When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
Why Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop in Chicago offers a vibrant and welcoming environment rooted in the rich chocolate heritage of San Francisco. Established by Domingo Ghirardelli in 1852, the brand is known for its commitment to high-quality, sustainably sourced cocoa beans, creating a rich and velvety chocolate experience. The Chicago location invites friends and families to indulge in decadent treats such as the world-famous Hot Fudge Sundae, which features handmade hot fudge crafted fresh daily. Beyond ice cream, visitors can explore a wide array of Ghirardelli's signature chocolates, including the iconic square chocolates, chocolate bars, baking essentials, and unique gift options. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, this shop is a perfect meetup spot for celebrating special moments or simply enjoying a sweet escape together. Its central location at 400 N Michigan Ave makes it easily accessible, adding to its appeal as a friendly neighborhood destination for chocolate lovers and ice cream aficionados alike.
Here's what people think of Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
As of recent, Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop holds a 4.6-star rating based on 3098 reviews.
Reviews from customers indicate a generally positive experience at Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop in Chicago, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating from over 3,000 reviews. Many reviewers praise the classic and rich flavor of the hot fudge sundaes, highlighting the quality and freshness of the handmade fudge as a standout feature. Customers also appreciate the friendly and efficient service, with some mentioning the inviting atmosphere that complements the nostalgic San Francisco heritage of the brand. In addition, guests enjoy the variety of menu options including non-dairy alternatives, shakes, hot cocoas, and coffee drinks. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional long wait times during peak hours and higher price points compared to other local dessert spots. A few customers have noted limited seating during busy periods, which can affect the overall comfort of the visit. Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of feedback remains enthusiastic, emphasizing Ghirardelli’s consistent delivery of high-quality chocolate treats and memorable dessert experiences. Overall, the reviews suggest that Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop remains a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking rich chocolate indulgences and a friendly atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Edward “3RDegree” Williams
We had just finished having Pizza and wanted Dessert, and just so happened to find Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate. What an EXPERIENCE! The shop itself is amazing and the smell of chocolate was enticing! I had the Gold Rush and my Lady had the Brownie Sundae. Both were AMAZING!! The Brownie was warm and delicious! While my Gold Rush had Caramel dripping all over the place! With so many different flavors to choose from, I can't wait to come back to San Diego and try more! 10 out of 10!!!
david cleary
Loved the ice cream Sunday and both ice cream cones/waffles. One got mint chocolate waffle and other got vanilla waffle. Both were lovely. I shared a vanilla fudge chocolate or something like that. It didn't last too long. It arrived quickly. No one in the shop but when leaving, it was busy. Staff were very nice and helpful.
Hdiididjdidjdj
World famous for a reason. The ice cream and chocolate are divine. I surprised myself by LOVING the dairy free coconut option. That said: -Ordering is very confusing. They have multiple menus, none of which are clearly posted anywhere, and are spread out all over the place. It's not clear where to go to order or pay either. You can't see the ice cream laid out before you order (like in a normal ice cream shop), and you can't sample the ice cream before you buy. -The tax policies are confusing enough that even the employees are confused about when tax is included in the price and when it is not. These should be clearly written down somewhere so you know the real price before you go to pay.
Ali Bab
I recently visited Ghirardelli in downtown San Diego, and while the experience was decent, I found it to be a bit overrated and pricey. The chocolate was definitely high quality, and the ice cream was enjoyable, but nothing that truly stood out compared to other premium ice cream shops. I also tried one of their shakes, which was just okay—nothing special. Overall, while it’s a nice spot for a treat, especially if you’re a fan of Ghirardelli chocolate, I don’t think it fully justifies the high prices. If you’re in the area and don’t mind spending a bit extra, it might be worth a visit, but there are plenty of other great ice cream options in San Diego.
Josh Baltazar
Wanted a nice treat after drinking around 5th avenue at the bars. Simple process, you go up to the registers, order what you want and then someone brings out your order. We ordered a Treasure Island Warm Brownie Sundae (Half of a Chocolate Brownie, Vanilla Ice Cream, Hot Fudge, Whipped Cream, Diced Almonds and a Cherry). Every part of this Sundae was great. The Brownie was moist, the Hot Fudge had a great consistency and the flavor was incredible. One of the best desserts and Ghirardelli's really do Sundaes well!
How to reach Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
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Why Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop with your friends? Because this iconic San Francisco destination offers a unique blend of indulgence, social atmosphere, and memorable experiences perfect for any group gathering. Known for its high-quality chocolate and decadent ice cream sundaes, Ghirardelli provides a nostalgic yet vibrant setting that invites friends and family to relax, share, and celebrate together. The combination of luscious sundaes, friendly service, and the historic charm of Ghirardelli Square creates an environment that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re catching up over a famous Earthquake Sundae—an epic eight-scoop mountain of ice cream and toppings—or sharing free chocolate samples as you explore the chocolate shop, this spot naturally fuels conversation and joy. Moreover, its location makes it an easy meetup point amid San Francisco’s buzzing tourist area, adding sightseeing options to your day. At Ghirardelli, the atmosphere is as rich as the flavors, making it a go-to destination for groups eager to create lasting memories in a sweet and inviting environment.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop during a group meetup? The primary draw is, of course, the delicious array of ice cream treats and chocolates. You and your friends can indulge in classic sundaes, milkshakes, and specialty drinks like the salted caramel hot chocolate. The shop’s wide menu ensures there’s something for everyone, accommodating different preferences and dietary needs. For larger groups, ordering a giant sundae such as the Earthquake is ideal; this sharing-style dessert brings everyone together, turning ice cream into a shared adventure. Beyond eating, the shop offers an immersive experience: visitors can explore the chocolate retail section stocked with Ghirardelli’s signature chocolate squares and other confections—perfect for gifting or taking home. Sampling chocolate at the door adds an interactive and delightful touch, engaging your group as soon as you arrive. Combined with the opportunity to browse unique shops across Ghirardelli Square, your meetup can blend culinary enjoyment with leisurely exploration, making it more than just a simple ice cream stop.
Why is Ghirardelli the perfect place for a group meetup? First, its spacious layout and casual setting accommodate groups comfortably, unlike many ice cream parlors with cramped seating. The environment blends a bustling, upbeat vibe with plenty of seating options that encourage lingering chats over dessert. Plus, Ghirardelli’s longstanding reputation and the quality of its offerings provide a dependable guarantee of satisfaction. It’s an especially great place for moments when you want something more special than a basic coffee or fast-food snack. The friendly staff, although occasionally noted as uneven by some visitors, generally add warmth to the experience, enhancing the social vibe. Additionally, its location in Ghirardelli Square places you among several other interesting shops and scenic waterfront views, allowing groups to extend their meetup with walks, shopping, or photo opportunities. Whether celebrating a birthday, planning a casual catch-up, or marking a special occasion, the shop’s blend of ambiance, treats, and setting creates an ideal backdrop for good times.
What unique ice cream experiences does Ghirardelli offer that stand out for group visitors? The Earthquake Sundae is legendary—a massive creation built to serve four or more people with an extraordinary combination of eight scoops of ice cream, multiple toppings, and fresh fruits. It transforms dessert into a communal event worthy of group selfies and shared spoons. Other sundaes such as the Golden Gate Banana Split or local-inspired flavors channel the spirit of San Francisco, adding a thematic twist that visitors appreciate. Moreover, Ghirardelli’s expertise in combining premium chocolate into their ice cream creations elevates the experience beyond standard dessert venues. Milkshakes and hot chocolates also carry that signature chocolate-rich quality. These treats can be personalized or mixed for variety among friends who want to sample different delicacies. This variety ensures that no single person feels left out and invites conversation around the different flavors and toppings, making your meetup interactive and fun.
How does the location of Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop enhance your group's meetup experience? Situated in the historic Ghirardelli Square near popular destinations such as Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, it is at the heart of San Francisco’s bustling tourist corridor. This convenient location means that meeting up here can be part of a larger day of sightseeing or relaxing strolls along the waterfront. It’s easy to find, accessible by public transportation, and surrounded by scenic views and boutique shops that add to the variety and richness of your outing. This surroundings-rich environment allows groups to seamlessly transition from dining on sundaes to exploring local craft shops or snapping memorable photos against the backdrop of the famous square and bay. Plus, the historic vibe of the Ghirardelli brand combined with the charm of the restored square location offers a visually appealing and culturally rich venue. It’s a place that invites nostalgia and excitement at once, adding extra meaning to your meetup in terms of both location and leisure.
What should you know about the service and atmosphere when planning a group visit? While many patrons praise the friendly staff and the quality of the ice cream, some reviews mention occasional service inconsistencies like order handling or container choices that may feel less attentive. Being aware of potential service variability allows your group to manage expectations and focus on the positive aspects—the food and environment. The shop is often busy, especially on weekends, so it’s wise to plan visits during off-peak hours to maximize seating availability and reduce wait times. Despite occasional service hiccups, the general experience remains enjoyable, thanks to the quality products and lively atmosphere. The buzz of other visitors, the aroma of chocolate, and the colorful dessert displays combine to create an appealing sensory experience. Overall, the atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, offering the kind of informal setting conducive to conversation and fun group interaction.
How can Ghirardelli accommodate groups with different preferences and dietary needs? Ghirardelli offers a variety of ice cream flavors and chocolate treats, making it easy to satisfy diverse tastes within your group. Whether some prefer classic chocolate-heavy desserts or others are looking for lighter or fruit-enhanced options, the menu is flexible. Vegan or dairy-free options may be limited, so groups with such dietary restrictions might want to inquire ahead or enjoy certain chocolate products from their retail shop instead. Additionally, portion sizing ranges from single servings to large shareable sundaes, allowing you to customize how much each person eats. For groups with kids or picky eaters, there are simpler options like milkshakes or chocolate squares that offer a beloved taste without complexity. This adaptability makes it an accessible destination for families, friends, or mixed groups seeking pleasure without compromise.
What makes Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop an exceptional venue for memorable group photos and celebrations? Beyond just delicious food, the shop and its setting provide photogenic opportunities that capture the spirit of your meetup. The striking signage, the historic square backdrop, and the colorful sundae creations lend themselves perfectly to social media-worthy moments. Iconic menu items like the Earthquake Sundae are not only tasty but also impressive in size and presentation, creating fun “before and after” photo traditions among visitors. Such moments foster a spirit of camaraderie and fun within groups, making your event more than just a meal — it becomes a shared experience worth remembering. Furthermore, hosting special moments like birthdays or casual celebrations here benefits from the festive energy generated by the chocolate shop vibe and the surrounding square. It’s a place where friends and family can enjoy indulgence, aesthetic appeal, and lively atmosphere all at once.
What extras should groups consider when planning a visit to Ghirardelli? It’s worth noting that Ghirardelli also offers a gift shop on site where group members can pick up chocolate souvenirs or treats to take home, extending the joy of the visit beyond the immediate meetup. The shop’s hours are generous, staying open until 9 PM daily, so evening plans are feasible with ambient lighting enhancing the historic architecture. Given the popularity of the venue, calling ahead or timing your visit outside peak hours might improve seating chances and minimize wait. Additionally, the square’s other shops and eateries provide options for groups wanting to diversify their outing with shopping or dining before or after dessert. Taking advantage of the free chocolate samples as you walk in also creates a welcoming start to your meetup, engaging taste buds and sparking excitement. These details combine to make organizing a meetup here smooth and enjoyable.
In summary, Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop stands out as an excellent destination for group meetups thanks to its irresistible desserts, convivial atmosphere, convenient location, and variety of engaging activities. Whether indulging in giant sundaes, sampling chocolates, or exploring historic Ghirardelli Square together, groups find ample reasons to rally here for a sweet and memorable occasion.