East Bay's Top 10 Locally-Owned Ice Cream Shops
The East Bay is home to some of the most iconic and innovative independent ice cream shops in Northern California. From century-old institutions to modern innovators, these local gems showcase the region's commitment to quality, creativity, and community.
1. Fentons Creamery (Oakland)
An Oakland landmark since 1894, Fentons is perhaps the most famous ice cream parlor in the East Bay. Known for its massive, over-the-top sundaes and appearances in Pixar's film Up, it maintains a nostalgic, century-old charm that transports visitors to a bygone era.
What makes it special: The signature Black & Tan sundae—a towering masterpiece of vanilla and chocolate ice cream with caramel and fudge sauces, topped with toasted almonds and a cherry.
Fruits Offered: Bananas, Strawberries, Pineapples, Cherries, Blueberries, and Raspberries.
Hours: Mon-Thu: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Address: 4226 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
2. Tara's Organic Ice Cream (Berkeley)
Tara's is renowned for artisanal, small-batch organic ice cream. The shop is famous for experimenting with inventive and savory herbs and spices, but their fruit-based sorbets and ice creams are equally exceptional.
What makes it special: Seasonal flavors that change with what's fresh at the farmers market—think lavender honey in spring or roasted plum in late summer.
Fruits Offered: Organic Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, and seasonal local Plums and Peaches.
Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Address: 3173 College Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705
3. Curbside Creamery (Oakland)
A cozy neighborhood spot in Temescal, Curbside Creamery has built a loyal following with its creative vegan options and classic dairy flavors alike. Their house-made waffle cones fill the shop with an irresistible aroma.
What makes it special: The vegan cashew-based ice creams are so creamy, even dairy lovers can't tell the difference.
Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Address: 482 49th St, Oakland, CA 94609
4. Ici Ice Cream (Berkeley)
Inspired by French glace tradition, Ici serves impeccably smooth ice cream with sophisticated flavors. The made-to-order cones are pressed while you wait, ensuring the perfect crispy vessel for your scoop.
What makes it special: The "Ici Sundae"—two scoops with two sauces, house-made marshmallow, whipped cream, and an almond brittle crown.
Hours: Sun-Thu: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Address: 2948 College Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705
5. Lush Gelato (Berkeley)
Authentic Italian gelato made fresh daily using traditional techniques. The dense, intensely flavored gelatos showcase the difference that craftsmanship and quality ingredients make.
What makes it special: The pistachio gelato—made with Sicilian pistachios, it's a taste of Italy in the East Bay.
Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Address: 1511 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709
6. Sweet Belly (Oakland)
A modern dessert shop combining organic ice cream with fresh, made-to-order donuts. The result is an indulgent experience that's become an Oakland institution.
What makes it special: The "Belly Bowl"—a warm donut bowl filled with ice cream and topped with your choice of sauces and toppings.
Hours: Tue-Thu: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Address: 435 19th St, Oakland, CA 94612
7. Koolfi Creamery (San Leandro)
Bringing Indian-inspired flavors to the East Bay, Koolfi Creamery offers a unique twist on frozen desserts. Their kulfi—a traditional Indian frozen dairy dessert—is denser and creamier than typical ice cream.
What makes it special: Flavors like Cardamom Pistachio, Mango Lassi, and Masala Chai offer a delicious departure from the ordinary.
Hours: Tue-Sun: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Address: 599 MacArthur Blvd, San Leandro, CA 94577
8. Loard's Ice Cream (Orinda)
Founded in 1950, Loard's is a nostalgic staple of the East Bay. The Orinda location maintains the classic black-and-pink aesthetic and serves premium ice cream that has been a local favorite for generations.
What makes it special: The vintage atmosphere—stepping inside feels like traveling back to the 1950s.
Fruits Offered: Cherries, Strawberries, Pineapple, Banana, and Raspberry.
Hours: Sun-Thu: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Address: 230 Brookwood Rd, Orinda, CA 94563
9. Little Giant Ice Cream (Oakland)
A modern favorite in Uptown Oakland, Little Giant focuses on small-batch production with funky, high-intensity flavors. They are known for using top-tier local dairy and seasonal produce.
What makes it special: Rotating flavors like Cornflake Cookie Dough and Strawberry Buttermilk keep regulars coming back to see what's new.
Fruits Offered: Strawberry, Lemon, and various seasonal fruit swirls.
Hours: Mon-Thu: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Sun: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Address: 1951 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612
10. Cookiebar Scoop Shop (Alameda)
Cookiebar is celebrated for its unique South and East Asian flavor profiles. From Mango Sticky Rice to Lychee, the shop offers a refreshing alternative to traditional flavors, often served with their signature cookies.
What makes it special: The Ube flavor—vibrant purple yam ice cream that's become their signature.
Fruits Offered: Mango, Lychee, Calamansi, Durian, and Coconut.
Hours: Sun-Thu: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Address: 1608 Webster St, Alameda, CA 94501
Why Local Matters
Supporting locally-owned ice cream shops means more than just enjoying a sweet treat. These businesses:
- •Support local economies by keeping dollars in the community
- •Source from regional farms, reducing environmental impact
- •Create unique flavors that reflect local tastes and ingredients
- •Build community by providing gathering spaces
The next time you're craving something sweet, skip the chain and visit one of these East Bay gems. Your taste buds—and your community—will thank you.
