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.
Do they offer vegan options? Yes, Smitten Ice Cream offers vegan fudge pops made with coconut milk.
Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, there is outdoor seating available, including a parklet where customers can enjoy their ice cream.
Do they accept credit cards? Yes, Smitten Ice Cream accepts credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments.
Is the store wheelchair accessible? Yes, the store is wheelchair accessible.

why locals and visitors love smitten ice cream

Positive community sentiment 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.

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.

Early growth and expansion

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.

Innovative ice cream making process

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.

Challenges and resilience

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.

2009 Founded – Robyn Sue Fisher launched Smitten Ice Cream from a mobile cart in San Francisco’s Mission District.
2011 First store opened – Brick-and-mortar shop launched in Hayes Valley, marking the brand’s first permanent location.
2013 Expansion – Opened new location in the Marina district to reach more ice cream enthusiasts.
2015 Innovation – Introduced the patented liquid nitrogen process, crafting smoother and creamier ice cream in just 90 seconds.
2023 Temporary closure – Valencia Street location was temporarily closed due to vandalism but continues to thrive as a beloved neighborhood fixture.

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.

Things to consider before visiting

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

Unique made-to-order ice cream using liquid nitrogen for ultimate freshness and texture.
Variety of seasonal flavors keeps the menu exciting and fresh throughout the year.
Handmade waffle cones add an aromatic and crunchy complement to your ice cream.
Accessible location with outdoor seating perfect for enjoying San Francisco's vibrant Mission District.
Friendly and attentive staff who make every visit welcoming and enjoyable.

Ice cream

904 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA

(415) 636-9852

Closed - Opens 1:00 PM

Monday

13:00–21:00

Tuesday

13:00–21:00

Wednesday

13:00–21:00

Thursday

13:00–21:00