When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
iScream
Why iScream is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
iScream is a standout ice cream parlor known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional customer experience, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends. With a stellar rating of 4.7 based on 322 reviews, it has earned a reputation for quality and innovative menu offerings. The shop features a variety of unique and rotating seasonal flavors that keep customers excited and coming back for more. The ambiance caters to groups looking for a cozy and enjoyable place to socialize while indulging in delectable frozen treats. Highlights include homemade artisanal ice cream selections, customizable sundaes with a wide range of toppings, and options catering to various dietary needs like vegan and lactose-free choices. These features provide something for everyone and create a memorable outing for friends. Furthermore, iScream emphasizes community engagement through occasional events and promotions, adding to its appeal as a social hub. Whether catching up over classic flavors or exploring new artisanal concoctions, iScream ensures an enjoyable, flavorful experience that strengthens social connections among visitors.
Here's what people think of iScream
As of recent, iScream holds a 4.7-star rating based on 322 reviews.
Users praise iScream highly, evident from its impressive 4.7 rating out of 5 with over 300 reviews. Positive comments frequently highlight the delicious and inventive ice cream flavors, along with the friendly and attentive staff who make every visit pleasant. Customers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, perfect for casual meetups, and often mention the high-quality ingredients that give the ice cream a rich, satisfying taste. The availability of options for different dietary preferences also receives commendations for inclusivity. On the flip side, some negative reviews point to occasional issues with long wait times during peak hours and limited seating availability, which can affect the overall experience. A few customers also noted that some seasonal flavors might not appeal to everyone’s taste, but these instances are rare. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a well-loved ice cream destination that largely meets and exceeds customer expectations. The positives outweigh the negatives, making iScream a reliable choice for those seeking a fun, tasty, and social ice cream experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shaves Rose
I love 💗 IScream this takes me back to my grandmother who would make homemade Ice Cream 🍨 for use. You can taste the love. I found this Gem and it’s amazing thank you for your delicious ice cream treats and the excellent customer service.
Shoshana Jordan
Oh my goodness these flavors were SO rich and satisfying! I tried the spiced apple cider sorbet - it’s just like it sounds. Very autumn-y : ) I also tasted the cookies and cream and the crème brûlée. I ended up getting the maple walnut and the coffee and cream scoops. Can’t wait to come back and order ALL of the flavors! Love that they change seasonally.
Maggie Trinh
Delicious and creamy ice cream with lots of yummy flavors. I had the strawberry ice cream with their chocolate cone and it was a great choice. Will definitely return!
Nicole Callis
Delicious organic ice cream that is the best in the Bay! They now have a location on Solano and 4th street. The staff are consistently pleasant and attentive. Their interior is adorable with retro vibes with counter service for take out or sit down. Thank you I scream, I only wished I lived closer and that your hours were sometimes earlier then 2p for Solano ave, so I could pop in for a pint to go for home later. Thank you!! This is my go to ice cream shop in the Bay. Support local and support organic. Better for our bodies and the environment !
Charles Jennings
About two weeks ago, I took my family out for ice cream just before closing. The door was unlocked, the sign said "open," and there were people inside—who turned out to be friends of ours—so we went in and waited our turn. It wasn’t until we were being served that I noticed the two employees looked visibly frustrated and ready to go home. We moved as quickly as we could, but once our order was already in progress, we were told they had technically closed. Had we been told that upon walking in, we absolutely would have left without complaint. After paying, I noticed my friend—who ordered the exact same thing—received a noticeably larger portion. I had ordered two scoops in a cup thinking it would be faster than a cone, but what I received was significantly less than usual. I mentioned the discrepancy, and the young man responded with something like, “I'm in a hurry, we're about to close.” The woman added, “We’re closed.” I asked, “What does that matter? Should I get less because I’m the last customer?” I my money worth less? To his credit, the employee did offer to give me more, but by then I was already upset and walked out trying to keep my cool... the ice cream is so good. It shouldn’t matter if I’m the first or last customer of the day—I should get what I paid for. If I hadn’t noticed the difference, I would have walked out shortchanged. The more I thought about it, the more frustrated and upset I became. It felt unprofessional and dismissive. That said, the ice cream is outstanding. I just hope management encourages staff to either clearly close the store at the posted time or treat every customer with the same level of care—whether it’s the middle of the day or one minute before closing.
How to reach iScream
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Why rally at iScream with your friends?
When considering the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, iScream stands out as a delightful destination that goes beyond just serving ice cream. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 320 reviews, it clearly resonates with a loyal base of happy visitors. The magic of iScream is not simply in the quality of the ice cream, though it is exceptional, but in the entire experience it offers — a cozy, nostalgic environment combined with a warm, engaging atmosphere. The owner is known for being friendly and approachable, often chatting with guests and even sharing little scoops of vanilla for dogs. This personal touch makes every visit feel like coming to a friend’s inviting home rather than just visiting a shop. For groups looking to connect, catch up, and create shared memories, iScream’s unique blend of scrumptious flavors, playful ambiance, and interactive opportunities creates the perfect backdrop. Whether it’s an impromptu meet-up or a planned reunion, iScream offers a sensory-rich and joyful setting that naturally draws people together.
What activities does iScream offer for groups looking for a fun meetup?
At iScream, the activities are designed to complement the delicious ice cream and foster a lively social environment for groups. One of the standout features is the availability of board games at the tables, encouraging guests to linger longer, laugh, and compete in friendly matches while savoring their treats. This interactive element transforms a simple ice cream outing into hours of entertainment, perfect for families or friends of all ages. The shop’s eclectic decor, filled with nostalgic elements and quirky items, also invites exploration and conversation, sparking curiosity and connection. The shop’s atmosphere is not rushed—guests feel invited to relax and enjoy the moment, which is ideal for those wanting a casual yet engaging meetup. Additionally, the owner’s hospitable nature means that groups often find themselves part of a welcoming community vibe, with personal recommendations and shared enthusiasm about flavors heightening the experience. Overall, the blend of delicious ice cream, board games, and nostalgic ambiance makes iScream perfect for groups seeking a memorable and interactive gathering spot.
Why is iScream the perfect place for a group meetup?
iScream excels in creating a sense of community and togetherness, making it ideally suited for group meetups. The cozy and intimate setting encourages conversation among friends and family, far from the hustle and bustle of typical commercial eateries. With an extensive selection of premium ice cream flavors made fresh daily, groups can enjoy sampling a variety of tastes that appeal to different preferences, from classic vanilla to adventurous combinations. What sets iScream apart is the personal service; the owner’s chatty and welcoming approach makes everyone feel valued and part of the iScream family. The shop’s playful environment, enhanced by the board games and the fascinating decor, offers multiple layers of engagement that appeal to both young and older visitors. Beyond just food, a meetup at iScream feels like sharing a joyful, sensory experience together — laughter, the creativity of mixing flavors, and friendly competition in games. This makes it an ideal hub for celebrations, casual hangouts, or any occasion where creating shared memories matters.
How does the atmosphere at iScream enhance the meetup experience?
The atmosphere at iScream is integral to its appeal as a meetup destination. Descriptions from visitors highlight the shop’s nostalgic, sensory-rich environment filled with eclectic decorations and memorabilia that stimulate conversation and discovery. This atmosphere provides more than just a place to eat—it creates a memorable experience that engages all the senses. The environment invites guests to slow down and savor not only their ice cream but also the moment spent with loved ones. Unlike typical ice cream parlors that focus solely on quick service, iScream encourages guests to stay, relax, and enjoy the fun surroundings. The friendly owner and attentive staff add warmth and personality to the space, making everyone feel like welcomed guests rather than customers. This unique vibe turns a meetup into a multi-dimensional experience where taste, touch, sight, and social interaction combine to form lasting positive impressions.
What makes iScream’s ice cream so special?
The ice cream at iScream is often described as some of the best around, which alone is a compelling reason for groups to rally there. Made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients, each flavor offers a creamy, rich texture and a vibrant taste that delights both traditionalists and adventurous eaters. Visitors rave about the freshness and inventiveness of the flavors, with the shop offering a range of classics and unique blends that keep the menu exciting. This variety ensures that every member of a group can find something they love. The owner’s enthusiasm for the product often leads to personalized recommendations and the opportunity to try samples—allowing groups to experiment and bond over discovering new favorites. The level of craftsmanship coupled with the friendly, informal setting makes the ice cream taste even better, transforming a simple dessert into a highlight of any gathering.
How does iScream accommodate different group sizes?
iScream is well-equipped to host groups of various sizes, making it flexible for different types of meetups. The layout includes communal tables that encourage mingling and interaction, as well as smaller, more intimate seating areas for private conversations. The casual, walk-in nature of the shop means that groups can come and go at their own pace without pressure. For families with kids or larger friend circles, the presence of board games provides a natural way to occupy time together, keeping everyone entertained. The approachable owner and staff are adept at managing group dynamics, ensuring service remains smooth even during busy times. This combination of thoughtful space design and attentive service ensures that whether your group is two or twenty, iScream feels welcoming and accommodating.
Why is iScream rated so highly by visitors?
The consistently high rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on hundreds of reviews, reflects the satisfaction and delight iScream brings to its customers. Reviewers regularly praise the quality of the ice cream, the friendly and personable staff, and the inviting ambiance. The owner’s engagement with guests and the shop’s unique character turn many one-time visitors into repeat customers. Many reviews also mention how the experience exceeded expectations, particularly highlighting the attention to detail in both service and presentation. Moreover, the quirky decor and playful atmosphere create a standout experience among other eateries. This exceptional mix of quality product, authentic hospitality, and charming environment is what earns iScream its stellar reputation and makes it a prized recommendation for locals and visitors alike.
What other features at iScream can make your meetup memorable?
Beyond the ice cream, games, and ambiance, iScream offers a few special touches that elevate a meetup to something truly memorable. The shop’s eclectic collection of unique decorations often becomes a topic of conversation, adding layers of fun and nostalgia to your visit. For dog owners, the owner sometimes serves small vanilla scoops to pets, which adds a charming and unexpected element to the outing. The flexibility of the space means you can customize your gathering, whether you want a lively, boisterous hangout or a quiet conversation over dessert. Additionally, the staff’s willingness to engage and personalize the experience (for example, helping select flavors or recommending combinations) makes each visit tailored and special. These details contribute to crafting not just a dessert stop, but a shared event full of warmth, laughter, and delicious memories.
Gathering at iScream offers more than just a chance for a sweet treat — it provides an experience where friendship, flavor, and fun blend seamlessly. With its nostalgic charm, premium ice cream, playful activities, and heartfelt hospitality, it is a premier choice for hosting meetups with friends and family.