When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego 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 business that began in 2011 with a single pushcart in Portland, Oregon. What makes Salt & Straw a fantastic destination for meeting up with friends is not just its artisanal ice cream flavors, but also its deep roots in fostering community and togetherness. The founder, Kim Malek, envisioned the ice cream shop as a 'third place'—a welcoming space between home and work where neighbors, friends, and families could gather and connect. Salt & Straw is renowned for its imaginative and unique ice cream offerings, such as “Space Cookies & Cream Hazy IPA” and “Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper,” which creatively combine local and unexpected ingredients. The atmosphere at Salt & Straw locations combines the charm of a small business with innovative flavors and a focus on community spirit, all contributing to its popularity. From Portland to other cities across the country, including a location in Disneyland and its expansion to Miami, the company has remained committed to creating friendly, inviting spaces where people love to meet and enjoy exceptional ice cream together.
Here's what people think of Salt & Straw
As of recent, Salt & Straw holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2505 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise Salt & Straw for its inventive ice cream flavors and inviting atmosphere. Many users highlight the brand’s unique taste combinations and quality ingredients as major positives, which differentiate it from typical ice cream parlors. Patrons often mention the friendly and communal spirit of the businesses, reflective of founder Kim Malek’s vision of creating a neighborhood gathering spot. Positive reviews emphasize the welcoming environment and the joy of sharing unusual yet delicious flavors with friends and family. On the other hand, some negative reviews come from employees rather than customers, pointing out challenges such as difficult management, work-life balance issues, and limited advancement opportunities within the company. These critiques relate mostly to internal company culture rather than the customer experience itself. Overall, consumer feedback paints Salt & Straw as a beloved local and national ice cream favorite with a strong community orientation and delightful, creative flavors, even as employee reviews suggest areas for improvement behind the scenes.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jennifer Tretheway
MUST TRY!! Clean, friendly & delicious! They let you try any flavor (can try them all). Samples from small metal spoons allowing you to truly taste each one. Pictured in this review are “freckled mint chip” and a peanut butter chocolate option. Both happen to be vegan and coconut based. So sweet & savory! You will not be disappointed.
Monkey Around the World
Just wow! While the selection isn’t particularly large, this shop offered among the most unique ice cream flavors I’ve ever tasted! I highly recommend tasting a few flavors before selecting, as many of their flavors aren’t very sweet, but instead are savory.
Audrey Osburn
Very friendly service even when crazy busy 30mins before close. I like that the taster spoons are metal and returned. The ooey gooey brownie was exactly that, the salted malted cookie dough was also as described and delicious, and the pup cup was enjoyed by our beagle.
Lupita Martinez
Great ice cream & experience! Highly recommend. We received this recommendation from a local and she was not wrong. The ice cream was delicious, I appreciated the not overwhelming amount of choices, and waffle cones made on the spot! We highly recommend the Cinnamon Snickerdoodle (waffle cone) and the Chocolate Gooey Brownie (Salted Brownie Waffle Cone). Cute & great spot!
Jeff Cooperhouse
Always incredibly delicious ice cream at Salt & Straw. The Little Italy location delivers the same deliciousness. We love the cinnamon snickerdoodle, salted, malted chocolate chip cookie dough, and chocolate gooey brownie flavors. All the staff are really nice and the line moves quickly. Definitely recommend.
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? Imagine stepping into a vibrant, welcoming space where your taste buds embark on a delightful adventure with some of the most inventive ice cream flavors you'll ever encounter. Salt & Straw transforms the simple act of enjoying ice cream into a shared celebration of creativity, community, and joy. Founded in 2011 in Portland, Oregon, this artisan ice cream company has built a devoted following thanks to its unique flavors—like Bone Marrow & Bourbon Smoked Cherries or Honey Lavender—that are anything but ordinary. These carefully crafted combinations spark lively conversations and shared moments of discovery, making it an ideal destination for groups seeking something special. With a stellar 4.7 rating from over 2,500 reviews, Salt & Straw promises a consistent quality and memorable experience every visit. Whether reunions with old friends or casual family outings, the welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering treats naturally encourage connection and celebration. Salt & Straw doesn’t just serve ice cream; it creates a communal space that invites people to linger, laugh, and make memories together.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Salt & Straw with friends or family? Salt & Straw offers far more than delicious ice cream scoops; it’s a full sensory experience perfect for groups. First, there’s the ritual of sampling the imaginative flavors before deciding, which can spark playful debates and shared excitement. Many locations feature themed flavor launches or seasonal specials, turning each visit into a unique event. You can even personalize your taste by mixing and matching flavors, which adds a fun, interactive dimension to your meetup. Beyond tasting, many Salt & Straw shops are designed to be inviting social hubs, with comfortable seating areas where groups can gather around large tables or cozy booths. These environments encourage lingering conversations and photo opportunities that capture the fun moments. On special occasions, Salt & Straw sometimes hosts ice cream workshops or pairing events where groups can learn about flavor development or experiment with unconventional combinations. For families, the playful and curious environment means kids and adults alike can enjoy a shared adventure together.
Why is Salt & Straw the perfect place for a group meetup? Salt & Straw excels in creating a warm atmosphere that feels both upscale and approachable, making it a wonderful gathering spot. The company’s devotion to community is evident in every aspect—from the cooperative spirit behind its startup to its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. This focus translates into spaces designed to foster togetherness and connection. The layout and ambiance of each store encourage groups to comfortably gather without feeling rushed. Salt & Straw’s staff are known for their friendly and engaging service, adding a personalized touch that makes groups feel welcome and valued. The wide variety of flavors caters to diverse tastes within any group, enabling everyone to find something delightful. Additionally, many Salt & Straw locations are situated in lively neighborhoods or shopping districts, allowing meetups to extend beyond ice cream with nearby dining, shopping, or entertainment options, making the outing more dynamic and enjoyable for everyone.
What makes the ice cream flavors at Salt & Straw so special and memorable? Salt & Straw is renowned for pushing the boundaries of what ice cream can be. Their creative flavor development involves over 500 unique combinations crafted since the company’s inception, with an emphasis on bold, adventurous ingredients that challenge and excite the palate. Unlike conventional ice cream shops that focus on standard options, Salt & Straw experiments with flavors like Roasted Strawberry with Toasted White Chocolate or Sweet Potato Casserole that bring novel twists to traditional tastes. Many of these are inspired by local ingredients, seasonal produce, or even upcycled food items, reflecting the founders' dedication to sustainability. The ice creams are artisanal, made with top-quality ingredients and prepared with care to balance texture, flavor, and richness. This thoughtful approach makes each scoop not just dessert but an experience that sparks curiosity and conversation, perfect for sharing discovery moments with friends or family.
How does Salt & Straw embrace community and sustainability in its business? From its origins in Portland’s close-knit neighborhoods, Salt & Straw has woven community engagement deeply into its identity. The founders envisioned the ice cream shops as more than retail spaces—they are community gathering spots where neighbors connect and friendships grow. This ethos reflects in how the company sources ingredients locally and supports small-scale farmers, artisans, and producers. Furthermore, Salt & Straw has invested heavily in sustainable practices, such as its Upcycled Food Series, which creatively repurposes food waste like date seed coffee substitutes, diverting thousands of pounds from landfills. This commitment resonates with socially conscious consumers and adds meaning to every scoop. Events and collaborations with local chefs, flower growers, and other artisans encourage community participation and keep the flavors fresh and relevant. For groups, this means that visits to Salt & Straw offer not just indulgence but a chance to support an enterprise that values social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
Where can you find Salt & Straw shops and how accessible are they for group meetups? Since launching from a modest pushcart in Portland, Salt & Straw has expanded to over 20 locations across the United States, including major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Miami, and even an outlet at Disneyland. This wide geography makes it easy for groups across the country to access their artisanal ice cream experience. Locations are typically in vibrant urban areas or popular shopping districts, designed to attract foot traffic and foster a lively atmosphere. Many stores feature ample seating aimed at group comfort and usability, supporting various gathering sizes—from intimate family get-togethers to larger friend reunions. The brand’s presence in diverse locales also ensures that their menus often reflect regional flavors, creating a sense of local connection wherever you go. Additionally, Salt & Straw offers home delivery nationwide, which can be a great option for private group celebrations. Their growing footprint means that finding a nearby spot for a meetup isn’t difficult, encouraging shared memories around inventive ice cream wherever you are.
What makes the overall Salt & Straw experience ideal for making memories? The essence of Salt & Straw’s appeal lies not only in the quality of the ice cream but in the multi-layered sensory and social experience it provides. Families and friends come to enjoy the excitement of unusual flavors crafted with care, but they stay for the ambiance and conviviality. Thoughtful design, friendly service, and an ever-changing menu create a dynamic atmosphere that invites exploration and enjoyment. The space encourages slowing down and savoring moments together, promoting laughter, discovery, and connection. Whether celebrating a birthday, a casual weekend outing, or a special reunion, Salt & Straw’s welcoming environment makes these moments feel cherished. The shared experience of tasting unexpected flavor combinations and reacting together fosters bonds and memories that last well beyond the visit. In that way, Salt & Straw is not just a place to eat ice cream—it is a destination where friendships deepen and joy is amplified.
How does Salt & Straw keep the experience fresh for repeat visitors in a group? What keeps groups coming back to Salt & Straw is the brand’s continual reinvention of its menu and experience. Every month, Salt & Straw introduces new specialty flavors that align with creative themes—such as collaborations with local brewers or seasonal ingredients—that keep the offerings fresh and exciting. These limited-time options encourage groups to visit frequently to taste the latest innovations. Additionally, special events like tasting nights, flavor launch parties, or ice cream workshops provide immersive activities beyond simple scooping, adding layers of engagement to group visits. The company’s commitment to storytelling, sustainability, and community partnerships enriches the experience with meaningful context, sparking conversations and curiosity. For groups looking to try something different each time, Salt & Straw is a playground of flavor and comfort. This continuous evolution ensures that every outing with friends or family feels new, memorable, and full of delightful surprises.
Why do customers consistently rate Salt & Straw so highly? Salt & Straw’s outstanding 4.7 rating, based on over 2,500 reviews, speaks volumes about its excellence in product and experience. Reviewers regularly praise the exceptional quality of the ice cream—the creamy texture, balanced flavors, and craftsmanship that elevate every bite. The friendly and knowledgeable staff receive frequent mention for enhancing visits with helpful recommendations and warm service. Customers appreciate the inviting atmosphere that welcomes families, friends, and groups of all ages, making it a versatile venue for any casual occasion. The inventive and unique flavor palette excites adventurous eaters, with many delighted by the expertly curated menu that blends classic favorites with daring new tastes. Furthermore, Salt & Straw’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility resonates with customers who want their purchases to have a positive impact. Altogether, these factors create a consistently delightful experience that keeps patrons thrilled to return and recommend it as a prime meetup spot.
Salt & Straw offers an extraordinary fusion of innovative ice cream flavors, community spirit, and inviting ambiance that transforms a simple dessert stop into an occasion to remember. With its dedication to creativity, sustainability, and local connection, it proves itself to be the perfect place for friends and family to gather, laugh, taste, and celebrate together. Whether you are a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, a romp through Salt & Straw promises excitement and a welcoming embrace that every group can appreciate. There is no better place to rally your friends for a meetup that is as joyous as the ice cream is delicious.