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Artisan Ice Cream Shops in San Luis Obispo, CA

From house-made gelato to frozen custard, these 10 ice cream serve San Luis Obispo, CA. Rate the ones you've tried and help others find the best scoop.

2. Ziggy's Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 594 California Boulevard

5. Gemlato Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 1028 Chorro Street

7. Doc Bernstein's Ice Cream Lab Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 860 Higuera Street

8. McConnell's Fine Ice Creams Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 868 Monterey

9. Batch Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · Broad

10. SLO Maid Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · San Luis Obispo, CA

Ice cream shops in San Luis Obispo, CA: a local guide

We currently track 10 ice cream shops and parlors serving San Luis Obispo, CA in San Luis Obispo County.

What ice cream costs in San Luis Obispo

A single scoop in San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo

  • Ask what's seasonal or local — the best shops rotate flavors and use local dairy or fruit.
  • Read reviews for portion size and freshness, not just the flavor list.
  • Check hours and seasonality — many San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.

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 Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo?

A single scoop in San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo?

Many San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo shops serve both.

Are San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo?

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