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 a celebrated ice cream company known for its imaginative and unique flavors that invite customers to experience innovative taste combinations. Founded in 2011 by Kim Malek with a humble ice cream cart in Portland, Oregon, Salt & Straw has grown into a national presence with over 20 locations including a spot at Disneyland, embodying the spirit of creativity and community connection. This business excels at creating an inviting space where friends and families can meet, savor exceptional handmade ice cream, and share memorable experiences. Their menu features standout flavors such as Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, Honey Lavender, and more experimental offerings like Space Cookies & Cream Hazy IPA. Salt & Straw’s dedication to locally sourced, high-quality ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship makes it a favorite destination for ice cream lovers seeking something more than the ordinary. The brand’s continuous expansion beyond Portland to cities like Los Angeles, Miami, and Pasadena demonstrates its widespread appeal. Visiting any Salt & Straw location promises a lively atmosphere and an opportunity to indulge in thoughtfully curated flavors that foster community and shared enjoyment.
Here's what people think of Salt & Straw
As of recent, Salt & Straw holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2904 reviews.
Customer reviews emphasize Salt & Straw’s exceptional flavor creativity and high quality, which consistently draw repeat visitors and long lines. Many praise the artisanal approach and the ability to sample before choosing, helping each guest find their perfect scoop. Positive reviews highlight the inventive flavor combinations, such as sweet potato casserole and bourbon-smoked cherries, and the use of fresh, local ingredients that set Salt & Straw apart from typical ice cream shops. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the staff’s friendliness, which contribute to the overall pleasant experience despite the relatively higher prices. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus primarily on the cost, considering it pricey compared to other ice cream options, especially in tourist-heavy locations like Disney parks. A few mention wait times during busy periods and occasional disappointment when certain experimental flavors do not suit their taste. However, these critiques are generally outweighed by the positive feedback, affirming Salt & Straw’s reputation for quality and innovation. Overall, reviews reflect a strong customer base that values the brand’s unique approach and the joy of sharing exceptional ice cream flavors with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shreya R
Salt & Straw NEEDS to keep opening locations nationwide. The dairy-free flavors they offer here are absolutely phenomenal and taste just as great as they sound! Furthermore, true to their name, the pointed presence of some sort of salt in their ice creams makes their sweet flavors shine so brightly. Literally so delicious!
Aileen P.
As a self-proclaimed professional ice cream connoisseur, there is nothing better than Salt & Straw, especially when it comes to ice cream chains. You have quality ingredients, unique flavor combos, and classic menu items that delight all ages, taste buds, and even the most picky eaters. We live in Vegas, so during our Seattle trip, we made a point to visit the Capitol Hill location to celebrate National Ice Cream Day! We ordered the chocolate brownie and cookie dough, and everything was perfect.
Lily Mai
So many interesting flavors! I really enjoyed the strawberry made with coconut water and the lavender - also a good combo. Nice area to walk around in, but you can also enjoy indoors since they have seating.
Bernie Katzroy
Popped into this place on the suggestion of my friend who I stayed with while visiting Seattle. Some of the best local ice cream I've ever had. Wildflower honey & lemon chess pie is one of my new top 10 ice cream flavors. Can't wait to go again.
Richard L
They allow samples. Tried the lemon cheese pie (very cheesy), cinnamon snickerdoodle (very cinnamon-y) and honey lavender. I love the honey lavender - it's my go-to. It's perfectly floral without being too overwhelming or sweet. I don't like honey a lot, but it doesn't have a strong honey taste. $6.50 for a small cup.
How to reach Salt & Straw
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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 you gather your friends for a memorable outing, Salt & Straw offers an unparalleled experience that perfectly blends adventure, community, and exceptional flavor. More than just an ice cream shop, Salt & Straw is a vibrant social hub where creativity in every scoop invites conversation and shared delight. Their unique approach to ice cream—crafting eclectic, imaginative flavors that go beyond the ordinary—means every visit is an opportunity to explore tastes that surprise and excite. From sweet potato casserole to bone marrow and bourbon-smoked cherries, their inventive flavors spark curiosity and fun debates among groups eager to try something new. The warm, welcoming atmosphere evokes a genuine sense of togetherness, where you’re not just sharing ice cream, but moments. Rooted deeply in community values since its founding in Portland, the company has expanded with a commitment to maintaining that local close-knit feel, making it an ideal place for friends and family to connect. Whether you’re catching up, celebrating, or simply enjoying a spontaneous treat, Salt & Straw creates the perfect setting to rally your group and create lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Salt & Straw that make it perfect for group meetups?
Salt & Straw is designed to be a social experience, offering far more than just ice cream. One of the main activities is sampling their rotating selection of imaginative flavors, which encourages groups to share tastes and discover new favorites together. The company often introduces limited-time and experimental flavors, sometimes using upcycled or locally sourced ingredients, so there's always something fresh to spark excitement. This tasting experience becomes an interactive adventure, ideal for groups who love to discuss food culture and creativity. Beyond tasting, many locations have cozy seating areas that foster conversation and linger-worthy moments. Some stores also host special events and collaborative flavor launches, turning visits into celebrations and opportunities to engage with the brand’s community spirit. For larger groups, Salt & Straw can be a spot to celebrate birthdays, reunions, or casual meetups, with options for catering or customized orders that add a personal touch. The brand’s playful packaging and artisanal presentation also make it perfect for photo ops that friends love to share on social media, enhancing the joy of gathering.
Why is Salt & Straw's atmosphere ideal for spending quality time with friends or family?
Salt & Straw’s atmosphere is a unique blend of artisanal charm and casual comfort that invites guests to relax and savor their experience. The company originated in Portland, known for its vibrant community culture, and this spirit of connection translates directly into the store environment. The spaces typically emphasize handcrafted décor and intimate layouts conducive to conversation. This close-knit vibe encourages guests to slow down and enjoy each other’s company while indulging in unexpected ice cream flavors. The staff contribute significantly to this welcoming environment, often sharing the stories behind each flavor’s creation, deepening the sense of connection between the customer and the food. For groups, this means more than a quick scoop; it’s an immersive social outing where every detail—from ingredient sourcing to flavor storytelling—helps create a memorable bonding experience. This ambiance makes Salt & Straw a cherished destination for casual get-togethers as well as special occasions.
How does Salt & Straw cater to diverse tastes within a group setting?
One of Salt & Straw’s standout qualities is its commitment to catering to diverse palates in a single visit. The menu is known for its inventive variety, offering traditional favorites alongside intriguing, seasonal, and experimental flavors that appeal to adventurous eaters. This diversity means no one in your group will feel left out, regardless of whether they prefer classic ice cream or crave unique tastes. They provide options that range from creamy and rich to dairy-free and innovative, accommodating dietary preferences and restrictions without sacrificing taste or creativity. Many locations offer scoops in multiple sizes and shareable pints, making it easy for groups to mix and match flavors. The rotating menu also means there’s always something new to try, encouraging repeat visits and lively debates among friends about which flavors stand out. By ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy, Salt & Straw becomes a natural gathering spot for groups with varied tastes.
What makes Salt & Straw’s flavor creativity a conversation starter for meetups?
Salt & Straw thrives on its reputation for boundary-pushing flavors that are as much art as food. Its founders took inspiration from local food traditions and pushed the limits of conventional ice cream with bold combinations like roasted strawberry with toasted white chocolate, maple pecans, and even savory touches like bone marrow infused varieties. This fearless creativity makes every visit a topic of conversation, inviting groups to debate flavor profiles, guess ingredients, and share reactions—from delight to surprise. The company also runs an Upcycled Food Series, using ingredients that might otherwise be wasted, which adds a layer of sustainability and storytelling to the tasting experience. This dedication to innovative flavors is not just about novelty but about telling food stories and celebrating culinary craft, providing rich conversation material that helps friends bond over something truly special. It’s no surprise that Salt & Straw’s cult following keeps growing, fueled by the social nature of exploring deliciously unexpected tastes together.
How has Salt & Straw’s community focus enhanced its appeal for group gatherings?
Since its founding in 2011, Salt & Straw has prioritized building a community-centered brand. Originating in Portland—a city proud of its entrepreneurial and close-knit ethos—the company envisioned its shops as places where neighbors could come together and build connections. This community focus is evident in many aspects of the business, from sourcing local ingredients and collaborating with local artisans to hosting events that bring people together around food and creativity. The founders intentionally designed their shops to be welcoming spaces that foster interaction, so every visit feels inclusive and engaging. For groups looking to host meetups, this community-driven spirit means a friendly atmosphere and meaningful engagement beyond just eating dessert. Salt & Straw also supports sustainability initiatives, appealing to socially conscious groups who appreciate gathering in spaces that align with their values. This local and ethical commitment resonates strongly with customers and makes Salt & Straw more than an ice cream destination—it becomes a community anchor perfect for group bonding.
Why is Salt & Straw an excellent venue for special occasions or celebrations with friends and family?
Salt & Straw’s combination of creative flavors, inviting ambiance, and community ethos makes it an ideal venue for marking special moments. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or a casual milestone, their artisanal ice cream adds a distinctive and joyful touch to the occasion. The visually appealing scoops and thoughtful presentations elevate it beyond a typical dessert stop. Many locations accommodate larger groups and can offer catering options or customized orders to tailor the experience. The excitement of sampling unique flavors together creates a sense of shared adventure that strengthens bonds and makes celebrations even sweeter. Additionally, the brand’s active engagement with food innovation and local partnerships allows for special event collaborations, making Salt & Straw a dynamic and festive choice for those wanting a fun and meaningful gathering spot. The rich tradition of storytelling through flavors also adds depth and relevance, helping make every celebration memorable.
In what ways does Salt & Straw’s expansion support its role as a premier meetup spot?
While Salt & Straw began as a humble pushcart in Portland, it has grown into a national phenomenon with over 20 locations across the United States, including vibrant cities like Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and even Disneyland. This widespread presence offers more people the opportunity to experience their unique ice cream and the community atmosphere they’ve fostered from the start. Each new location retains the brand’s signature intimate and welcoming vibe, making it a reliable, consistent choice for group outings regardless of geography. The brand’s thoughtful approach to expansion emphasizes operational excellence while maintaining the local feel, ensuring new teams are well-trained to uphold the Salt & Straw experience. For groups, this means a trustworthy venue that balances familiarity with whimsical flavor exploration, whether at a hometown shop or a destination location. Their national reach also means friends and family in different cities can share a common favorite spot for meetups, reinforcing the brand’s role as a social connector.
How does Salt & Straw’s commitment to sustainability add value for group gatherings?
Sustainability is a core part of Salt & Straw’s mission, which adds significant value for groups mindful of environmental impact. The company’s innovative Upcycled Food Series exemplifies this commitment by inviting customers to enjoy ice cream made from ingredients that would otherwise be wasted, such as date seed coffee substitutes and whey-based spirits. This not only reduces food waste but also creates unique and interesting flavors that prompt discussions among friends about food ethics and creativity. Knowing that your group outing contributes to supporting sustainable practices enhances the overall experience and enjoyment. Moreover, Salt & Straw’s use of natural, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible aligns the joy of indulgence with responsible consumption. This ethical dimension resonates with many modern consumers, making Salt & Straw not just a delicious choice, but a conscious one perfect for friends and family who want their social time to reflect their values.
What amenities and services does Salt & Straw offer to ensure a smooth group meetup?
Salt & Straw locations are designed to accommodate varying group sizes comfortably, with spacious seating and a layout that encourages social interaction. The staff are trained to provide personalized and engaging service, often introducing visitors to the stories behind flavors and helping groups navigate the menu to find perfect pairings. Many shops offer shareable pints and variety packs, ideal for groups who want to sample multiple flavors without overwhelming individual servings. Additionally, the company supports catering and special orders for larger groups or events, making it seamless to include Salt & Straw in celebrations. The option to order online for pick-up or delivery also adds convenience, allowing groups to plan meetups with less hassle. By combining thoughtful service, flexible options, and inviting spaces, Salt & Straw ensures every group gathering is as smooth and enjoyable as the ice cream itself.
In sum, Salt & Straw stands out as a top-tier destination for group meetups because it offers not just incredible ice cream but a rich experience of flavor exploration, community connection, and conscious enjoyment. Whether looking for a casual spot to chill or a unique venue for a celebration, this beloved brand provides everything you need to rally your friends or family and make every moment together truly special.