Mar 17, 2026 - Food and Drink
Where to get ice cream in San Francisco
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I definitely gave myself a brain freeze while eating this. Photo: Nadia Lopez/Axios
For a city that's often foggy and cold, we sure do love our ice cream, and even more so when it's warm enough that a double scoop feels less like a treat and more like a necessity.
- Here's where to grab a sweet treat to help you cool down amid this week's heat wave.
The Ice Cream Bar — Cole Valley
- This 1930s-inspired ice cream parlor leans into the era's classic soda fountain vibe. Get a pint to go or opt for a boozy milkshake. Don't skip out on their banana puddin' flavor — it's a must.
- Hours vary. Wednesday- Sunday at 815 Cole St.
Bi-Rite Creamery — Mission
- A classic — you can never go wrong when grabbing a cone here. The Earl Grey flavor is a standout for tea lovers, with subtle citrus notes from the bergamot.
- 12-9pm daily at 3692 18th St.
Hila — Mission
- This cafe and gelateria stays true to its roots with traditional Sicilian-style gelato.
- Pro tip: They're not always keen on giving out samples, so be prepared to order at the counter.
- Hours vary. Open daily except Wednesday at 951 Valencia St.
Mitchell's — Mission
- Mitchell's has been around since 1953 and is one of the city's most loved ice cream shops, known for Filipino-inspired flavors like ube, macapuno (coconut) and halo halo.
- 11:30am-11pm daily at 688 San Jose Ave.
Hometown Creamery — Inner Sunset, Hayes Valley
- Always made from scratch, Hometown's ice cream flavors draw from global influences and what's in season.
- 12-10pm daily at 1290 9th Ave. and 432A Octavia St.
Swensen's — Russian Hill
- This charming shop dating back to 1948 prides itself on sundaes, shakes and classic scoops. Opt for one of their house-made waffle cones (the best kind) next time you go in.
- 12- 10pm Tuesday-Sunday at 1999 Hyde St.
Joe's Ice Cream — Richmond
- This long-running neighborhood spot never skimps out on the portions. Their Thai tea flavor is decadent and creamy.
- Hours vary. Open daily at 5420 Geary Blvd.
Loard's — Potrero Hill
- This proudly old-fashioned neighborhood favorite hasn't changed its recipes since first opening in 1950. The black raspberry marble is top tier, as are their ice cream sundaes and sherberts.
- Hours vary. Open daily at 1601 20th St.