When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunnyvale with a group of friends or family, consider
Pints of Joy
Why Pints of Joy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Pints of Joy is a charming ice cream shop in Sunnyvale, California, known for its unique and delicious flavors. It combines the richness of American and Indian cuisines, offering a variety of options that are both familiar and exotic. The shop is particularly praised for its creamy texture and flavors like Alphonso mango and tilgul, making it an excellent spot to gather with friends and enjoy some delightful treats. Pints of Joy offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for socializing, with the added convenience of pre-packed pints for take-home enjoyment. Moreover, they provide a discount for customers who return their pint containers, encouraging sustainability. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for casual meetups or family outings.
Here's what people think of Pints of Joy
As of recent, Pints of Joy holds a 4.6-star rating based on 935 reviews.
Reviews of Pints of Joy are overwhelmingly positive, with a rating of 4.6 based on nearly 1,000 reviews. Users often highlight the creamy texture and unique flavors of the ice cream. Many rave about the vegan options, such as the blueberry lavender and chikoo/sapota flavors, while others enjoy the more traditional flavors like chocolate and mulberry. The shop's commitment to sustainability by offering discounts for returned pint containers is also appreciated. However, some reviewers note that the shop is not fully vegan, which might be a drawback for those with strict dietary preferences. Additionally, the limited availability of fresh scoop options is mentioned as a minor drawback. Overall, the reviews suggest that Pints of Joy is a great destination for ice cream enthusiasts seeking unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anudit Verma
Hands down one of the best ice cream spots in the Bay Area! What makes it stand out is the unique and creative range of flavors inspired by Indian desserts, not your typical choices, but absolutely delicious and worth trying. There's plenty of parking available, but do expect a bit of a queue on weekends (a good sign, really). Totally worth the wait for such rich, flavorful, and nostalgic scoops. A must-visit for anyone who loves trying something different!
Khiem Nguyen
The flavors here are all very familiar and yet different. Additional spices or aromas are added to familiar ice cream flavors. The novelty is not the sole source of enjoyment. In terms of quality, this isn't the best consistency I've had. The pint is a bit more airy and icy than some other brands but the customer service is top notch. My gf and I spent the greater part of a century trying flavors and the lady was so nice and patient with us all throughout it. The big thing is, I'm sure you'll find something for everyone here. Everything is kept clean and modern with outdoor and indoor seating. There's a ordering kiosk as well if you know what you want and don't want to wait for everyone sampling all the flavors.
Bibek Jung Thapa
I had a wonderful time at Pints of Joy! There are so many amazing flavors to choose from my favorites were the mango, rose pistachio, and guava. I loved that they offer flights, so I could try a bunch of different flavors in one visit. Everything tasted so fresh and creamy, and the staff was really friendly and helpful. If you love trying new ice cream flavors, this is the perfect place. I can’t wait to come back and try even more!
Shachar Ben-Hador
Wow!! Best ice cream in the area. Flavors of fruits that barely exist today. The Alphonso mango is amazing and so is the guava chili. You don’t need to like Indian food to enjoy this place. Just order the flights and try as many flavors you want. You can’t go wrong.
Zsuzsanna Sziveri
Delicious unusual and more common flavors. Vegan options, kind and patient staff, generous portion sizes. Indoor and outdoor seating available. You can also pick up a pint of your favorite flavor.
How to reach Pints of Joy
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Website: None
Why Pints of Joy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Pints of Joy with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family is always about creating joyful, memorable experiences, and Pints of Joy provides the perfect atmosphere to do just that. Located in Sunnyvale, this artisanal ice cream haven offers a unique twist on the classic ice cream social, inviting groups to indulge in creative, eggless ice cream flavors that are both delicious and inclusive. With a glowing 4.6-star rating from over 900 reviews, it’s clear that Pints of Joy stands out for its quality and customer experience. Friends can revel in an array of extraordinary, often unexpected flavors — from Alphonso mango and chai tea latte to innovative vegan options — guaranteeing that everyone’s taste is catered to. The ambiance is casual yet inviting, making it an ideal spot to catch up, relax, and bring a little sweetness into your get-together. What’s more, the staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, often creating a welcoming vibe that helps groups feel right at home. Whether it’s a spontaneous meetup or a planned celebration, assembling at Pints of Joy promises a delightful treat for taste buds and spirits alike.
What activities and ice cream experiences can your group enjoy at Pints of Joy?
Pints of Joy isn’t just about whipping up standard ice cream cones; it turns the ice cream experience into an engaging activity worthy of any gathering. Groups can sample a variety of flavors through pre-packaged pints or fresh scoops, which is perfect for those who enjoy tasting multiple varieties before settling on a favorite. The shop offers a “flight” style tasting option, allowing visitors to try several small scoops of different flavors — an excellent way to spark conversation and shared discoveries among friends. The flavors themselves are anything but ordinary, featuring Indian-inspired ingredients such as sapota/chikoo, blueberry lavender, and the exotic Alphonso mango, alongside traditional favorites like mocha and mint chocolate chip — many available in vegan and dairy-free forms to accommodate diverse dietary preferences. For those who want to take the experience home, Pints of Joy encourages environmentally conscious practices like discounts when you return your pint containers, encouraging group meetups to consider sustainability as part of their fun. The ability to customize your desert experience with both unique flavors and eco-friendly incentives makes it a fitting venue for group bonding over a genuinely exceptional product.
Why is Pints of Joy ideal for hosting a group meetup?
The venue itself provides a friendly and relaxed environment that is great for groups large and small. Its layout and indoor seating options enable casual conversations without feeling cramped, and the staff’s enthusiasm about their products ensures everyone feels welcomed and valued. The wide variety of offerings means that no member of your group will feel left out due to dietary restrictions; from vegan to dairy-free and eggless ice creams, Pints of Joy provides options for practically everyone. This inclusivity is a huge plus when planning meets with diverse friends and family members. Additionally, the shop is praised for its quick service, making it easy to grab your desserts without long waits, so your meetup can stay on schedule while still indulging in high-quality, artisanal ice cream. Moreover, the venue’s convenient location and casual vibe make it easy for groups to spontaneously decide to meet up and enjoy something sweet without the pressure of a formal event, enhancing the appeal for those looking for an easy, enjoyable gathering spot.
What makes the flavors and menu at Pints of Joy stand out during group visits?
What truly sets Pints of Joy apart in a crowded market is its innovative approach to flavors and its commitment to quality ingredients. The ice creams are crafted in small batches, utilizing fresh fruits and herbs to ensure each pint bursts with authentic, rich flavor. Customers rave about flavors like Tilgul, rasmalai, and guava, which showcase a cultural blend uncommon in Western ice cream shops, offering something truly fresh and exciting to share during meetups. The presence of about seven or more vegan flavors at any given time further expands the choice spectrum, making it easy to find something that fits every palate and dietary need. This range encourages groups to be adventurous and try new tastes together, fostering a more interactive and engaging outing. The unique cultural influence also serves as a conversation starter, making the ice cream tasting experience both delicious and educational for friends eager to explore new culinary traditions.
How does Pints of Joy support environmental and community-friendly practices during group visits?
Beyond flavor and atmosphere, Pints of Joy emphasizes sustainable and community-conscious practices that resonate strongly with modern groups seeking to combine fun with responsibility. One notable initiative is their discount for customers who bring back their ice cream pint containers for reuse, promoting sustainability and reducing single-use waste. This eco-friendly approach not only helps the environment but also makes group visits more meaningful, as friends can collectively contribute to reducing their carbon footprint while enjoying their treats. The shop being woman-owned also reflects community values and inclusivity, appealing to meetups that prioritize supporting diverse local businesses. Furthermore, the friendly and knowledgeable staff often share insights about their ingredients and preparation methods, fostering a deeper connection between patrons and the craft of natural, artisanal ice cream making. This commitment to ethics and community care provides a shared value for groups, enhancing their experience beyond the simple pleasure of ice cream.
What practical considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at Pints of Joy?
While Pints of Joy offers many positives, there are some practical aspects groups may want to consider for a smooth meetup. Parking can occasionally be a challenge depending on the day and time, so planning to arrive a bit earlier to secure a spot or carpool can be useful. The availability of fresh scoop flavors can vary, with around two fresh scoop options on many visits and more extensive choices available as pre-packed pints. Groups looking for the freshest experience might want to coordinate visits when more scoop options are promised. Despite a casual indoor seating setup, larger groups may find the space somewhat limited, so it is wise to check ahead with the shop regarding peak hours or possible reservation options if available. However, the accommodating staff and quick service usually help keep any wait time minimal, allowing the group to enjoy their visit fully. Taking these factors into account can help maximize the joy and convenience for all attendees during the meetup.
In summary, Pints of Joy offers an excellent blend of unique artisanal flavors, inclusive dietary options, and a friendly, welcoming environment that makes it a superb choice for gathering with friends or family. Its innovative ice cream selections inspired by Indian and international flavors, combined with sustainable practices and community focus, enrich the social experience far beyond the typical dessert run. Whether it's a casual catch-up or a special celebration, Pints of Joy ensures that every group leaves with a sweet taste in their mouth and joyful memories to match.