When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Salt & Straw
Why Salt & Straw is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Salt & Straw is more than just an ice cream shop; it's a vibrant gathering place where friends and family can come together to indulge in unique, artisanal flavors. Since its inception in 2011, Salt & Straw has grown from a humble pushcart in Portland to a beloved brand with over 20 locations across the country. The shop's commitment to sourcing local ingredients and collaborating with the community reflects its core values of fostering a sense of belonging and connection among its patrons. Highlights include the innovative flavors like 'Space Cookies & Cream Hazy IPA' and 'Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper,' which have garnered a cult following. Whether you're exploring flavors in Portland, Los Angeles, or Miami, Salt & Straw offers a welcoming space to enjoy a delightful treat with those you care about.
Here's what people think of Salt & Straw
As of recent, Salt & Straw holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1487 reviews.
Salt & Straw has garnered an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on nearly 1,500 reviews. Users have consistently praised the shop's imaginative flavors and welcoming atmosphere. Many reviewers noted the friendly service and the opportunity to sample a variety of unique flavors before making a purchase. Others highlighted the shop's ability to balance creativity with taste, making even the most unusual flavors work. Negative reviews were few but occasionally mentioned the long lines and, in some cases, the high prices. Despite these minor drawbacks, the consensus remains that Salt & Straw's commitment to quality and community makes it a standout destination for ice cream enthusiasts. In conclusion, Salt & Straw's reviews reflect a business that not only serves exceptional ice cream but also creates memorable experiences for its customers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kevin Roy
First time coming to this place and let me say that whoever thought of putting an ice cream shop next to a pizzeria is a genius! Anyways I tried the Chocolate Gooey Brownie and the Salted, Malted Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. Out of the 2 I would get the Salted,Malted Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough again. The Chocolate Gooey Brownie is very choclatey and a bit boring. Salted, Malted is the way to go along with a waffle cone. Prices are reasonable, portions are fine, good ice cream but I probably would pick other spots just because of their variety. Overall I would definitely recommend this place and would come back.
Barnum Angelique
Very unique recipes and that’s a big win for me, especially the honey lavender, love it! I asked what were the favorites and the server said a free flavors were only being dished out 3-4 times a day…and they happen to be the ones I wasn’t crazy about. They’re really great about testers so make sure you walk out with something you love🍦🩷
Ozge Ustundag
The flavor selection is super creative and constantly changing, which is great if you like trying new things. But taste-wise, it was just average for us — fun to explore, but not something we’d crave again. Still worth checking out once for the experience.
Sherns Wang
My go to spot if I want ice cream! They have seasonal options! Yes you can try their flavors there. That’s why the line is slow. But of course, don’t hold up the line by trying EVERY flavor. Their flavors are all great! Sea salt caramel ribbon - SALTY. But I love it! They do have seating indoors and outdoors but could fill up quick.
Alexandria Moreno
Good icecream with different than usual flavors. They are a small space with outdoor seating, really great stop for a sweet treat.
How to reach Salt & Straw
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Website: None
Why Salt & Straw may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Salt & Straw with your friends?
When it comes to gathering your friends for an unforgettable meetup, Salt & Straw stands out as an exceptional destination. This beloved ice cream company, with a stellar 4.7 rating from over 1,400 reviews, combines a warm, communal atmosphere with imaginative, artisan ice cream flavors that spark conversation and delight the senses. Founded in Portland, Oregon, Salt & Straw has maintained its core mission of fostering togetherness, inspired by the city's tight-knit, entrepreneurial spirit. Visiting Salt & Straw is more than just enjoying a scoop; it’s about creating shared experiences in a vibrant setting where every group member can find something unique to savor. Whether you want to catch up after a long week, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a sweet escape, Salt & Straw’s innovative flavors and inviting ambiance provide the perfect backdrop. Their commitment to locally sourced, often surprising ingredients turns each visit into a culinary adventure, nurturing curiosity and bonding through the joy of discovery. This makes it a top spot for friends looking to share something refreshing and extraordinary together.
What activities can you do at Salt & Straw that make it perfect for a group meetup?
Salt & Straw offers more than just high-quality ice cream; it creates an experience rich in flavor, conversation, and community. First, indulging in their imaginative ice cream flavors is an event in itself. From crowd favorites like sweet potato casserole and maple pecans to bold choices such as bone marrow and bourbon-smoked cherries, the range invites shared tasting and lively discussion among friends about what they love and what surprises them. This exploration can be a fun icebreaker that helps groups connect over a unique culinary experience.
In addition to tasting, Salt & Straw locations often have an open, casual atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating—ideal for groups to relax, chat, and linger in a lively setting. The space encourages hanging out rather than a quick in-and-out visit, which enhances the meetup vibe. Some locations even allow you to preorder for larger parties or order flights of mini scoops to try multiple flavors without waste, perfect for groups who want to share and compare.
Salt & Straw also supports local artisans and food sustainability, which makes visiting a deeper, more thoughtful experience. Their Upcycled Food Series uses ingredients that divert food waste, which can be an interesting conversation starter and an opportunity for groups to discuss and appreciate environmentally conscious dining. Hosting a meetup here becomes a way to share values around sustainability while enjoying indulgent treats.
Why is Salt & Straw’s ambiance and location ideal for social gatherings?
The design of Salt & Straw stores is intentionally inviting and warm, evoking the comfort of a neighborhood hangout with a touch of artisanal charm. Their shops often blend rustic and modern aesthetics, featuring natural wood, cozy seating, and well-curated décor that evokes a handmade, small-batch ethos. This creates a relaxed but stylish environment that fits any casual or celebratory gathering.
Many Salt & Straw locations are strategically placed in vibrant neighborhoods or cultural hotspots such as Portland, Los Angeles, New York, and Miami. These prime locations make it an easy and attractive choice for both locals and visitors to organize a meetup. Whether your group is exploring a city or coming together after work or school, Salt & Straw acts as a convenient, accessible destination that feels like a local gem.
Furthermore, the constant buzz outside the shops, with people queuing in anticipation, adds a sense of excitement and communal energy. Being part of this waiting crowd or getting a spot inside adds to the feeling of belonging to a shared experience that Salt & Straw so carefully nurtures.
What makes Salt & Straw an innovative leader in ice cream that appeals to group dynamics?
Salt & Straw’s innovation shines in its daring approach to flavor development, creating over 500 unique ice cream variations since its inception. This wide variety appeals to diverse tastes within a group, ensuring everyone finds something delightful—whether they prefer classic profiles or adventurous tastes inspired by culinary craftsmanship. Flavors such as Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper or Space Cookies & Cream Hazy IPA elevate ice cream from a simple dessert into an experiential conversation piece.
The founders, cousins Kim and Tyler Malek, emphasize community and storytelling through their ice cream. Each flavor tells a story, often linking to local ingredients or sustainable food practices. This narrative element can enhance group meetups by providing common ground for discussion and curiosity, reinforcing the social and interactive nature of the visit.
Salt & Straw also embodies a spirit of inclusion and creativity — the feeling that everyone is invited to try, share, and express preferences in a welcoming space. This ethos is vital for group dynamics, offering a place where different palates and personalities intersect through food in a memorable way.
How does Salt & Straw support sustainability and community engagement that enrich the group experience?
Salt & Straw is not just about indulgence but also about mindful consumption. Their Upcycled Food Series, launched in 2022, is a pioneering effort that has diverted over 40,000 pounds of food waste by incorporating ingredients like date seed coffee substitutes and whey-based compounds into innovative ice cream flavors. This initiative highlights the company’s commitment to environmental impact, giving customers a tangible reason to feel good about their treat beyond taste.
This dedication to sustainability often resonates within groups who share values around eco-conscious lifestyles. Choosing Salt & Straw for a meetup becomes an expression of these shared priorities, deepening the social connection.
Moreover, the company’s history and growth—from a pushcart in Portland to a national phenomenon—symbolize entrepreneurial courage and community building. This narrative underpins each visit, inspiring visitors by showing how small local efforts can blossom into nationally cherished brands rooted in responsibility and connection.
What practical features does Salt & Straw offer for hosting larger gatherings?
Salt & Straw can seamlessly accommodate a range of group sizes, from intimate gatherings to moderately large parties. Many locations provide comfortable seating arrangements that encourage mixing and mingling, and some allow preorder options for groups who want to minimize wait time and maximize tasting variety.
For parties looking to broaden the experience, flights of smaller scoops allow for sampling multiple flavors with less commitment to a single choice. This perk is perfect for groups who enjoy tasting individually and then sharing favorites, turning the ice cream experience into a collaborative adventure.
The staff at Salt & Straw are known for their friendly and knowledgeable service, often helping groups navigate the extensive menu by recommending complementary flavors or suggesting popular picks. This level of personalized service adds ease and enjoyment when managing group preferences and dietary considerations, enhancing the experience for everyone involved.
Salt & Straw is more than just an ice cream shop. It is a community gathering spot rooted in innovation, sustainability, and the human connection fostered through shared indulgence. Whether indulging in surprising creative flavors, enjoying the cozy and stylish environment, or celebrating values that extend beyond dessert, Salt & Straw presents an ideal backdrop for friends and families to gather, experience joy together, and make lasting memories.