Summer Scoop: Cool San Diego Ice Cream Shops

Though school may be starting up again, some might argue that summer in San Diego never really ends. To beat the heat during our endless summer, Yelp has compiled a list of the coolest local ice cream spots. Here’s the sweet scoop.

Lapperts Ice Cream and Coffee Lounge (Poway)
Home of the Dole Whip Float and a soft-serve sure to satisfy, this shop is a stop on your ice cream tour that cannot be missed. The brand has been around for over 30 years and so, by now, the recipes are pure perfection. The frozen treat is scooped in tropical flavors like Kona Coffee and Kauai Pie, plus you’ll find traditional flavors and coffee. Now, that’s a serious dessert buzz!

Mr. Frostie (Pacific Beach)
This local gem promises to “battle your hunger and beat your sweet tooth” with yummy menu options. Choose from All-American sundaes, Banana Boat Splits and even a “Dirt Cup” filled with Oreo crumbles and gummy bears. Also on the menu: reduced-fat soft-serve options and root beer floats. This location in Pacific Beach has been around since 1949 and is family-owned and operated.

EscoGelato (Escondido)
The very, very warm inland areas heaved a huge sigh of relief when Suzanne, the owner of EscoGelato, opened her doors. Locals beat the high temperatures with her famous gelato, which is stunning to look at but even better to eat. Try the Strawberry Balsamic, Blood Orange or Salted Carmel flavors for a refreshing dessert. Note that daily flavors here vary, and this place is open until 9 p.m. every day – perfect for those cravings that hit later in the day.

Hammond's Gourmet Ice Cream (North Park)
This popular North Park scoop shop is always hopping, but don’t worry, the line moves quickly! The extensive menu boasts more than 90 flavors of Tropical Dreams Super Premium ice cream with selections like Peanut Butter Guava Jelly, Ginger Cream and Blueberry Cheesecake. Can’t choose? No problem! Order an Ice Cream Flight – yes, a flight of various little ice cream samplers – and try up to 6 flavors at once, all scooped into mini cones.

Narvalo Ice Cream and Gelato (Vista)
Ice cream, gelato, milkshakes and smoothies are served from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily in classic flavors with a commitment to quality. Plus, if you call in advance, you can special order Bombas (softball-sized scoops of gelato with a flavored center and dipped in chocolate) and Ripienos (all-natural fruit sorbet in its natural fruit shell) for some seriously sweet snacking.

Bobboi Natural Gelato (La Jolla)
Authentic and with online reviewers raving, you can’t go wrong with a frozen delight at this local gelatiera. Flavors include all that you crave from Stracciatella to Salted Caramel, plus unique options like Pineapple and Basil or Almond Zest. Consumers report the flavors are smooth and subtle – the perfect summertime treat. This La Jolla shop is open until 10:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturday, too.

Trish Sanderson is the community manager and marketing director for Yelp North County San Diego. She leads the local community of Yelp reviewers both online and off.

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