Before the recent explosion of artisanal and liquid nitrogen ice cream shops, there was Swensens. Swensen’s has been delighting people all over the world with their housemade ice cream since 1948.  Earle Swensen opened his store at the corner of Hyde and Union Streets in San Francisco, where it still stands today.

The ice cream served at the store is made on the premises. You can actually watch them working on batches of ice cream in the front of the store.

With over 30 different flavors on offer at any single time, choosing one for your single scoop can be a challenge.

No crazy flavors here – just the classics done right.

Unfortunately, there’s no seating area inside the store, leaving one to wander the neighborhood while eating. Swensen’s is on the cable car route, and if you walk up the street, you’ll find a large group of tourists at top of famous twisty Lombard Street. Directly across the street is Alice Marble Tennis Courts, which has a spectacular view of the city – a great place to enjoy your ice cream and one of the best views in San Francisco.

Location – 1999 Hyde St. San Francisco, 94109. Additional US locations in Texas and Florida, with international stores in Canada, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Website – http://www.swensens.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Pesco-Vegetarian Friendly – Yes
Vegetarian Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – Yes