Is there parking nearby?

Parking in Pacific Beach can be tight, especially on weekends, but it's doable if you circle a bit. Head to the lot near Grand Ave or grab street parking a block or two away—totally worth the hunt once you taste the ice cream.

Absolutely. This spot is dog-friendly and they even make ice cream for your pup, so your four-legged friend can get in on the action. It's one of the best things about this place.

Is this good for kids?

Yeah, it's a solid pick for families. The variety of flavors means there's something for everyone, and kids love picking their own taste adventure with the owner's help.

What should I order first?

Start by asking the owner or staff what's fresh that day—they really encourage you to taste before you commit. The house-made flavors rotate, but saffron pistachio and unique seasonal options consistently blow people away. Definitely get it in a waffle cone.

Do you have non-dairy or vegan options?

Yes, they've got non-dairy choices available, which is a big plus if you're looking for alternatives. The quality carries through across the whole menu.

Can I order online or get delivery?

They offer takeout and delivery, so you can grab it to-go or have it brought to you. Just keep in mind that ice cream travels fast, so pick it up fresh if possible.

What's the vibe like?

It's a true neighborhood spot run by people who care—casual, friendly, and built for locals. Come solo, bring the family, bring your dog, or roll up with a crew; everyone fits in.

Pacific Beach Ice Cream Co. — Ice Cream & Dessert in Pacifi…

“Pacific Beach Ice Cream Co. makes its own ice cream in-house daily, including flavors like saffron pistachio that you won't find at the cookie-sandwich operations down the block.”

While The Baked Bear engineers ice cream sandwiches and Handel's scoops from pre-made tubs, Pacific Beach Ice Cream Co. is actually churning small batches every day—house-made bases, house-made waffle cones, and flavors that veer into saffron pistachio and other territory you don't typically see between the boardwalk and Mission Bay. The owner runs the counter most days, encouraging you to taste before you commit, which is how people discover that their usual go-to (Oreo, salted caramel) might not be the move when there's something more interesting in the case.

The **saffron pistachio** is the one that turns first-timers into regulars—floral without being perfumey, nutty without tasting like extract. The **Oreo ice cream** is still the top seller, made with actual crushed cookies folded in, not the gritty dust you get from mass-produced versions. They also do **dog-friendly ice cream**, which means your post-beach walk doesn't require leaving anyone tied up outside.

Parking on Grand is a mess—circle the block once, maybe twice, or park over by the bay and walk. The shop itself is small, a counter and a few stools, so this is a grab-and-go situation unless you're willing to camp outside with your cone. Lines form on weekend afternoons, especially after 2 p.m., but they move fast because the owner has the routine down.

It's not trying to be an experience or a destination—it's just ice cream done right, made by someone who clearly gives a shit, in a neighborhood where most spots coast on location. If you're here for the shore break and want something better than soft-serve from a truck, this is the spot.