Best ice cream in San Francisco?
169
pinches
190 comments
Aside from Bi-Rite, this is the other great ice cream parlour for standing outside of.
The ice creams inside are obviously excellent - the tahitian vanilla is creamy, the coffee is great as well, it's all great.
However, just like Bi-Rite, on a hot day you will see lines outside this place that could circumnavigate the globe.
I have grown facial hair in the time it took to get a scoop from Humphrey Slocombe and unless the ice cream inside can cure cancer or is being served by David Bowie, it is never, ever going to be worth it.
The ice creams inside are obviously excellent - the tahitian vanilla is creamy, the coffee is great as well, it's all great.
However, just like Bi-Rite, on a hot day you will see lines outside this place that could circumnavigate the globe.
I have grown facial hair in the time it took to get a scoop from Humphrey Slocombe and unless the ice cream inside can cure cancer or is being served by David Bowie, it is never, ever going to be worth it.
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· 9 hours ago
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· 1 day ago
Short of snap-freezing a cow, this is probably the freshest ice cream you can possibly make.
Smitten use local, organic ingredients and each scoop is made to order right before your eyes.
How do they do this?
With liquid nitrogen.
That's right, pal - they've taken the goodness of milk and add the unrelenting power of science to create ice cream!
God Bless America.
The ice cream is excellent. Creamy, soft, fresh and free of ice. You can also control exactly what you want to add.
It does take a few minutes to make each scoop and on a hot day their aluminum built premises can get a little stifling.
But it all pales in comparison when you get to enjoy the sight of a cloud of liquid nitrogen turning a glass of Strauss milk into a bowl of creamy ice cream.
So if you like your ice cream with a side order of Mad Scientist - try Smitten!
Smitten use local, organic ingredients and each scoop is made to order right before your eyes.
How do they do this?
With liquid nitrogen.
That's right, pal - they've taken the goodness of milk and add the unrelenting power of science to create ice cream!
God Bless America.
The ice cream is excellent. Creamy, soft, fresh and free of ice. You can also control exactly what you want to add.
It does take a few minutes to make each scoop and on a hot day their aluminum built premises can get a little stifling.
But it all pales in comparison when you get to enjoy the sight of a cloud of liquid nitrogen turning a glass of Strauss milk into a bowl of creamy ice cream.
So if you like your ice cream with a side order of Mad Scientist - try Smitten!
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· 2 days ago
Mr & Mrs Miscellaneous' Candied Violet Ice cream is so good, I could eat it if both my arms were on fire.
In fact, not only would I run back into a burning building to save the quart I keep in my freezer, I would choose to save it over a lot of other things in my house.
Things like my son's toys. Or my dog.
The owners, Ian Flores and Annabelle Topacio are the ice cream equivalent of Thomas Edison and have thus far invented some of the most interesting ice cream in SF.
Ballpark combines pretzels & Anchor Beer and Birthday Cake has an actual birthday cake with icing, swirled into the creamiest vanilla ice cream my mouth has ever tasted.
Seriously, it's so good I wanted to lick the enamel from my own teeth.
In fact, not only would I run back into a burning building to save the quart I keep in my freezer, I would choose to save it over a lot of other things in my house.
Things like my son's toys. Or my dog.
The owners, Ian Flores and Annabelle Topacio are the ice cream equivalent of Thomas Edison and have thus far invented some of the most interesting ice cream in SF.
Ballpark combines pretzels & Anchor Beer and Birthday Cake has an actual birthday cake with icing, swirled into the creamiest vanilla ice cream my mouth has ever tasted.
Seriously, it's so good I wanted to lick the enamel from my own teeth.
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· 2 days ago
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· 13 days ago
Perhaps a typical choice for best ice cream, but it's the truth! With a constantly rotating menu, this place is sure to always feature a flavor you haven't tried, and the employees encourage patrons to take their time and sample the 12 flavors available daily. Secret Breakfast (bourbon and cornflakes), Black Sesame, and Hibiscus Beet will leave anyone begging for a second (or third) scoop.
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· 14 days ago
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· 14 days ago
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· 15 days ago
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· 17 days ago
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· 17 days ago
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· 17 days ago
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· 17 days ago
This is a tough one. I also LOVE Smitten Ice Cream in Hayes Valley. There you should have the TCHO Chocolate with Brown Sugar Caramel Sauce. I've tried other combos and nothing is better.
But back to BI-RITE! Two words: Sam's Sundae. Chocolate ice cream with Bergamot olive oil, maldon sea salt and whipped cream. I prefer mine with one scoop of Chocolate and one Scoop of Sated Caramel. Amazing!
But back to BI-RITE! Two words: Sam's Sundae. Chocolate ice cream with Bergamot olive oil, maldon sea salt and whipped cream. I prefer mine with one scoop of Chocolate and one Scoop of Sated Caramel. Amazing!
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· 18 days ago
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· 19 days ago
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· 19 days ago
My kids love this place - spin the wheel and take a chance!
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· 20 days ago
Great little place with perfect amount of flavor options - they also don't skimp on the portions/toppings :)
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· 24 days ago
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· 35 days ago
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· 36 days ago
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· 40 days ago
Their lemon cookie is a perfect light(ish) ice cream option!
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· 41 days ago
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· 41 days ago
It's an old fashioned, family owned business. And their ice cream is so creamy and rich, like no other. That's the only place I go to get ice cream on a cone. And I love their gallon tubs.
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· 42 days ago
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· 42 days ago
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· 43 days ago
Newbies: Make sure to get yourself a number, just inside on the left.
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· 44 days ago
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· 45 days ago
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· 45 days ago
Incredible flavors! Particularly Salted Caramel. However, during the Holidays, I love the Egg Nog ice cream.
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· 47 days ago
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· 47 days ago
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· 47 days ago
Toy Boat Dessert Cafe has been around for more than 10 years now! I previously went there with a few of my family members and my girlfriend - a few adults and a couple of kids. My aunt used to work there and it was her first job!
Anyway, I sampled ONLY a couple of their flavors. So I am not one to judge BUT their lychee ice-cream is FANTASTIC. No other lychee ice-cream gives that much of the fruit in the ice cream. Most of the time, they only use artificial flavoring.
Another heads up is that they sell a massive variety of PEZ sweet things. Being a big man of "The Amazing Spiderman", I couldn't help myself but to get one. :P GOING BACK SOON!
Anyway, I sampled ONLY a couple of their flavors. So I am not one to judge BUT their lychee ice-cream is FANTASTIC. No other lychee ice-cream gives that much of the fruit in the ice cream. Most of the time, they only use artificial flavoring.
Another heads up is that they sell a massive variety of PEZ sweet things. Being a big man of "The Amazing Spiderman", I couldn't help myself but to get one. :P GOING BACK SOON!
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
Super friendly service and it is a hidden treasure no one knows about, I will have
this any day than Ghirardelli ice cream
this any day than Ghirardelli ice cream
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
Their Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream is the best ice cream I've ever had. And I unexpectedly realized that after the first bite. I know everyone raves about the secret breakfast, which is awesome too, but not as good as the v-coffee.
Fresh made ice cream and unusual but great flavors you can't find anywhere else.
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
Hands down the best - fresh ingredients, great flavors - a line out the door even on a cold windy rainy day.
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
The ice cream selection changes every few weeks so come back often to try out new flavors. I suggest getting two scoops so you can enjoy two different flavors at a time and I typically get a carton to go so I can eat it anytime. The bad thing is the hours are kind of crappy so get that carton to go! They make the ice cream with organic milk and its the most delicious ice cream I have had in SF! Amazing!
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
chocolate :: drool:: I am going to gain a gazzillion pounds now that i live a block away from this place & Loving Cup
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
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· 48 days ago
I have deep, dark, intense fantasies about the ice cream sundaes they create.
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· 49 days ago
You get to watch delicious artisan ice cream be made in front of you with liquid nitrogen...how is that not awesome? With flavors like chai, TCHO chocolate, and caramelized pear (to name a few, they change pretty frequently) you'll be getting a smooth, creamy ice cream experience like no other. They make their own waffle cones and they taste like cookies, for extra joy
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· 55 days ago
THE MOST AMAZING ICE CREAM IN SAN FRANCISCO! There's a reason why tourists are crowding the doors. The long lines and cramped quarters only make your mouth drool more as you are surrounded by ice-creams and sherberts of every kind. My personal favorite is the mint chocolate chip ice cream, but the banana nut ice cream is amazing as well. To be honest, I don't think you can go wrong at Mitchell's, that is...once you find a park.
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· 55 days ago
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· 56 days ago
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· 58 days ago
Bi-Rite taught me that quality trumps quantity. The lavender honey is a must!
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· 61 days ago
Honey Lavendar Ice Cream, Sea Salt, Blood Orange Olive Oil, and Chocolately Fudge...Yes this place is worth the line!
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· 63 days ago
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· 63 days ago
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· 66 days ago
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· 68 days ago
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· 70 days ago
Oh damn. Gelato. Where have you been? In the Ferry Bldg., I guess. Thanks for the heads up.
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· 69 days ago
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· 70 days ago
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· 70 days ago
I'm biased because it's near Dolores Park right by my house, but luckily another outpost is coming to NOPA soon.
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· 70 days ago
Polly Ann Ice Cream and Joe's Ice Cream. I am really disappointed that these two places are not on the top 10. They make their own flavors. Tons of different flavors as well. Thai tea, Green tea, etc.
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· 73 days ago
Great, unique ice cream flavors and awesome ice cream sandwiches.
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· 75 days ago
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· 79 days ago
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· 81 days ago
Adorable decor and delicious ice cream make this location perfect for a quick treat.
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· 83 days ago
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· 83 days ago
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· 85 days ago
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· 86 days ago
Nothing can compare to swiss orange chip from Swensen's. Hands down the best ice cream in San Francisco and probably the entire state of California.
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· 87 days ago
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· 88 days ago
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· 88 days ago
Does the Loving Cup count? Rum Raisin is my favorite but I occasionally go with the Oreo Cookie. Also a good place to take out of towners.
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· 89 days ago
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· 90 days ago
Salted caramel ice cream. Need I say more? The cookies & cream here is pretty amazing, too. As is the rincanelas, which tastes like horchata with bits of snickerdoodle cookies. Get yourself a cup or cone, then mosey over to Dolores Park and people-watch while you savor your dessert.
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· 90 days ago
bi-rite, humphry, mitchell's, ici, this city is lucky to have so many good ones.
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· 90 days ago
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· 90 days ago
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· 90 days ago
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· 91 days ago
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· 91 days ago
It has random great tasting ice cream and if you can't decide on which flavor to get they have a wheel you can spin to decide for you!
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· 92 days ago
Love this place in the east bay - reminds of of Bi-Rite Creamery. Super cute shop and worth the wait
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· 95 days ago
Really can't beat this place - line is always out the door, even on the chilly days. Perfect scoops & decadent flavors. Their Banana, Butter Pecan and Salted Carmel are to die for!
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· 95 days ago
Not sure of they make their own but love the cozy old time fountain atmosphere.
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· 96 days ago
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· 96 days ago
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· 96 days ago
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· 96 days ago
The chicks who serve up this creamy goodness are Zooey Deschanel-level cute; the new beer garden is right next door; different food trucks visit behind them, varying with the days of the week. While the flavors change regularly, the mint choc chip is other-wordly and the hibiscus was quite surprisingly fantastic. These days Hayes Valley is an upcoming legend.
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· 96 days ago
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· 96 days ago
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· 96 days ago
I can only say this once since I haven't tried the other two popular ones yet on the list!
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· 98 days ago
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· 98 days ago
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· 98 days ago
After drinking PBRs for 2 hours in Dolores Park, you deserve a little decadence in your life. Try the salted caramel or--for the more luxurious--honey lavender. Don't fret. It is not like eating a frozen candle.
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· 98 days ago
Gah! It's the Salted Caramel, of course! And I don't even really like ice cream.
Please don't judge me.
Please don't judge me.
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· 99 days ago
Their ice cream is creamy and they have a huge selection! Plus, there's always people hanging out, so it's fun to go there late at night with friends!
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· 99 days ago
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· 99 days ago
Secret breakfast! An ice cream made with burbon and corn flakes speaks for it's self! Also, they're daring in the artisan department, with creations that you've got to try, because your curiosity won't let you leave without them! From gov'ment cheese to bacon fat, they always keep you on your toes!
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· 99 days ago
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· 100 days ago
Love the unique flavors, and the consistent deliciousness
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· 100 days ago
Love the fact that they have soft serve as well. Good variety of flavors.
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· 100 days ago
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· 102 days ago
Their ice cream is on the dessert menu at Beretta..the one that is topped with salt and olive oil. OH SO GOOD.
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· 102 days ago
Looks like regular ice cream but melts like soft serve.
They are super friendly and the ice cream is pretty good.
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· 102 days ago
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· 103 days ago
The quality of ice cream may not be top, but the experience is unbeatable. Crepe cones, nutella, whip cream, and strawberries is my go-to order.
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· 104 days ago
Smitten Ice Cream is just beyond incredible. I mean, it's hand churned for each customer. I'm sad to sees that Bombay Ice Creamery hasn't gotten a shout out though! Get over there stat and try their cardamom or rose petal ice cream.
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· 107 days ago
Rose petal ice cream sounds interesting. What is it similar to?
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· 105 days ago
Ciao Bella Gelato is yummm. Chocolate-jalapeño? Yes please.
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· 108 days ago
Chile Pies & Ice Cream...who doesn't like pie and ice-cream? Oh and they serve Three Twins Ice Cream...organic baby
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· 108 days ago
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· 108 days ago
The San Francisco Creamery. Although it's in Walnut Creek, it has the name and have you seen the "Kitchen Sink"?
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· 108 days ago
Smitten Ice Cream is pretty awesome...
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· 109 days ago
I've never had @Smitten Ice Cream before. What is your favorite ice cream here, Matt?
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· 108 days ago
Bi-Rite Creamery, the salted caramel and roasted banana in the same cup. yum.
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· 113 days ago
That sounds so good right now! I will definitely try and go to this place.
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· 63 days ago
Bi-Rite Creamery...but @Loards in the East Bay is the stuff
Mitchell's Ice Cream the oldest and the best. You can keep all your fancy "artisan ice creams" - when I want to eat so much ice cream that I'm afraid I might burst, there is only one place to go, and that's Mitchell's.
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· 117 days ago
What is your favorite flavor?
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· 116 days ago
I'm a glutton for punishment, so I am all about the Peanut Butter Indulgence. So much chocolate, so much peanut butter, so much delicious.....
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· 116 days ago
My typical is one scoop of mango and one scoop of ube.
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· 115 days ago
Jenna, that sounds like the perfect threesome.
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· 114 days ago
Three Twins Ice Cream is two blocks from my house. Although they've been shut down for months due to a pharmacy fire. So, lose-win?
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· 117 days ago
There was a fire? Unfortunate. I like how it's organic ice cream.
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· 116 days ago
I'm stuck between Mitchell's Ice Cream and Humphry Slocombe.
Swensen's Ice Cream peppermint is the perfect combo of minty, creamy, and sweet!
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· 117 days ago
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