Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

San Francisco

Smitten Ice Cream is celebrated for its innovative, made-to-order ice cream crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Customers appreciate the unique flavors, creamy textures, and the engaging experience of watching ice cream being freshly churned using liquid nitrogen. The shop's commitment to quality and community is evident in its offerings and customer interactions.

Discover Smitten Ice Cream in Dolores Heights San Francisco California USA on Valencia St 904 at 94110 for unique liquid nitrogen ice cream made-to-order with seasonal flavors and friendly service perfect for locals and visitors alike.

Nestled in the vibrant Dolores Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Smitten Ice Cream offers a refreshing twist on frozen desserts with its innovative liquid nitrogen technique. This hip ice cream shop on Valencia Street crafts each scoop fresh to order, resulting in an incredibly smooth, creamy, and delightfully fluffy texture that ice cream lovers rave about. Whether you're a local or a trend-conscious traveler seeking the best ice cream experience in San Francisco, Smitten is a must-visit spot that blends inventive flavors with a welcoming atmosphere.

unique flavors and made-to-order freshness

Smitten Ice Cream's menu features a rotating selection of seasonal flavors crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their patented Brrr machine uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the ice cream in 90 seconds, ensuring each serving is ultra-fresh and rich. Indulge in fan favorites like brookies & cream or cookie dough with pretzels and chocolate chips, all served in house-made waffle cones that fill the air with a tempting aroma. The creamy texture and unique flavors keep customers coming back to this Mission District gem.

a cozy spot with indoor and outdoor seating

The storefront may be modest, but Smitten Ice Cream offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a charming parklet where you can savor your sweet treat while soaking in the lively San Francisco neighborhood vibe. The friendly staff create a pleasant environment whether you're stopping by for a quick cone or a relaxed afternoon dessert. Plus, the shop is wheelchair accessible and accepts multiple payment methods including credit cards and mobile payments, making it convenient for all visitors.

community favorites and customer experiences

What are the operating hours of Smitten Ice Cream?

 Smitten Ice Cream operates from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM on weekdays, and from 1:00 PM to 10:30 PM on weekends.

 Yes, Smitten Ice Cream offers vegan fudge pops made with coconut milk.

 Yes, there is outdoor seating available, including a parklet where customers can enjoy their ice cream.

 Yes, Smitten Ice Cream accepts credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments.

 Yes, the store is wheelchair accessible.

why locals and visitors love smitten ice cream

 highlights Smitten Ice Cream as a standout San Francisco gem thanks to its unique made-to-order process, friendly staff, and deliciously creamy seasonal flavors. Patrons appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the quality that comes from crafting each scoop fresh using liquid nitrogen technology. Whether you're craving a classic flavor or adventurous new taste, Smitten offers a memorable ice cream experience that keeps customers coming back again and again.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Dolores Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Smitten Ice Cream is not just a dessert shop; it's an experience that tantalizes the senses. This charming spot is renowned for its **made-to-order ice cream**, crafted with seasonal ingredients and a touch of culinary magic. The moment you step inside, the delightful aroma of freshly made waffle cones envelops you, promising a treat that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

At Smitten, ice cream is not just a dessert; it's a canvas for creativity. The **brookies 'n cream** flavor is a must-try, featuring a luscious blend of brownies and cookies folded into a creamy base, delivering a delightful chocolatey experience. For something unique, the **cookie dough with pretzels and chocolate chips** offers a malted brown sugar base that perfectly complements the sweet and salty mix-ins, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.

One of the standout features of Smitten Ice Cream is its **patented Brrr machine**, which uses liquid nitrogen to create ice cream in just 90 seconds. This innovative process not only ensures freshness but also results in a creamy, rich texture that is hard to resist. The flavors rotate seasonally, so there's always something new to explore, making each visit a delightful surprise.

Conveniently located at 904 Valencia St, Smitten Ice Cream is surrounded by the eclectic charm of San Francisco's Mission District. After indulging in your ice cream, take a stroll through the nearby Dolores Park, a popular spot for picnics and people-watching, or explore the vibrant murals that adorn the streets of the Mission.

Smitten is known for its made-to-order ice cream, created using liquid nitrogen for a fresh and creamy texture.

Visiting Smitten is a unique experience where you can enjoy ice cream made right before your eyes, with flavors that change seasonally.

Dolores Park and the vibrant murals of the Mission District are just a short walk away, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Smitten Ice Cream is a delightful stop that promises to satisfy your sweet tooth. Come experience the magic of freshly made ice cream and find your new favorite flavor today.

Hip dessert shop using seasonal ingredients in small-batch ice creams made using liquid nitrogen.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuenZfRjlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe-sRyj1-j4ARrVcZXLh0KNQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuenZfRjlBRRAB

I tried the brookies & cream flavor, which was good, but not better than other ice creams I’ve had in San Francisco. The waffle cone was solid, and the service was good, with a pleasant atmosphere. The place had quite a few customers, which caught my attention, but I wouldn’t go out of my way just to visit. Overall, it’s a decent spot if you’re nearby, but not my top choice for ice cream in the city.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyanNHR2J3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe-sRyj1-j4ARrVcZXLh0KNQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyanNHR2J3EAE

It's such a cute little place and came highly recommended by the locals, so of course it was a must try for us. And wow, the ice cream is made in the house, and it's so creamy, it's light, and it's fluffy, as if it's been whipped. I love the flavor and the texture of their ice cream, and they offer lots of different varieties of flavors. Make sure to try this out when you're in San Francisco.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2cU5XTzdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe-sRyj1-j4ARrVcZXLh0KNQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2cU5XTzdnRRAB

Super unique ice cream made right in front of you with liquid nitrogen. It’s so fresh and delicious, and the flavors are amazing. Definitely worth a visit!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYcVBpTU5REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe-sRyj1-j4ARrVcZXLh0KNQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYcVBpTU5REAE

Smitten Ice Cream is located in San Francisco's Mission District and born from a desire to provide ice cream afficionados with fresh made-to-order ice cream. This mission then led to the construction of the patented Brrr machine, which utilizes liquid nitrogen to create smooth, rich, and delicious ice cream in 90 second flat (spoiler alert: that means you never have to wait long for your sweet treat). The storefront is on the modest side; however, it does boast both indoor and outdoor seating if you wanted to enjoy your ice cream in the area. Their flavors rotate seasonally, which means there's always going to be something new for you to try!

We arrived at Smitten Ice Cream on Thursday evening looking for a post-dinner treat. There's wasn't a line at this hour, so we were able to walk up and place our orders easily without much wait. After a few moments of deliberation, we decided to get small scoops of both the brookies 'n cream and cookie dough with pretzels and chocolate chip flavors (the later of two in a waffle bowl). True to their promise, the ice cream was freshly prepared and ready in almost no-time.

Both flavors were creamy, smooth, and absolutely delicious. The brookies 'n cream provided a smooth yet subtle chocolate flavor thanks to the brownies and cookies folded into the ice cream base. On the other hand, the cookie dough with pretzels and chocolate chips featured a malted brown sugar base with the aforementioned delicious mix-ins.

If you're an ice cream fiend looking for some scrumptious made-to-order ice cream, then you should definitely add Smitten Ice Cream to your rotation!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyaUtPQVpBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe-sRyj1-j4ARrVcZXLh0KNQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyaUtPQVpBEAE

Such a cute little ice cream shop with kind service! I came in here feeling ill because of the weather outside, and came into Smittens to sit down and order ice cream. It was the perfect fix, and so yummy! I like the very original flavors and you will smell them making the waffle cones a mile away! A great stop to make while in the area.

Smitten Ice Cream: Unique Liquid Nitrogen Treats in Dolores Heights, SF

Smitten Ice Cream, founded in 2009, is renowned for its innovative approach to ice cream, utilizing liquid nitrogen to create made-to-order scoops. The Valencia Street location in San Francisco has been a popular spot for ice cream enthusiasts seeking fresh, handcrafted flavors.

Smitten Ice Cream history and legacy in San Francisco's Mission District.

Founded with a passion for artisanal ice cream, Smitten Ice Cream began its journey in 2009 when Robyn Sue Fisher started selling freshly made ice cream from a cart in San Francisco's vibrant Mission District. This neighborhood, known for its eclectic culture and culinary innovation, proved to be the perfect incubator for a brand that would soon revolutionize ice cream experiences across the city.

In 2011, Smitten Ice Cream marked a milestone by opening its first brick-and-mortar shop in the trendy Hayes Valley neighborhood, expanding from a mobile operation to a permanent destination for ice cream lovers. The subsequent years saw further growth with a new location in the Marina district by 2013, cementing its presence in key San Francisco neighborhoods.

A defining feature that sets Smitten apart is its pioneering use of liquid nitrogen in the ice cream making process, introduced in 2015. This patented technique enables the creation of exceptionally smooth and creamy ice cream in just 90 seconds, transforming the dessert experience by producing fresh, made-to-order scoops with a distinctive fluffy texture that delights customers.

Smitten Ice Cream's Valencia Street location, nestled in the Dolores Heights neighborhood of the Mission District, faced a temporary closure in 2023 due to vandalism. Despite this setback, the brand's strong community roots and loyal following have supported its ongoing success and vibrant presence in San Francisco's diverse food scene.

 – Robyn Sue Fisher launched Smitten Ice Cream from a mobile cart in San Francisco’s Mission District.

 – Brick-and-mortar shop launched in Hayes Valley, marking the brand’s first permanent location.

 – Opened new location in the Marina district to reach more ice cream enthusiasts.

 – Introduced the patented liquid nitrogen process, crafting smoother and creamier ice cream in just 90 seconds.

 – Valencia Street location was temporarily closed due to vandalism but continues to thrive as a beloved neighborhood fixture.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

In the vibrant heart of Dolores Heights, at 904 Valencia Street, lies a gem that all true dessert aficionados must experience: Smitten Ice Cream. This isn’t merely a place to grab a scoop; it’s a whimsical adventure in flavor where the craft of ice cream-making meets the contemporary flair of San Francisco. Step inside and be greeted by the melodious whir of the batch freezer churning out creamy creations that are made right before your eyes. Each flavor is a testament to artisanal excellence, utilizing only the freshest ingredients sourced from local farms, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor and perfection. Signature offerings, such as the ethereal Honey Lavender or the rich, chocolatey Malted Milk, tantalize the taste buds and spark the imagination. Smitten's charming atmosphere, with its rustic decor and inviting outdoor seating, makes it an ideal spot to savor your frozen treat while soaking in the artistic vibe of the neighborhood. The friendly staff, passionate about their craft, don’t just serve ice cream; they create moments, sharing stories behind each flavor as if they were narrating tales from a beloved book. Surrounded by the colorful murals and eclectic cafés of one of San Francisco’s most lively streets, a visit to Smitten Ice Cream offers a sweet reprieve from the bustling city. Whether you’re cooling off on a sunny day or seeking comfort during the foggy evenings, this delightful establishment promises to indulge your senses and leave you craving for more. Plan your culinary pilgrimage to Smitten and taste the magic that has charmed locals and visitors alike.

Smitten Ice Cream

Smitten Ice Cream is a hip dessert shop located in Dolores Heights, San Francisco, specializing in small-batch ice creams made with seasonal ingredients and liquid nitrogen. Each flavor is crafted with artisanal excellence, ensuring a delightful experience for dessert lovers.

Explore our handcrafted ice cream flavors made with the freshest ingredients, including seasonal specials and classic favorites.

Blackberriezzz

Blood Orange Pomegranate

Brookies 'N Cream

Chocolate Ganache

Classic Vanilla

Cookie Dough with Pretzels & Chocolate Chips

Salted Caramel

Tropical Mango

Vegan Fudge Pop

Smitten Ice Cream Menu

Smitten Ice Cream menu overview in San Francisco, CA, United States.

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Dolores Heights neighborhood, Smitten Ice Cream offers an exceptional handcrafted ice cream experience that delights the senses. Using their innovative patented Brrr machine, this unique dessert shop crafts ice cream fresh to order with liquid nitrogen, resulting in a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture. Their ever-rotating seasonal flavors ensure that every visit brings a new treat to discover, perfect for foodies and trend-conscious travelers seeking an authentic San Francisco dessert adventure.

Each scoop is a masterpiece, blending premium ingredients into captivating flavors that showcase Smitten's inventive approach to ice cream.

 – A luscious chocolate ice cream base folded with indulgent brownie and cookie dough pieces, delivering a smooth yet rich taste sensation.

 – Decadent chocolate ice cream swirled with rich, velvety chocolate ganache for the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream.

 – Classic vanilla ice cream elevated with a fresh, tangy strawberry sauce for a timeless sweet treat.

Cookie Dough with Pretzels and Chocolate Chips

 – Malted brown sugar cookie dough ice cream dotted with crunchy pretzel pieces and chocolate chips for a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

 – A singular focus on the natural sweetness of roasted bananas transformed into a creamy ice cream sensation.

 – Aromatic Earl Grey tea ice cream infused with crisp chocolate chips, a sophisticated flavor pairing.

 – Refreshing mango ice cream blended with rich cream to create a tropical delight bursting with flavor.

 – Comforting apple pie ice cream enhanced with a blend of warming spices to evoke that homemade pie feeling.

Smitten Ice Cream’s signature technique involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze each order in about 90 seconds, ensuring your ice cream is always freshly made with an irresistibly fluffy and creamy texture. Their small-batch production focuses on quality ingredients and innovative combinations, making it a must-visit spot for anyone craving a fresh, artisanal ice cream experience in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District. The welcoming atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating invites guests to savor their treat leisurely.

While Smitten Ice Cream specializes in their exquisite handcrafted ice cream, the focus remains on the creamy creations themselves, making each scoop a perfect standalone indulgence. The freshly made waffle cones, baked on site, add that extra layer of warmth and crunch, enhancing the overall dessert experience with their tempting aroma and crisp texture.

Indulge in handcrafted ice cream at Smitten Ice Cream in Dolores Heights, San Francisco. Treat your taste buds—visit us today!

Smitten Ice Cream: Indulge in SF's Best Treats

San Francisco County

Six pints of our fresh-churned flavors, perfect for parties or stocking your freezer.

Pint Bundles

An ice cream kit including three pints plus one topping of your choice in our signature insulated tote.

Totable Gift

Enjoy double the cookie with our Brookies 'N Cream and Cookie Dough with Pretzels & Chocolate Chips pints.

Doughy Delights

Discover Smitten Ice Cream in San Francisco's Dolores Heights Neighborhood 

Nestled on Valencia Street in the vibrant Mission District, Smitten Ice Cream is a must-visit for any ice cream lover exploring San Francisco. This hip dessert shop has gained a stellar reputation for its innovative approach to ice cream making, using liquid nitrogen to churn fresh, made-to-order scoops with an irresistibly smooth and creamy texture. The patented Brrr machine whips up your frozen treat in just 90 seconds, meaning you enjoy maximum freshness with minimal wait time.

Smitten offers an ever-rotating menu of seasonal flavors crafted from the freshest ingredients, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to try during every visit. Whether it's the indulgent brookies 'n cream, cookie dough with pretzels and chocolate chips, or a unique special concoction, each scoop delivers bold, nuanced flavors balanced with delightful creaminess that feels light and fluffy.

 are also available, freshly crafted on-site to perfectly complement your ice cream choice. The inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a sweet treat after exploring San Francisco’s eclectic neighborhood.

 Freshly churned using liquid nitrogen for unparalleled creaminess. Priced at $6.50 per scoop.

 A rotating selection that keeps your taste buds intrigued and delighted. Also $6.50 per scoop.

 Freshly baked cones available for $2.00 to perfectly complement your ice cream.

Smitten Ice Cream is ideal for those who appreciate artisanal desserts and a relaxed neighborhood vibe. Visitors can dine in with outdoor seating options available or grab their favorite scoop to-go. The shop accepts multiple payment options including credit, debit, and NFC payments, and while parking is mostly paid street parking, the accessibility and convenient location in Dolores Heights make it easy to reach.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler exploring San Francisco, don’t miss out on this innovative ice cream experience that perfectly blends technology, creativity, and classic indulgence.

Why Smitten Ice Cream Shines in San Francisco’s Food Scene

Smitten’s unique liquid nitrogen technique offers a fresh take on ice cream — literally created right before your eyes, guaranteeing a creamy texture unmatched by conventional methods. This commitment to freshness, along with a dynamic menu that evolves with the seasons, positions Smitten as a beloved spot for dessert enthusiasts seeking quality and novelty alike. The charming and friendly atmosphere further elevates the experience, making every visit feel special and indulgent.

Innovative liquid nitrogen preparation method

 creates a fresh, creamy texture in every scoop.

 guarantee something exciting and new for repeat visitors.

 baked fresh on-site pair perfectly with your scoop.

A welcoming spot with indoor and outdoor seating

 perfect for savoring your ice cream in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District.

Discover Smitten Ice Cream in San Francisco's Mission District 

Nestled at 904 Valencia Street, Smitten Ice Cream offers a refreshing twist on the classic dessert experience. This hip and innovative spot is renowned for its unique made-to-order ice cream, crafted right before your eyes using liquid nitrogen, delivering a smooth, creamy treat in just 90 seconds. The technique not only guarantees freshness but also creates a light and fluffy texture that stands out among San Francisco ice cream shops.

Exceptional flavors and friendly atmosphere

Smitten Ice Cream delights visitors with a rotating selection of seasonal flavors, ensuring there's always something new to try. The ice cream is complemented by handmade waffle cones, which fill the air with an irresistible aroma, adding a charming sensory layer to your visit. Customers often praise the friendly and helpful staff who create a welcoming environment, making your dessert indulgence even more enjoyable. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot indoors or prefer to savor your treat outside, the shop offers both seating options along with wheelchair accessibility.

While Smitten Ice Cream offers a distinct and memorable dessert experience, there are a few aspects to keep in mind. Prices tend to be higher than those at traditional ice cream parlors, reflecting the artisanal process and quality ingredients used. The indoor seating is somewhat limited, which might challenge those visiting during busy hours. Additionally, the store experienced a temporary closure in October 2023 due to vandalism, though it has since reopened to welcome guests again.

Why add Smitten Ice Cream to your San Francisco itinerary

 using liquid nitrogen for ultimate freshness and texture.

 keeps the menu exciting and fresh throughout the year.

 add an aromatic and crunchy complement to your ice cream.

 perfect for enjoying San Francisco's vibrant Mission District.

 who make every visit welcoming and enjoyable.

California

Experience handcrafted, liquid nitrogen ice cream at Smitten in Dolores Heights, San Francisco. Enjoy unique flavors, vegan options, and more!

Smitten Ice Cream - San Francisco's Valencia Street Delight

Discover Smitten in Dolores Heights for fresh, made-to-order ice cream with seasonal, classic, and vegan flavors. Perfect for dessert lovers in San Francisco!

Experience Smitten Ice Cream in SF - Made-to-Order Flavors

Learn about Smitten Ice Cream's innovative liquid nitrogen process, community spirit, and its rich history in San Francisco's Dolores Heights neighborhood.

Tartine Bakery

Gabriella's Pizza

El Coreano Korean Mexican Food