50 Best Ice Cream Shops near Albany

“Everytime I go there, the staff are always warm and welcoming. The prices are great as far as I'm concerned. They keep it very clean and tidy. It's never been too busy. And the atmosphere is perfect for a random after school treat worth the kids.“

“Our first visit but absolutely not our last! What delicious flavors! Everyone loved their desserts, the toppings are incredible (vegan hot fudge, vegan caramel, toasted almonds,) and we all left full and happy! Definitely stop in when you’re in the neighborhood!“

“this soft serve truck is so cute and serves the best soft serve by far, with housemade chocolate sauce that hardens to a nice crunch on the ice cream. the addition of salt on it makes the perfect balance. the red truck has such a personality and the folks who work it are always so fun to chat with. and it's local! they even have a teeny tiny cone for kids and the seal is hand painted :) the line can get long, but I promise it's worth it!“

“We were in the area, nice 👍 to be able to enjoy our yogurt plus close to coffee shop as well & lots of benches to relax👋🤙👋“

“I eat lunch here regularly and find the service to be consistently friendly and attentive. The food is fresh and tasty— I usually have one of their generous banh mi sandwiches. The atmosphere is warm and the other customers seem happy to be there. And it’s a great vantage point for watching the Solano Avenue street scene.“

“Best gelato in San Francisco.“

“It's amazing, I highly recommend everyone to go here“

“How do you spell “Enrapture”? “Lexie’s Frozen Custard” of course, offering a wide array of heart-stopping pleasures and confections. Charm and charisma? Delivered with each serving! Pictured: Beguiling owner Alexis LeCount and arresting assistant Sadie Sprenkle.“

“Historically best ice cream in SF!“

“Was in the area and did a search for ice cream. This place popped up and I decided to check it out. The vibe from the staff is great. The flavors are nice and different, the finish of the ice cream is fresh. No lingering fattiness or artificial viscosity.

Will definitely come back if I'm in the area and want ice cream. Store is clean and bright, plenty of natural light and simple decor. The production area is clearly visible so you can see they're proud of what they're doing. I recommend this place.“

“4 vegan options available. $6.95 for the “single” which comes with 2 flavours. I got the Thai tea and grape sorbet. Both were intensely flavourful and smooth. High quality ice cream with unique flavours. I just wish there were a few more non-sorbet vegan options. And I agree with the other review that a bench or some outdoor seating would be nice too. Overall very good.“

“Oh man, where do I even start with Salt & Straw? This place is like if a rogue alchemist snuck into a dairy farm and started experimenting with forbidden elixirs. I strolled in with high hopes and emerged victorious with a milkshake that’s basically liquid gold: sea salt caramel as the silky base, crowned with two scoops of their olive oil ice cream. Olive oil in ice cream? It sounds like a madcap plot twist, but it delivers; creamy with a whisper of earthy savoriness that dances with the caramel like old flames rekindling. Each slurp was a symphony of rich, balanced bliss. I felt like I’d unlocked a secret level in the game of desserts.
But wait, the drama unfolds: the straw. And hey, “Straw” is literally in their name... talk about irony! This biodegradable bad boy decided to split clean down the middle quicker than a celebrity couple in tabloid headlines. One moment it’s heroically tackling the thick shake; the next, it’s in two pieces, forcing me to improvise like a survivalist in the wilderness. Ended up tilting the cup back like I was toasting the gods. Pro tip: pack a backup straw forged from adamantium, or just lean into the mess.
Even with the straw’s split-second betrayal, this was an epic win. Salt & Straw, you’re the flavor wizard I didn’t know I needed. 5 stars, no notes, because who needs perfection when you’ve got pure, chaotic joy? 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟“

“Small shop, cash only, full of heart.

The owner is very nice and is very generous with portions, two scoops in a cone was $4! Green tea was a standout, airy and creamy. Unfortunately, they were out of a lot of the flavors when I went, but they have a lot of unique ones as well as classics that I’d love to come back and try.

Hard to find places like these anymore, don’t miss out!“

“Marshmallow fluff;) Loved the Milkbomb sandwich! Will definitely go again;)“

“Well dang this was an excellent find in our travels! A scoop Sticky Monkey on top of a scoop of Mocha Fudge was AMAZING! EACH WERE INDIVIDUALLY EXCELLENT AND TOGETHER THEY WERE ALSO AMAZING!

Also sampled the avocado ice cream. Don't sleep on that. That's pretty dang good.

My only regret is that we couldn't take any with us. They definitely have A ton that you can purchase to bring home for your own freezer!“

“fabulous! please open another in the San Jose area. great service..the way they encourage you to taste while waiting in line...loved the various, different flavors“

“I love Lana's! It's my favorite ice cream shop - so much so I went there for my birthday. The staff are super friendly and the flavors are superb. Banana Oreo and Lilikoi (passion fruit) are definitely my favorite. Shout out to the crew today for keeping my pint cold as I ate my waffle cone outside :)“

“Delicious Filipino Ice Cream shop that’s tucked away across from Blue Mermaid. The cutest and sweetest owners and delicious ice cream at such a low price. This is a local shop I would recommend and support. Definitely coming back here when visiting SF in the future.“

“We ordered Hot Brownie Fudge Sundae which was utterly delicious. The Hot Cocoa classic was good as well. The place was packed, so we waited for them to clear a table for two. You place your buzzer in the middle of your table, and someone brings your order.

Be warned that the prices are really high - nearly $19 for one sundae! This is a major tourist trap, in California, and you are paying for, well, the experience.“

“just the best gelato cake this side of Italy. great crew, great owners. their kids are awesome!“

“Finally tried this new spot on MLK Jr Way. The Thai Tea Brown Sugar Mochi was legit, and somehow the Cheddar Cheese Walnut Pralines actually worked. Owners know what they're doing - creative flavors that don't feel gimmicky. Berkeley needed this.“

“There isn't a bad item you could order at Curbside. The fresh waffle cones really take me for a spin, they alone can be eaten and loved without anything extra! But fortunate for us, we also get tasty, rotating soft serve flavors to fill them with. Also, the variety of vegan ice creams is excellent for my wife. The ice cream sandwiches are awesome. Just such a great little walk up ice cream spot, a necessity when in the neighborhood for dinner.“

“I recently visited Juice Breeze in El Sobrante, California and it’s easily one of the best spots in the Bay Area for fresh smoothies, açai bowls, and unique desserts. From the moment you walk in, the place feels inviting, clean, and full of options that are both refreshing and delicious.

We started with their lemon mint smoothie, which was light, fresh, and perfect for the California weather. The flavors were balanced and it really hit the spot. Next, we tried the mini pancakes with toppings like Biscoff, Nutella, and pistachio—absolutely amazing. Soft, fluffy, and loaded with flavor, they’re the kind of treat you’ll want to come back for again and again.

The highlight for me was the viral Dubai chocolate crepe rolls. They were beautifully layered, rich in flavor, and had that perfect texture that makes them stand out from anything else in the area. Definitely a dessert worth traveling for!

If you’re into something fruity and filling, their açai bowls are a must-try. They’re fresh, customizable, and work perfectly as a breakfast, snack, or even a light dinner option.

Overall, Juice Breeze offers a great mix of smoothies, desserts, and quick bites that make it a true hidden gem in El Sobrante. Whether you’re searching for a juice bar, dessert spot, or smoothie place near El Sobrante, this is the place to go. Highly recommend and can’t wait to come back!“

“The most delicious, fresh, and hand-crafted gelato I’ve ever tasted. You must try! Thank you Philmore!!! Can’t wait to come again!“

“Our first visit but absolutely not our last! What delicious flavors! Everyone loved their desserts, the toppings are incredible (vegan hot fudge, vegan caramel, toasted almonds,) and we all left full and happy! Definitely stop in when you’re in the neighborhood!“

“delicious ice cream and everything“

“Yummm. Try the sf cheesecake and the bubbly Texan“

“Da Giuseppe Nardoni: fantastici cannoli cosi in Californiana non li mangi, con ricotta fresca siciliana“

“Best hot chocolate ever. Definitely trying the Gelato next!“

“Happiness in a cup. And a cone 😁“

“I never review anything , I have come to this place multiple times a week for weeks now .. I love their wings and seasoned fries . As a wing lover they are a step above wingstop Buffalo Wild Wings or any wing I have had. I appreciate the great customer service the food is soooooooooooo GOOD puts me in a good mood everytime I eat there.“

“Unique and exquisite homemade ice cream, original, tasty and so much more!😍 Don't hesitate to visit their cute shop and try them all!“

“The best gelato I’ve found with many unique and delicious flavors using fresh fruits and ingredients on a daily basis. I come in every time I am in Berkeley, because it’s head and shoulders above the gelato in the Sacramento area!“

“I really enjoyed grabbing some ice cream here at Bad Walter's. I believe there is a rotating selection of flavors and the time I went, want too blown away by the options but I did walk away getting great service and a generous helping. I am eager to come back and give it another try. Great how convenient it is to Rockridge station!“

“Our first visit but absolutely not our last! What delicious flavors! Everyone loved their desserts, the toppings are incredible (vegan hot fudge, vegan caramel, toasted almonds,) and we all left full and happy! Definitely stop in when you’re in the neighborhood!“

“Not too sweet and great place to hang out!!!“

“Loved the crepes and service!

Crepes were soft and fluffy. We got #28 which had coffee icecream and pudding. Was a unique combo but both flavors paired well together.

The bear face was adorable (⁠◍⁠•⁠ᴗ⁠•⁠◍⁠) ʕ⁠´⁠•⁠ᴥ⁠•⁠`⁠ʔ“

“love it for a afternoon treat w the kiddos“

“This place was recommended to me by my sister, who loves Boba. Wow! Just WOW! It is my first time getting Boba here, and I like it compared to others. Their Boba is cook to perfection 👌.

I got strawberry macha with Boba, and it's absolutely the best strawberry macha out these. SO YUMMY. You can taste the freshness. Thank you.

This is one of those small businesses that we need to support.

Thanks 😊 for serving goodness 😍“

“Vegan (& Gluten-free) flavors! I loved the pluot, the dark chocolate, and the walnut (that has no pieces of nuts in it, which is really helpful to those like me who can’t have much fiber). Additionally, I found all three flavors more refreshing than (sickeningly) heavy, and the flavors 🤩 🎇—like the grand finale of a fireworks show for the taste buds. I’ve only had about a spoonful of each so far but am in love 😍🤤😋. I didn’t go to the shop, someone brought me some, so I’m not able to give my opinion on the actual shop. From what I heard, though, it wasn’t as crazy as many ice cream places are on hot weekends! 😊“

“Found this place walking by and was not disappointed!!! Good fresh cookies. The ice cream was delicious. I see some people complaining that the sandwiches aren't huge, but they're a good size and delicious. Super long line because one poor girl working by herself but she did amazing. Definitely a good dessert“

“"a mini is small, a small is large, and a large is gigantic"“

“Their service and their soft serve is amazing! I always stop by their store when I'm in the area! 😀“

“Wow, It’s been 20 years, since I stepped foot on to Fosters Freeze. This well respected fine dine in establishment, aged well like fine wine. Service is rapidly/ friendly. Food portions is enormous and prices are very reasonable. Any residents that live in West Contra Costa County towns. Come by and give this place a shot.“

“Lovely place and really friendly staff!“

“Amazing place! The speciality bowls and shoes are fabulous. Tasty and generous portions. The staff is really friendly and seems to be having fun. We went on a Wednesday night and the manager helped us with our order-really helpful and friendly!“

“I used to get Yomie’s in SoCal, and it was a yummy alternative to boba when I wanted something different. The yogurt smoothies at the North Beach location taste pretty similar but seem to be blended a little thicker. I got the passion fruit smoothie with less sugar and purple rice as a topping, and it was very filling. Definitely recommend as a drinkable snack.“

“One of the last gems of San Francisco, a treasure to be remember as the times change and people become more picky. Those who don't know this history should know that Gelato Classico was a chain that has been around since the 80s slowly dissolving until this was the last location left in downtown. I hope people start to appreciate the history of this great city as it is slowly eroded away by time and gentrification. Some of the best gelato you can get in America hands down. Please go and support this business and Trader Vics/Cordon Blue if you are a local or a tourist! Keep the memories alive, you wont regret it!“

“Good place nice people there“

“Damn, this is my favorite ice cream place of all time. The staff are always super friendly (who wouldn’t be when you’re surrounded by such delicious ice cream all day) and their flavors are amazing. They do this thing where they combine milky custardy ice cream with sorbet like fruity flavors like this vanilla custard and strawberry lemon ice I had tonight and it’s pure magic. They also always non dairy flavors so my girl can have some too.

Thanks guys, you rock.“