When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle 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 an innovative artisanal ice cream company that started in 2011 with a single pushcart in Portland, Oregon, and has since blossomed into a beloved national brand with over 20 locations across the U.S., including California and Miami. Known for its imaginative and locally inspired flavors like “Space Cookies & Cream Hazy IPA” and “Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper,” Salt & Straw offers a unique ice cream experience that attracts ice cream enthusiasts and curious foodies alike. Beyond the creativity in flavors, Salt & Straw is deeply rooted in community spirit — the founder Kim Malek envisioned the brand as a welcoming “third place” for neighbors, friends, and families to gather and connect, inspired by Portland’s collaborative culture. The company takes pride in sourcing ingredients thoughtfully and weaving local influences into its offerings, especially in newer locations. Each shop cultivates an inviting ambiance where customers can enjoy high-quality ice cream served in warm waffle cones or cups, making it a perfect meetup spot. This blend of culinary creativity and community focus has earned Salt & Straw a devoted cult following, making it a great destination to share memorable moments with friends and family.
Here's what people think of Salt & Straw
As of recent, Salt & Straw holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2017 reviews.
Salt & Straw holds an excellent reputation among customers, reflected by a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 2,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating based on 328 reviews specifically for the Venice Beach location on Tripadvisor. Reviewers consistently praise the brand for its distinctive and inventive flavors, exceptional ice cream quality, and the warm, friendly service offered by staff. Many customers highlight the promptness of service even when lines are long, noting the efficient flow helps maintain a positive experience. The unique taste combinations and high-quality ingredients make Salt & Straw stand out from typical ice cream shops, leading to enthusiastic recommendations for those seeking extraordinary dessert experiences. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional long wait times during busy hours and a few instances of customer service concerns. Additionally, the company is not currently accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has had some unresolved complaints, which may raise concerns for some. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding the flavor creativity, community vibe, and overall quality underscore Salt & Straw’s success as a beloved ice cream destination, confirming its place as a vibrant gathering spot for fans of original, artisanal treats.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kim Brownlee Personal Trainer
Wow! Lots of cool flavors! Great ice cream and great waffle cones. Vegan options as well. Great vibes. Just a little spendy and not a fan of being charged extra for splitting flavors
Riley Noel
We love salt and straw! Staff is awesome, ice cream is always good. The monthly flavor series are always fun. I am also desperately pleading for the Death by Chocolate Cake vegan flavor to be permanent. It’s so good I bought so many containers before it was gone and I’m on my last one 😭 it’s so hard to find good vegan chocolate flavors
R “Purple Goat Eater” K
Creative and delicious ice cream awaits. Seasonal menu with themes is nice. The year-round menu stands the test of time. A tad expensive for ice cream so be willing to pay for a good treat.
Chikki Ram
Guess what? There are new flavors of ice cream on the menu! I’m a big fan of honey lavender, but this version was even better. Yum! 😋
K L
Salt & Straw is a solid ice cream spot. I’ve had their ice cream in LA multiple times. Quality is still good at this location, as well.
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?
Salt & Straw is much more than just an ice cream shop; it is an experiential destination where friends and family can come together to enjoy exceptional flavors, unique community vibes, and memorable moments. If you are wondering why this is the perfect place to gather your group, consider the richness of its history and the artistry behind every scoop. Founded in 2011 in Portland, Oregon, Salt & Straw grew from a humble food cart into a nationally beloved artisanal ice cream brand, known for its innovative flavors and commitment to community connection. What sets it apart is its unusual, carefully crafted ice cream flavors — think roasted strawberry with toasted white chocolate or maple pecans — which create conversations and shared delight among guests. The atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, ideal for relaxing with friends, making it easy to catch up or celebrate special occasions. With a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 2017 reviews, it promises consistent happiness in every visit, making it an unbeatable spot to rally your friends for ice cream, laughter, and an afternoon or evening full of joy.
What activities are available at Salt & Straw for group meetups?
Salt & Straw offers more than just tasting ice cream; it invites groups to engage in a delightful sensory and social experience. Upon entering, you and your friends will enjoy exploring a rotating menu of more than 500 imaginative flavors developed over the years, fostering curiosity and excitement. Tasting flights are a great way for groups to sample multiple flavors, sparking lively discussions and friendly debates about favorites. The shops often feature special seasonal or community-inspired flavors, reflecting local ingredients and culinary stories that deepen your connection not only to the ice cream but also to where you are. Beyond eating, Salt & Straw stores sometimes host events like ice cream-making workshops or themed tasting nights, perfect for group participation. Additionally, Salt & Straw supports sustainability through initiatives like its Upcycled Food Series, which can be a conversation starter for groups interested in food waste reduction and innovative culinary practices. The welcoming environment, delicious artisan ice cream, and social activities make Salt & Straw particularly well-suited for group meetups where enjoyment and bonding go hand in hand.
Why is Salt & Straw perfect for a group meetup?
Salt & Straw excels as a group meetup spot because it combines exceptional product quality with a unique cultural and social experience. The founders intentionally designed each location to be a friendly community hub where people bump into neighbors and friends, enhancing the feeling of belonging and togetherness. This ethos is evident in the layout and service style—spacious enough for groups to gather comfortably but intimate enough for interaction. The diverse and quirky flavors cater to all tastes, assuring that every member of your group will find something to love or be inspired to try. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and local partnerships ensures the ice cream is fresh, thoughtful, and a true conversation starter. Moreover, Salt & Straw’s various locations across the country, including vibrant hubs like Portland, Los Angeles, and New York, make it an accessible and dependable choice for meetups in multiple cities. The consistently high customer ratings underscore the reliability of a great experience, establishing Salt & Straw as a joyful and stress-free meetup destination.
How do Salt & Straw’s unique flavors enhance the meetup experience?
One of the most talked-about elements of Salt & Straw is its fearless approach to ice cream flavor innovation. This approach elevates a simple outing into an adventure for your palate and a topic of animated conversation for your group. While traditional ice cream shops offer classic flavors, Salt & Straw dares to blend unexpected ingredients such as bone marrow and bourbon-smoked cherries or to reinterpret comforting classics like sweet potato casserole. These flavors are not only creative; they are thoughtfully balanced and deeply satisfying, ensuring everyone can discover something new yet approachable. The process of tasting and comparing these inventive flavors encourages social engagement and shared enthusiasm. Group members can bond over discovering new favorites, daring each other to taste bold combinations, and sharing stories about the tastes. This unique sensory dimension cultivates memorable moments that go beyond just eating—making your gathering truly special, fun, and distinctive.
What makes Salt & Straw’s atmosphere and design conducive for groups?
The atmosphere at Salt & Straw is inviting and vibrant, designed to foster community interaction while accommodating various group sizes. Each location is carefully curated to blend rustic and modern design elements, featuring warm lighting, open spaces, and communal seating areas that encourage conversation and comfortable socializing. The layout commonly includes counters and tables that can handle everything from intimate two-person dates to larger group celebrations. Staff members are known for being friendly and knowledgeable, always eager to guide guests through the elaborate flavor menu and provide recommendations tailored for group tastes. The lively anticipation of selection lines further energizes the experience, turning waiting time into a social event in itself. Plus, seasonal decorations and limited-time specials bring continual freshness to the environment. Together, these elements create a relaxed yet stimulating setting that feels like a small festival of ice cream happiness — ideal for groups looking for a place that supports both mingling and meaningful connection.
How does Salt & Straw’s community focus strengthen the group meetup experience?
Community is at the heart of Salt & Straw’s brand identity and operations, a value that significantly enhances the experience for groups. Founded in Portland’s tight-knit entrepreneurial environment, the company has always envisioned its shops as “places where you can run into your neighbors and spend time with friends and family.” This spirit persists in everything from the collaborative sourcing of ingredients to partnerships with local businesses and artisans, creating a solid sense of place and belonging. For groups, this means that each visit contributes to a larger cultural and social fabric rather than just individual enjoyment. The brand’s dedication to sustainability, such as diverting thousands of pounds of food waste through its Upcycled Food Series, lets your meetup carry a positive environmental message and engage participants who value thoughtful consumption. Collaborative community events and seasonal pop-ups also invite groups to participate in something bigger than a typical outing, fostering shared pride and connection. In this way, Salt & Straw transforms a simple ice cream run into a meaningful communal celebration.
What locations and accessibility does Salt & Straw offer for group meetings?
Salt & Straw’s extensive national presence makes it a convenient and appealing choice for group meetups in multiple cities. Starting from its roots in Portland, Oregon, Salt & Straw has expanded to more than 20 locations across the United States, including vibrant metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Miami, and Orlando. This allows groups in various regions to access the renowned flavors and welcoming atmosphere without traveling far. Many locations are situated in lively neighborhoods or popular shopping districts, making it easy to combine your ice cream meetup with other activities like dining or browsing local stores. The company’s commitment to accessibility extends to its well-designed physical spaces and home delivery options, accommodating different group needs and preferences. Moreover, their flagship locations, including the bustling Disneyland store, are equipped to handle large crowds, ensuring that even bigger groups can enjoy a seamless and comfortable experience. Whether you live near the West Coast or on the East Coast, Salt & Straw’s wide footprint makes it a go-to destination for social gatherings centered around unique ice cream enjoyment.
How does Salt & Straw engage groups with events and special experiences?
In addition to its daily ice cream offerings, Salt & Straw often hosts special events and curated experiences that are perfect for groups looking to deepen their engagement. These might include ice cream-making workshops where participants learn about the craft behind their favorite flavors, seasonal tasting parties that showcase new or limited-edition creations, and community collaborations that highlight local artisans or ingredients. Such events provide an interactive element to the visit, encouraging groups to bond over shared activities and new discoveries rather than just sitting and eating. Seasonal flavor launches often come with themed decor and staff-led explanations, creating a mini celebration around each scoop shared among friends or family. The brand’s emphasis on storytelling through ice cream flavors also means attendees can appreciate the culinary and cultural history behind each taste, enriching the group experience intellectually and emotionally. These thoughtful, engaging experiences make Salt & Straw an excellent venue for groups seeking more than just casual dessert, offering lasting memories and fun learning moments.
How does Salt & Straw’s customer service enhance group meetups?
Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of Salt & Straw’s reputation and significantly contributes to the success of group meetups. Staff are trained to be not only knowledgeable about the extensive and ever-changing menu of flavors but also warm, approachable, and patient—qualities that help guide groups through their choices and ensure everyone’s preferences are accommodated. The team’s enthusiasm for their craft and dedication to customer satisfaction often creates a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere. For groups, which may have varied tastes and dietary considerations, this personalized attention helps streamline the experience and minimize wait times. Friendly interactions with staff also contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable vibe, encouraging conversation and shared enjoyment. This level of service, combined with the artisanal quality of the ice cream itself, ensures that group visits to Salt & Straw feel special and well cared for, turning a simple outing into a cherished communal experience.
How does Salt & Straw incorporate sustainability in its group-friendly experience?
Salt & Straw’s commitment to sustainability adds an important dimension to group meetups, appealing to environmentally conscious guests and promoting responsible enjoyment. Through their annual Upcycled Food Series, the company creatively uses ingredients that would otherwise go to waste, such as date seeds or whey byproducts, transforming them into delicious and unique ice cream flavors. This initiative not only reduces food waste—over 40,000 pounds diverted since launch—but also educates the public about sustainable food practices in an accessible, delicious way. Groups visiting Salt & Straw can take pride in supporting a business that prioritizes environmental impact alongside culinary innovation. Additionally, the carefully designed packaging and shipping practices for their home delivery service incorporate eco-friendly materials such as kraft paper, aligning with broader sustainability values. For gatherings where guests often discuss shared values or want their activities to reflect their principles, Salt & Straw provides an ethical, eco-conscious backdrop that enhances the meetup experience beyond flavor alone.
What are some tips for hosting a successful meetup at Salt & Straw?
To get the most out of a group meetup at Salt & Straw, consider a few practical tips that optimize enjoyment and ease. First, plan ahead by checking the location’s hours and any special event schedules to time your visit when the store is lively but not overwhelmingly crowded. Using group tasting flights can be a great way for everyone to sample multiple flavors without overwhelming individual appetites, and it sparks shared conversation. Another idea is to encourage group members to try unusual flavors to keep things playful and adventurous. If your group is large, calling ahead or visiting during off-peak hours can help reduce wait times and secure ample seating. Also, don’t overlook Salt & Straw’s seasonal or special edition offerings, which add novelty and excitement to your visit. Finally, take advantage of the friendly staff’s knowledge—they can recommend flavor pairings and accommodate special dietary requests, ensuring that everyone from kids to ice cream aficionados has a great experience.
Salt & Straw is far more than an ice cream shop; it is a vibrant social destination known for its creative flavors, commitment to community, and welcoming atmosphere. Its combination of imaginative tasting experiences, group-friendly spaces, and ethical business practices makes it an unparalleled choice for hosting meetups with friends and family. Whether you want to share traditional favorites or embark on a flavor adventure, Salt & Straw offers a place where connections are strengthened and sweet memories are made.