy
Variety of flavors
Not too creamy or sweet
Delicious ice cream
Nice and courteous workers

Walking into Mariposa Ice Cream, I was immediately greeted by a warm and cozy atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The rustic decor and soft lighting created the perfect ambiance for indulging in some frozen delights.

Now, let's talk about the variety of flavors. Oh boy, where do I even begin? From classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like lavender honey and avocado lime, Mariposa Ice Cream has something to satisfy every palate. They even have seasonal flavors that change regularly, so you'll never get bored.

One thing that really stood out to me was that their ice cream wasn't overly creamy or sweet. It struck a perfect balance, allowing the flavors to shine through without overwhelming your taste buds. It's clear that Mariposa takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to create their delicious treats.

The ice cream itself was a delight. Each scoop was rich and flavorful, with a smooth texture that melted in my mouth. Every bite felt like a little piece of heaven on my tongue.

I must also commend the nice and courteous workers at Mariposa Ice Cream. They were knowledgeable about the flavors and happily offered recommendations for my indecisive self.

In conclusion, Mariposa Ice Cream is a hidden gem in San Diego's ice cream scene. With its warm atmosphere, variety of flavors, and delicious concoctions, it deserves a spot among the best ice cream parlors in town. So go ahead and treat yourself; your taste buds will thank you!

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Tocumbo Ice Cream

Highlights
Many great flavors
Best ice cream and popsicles
Mexico's best paletas and ice cream

Walking into Tocumbo Ice Cream, I was immediately greeted by the sight of their extensive selection of many great flavors. It was like stepping into a sweet wonderland, filled with possibilities and frozen treats that would make any ice cream lover weak in the knees.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice that Tocumbo truly lives up to its reputation as having the best ice cream and popsicles in San Diego. Each scoop was a creamy delight, bursting with flavor that transported me to another world. From classics like chocolate and vanilla to exotic options like mango chili and cajeta, there was something for every palate.

But what really sets Tocumbo apart from other ice cream shops is their commitment to authenticity. With roots in Mexico, they bring Mexico's best paletas and ice cream straight to San Diego. The flavors were bold and vibrant, showcasing the richness of Mexican ingredients like tamarind and horchata.

One thing I appreciated about Tocumbo Ice Cream is their attention to detail. Each scoop was carefully crafted, displaying an artistry that elevated the experience beyond mere dessert. And let's not forget about their friendly staff who were more than happy to assist me with my flavor choices.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an ice cream experience that will transport your taste buds on a journey through Mexico's finest flavors, then look no further than Tocumbo Ice Cream in San Diego. With its many great flavors, commitment to quality, and genuine passion for frozen delights, it's no wonder why this place stands out among the rest. Don't just take my word for it – indulge yourself and see why Tocumbo is a must-visit destination for any ice cream connoisseur or anyone with a sweet tooth!

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Mutual Friend Ice Cream

Highlights
Creamy and unique flavors
Great coffee
Ever-changing ice cream flavors

Let me start by saying that Mutual Friend Ice Cream truly lives up to its name with its creamy and unique flavors. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingering in the air.

Now let's talk about the ice cream. Oh boy, where do I even begin? Each scoop is like a little piece of heaven melting on your taste buds. The flavors are so exquisite and delicious that it's hard to choose just one. From classic favorites like vanilla bean and chocolate fudge to more adventurous options like lavender honey and matcha green tea, Mutual Friend pushes the boundaries of what ice cream can be.

But what sets this place apart is their commitment to innovation. They constantly introduce new flavors that are as exciting as they are mouthwatering. It's like a treasure hunt every time you visit, never knowing what delightful surprise awaits you.

And let's not forget about their coffee! While I'm usually all about the ice cream, I couldn't resist trying their coffee, and boy am I glad I did. It was rich and robust, perfectly complementing the velvety smoothness of their ice creams.

So if you're looking for an ice cream experience that goes beyond your wildest dreams, head over to Mutual Friend Ice Cream. Trust me, once you've tasted their heavenly creations, you'll become a mutual friend for life.

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Holy Paleta

Highlights
Delicious flavors
Wide flavor selection
Friendly staff
Highly recommended
Yummy options

Holy Paleta is a hidden gem in the world of ice cream. From the moment I walked in, my taste buds were tantalized by the aroma of delicious flavors that filled the air. The wide selection of flavors at Holy Paleta is truly impressive. They have everything from classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to unique and adventurous options like lavender honey and spicy mango habanero.

The staff at Holy Paleta are not only knowledgeable about their product but also incredibly friendly. They took the time to explain each flavor in detail, making it difficult for me to choose just one. Eventually, I settled on their signature Holy Paleta flavor – a heavenly combination of creamy coconut, rich chocolate chunks, and a hint of sea salt.

As I took my first bite, I could immediately tell why Holy Paleta comes highly recommended. The texture was perfectly smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness. Each ingredient blended harmoniously together, creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth.

What sets Holy Paleta apart from other ice cream shops is their commitment to using fresh and natural ingredients. You can taste the difference with every lick.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable ice cream experience in San Diego, look no further than Holy Paleta. With their delicious flavors, wide selection, friendly staff, and yummy options, this place is sure to satisfy even the most discerning ice cream connoisseur. Trust me when I say that a visit to Holy Paleta will leave you craving more – it's truly holy delicious!

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Chocolate Cremerie

Highlights
Cute creamery
Phenomenal host
Great gelato
Unique flavors

Upon entering the creamery, I was greeted by an adorable and cute atmosphere that made me feel like a kid in a candy store. The staff was not only friendly but also extremely knowledgeable about their ice cream, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.

The host at Chocolate Cremerie was nothing short of phenomenal. They were attentive, patient, and took the time to help me navigate through their extensive menu of gelato flavors. Their passion for ice cream was contagious, and it made me appreciate my frozen treat even more.

Speaking of gelato, let me tell you about the flavors! Chocolate Cremerie offers an array of unique and adventurous options that go beyond the typical vanilla and chocolate. From lavender honey to avocado lime, every scoop is a delightful surprise that tickles your taste buds in the most delightful way.

But what truly sets Chocolate Cremerie apart is the quality of their gelato. Each spoonful is velvety smooth, with just the right amount of creaminess. The flavors are well-balanced and burst with richness without being overly sweet. It's like having a little slice of heaven in each bite.

So if you're looking for a memorable ice cream experience in San Diego, look no further than Chocolate Cremerie. With its cute ambiance, phenomenal hosts, great gelato selection, and unique flavors, it truly deserves a spot on the list of best ice cream spots in town.

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Gelato love

Highlights
Owner is very happy
Fresh and authentic
Good gelato
Sweet woman

Upon entering Gelato love, I couldn't help but notice the infectious happiness of the owner. This sweet woman seemed genuinely thrilled to have me try her gelato creations. With such a warm welcome, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that struck me about Gelato love was the commitment to using only fresh and authentic ingredients. No artificial flavors or preservatives here! Each scoop of gelato boasted vibrant colors and enticing aromas, which immediately had my taste buds tingling with anticipation.

Now, let's talk about the gelato itself. Oh boy, it was good! Creamy, smooth, and packed with flavor, each spoonful melted on my tongue like a delightful symphony of sweetness. From classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like pistachio and lavender honey, Gelato love had a variety of flavors to satisfy every palate.

What truly set Gelato love apart was the passion behind their creations. It was evident that this wasn't just another ice cream shop – it was a labor of love. The owner's dedication shone through in every bite, making each visit an experience worth savoring.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an ice cream parlor that combines authenticity, flavor, and an owner who radiates pure joy (which is contagious), then Gelato love is a must-visit in San Diego. Trust me when I say your taste buds will thank you for indulging in this delightful frozen treat.

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Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream

Highlights
Homemade taste with elaborate flavors
Generous scoops and adequate prices
Great staff who are proud of their offerings

Walking into Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream, I was immediately greeted by the sweet aroma of freshly made waffle cones. It was a sign that I was in for a treat. As an ice cream connoisseur, I have high expectations when it comes to homemade flavors, and let me tell you, Cali Cream did not disappoint.

Their menu boasted an array of unique flavors that would make any ice cream lover weak at the knees. From classics like chocolate and vanilla to more exotic options like lavender honey and salted caramel pretzel, there was something for everyone's taste buds. Each scoop was bursting with flavor, leaving me wanting more with every bite.

One thing that really stood out about Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream was their generous portion sizes. None of those stingy scoops here! These guys know how to give you bang for your buck. And speaking of bucks, their prices were quite reasonable for the quality and quantity of ice cream you get.

Not only did the ice cream exceed my expectations, but so did the staff. They were friendly and knowledgeable about their offerings, which added to the overall experience. It's always nice to see passionate people who take pride in what they do.

So if you're looking for a place that combines homemade taste, elaborate flavors, generous scoops, adequate prices, and a great staff who are proud of their offerings, look no further than Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream in San Diego. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

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Salt & Straw

Highlights
Innovative flavors
Freshly baked cones
Big menu of flavors
Allow sampling

As soon as I stepped into Salt & Straw, I was greeted by a delightful aroma of freshly baked cones. The scent alone was enough to make my taste buds tingle with anticipation.

What sets Salt & Straw apart from other ice cream shops in San Diego is their commitment to innovation. Their menu boasts an impressive array of unique and unexpected flavors that are sure to please even the most adventurous palates. From classics like vanilla bean to daring combinations like honey lavender and olive oil, each scoop is a flavor-packed adventure waiting to be devoured.

But it's not just the flavors that impressed me; it's the attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients that truly set Salt & Straw apart. Each batch of ice cream is made with care, ensuring a rich and creamy texture that melts on your tongue like a sweet symphony.

One of the highlights of my visit was their willingness to let customers sample different flavors before making a decision. This allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and try flavors I wouldn't have normally chosen. It's safe to say that Salt & Straw has expanded my ice cream horizons.

The menu at Salt & Straw is expansive, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a chocolate lover or prefer fruity sorbets, you'll find a flavor that will make your taste buds sing with joy.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an ice cream experience that goes above and beyond traditional offerings, look no further than Salt & Straw in San Diego. With their innovative flavors, freshly baked cones, extensive menu selection, and accommodating sampling policy, this place is a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast in search of something extraordinary.

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Hammond's Gourmet Ice Cream

Highlights
Best ice cream
Extremely kind workers
Variety of vegan options
Creamy vegan chocolate
Restroom access

From the moment I stepped into Hammond's, I knew I was in for a treat. The friendly and extremely kind workers greeted me with smiles that could melt even the coldest of hearts. As an ice cream connoisseur, I always appreciate when the staff is as sweet as the frozen delights they serve.

Hammond's offers a wide variety of flavors, catering to both dairy lovers and those seeking vegan options. And let me tell you, their vegan ice cream is out of this world! It's so creamy and delectable that you won't even miss the dairy. In particular, their vegan chocolate flavor was a revelation - rich, smooth, and indulgent.

What sets Hammond's apart from other ice cream shops in San Diego is their attention to detail. They take pride in creating the best ice cream, using high-quality ingredients that truly shine through in every scoop. Each bite feels like a little taste of heaven on my tongue.

One thing worth mentioning is that Hammond's also has restroom access available for customers. Trust me; this can be a lifesaver when indulging in multiple scoops of delightful goodness!

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best ice cream experience in San Diego, look no further than Hammond's Gourmet Ice Cream. With their friendly staff, wide variety of flavors including delicious vegan options, and commitment to quality, it's a place where your taste buds will dance with joy. So go ahead and treat yourself to some frozen magic at Hammond's – you won't regret it!

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Stella Jean’s Ice Cream University Heights

Highlights
Delicious options
Vegan and gluten free options
Friendly staff
Reasonable serving
Delicious flavors

Let me start by saying, Stella Jean’s Ice Cream in University Heights serves up some seriously scrumptious frozen treats. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a delightful experience.

First off, let's talk about the options. Stella Jean’s offers an array of delicious flavors that cater to all taste buds. Whether you're into classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or more adventurous ones like lavender honey or roasted strawberry balsamic, they have it all. Plus, for those with dietary restrictions, they also have a selection of vegan and gluten-free options that are just as heavenly.

As I approached the counter, the staff greeted me with warm smiles and were eager to help me make my decision. They were not only knowledgeable about their ice cream but also incredibly friendly - a winning combination if you ask me.

Now let's talk portion size. At Stella Jean’s, they don't skimp on serving sizes. The scoops are generous and will leave you feeling satisfied without breaking the bank. It's refreshing to find a place that understands our ice cream cravings need to be taken seriously.

But enough about everything else; let's get down to what truly matters: the taste. And oh boy, did Stella Jean’s deliver! Each spoonful was bursting with flavor and had a perfect creamy consistency. It was like a party in my mouth with every bite.

In conclusion, Stella Jean’s Ice Cream University Heights is definitely among San Diego's finest ice cream parlors. With its delicious options, friendly staff, and reasonable serving sizes, it ticks all the boxes for an exceptional ice cream experience. So next time you're craving something sweet and frosty, head over to Stella Jean’s for a scoop (or two) of pure delight. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Lighthouse Ice Cream San Diego

Highlights
Delicious flavors
Great presentation
Variety of options
Convenient location in OB

Upon entering the charming ice cream parlor, I felt like a kid in a candy shop, only this time it was an ice cream shop, which is even better! The aroma of freshly made waffle cones wafted through the air, instantly putting a smile on my face.

The first thing that caught my eye was the delicious flavors on display. From classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like lavender honey and salted caramel pretzel, there was something to please every palate. I opted for a scoop of their signature flavor, the "Lighthouse Delight," which combined creamy vanilla with chunks of homemade brownies and swirls of fudge. It tasted like pure bliss in every mouthful.

Not only were the flavors top-notch, but the presentation was also impeccable. Each scoop was carefully placed in a perfectly crafted waffle cone and topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The attention to detail truly added to the overall experience.

What impressed me most about Lighthouse Ice Cream San Diego was their commitment to providing a variety of options for everyone. They had dairy-free sorbets for those with dietary restrictions and even offered mini-sized scoops for those who wanted just a taste without going overboard.

Located conveniently in Ocean Beach, this little gem is a must-visit for any ice cream lover. Whether you're strolling along Newport Avenue or enjoying a day at the beach, Lighthouse Ice Cream San Diego is always ready to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.

In conclusion, I can confidently say that Lighthouse Ice Cream San Diego deserves its place among the best ice cream spots in San Diego. With its delightful flavors, great presentation, and convenient location in OB, it's definitely worth indulging in some frozen goodness here. So go ahead and treat yourself – after all, life is too short for bad ice cream!

Mr. Trustee Creamery

Highlights
Rotating flavors regularly
Robin's Egg flavor is delicious
Very generous portions of ice cream
Cookies & Cream has lots of Oreos
Apple Pie flavor is not too sweet

Walking into Mr. Trustee Creamery, I was immediately struck by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly made waffle cones. The rotating flavors board caught my eye, featuring an impressive array of unique and tantalizing options.

Of course, I had to try their highly recommended Robin's Egg flavor. And boy, oh boy, was it a treat! The creamy texture melted in my mouth with each spoonful, while the subtle specks of blue scattered throughout added a delightful crunch. It was like tasting a piece of the sky – if the sky were made of ice cream.

Now, let's talk portion sizes. If you're not into generous portions, then Mr. Trustee Creamery might not be your cup of tea... or rather, cone of ice cream. But for those who enjoy indulgence in every bite, this place is a dream come true. One scoop felt more like three scoops elsewhere – truly unparalleled in size.

Next up on my list was their Cookies & Cream flavor. Let me tell you, they were not stingy with the Oreos! Every creamy spoonful was packed with chunks of these addictive chocolatey cookies. It was like diving headfirst into a cookie jar – but without the judgmental stares from your grandmother.

Finally, I couldn't leave without trying their Apple Pie flavor. The balance here is key; it's not too sweet nor too tart – just that perfect harmony of apple goodness and hints of cinnamon spice in every lick.

Overall, Mr. Trustee Creamery deserves its spot on the list of San Diego's best ice cream spots. With their rotating flavors menu and very generous portions, this place is a haven for ice cream enthusiasts seeking innovative flavors and plenty to satisfy their cravings.

So go ahead and indulge yourself at Mr. Trustee Creamery; your taste buds will thank you later... even if your waistline may not agree!