When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago 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 is a vibrant destination rooted in the rich heritage of San Francisco, offering a perfect place to meet friends for a delicious treat. Established in 1852 by Domingo Ghirardelli, the shop is renowned for using high quality, sustainably sourced cocoa beans, ensuring rich and velvety chocolate flavors. Visitors can indulge in decadent hot fudge sundaes made with handmade hot fudge prepared fresh daily, alongside a variety of chocolate sundaes, shakes, and classic treats. The welcoming atmosphere and beautifully presented products make it an ideal spot for social gatherings and special moments. Beyond ice cream, guests can explore an extensive selection of Ghirardelli’s signature chocolate squares, bars, baking ingredients, and gifts, perfect for sharing or taking home. Its convenient hours and central locations in key cities like Chicago, San Diego, and others ensure accessibility throughout the week. Whether you're craving a rich chocolate shake or a sundae topped with fresh chocolate chips, Ghirardelli offers a unique chocolate experience that delights the senses and brings friends together.
Here's what people think of Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
As of recent, Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3362 reviews.
Reviews of Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop generally reflect a strong appreciation for the quality and taste of their chocolate-based offerings. Many reviewers highlight the indulgence and rich flavor of the sundaes and shakes, describing the experience as a chocolate lover's dream and praising the fresh handmade hot fudge so central to many of the treats. Positive reviews often emphasize the inviting atmosphere of the shops and friendly service, noting that the locations provide memorable and enjoyable moments for families, couples, and friends alike. There is particular praise for special touches like the chocolate chips topping shakes and the variety of classic chocolate squares and gifts available. On the other hand, some customers mention the high prices as a downside, feeling the cost of some sundaes and treats can be steep and occasionally off-putting for budget-conscious visitors, describing it as somewhat of a tourist premium. However, most agree the quality largely justifies the expense. Overall, the reviews paint Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop as a cherished stop for premium chocolate indulgence, loved for its authentic flavors and friendly environment, despite occasional concerns about the price point.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
jerry Z
Always the best! Seriously I don’t think there is a better sport for a real old fashioned Sunday. The ice cream is always high quality and the toppings are always fresh. I got a two scoop sunday with mint and chip with a scoop of chocolate. We also got a banana split. You really can’t go wrong with anything here. Also this place is located on the river with amazing views. If you are looking for a great treat you found the best spot!
Anand Kamble
One of the best chocolate shakes I have had in my life. The staff was really nice and their suggestion turned out to be firee 🔥🔥 I like the ambiance. I was seating at the window and was there are so many people looking at us from the outside, turns out I was sitting exactly at window with clock, and people were looking at the clock, not me 😂😂 In the end, great experience, will definitely recommend and you also might get a performance from a artist on the street just outside. I saw a guy playing cello there.
Rajesh Iyer
It’s not easy to miss this place as it’s located right next to the Trump tower overlooking the river on Michigan Avenue aka the Magnificent Mile. The chocolate shop is at the lower level while an escalator takes you to the first floor is where you get the ice cream, hot chocolate and all the sugar you can handle. It was a Saturday and they were open till 11 pm so I can’t tell if if that how late they stay open on weekdays. We tried the hot chocolate and it was too sugary for us but then to each his / her own. Maybe an ice cream next time whenever that day comes…All in all seems like a fun place to grab an ice cream / hot chocolate or any other sugar cravings you may have…
Karthik Kokku
A Sweet Treat Oasis on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop at 400 N Michigan Ave is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting Chicago. Located in the iconic Wrigley Building, this charming two-story shop offers a wonderful escape into chocolate heaven. Their World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae is truly unforgettable—rich, creamy, and topped with handcrafted hot fudge made from premium Ghirardelli chocolate. Alongside their sundaes, they offer decadent warm brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate-dipped strawberries that perfectly complement every scoop. The atmosphere is inviting, with cozy indoor seating boasting views of the Chicago River and Michigan Avenue, plus a lovely outdoor patio for enjoying your treats on sunny days. The staff is always friendly and attentive, making the experience even sweeter. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Ghirardelli provides a perfect blend of delicious desserts, beautiful ambiance, and excellent service. Highly recommend stopping by for an indulgent break!
Guilherme Peruca
Alright, let's dial back the sugar and get straight to the good stuff about the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop near Trump Tower in Chicago. A Solid Stop for a Sweet Fix If you find yourself on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, and a craving for something sweet hits, the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop is a dependable spot. It's right there in the thick of things, making it a convenient stop whether you're taking a break from sightseeing or just need a quick sugar jolt. Stepping inside, the aroma of chocolate is immediate, and the place usually has a good buzz without being overwhelming. I snagged a table upstairs by the window, which offers a pretty decent view of the Chicago River and the surrounding architecture. It's a nice perk to have a bit of a cityscape while you're enjoying your treat. The Dessert Experience My go-to here is always one of their hot fudge sundaes, and it consistently delivers. The ice cream is solid, but the real highlight is their hot fudge. It's rich, authentic, and generously applied – definitely not the thin, watery stuff you sometimes encounter. It's the kind of hot fudge that actually sticks to your spoon and provides that deep, chocolatey warmth. Topped with fresh whipped cream and a cherry, it's a classic done right. Beyond sundaes, they offer a range of shakes, malts, and other dessert options if you're looking for something different. And of course, there's a section dedicated to their various chocolate bars and squares, good for a takeaway or a gift. The Verdict Price-wise, it's what you'd expect for a specialty shop in a prime Chicago location. It's not a budget option, but you're paying for the quality of the ingredients and the prime real estate. Overall, it's a reliable choice for a well-made ice cream treat. It's not trying to reinvent the wheel; it's simply delivering a quality dessert experience in a convenient, pleasant setting. If you appreciate a good hot fudge sundae and a classic chocolate shop vibe, it's worth checking out.
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 it is far more than just a dessert spot—it is an immersive, sensory experience that naturally brings people together over a shared love for premium chocolate and indulgent treats. Nestled in iconic San Francisco locations like Ghirardelli Square and the Palace Hotel, this shop offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere rooted in a rich heritage dating back to 1852. The allure of gathering here lies in savoring legendary delights such as the World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae, crafted with handmade hot fudge made fresh daily from Ghirardelli’s signature chocolate. Combining a nostalgic vibe with classic and innovative chocolate creations, it’s the perfect venue to make memories with family or friends because it caters to everyone's sweet tooth while providing a cozy, inviting setting for group enjoyment. Whether you crave rich chocolates, creamy ice creams, or unique sundaes, this destination ensures that every outing feels special and celebratory, making it an ideal rallying point for social meetups.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop with a group? First and foremost, indulging in their signature chocolate treats is an experience in itself that sparks conversation and delight. Groups can share decadent hot fudge sundaes, including sumptuous varieties like the Dubai Chocolate Sundae that layers vanilla ice cream with pistachio butter, roasted nuts, and 24-karat gold leaf-adorned chocolate. Besides signature sundaes, the shop offers a wide range of shakes, hot cocoas, coffees, and baked goods that cater to diverse tastes, making it easy for everyone in your party to find something they love. A standout activity for groups is exploring the Pick & Mix station—the world’s largest Ghirardelli Squares selection where friends can customize their own chocolate gift bags or try seasonal and exclusive flavors. This interactive element not only fuels your sweet cravings but also adds a fun, personalized dimension to your visit, especially when you curate unique gifts for loved ones or simply indulge yourself.
Why is Ghirardelli the perfect place for a group meetup? The atmosphere and layout are designed to accommodate social gatherings comfortably. Located in bustling, picturesque spots like Ghirardelli Square with breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay—including the iconic Alcatraz Island—this chocolate haven offers both indoor seating and scenic areas to enjoy your treats leisurely together. The space is lively yet cozy, inviting casual chats, laughter, and group selfies, making it collaborative and engaging for friends and family reconnecting or celebrating special events. The heritage and story embedded in the shop add cultural value to your meetup, enriching the experience beyond the food itself. Additionally, the shop is open late most days, until 11 PM or even midnight on weekends, allowing flexibility for meetups ranging from midday sweet breaks to late-night dessert indulgences. The range of offerings, from classic desserts to new inventive options, ensures every visitor in a group finds a favorite, making it a universal crowd-pleaser.
What makes the chocolate and ice cream unique at Ghirardelli? Ghirardelli’s commitment to quality and sustainability sets it apart as one of the original and most trusted premium chocolate brands since 1852. Their chocolate is made from high-quality, sustainably sourced cocoa beans that deliver a rich, velvety flavor unmatched by many competitors. The handmade hot fudge, a cornerstone of their famous sundaes, is crafted fresh daily using Ghirardelli's world-renowned chocolate, giving it an authentic and indulgent character. Beyond quality ingredients, the craftsmanship visible at the chocolatier station highlights the artistry of chocolate-making, allowing groups to witness the passion behind every creation. The variety of chocolate products—from individually wrapped Squares for snacking to baking bars and exclusive gift sets—means visitors have the opportunity to bring a piece of Ghirardelli home, extending the experience beyond the visit and making it ideal for gift shoppers within your group.
How can you personalize your experience at Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop? Personalization is a key highlight, especially with the Pick & Mix station, where visitors can choose from an extensive assortment of Ghirardelli Squares in all available flavors, including seasonal favorites. Groups can create custom gift bags tailored to their tastes or the tastes of friends and family—an interactive feature that adds a playful and memorable aspect to the visit. Additionally, the variety of sundaes and shakes allows some degree of customization with toppings and combinations, catering to individual preferences in your group without compromising the communal nature of the outing. The ambiance, combined with these personal touches, means your visit can feel uniquely yours each time you gather here, perfect for those looking to celebrate birthdays, holidays, or just spontaneous indulgences with loved ones.
What should you know about the location and hours of Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop for group planning? The flagship store in Ghirardelli Square is conveniently located at 900 North Point Street in San Francisco, placing it in a historic, scenic part of the city great for group photos and nearby sightseeing before or after your sweet indulgence. It maintains welcoming hours typically from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, giving you a broad timeframe to plan your meetup regardless of the day. There’s also a Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop in the Palace Hotel at 2 New Montgomery Street with slightly different opening times but equally high standards for food and atmosphere. Both locations operate with accessibility and guest experience in mind, so whether your group prefers a daytime outing or an evening treat, you can count on a comfortable, lively setting and attentive service to accommodate. Calling ahead or checking online for any seasonal or holiday adjustments is recommended to ensure smooth planning.
What kind of group events or occasions is Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop best suited for? This shop effortlessly suits a wide array of group gatherings, ranging from casual meetups with friends and spontaneous family outings to special celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or even after-work social hours. The fun, interactive nature of choosing from a variety of desserts and chocolates together encourages casual mingling and shared enjoyment, perfect for groups looking to bond over something delicious and positive. Its historic charm and photogenic surroundings make it ideal for commemorating moments with pictures and lasting memories. The menu’s versatility, with many non-dairy and tailored options, also means dietary preferences and restrictions can be easily accommodated, enhancing its appeal as a universally welcoming venue. Whether your group is small or moderately sized, Ghirardelli’s layout and offerings are suited to create a joyful, memorable experience centered on chocolate bliss.
How does Ghirardelli contribute to a memorable, sensory experience for groups? Beyond the flavors, Ghirardelli immerses guests in a true chocolate celebration through all senses: the smell of freshly made fudge, the sight of handcrafted chocolates and colorful sundaes, the rich texture of premium ice cream, and the taste of velvety chocolate pairing with fresh ingredients. The lively environment, with floor-to-ceiling walls of chocolate bars and an interactive chocolatier station, amps up the excitement, making every moment feel festive. Groups can enjoy exploring the different textures and flavors while sharing reactions and favorites, turning a simple dessert outing into an engaging, sensory-filled adventure. This rich, engaging atmosphere nurtures connectivity among people, making it a lively place to gather, celebrate, and indulge together.
What makes the shopping experience at Ghirardelli so enjoyable for groups? Aside from the café experience, Ghirardelli’s retail opportunities add another dimension to your group visit. The shop stocks exclusive Ghirardelli gifts, signature chocolate bars, and baking products that make excellent souvenirs or presents. Groups can enjoy browsing unique chocolate keepsakes and themed gift bags, making it easy to extend the joy of your meetup with meaningful tokens. The wide selection allows a fun group activity of discovering new flavors or seasonal surprises, sparking conversations about favorites and recommendations. Moreover, the personalized Pick & Mix gifts make shopping a shared creative project, enriching the social fabric of your visit. These retail features turn a simple chocolate purchase into a meaningful, shared experience perfect for group enjoyment.
Why do customers consistently rate Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shops so highly? With an impressive rating around 4.5 stars from thousands of reviews, Ghirardelli maintains its reputation through consistent quality, excellent customer service, and an iconic atmosphere. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly staff, the freshness of the chocolate and desserts, and the nostalgic yet lively ambiance. The dedication to making life "a bite better" is evident in every aspect, from the hand-crafted hot fudge to the extensive flavor variety and the store’s welcoming design. Positive customer experiences emphasize its reliability as a fun and dependable destination for group outings, celebrations, or casual indulgences. This strong community and visitor endorsement reflect Ghirardelli’s commitment to excellence and the joy it brings to chocolate lovers visiting the shops.
In what ways can Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop complement other activities in San Francisco for a full-day group itinerary? Given its prime locations in historical and tourist-friendly areas like Ghirardelli Square and near major landmarks, Ghirardelli is an excellent anchor for any day spent exploring San Francisco. After visiting nearby attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, or the Palace Hotel itself, groups can retreat for a much-anticipated sweet break. The shop’s picturesque setting encourages leisurely enjoyment and relaxation, providing a perfect transition from sightseeing or shopping to unwinding in the company of friends or family. By scheduling a meetup or dessert stop here, groups turn a full day into a well-rounded experience combining art, history, scenic beauty, adventure, and, of course, indulgent chocolate. This versatility elevates Ghirardelli from just a dessert place to an essential part of San Francisco’s social and cultural fabric.
What strategies can groups use to maximize their visit to Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop? To have the best experience, groups should consider visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays or early evenings to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and prompt service. Planning to arrive with an appetite will ensure everyone can fully appreciate the diverse menu and the rich flavors of their signature hot fudge sundaes and chocolate creations. Engage fully with interactive elements like the Pick & Mix station to enhance social interaction and take home personalized chocolates as souvenirs. Also, groups keen on photography and social media sharing will find the shop’s nostalgic décor and scenic views ideal for memorable snapshots, so bring cameras or smartphones ready. Ultimately, embracing the shop’s heritage and the joy of chocolate together will maximize the emotional warmth and sweet memories made during your visit.