The San Francisco Bay Area is a paradise for ice cream lovers, offering a range of delightful options from both national favorites and cherished local brands. Whether you’re a fan of rich, creamy indulgence or fresh, fruity flavors, the variety available in local grocery stores is sure to satisfy your cravings. Explore these ten popular ice cream brands that have become staples in the Bay Area, each bringing their unique flair and taste to the frozen aisle. From nostalgic classics to innovative newcomers, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
1. Ben & Jerry’s
Ben & Jerry’s is synonymous with creativity and flavor innovation. The brand’s iconic pints, like Cherry Garcia and Chunky Monkey, have captured the hearts of many. Each flavor tells a unique story, crafted with high-quality ingredients and a commitment to social responsibility. Their whimsical packaging, combined with delicious surprises like chunks of chocolate or swirls of caramel, make every scoop an adventure. Available in major grocery stores across the Bay Area, Ben & Jerry’s continues to be a favorite for those seeking a playful and indulgent ice cream experience.
2. Häagen-Dazs
Häagen-Dazs stands out with its commitment to producing premium ice cream using simple, high-quality ingredients. With rich and creamy classics like Vanilla Bean and Chocolate, it’s a go-to for those who appreciate luxurious taste. Each spoonful is a testament to their dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The brand’s elegant packaging reflects its sophisticated appeal, making it a staple in both upscale and everyday grocery stores throughout the Bay Area. Häagen-Dazs offers a timeless indulgence that satisfies even the most discerning ice cream lovers.
3. Tillamook
Tillamook, hailing from Oregon, brings a farm-to-table freshness to the ice cream scene. Known for its high-quality dairy products, Tillamook’s ice cream features flavors like Oregon Strawberry and Mudslide, each crafted to perfection. The brand’s commitment to using real, wholesome ingredients is evident in every bite. Tillamook has seamlessly integrated its rustic charm into the Bay Area’s grocery offerings, becoming a favorite for those who appreciate genuine, creamy goodness. Experience the rich heritage of Tillamook with every scoop, available in stores across the region.
4. Double Rainbow
Double Rainbow, a beloved San Francisco brand since 1976, offers a nostalgic taste of the city with its diverse range of flavors. Known for its creamy texture and vibrant taste, Double Rainbow’s pints carry a sense of local pride. The brand’s whimsical, retro-style packaging and commitment to quality have made it a staple in Bay Area grocery stores. Whether you’re enjoying a classic flavor or exploring something new, Double Rainbow provides a delightful, homegrown ice cream experience that resonates with locals and tourists alike.
5. Thrifty Ice Cream
Thrifty Ice Cream is a nostalgic favorite, cherished for its iconic cylindrical scoops and classic flavors. This beloved brand brings back memories for many, offering affordable, timeless pleasures like Chocolate Malted Crunch and Rocky Road. Found in select Bay Area stores, Thrifty Ice Cream captivates with its simple, yet delightful offerings. Its unique scooping method and affordable prices make it an enduring favorite among those seeking comfort and familiarity. Experience a scoop of nostalgia with Thrifty Ice Cream, a cherished part of many childhoods.
6. Three Twins
Three Twins ice cream is known for its commitment to sustainability and the environment. Offering organic flavors crafted with care and conscience, each pint is a celebration of responsible indulgence. The brand stands out with its vibrant packaging and unique offerings like Sea Salted Caramel and Lemon Cookie. Despite its closure in 2020, you’ll still find remaining pints in some Bay Area stores, cherished by loyal fans. Three Twins’ legacy of delicious, eco-friendly ice cream continues to inspire and delight those who prioritize both flavor and sustainability.
7. Straus Family Creamery
Straus Family Creamery, rooted in Marin County, offers ice cream that embodies organic excellence. Known for its creamy texture and authentic flavors, each scoop tells a story of family tradition and sustainable farming practices. Flavors like Raspberry and Brown Sugar Banana are crafted with organic ingredients, providing a fresh taste of the region. Straus’ dedication to purity and craftsmanship makes it a favorite in artisanal Bay Area grocery stores. With its quaint packaging, Straus Family Creamery invites you to savor the true taste of Northern California dairy.
8. Clover Sonoma
Clover Sonoma is celebrated for its high-quality dairy products, offering ice cream that reflects their dedication to purity and sustainability. With flavors like Vanilla and Cookies & Cream, Clover Sonoma delivers a comforting taste made from carefully sourced ingredients. The brand’s approachable packaging and commitment to animal welfare resonate with those looking for ethically produced products. Clover Sonoma’s ice cream is a wholesome choice for Bay Area residents seeking both quality and conscience, making it a beloved staple in local grocery stores.
9. Humphry Slocombe
Humphry Slocombe is known for its daring and unconventional flavors, a treat for adventurous ice cream lovers. With offerings like Secret Breakfast and Elvis (the Fat Years), this San Francisco-based brand pushes the boundaries of traditional ice cream. Each pint is a bold statement, reflecting a playful and experimental approach to flavor creation. Humphry Slocombe’s unique offerings are available in select Bay Area grocery stores, attracting those who crave something out of the ordinary. Experience the unexpected with each scoop of Humphry Slocombe’s imaginative ice cream.
10. McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams is renowned for its artisanal approach to ice cream, offering a taste of sophistication with flavors like Turkish Coffee and Eureka Lemon & Marionberries. Each pint is meticulously crafted with premium ingredients, reflecting the brand’s dedication to quality and flavor perfection. McConnell’s commitment to small-batch production ensures consistency and excellence in every scoop. Found in gourmet grocery stores across the Bay Area, McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams caters to discerning palates seeking a refined dessert experience.