In Los Angeles, they take our ice cream very seriously. With just one quick Yelp search you’ll quickly understand what I am talking about. From more classic spots like Yogurtland and Baskin-Robbins to more new and artisanal shops like Salt and Straw, finding a good ice cream spot in LA isn’t the easiest of tasks. That is why I have rounded up my current favorite ice cream shops for when you’re in a mood for that perfect sweet treat!
1. McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams
McConnell’s is the reason I fell in love with ice cream, again.
As a kid, ice cream is definitely right up there with candy when it comes to things you want to eat all the time. But as an adult, the sugary goodness of cotton candy and birthday cake flavored ice cream tends to appeal less and less. But then you stumble upon something like McConnell’s and your love for ice cream is once again rekindled. Made from scratch with the best ingredients, McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams appeal to the kid in you while still satisfying your adult taste buds. With flavors like black coffee chip, whiskey and pecan pralines, churros con leche (my absolute favorite!), and chocolate covered strawberry you really can’t go wrong.
LOCATIONS
- GRAND CENTRAL MARKET – 317 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
- STUDIO CITY – 12073 Ventura Place, Studio City, CA 91604
- LOS FELIZ – 4634 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027
2. Little Damage Ice Cream
Okay, I am not going to lie. Totally went to this place because of the ‘gram, but I was really pleasantly surprised just how good this ice cream turned out to be! Known for their ‘black’ or activated charcoal colored soft serve, Little Damage is a fairly new establishment in the heart of downtown LA. With an array of rotating and seasonal flavors that are influenced by “the rich cultural fabric that makes Los Angeles special,” Little Damage is quickly making its mark on the ice cream scene.
LOCATIONS
- DOWNTOWN LA – 700 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
3. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt
Handel’s is my go to when I’m in the need of some good ice cream but don’t want to drive too far to get it. Located in the South Bay right off PCH in Redondo Beach, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream and Yogurt is a classic spot that just keeps getting better and better. Handmade fresh and with over 103 ice cream flavors plus an assortment of sherbets, low-fat yogurt, and ices there is a little something for everyone. But by far, my favorite thing about this place is their $2 1/2 buck Tuesdays!
LOCATIONS
- REDONDO BEACH – 1882 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
4. Sweet Rose Creamery
If you’re in the mood for ice cream but don’t want to go the more traditional flavor route, Sweet Rose Creamery has you covered. With small hand-made batches made from mostly locally sourced ingredients, you can find such flavors as sweet potato swirl with sesame brittle, salted caramel, chocolate milk with hazelnut praline, and cherimoya frozen yogurt. But remember, supply is limited and often seasonal flavors don’t last! But luckily, Sweet Rose Creamery also offers ‘The Classics’ like chocolate and old-fashioned vanilla that aren’t going away anytime soon.
LOCATIONS
- SANTA MONICA – 826 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404
- STUDIO CITY – 4377 Tujunga Ave, Studio City, CA 91604
- PACIFIC PALISADES – 4377 Tujunga Ave, Studio City, CA 91604
- FAIRFAX – 7565 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Final Word
So have I convinced you to run out to grab some ice cream? Narrowing this list down was not easy but, there you have it; my current top favorite ice cream shops in LA. And I can’t wait to find more!
So have you tried any of the ice cream shops on my list? Do you feel like I am missing an exceptionally good one? Let me know in the comments below!
