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Artisan Ice Cream Shops in San Diego, CA

Whether it's a waffle cone tonight or a new favorite to hunt down, here are 128 ice cream in San Diego, California — community-rated, locally owned.

8. Yogurt Escape Frozen Yogurt

☆ Rate · 6171 Mission Gorge Rd Ste 102

10. Fyi Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 5157 College Ave

13. Iceskimo Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 4609 Convoy Street

16. Hanna's Creamery & Cafe Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 4313 La Jolla Village Dr Spc 2270

18. Mahalo Shave Ice Co Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 7655 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Ste 317

19. Matcha Cafe Maiko Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 8072 Clairemont Mesa Blvd

20. Dang Good Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 8680 Miralani Dr Ste 123

22. Rita's Italian Ice Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · Rancho Penasquitos Towne Center, 13293 Black Mountain Road

23. Yogurt Heaven Frozen Yogurt

☆ Rate · 12010 Scripps Summit Dr

25. Sunny Scoops Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 12120 Alta Carmel Ct

Ice cream shops in San Diego, CA: a local guide

We currently track 25 ice cream shops and parlors serving San Diego, CA in San Diego County.

What ice cream costs in San Diego

A single scoop in San Diego usually runs about $4-$7, with specialty sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a little more than soft-serve chains.

What to look for in an ice cream shop in San Diego

  • Check hours and seasonality — many San Diego scoop shops keep shorter winter hours.
  • For groups or events, ask about pints, cakes, and catering.
  • Look for house-made or small-batch ice cream — San Diego shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.
  • Check for dairy-free, vegan, or no-sugar-added options if you need them.
  • Ask what's seasonal or local — the best shops rotate flavors and use local dairy or fruit.

Questions to ask before you go

  • Do you have gluten-free cones or toppings?
  • Do you make your ice cream in-house?
  • What dairy-free or vegan options do you have?
  • Which flavors are seasonal or local right now?
  • Do you sell pints, cakes, or cater events?

Many San Diego listings also serve hand-dipped ice cream, soft serve, gelato, sorbet, and dairy-free options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ice cream cost in San Diego?

A single scoop in San Diego usually runs about $4 to $7, with sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a bit more than soft-serve chains.

Where can I find dairy-free or vegan ice cream in San Diego?

Many San Diego shops now carry dairy-free, vegan, or sorbet options. Check the listings above and ask, since offerings change with the season.

What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

Gelato has less fat and less air than ice cream, so it is denser with more intense flavor. Several San Diego shops serve both.

Are San Diego ice cream shops open year-round?

Some keep shorter winter hours or close seasonally. Check the hours for the shop you have in mind before you go.

Own an ice cream shop in San Diego?

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