8 Tasty Ice Cream Shops in Sonoma County, CA
Last updated in October 2024
Sonoma County isn’t just about stunning views and vineyards; it’s also a slice of heaven for ice cream lovers! With a delightful mix of cozy parlors and gourmet shops, you’ll find everything from artisanal flavors crafted with local ingredients to fun vegan options that make everyone feel included. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant town square of Sebastopol or wandering through charming Santa Rosa, there’s an ice cream shop waiting to satisfy your sweet tooth after a day of adventure. Take Screamin' Mimi's, for instance—it’s a community favorite with a laid-back vibe and delicious homemade ice cream. Or head over to Frozen Art Gourmet in Santa Rosa, where the 45 flavors include some truly unique offerings! And if you’re near Healdsburg, don’t miss Susy’s Ice Cream for that cozy feel and friendly service. There’s a lot to discover—let's dive into the top spots to cool off and enjoy some truly delightful scoops!
Angela's Organic Ice Cream
Angela's Organic Ice Cream is a charming ice cream shop located in downtown Petaluma, CA, where you'll find a delightful selection of super-premium and organic ice cream. With a focus on offering vegan and gluten-free options alongside traditional flavors, this shop has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. The friendly staff creates a welcoming environment that invites you to explore an impressive array of flavors, some of which change seasonally, ensuring that there's often something new to try.
What People Love
Amazing variety of flavors, including unique and seasonal options.
Strong focus on organic and vegan ice creams with multiple dietary choices.
Friendly and helpful staff who create a welcoming atmosphere.
Deliciously creamy textures and rich flavors that leave you wanting more.
Great spot for families with a cozy interior and outdoor seating options.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers express frustration over high prices and small scoop sizes.
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Occasional long wait times and limited flavor availability during busy hours.
You Have to Try
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Caramel Crack, known for its delightful combination of flavors.
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Grasshopper, a minty treat with Oreo crumbles that’s a crowd favorite.
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Lavender ice cream, unique and aromatic, a must-try for adventurous eaters.
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House of Orange, combining refreshing citrus with a sweet finish.
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French Custard, which delivers a rich, creamy experience that fans rave about.
Darling, an Ice Cream Shop
Darling, an Ice Cream Shop in Sonoma, is your go-to spot for handcrafted ice cream made with fresh, local ingredients. With a monthly menu of 16 flavors that includes options for everyone from vegans to traditionalists, there’s always something new to try. Its charming vibe and cozy seating options make it a perfect pit stop, away from the hustle and bustle of the plaza. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cone or a decadent ice cream cake, this shop has got you covered!
What People Love
Charming atmosphere with a cute aesthetic.
Delicious, creamy flavors made from fresh local ingredients.
Friendly staff who provide excellent service.
Affordable pricing and generous portion sizes.
Unique flavors including seasonal options and a vegan choice.
What People Don't Like
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Nothing!
You Have to Try
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Butter Brickle ice cream, a rare treat that's creamy and delightful.
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Grand Marnier flavor, highly recommended for its distinctive taste.
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Seasonal flavors like Watmaugh Strawberries, which are interesting and tasty.
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Ice cream cakes, celebrated for their deliciousness.
Dave's Gourmet Ice Cream
Dave's Gourmet Ice Cream is all about delivering a delightful ice cream experience right here in Santa Rosa. Using liquid nitrogen to craft their small batches, this local gem stands out with its commitment to natural ingredients and unique flavors. Whether you're a fan of classic picks like vanilla or adventurous choices like oatmeal cookie and honeycomb, you're sure to find something that tickles your fancy! Plus, there’s a nice outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying your treat while soaking up the sun.
What People Love
Unique and delicious flavors made with natural ingredients.
Friendly and helpful staff that create a welcoming vibe.
Creamy texture and richness of the homemade ice cream.
Generous portion sizes that satisfy ice cream cravings.
Locally owned and operated, contributing to the community.
What People Don't Like
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Some flavors aren't always available or are hard to find.
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A few customers noted that the staff could improve in friendliness.
You Have to Try
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Oatmeal cookie ice cream, which has garnered rave reviews for its flavor.
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Coconut caramel is surprisingly balanced and a must-try.
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The caramel latte ice cream is loved by many for its rich taste.
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Triple chocolate, known for being a favorite among families.
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Cinnamon ice cream, a rare find and beloved flavor.
Frozen Art Gourmet Ice Cream
Frozen Art Gourmet Ice Cream is a hidden gem in Santa Rosa, CA, revered for its artisanal ice cream and paletas. The shop boasts a whopping collection of over 45 ice cream flavors, featuring unique choices that can't be found anywhere else, like corn and rose petal. Made with high-quality ingredients, each flavor is a testament to the owner's four decades of experience and family tradition in ice cream making. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere add to the delightful experience, ensuring that every visit is a sweet escape.
What People Love
Over 45 unique and delicious ice cream flavors available, including exotic options like corn and rose petal.
Creamy texture and great taste that keeps people coming back for more, with many flavor combinations to enjoy.
Welcoming and friendly staff who provide excellent customer service, making every visit enjoyable.
A fantastic selection of paletas (frozen pops) perfect for a cool treat on a hot day.
A community favorite known for its hard-to-find flavors and high quality ingredients, attracting both locals and visitors.
What People Don't Like
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Some ice cream flavors have been mentioned as not being as creamy as expected.
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Parking can be a bit tricky, which might deter some visitors.
You Have to Try
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Corn ice cream – yes, you read that right! It's surprisingly delicious and tastes like sweet buttered corn!
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The mango chamoy paleta is a sensation, perfect for those who love a mixture of sweet and tangy flavors.
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Rose petal ice cream and honey lavender combinations are highly recommended for those looking for something unique.
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Maple bacon ice cream combines sweet and savory for a truly eclectic dessert experience.
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Blackberry paleta dipped in chocolate is a must-try treat, combining juicy berries with a rich chocolatey finish.
Los Munchies
Los Munchies is a charming spot in Rohnert Park where you can indulge in authentic Mexican specialties. From vibrant paletas to delicious esquite, there's no shortage of delightful treats to discover. With friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to grab a quick snack or enjoy some delightful ice cream after a long day. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, Los Munchies has got you covered!
What People Love
Friendly and welcoming staff who provide amazing customer service.
A wide variety of delicious Mexican snacks and treats like paletas and fresas con crema.
A clean and neat atmosphere that's perfect for a casual visit.
Great tasting frozen treats and drinks that keep customers coming back for more.
Affordable prices for high-quality snacks.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers feel the selection may not appeal to everyone.
You Have to Try
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Fresas con crema: This delightful strawberry treat with cream is a hit and leaves many wanting more!
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Paletas: These frozen treats come in various flavors, perfect for cooling off on a sunny day.
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Elote: A favorite for its delicious seasoning and flavor, it's a must for corn lovers.
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Mangonada: A mango treat that’s bursting with flavor, this one’s an absolute crowd-pleaser!
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Jaimaica agua fresca: Refreshing and nicely flavored, it’s the perfect drink to accompany any snack.
Screamin' Mimi's
Screamin' Mimi's, located in the heart of Sebastopol, is a beloved ice cream shop known for crafting homemade ice cream and sorbet using quality, locally sourced ingredients. With a reputation that's been recognized nationally, this spot is not just a place to grab a treat; it's a community favorite. The shop boasts a fun, artsy vibe perfect for families, and they've got something for everyone, including vegan and gluten-free options. It's conveniently located near the town square, making it a great stop after exploring Sebastopol!
What People Love
Delicious, homemade ice cream made with local ingredients.
A wide variety of creative flavors, including unique seasonal options.
Friendly and attentive staff that provide great service.
Fun, quirky atmosphere that's perfect for families.
Vegan and gluten-free options available for those with dietary restrictions.
What People Don't Like
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The physical space can feel cramped and crowded, especially during peak hours.
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Some find the process of ordering and picking up ice cream outside a bit chaotic.
You Have to Try
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Mimis Mud – a chocolate lover's dream with a rich, chunky texture.
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The Bees Knees – a floral lavender and honey comb ice cream.
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Raspberry Mud – a favorite among regulars for its fresh flavor.
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Affogato for a delightful coffee and ice cream combination.
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Seasonal sorbets like blackberry and unique flavors like olive oil.
Susy's Ice Cream
Susy's Ice Cream is a delightful dessert shop located in the heart of Healdsburg, CA. Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, this ice cream spot has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a fantastic array of ice cream flavors, including unique Latin-inspired options, this family-owned gem is all about freshness and quality. Whether you're in the mood for a creamy scoop or a refreshing treat, Susy's has something for everyone.
What People Love
Warm and welcoming service from the staff, especially Susy herself.
A great variety of delicious ice cream flavors, with a strong emphasis on Latin-inspired options.
The shop is kept clean and cheerful, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy a treat.
The homemade nature of the ice creams and other treats, showcasing quality ingredients.
The friendly atmosphere where you can feel like part of the family.
What People Don't Like
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Some folks found it a little challenging to locate the shop since it's set back in a strip mall.
You Have to Try
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The horchata ice cream, which combines that classic flavor with smooth creaminess.
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Bionicos and raspados, offering a unique spin on traditional ice cream treats.
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The irresistible cookies and cream flavor that's been getting rave reviews.
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Their refreshing mangonada, a must-have for those hot Healdsburg days!
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Mint chip milkshakes that have won over even the pickiest of milkshake lovers.
Sweet Scoops Homemade Ice Cream
Sweet Scoops Homemade Ice Cream is a beloved local gem in the heart of Sonoma, known for its handcrafted ice cream made from fresh, local ingredients. This charming shop offers a delightful array of unique and classic flavors that cater to a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. With friendly staff and a lovely outdoor seating area on the plaza, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a sweet treat while soaking in the lovely Sonoma vibes.
What People Love
Unique and creative flavors that change often.
Super creamy and delicious ice cream, made with local ingredients.
Great for dietary restrictions, with gluten-free and vegan options.
Friendly and efficient staff, even during busy times.
Charming location near Sonoma Plaza, perfect for a stroll.
What People Don't Like
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Some claim it's a bit pricey compared to typical ice cream shops.
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Occasional reports of not-so-friendly service.
You Have to Try
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Butter Brickle flavor, a crowd favorite that's always highly recommended.
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Lavender Honey for a unique taste experience.
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The homemade waffle cones, which add a special touch to any scoop.
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Vegan options that change regularly, including the Chocolate and Lavender Fig.
