In 1984, then-president Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month. Nearly 40 years on, Irvine has earned a reputation as one of America’s best spots for this sweet indulgence. The city is home to bespoke ice cream shops churning out some innovative and delectable varieties. Here are three must‑visit parlors.
Wanderlust Creamery
Walnut Village Center
Globally inspired flavors such as Ube Malted Crunch, Mango Sticky Rice and Japanese Neapolitan (made with matcha, hojicha and black-sesame ice cream) have earned Wanderlust a spot on many “best ice cream in America” lists.
Afters Ice Cream
Irvine Spectrum Center
Afters became a household name in 2018 with offerings that include a neon-green ice cream with apple-flavored pop rocks (Caramel Portal) and a jet-black ice cream with soft brownie and crunchy blue stars (Dark Matter Brownie Batter).
Saffron & Rose
Campus Plaza
Founder Ali Kashani-Rafye began making ice cream in Iran over 75 years ago, and his family continues the tradition of creating small-batch Persian ice cream. Fanciful floral offerings include Poppy Seed Slush, Pink Rose and Orange Blossom.
