Sips & snacks:🍦 Spilling ice cream secrets

Best bite: I went for the chocolate-vanilla swirl topped with crushed peanuts in the smaller-size waffle cone, because… restraint.

• Servers carve out the center and fill it with hot fudge so you get that rich, chocolatey goo even when you're down to the cone.

Threat level: The $8 treat melts pretty fast, but that really shouldn't be a problem.

The vibe: The laid-back, local and family-owned shop was inspired by the owners' childhood memories of Mr. Frostie on Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach.

• They serve rotating flavors of organic and vegan soft serve in the heart of North Park with indoor and sidewalk seating.
• Plus, it's pet friendly, and your dogs can get a pup cup of whipped cream so they don't get too jealous.

The intrigue: San Diego's most popular ice cream chain is Baskin Robbins, but local spots like this, An's Dry Cleaning, Stella Jean's and Gelato 101 are better options for the little treats we all deserve.