When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Wanderlust Creamery
Why Wanderlust Creamery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wanderlust Creamery, founded in 2015 by Adrienne Borlongan and Jon-Patrick Lopez, is a standout ice cream parlor chain in Southern California celebrated for its unique, globally-inspired ice cream flavors. The creamery draws inspiration from world travel, creating artisanal ice cream that offers a taste journey across continents, with flavors like Japanese Neapolitan, Thai Tea, Ube Malted Crunch, Australian Pavlova, Hawaiian Toast + Guava Jam, and Koldstal. This innovation in flavors makes it a fantastic meeting place for friends eager to share and explore new tastes together. The shop's vibrant ambiance, including inviting seating arrangements such as those in their Old Pasadena location inside the artisanal Indiana Colony, offers the perfect setting to relax and watch street activity while indulging. Wanderlust Creamery's commitment to inclusivity shines through with dairy-free and vegan waffle cone options, accommodating various dietary preferences. Known for a friendly and helpful staff, the creamery encourages sampling multiple flavors before choosing, making every visit engaging and personalized. Their social media popularity and collaborations, such as limited edition releases inspired by Filipino culture and partnerships with notable personalities, further enrich the experience. This blend of creativity, quality, and atmosphere makes Wanderlust Creamery an excellent destination for friends to gather and enjoy adventurous ice cream flavors together.
Here's what people think of Wanderlust Creamery
As of recent, Wanderlust Creamery holds a 4.6-star rating based on 131 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Wanderlust Creamery for its innovative and bold flavor combinations that represent diverse global influences, making it an exciting place for ice cream enthusiasts. Customers appreciate the opportunity to sample multiple unique flavors before deciding, which enhances the tasting experience. Many highlight the quality and richness of flavors like spicy Mexican chocolate, passionfruit cacao, and quattro leches, noting their complexity and balance. The staff receive positive remarks for their friendliness and helpfulness, which adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, customers find value in the portion sizes and price points, which are seen as reasonable given the artisanal quality. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some reviews mention that the price may be higher than average ice cream shops, and a few suggest that the location and seating can sometimes be limited or basic. However, these minor drawbacks do not significantly detract from overall enjoyment. In conclusion, the reviews affirm that Wanderlust Creamery offers a unique and delightful ice cream experience that appeals to adventurous palates and provides a great social setting for friends looking to savor international flavors in a casual environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Billy Tu
I wanted to try food that I wouldn't be able to eat back home on the east coast, and wow - this is definitely it! I've never seen such cool flavors at an ice cream shop, and I really like how they write out what inspired them. For someone who's lactose intolerant like me, I am always curious to see what vegan options they have - and they have so many! I would say 5-6 flavors, which is about 5-6 more than average. The staff let me try as many flavors as I wanted, and I ended up splitting a mango rice cake and strawberry gin 50/50, although the amount they give is basically the equivalent of two scoops. Regardless, it was delicious and I'd definitely come back!
jumping out windows
Such a cute place! All the flavors were so unique, flavorful, and delicious! The server there was so kind and knowledgeable, telling us about the seasonal and popular flavors. In the end I got Vietnamese coffee and ube malt, and they were so yummy and not too sweet. The atmosphere of the place was also so nice, definitely coming back here.
Dr.Mohina S Kulkarni
This very nice screenery in the Japanese setup is the most in waiting. Yes, point for choices. We picked up the Japanese NE Put detan. Adam sau sau Rocky Road, the Pacific cost work very good. They have deals like 2 in 2 single together for each $75. The taste is fantastic and they are very unique and different from the normal ice creams. The service version was excellent and had a very customer of India. Attitude will visit again
Christina W.
There’s a good selection of flavors and they do allow sampling. We got a trio scoop and enjoyed our ice cream. There’s no indoor or outdoor seating, and you’re not allowed to eat inside. Love the selection of Asian-inspired flavors!
J L
Amazing Place. An ice cream store that makes custom Asian and international flavors. I had a Japanese Neapolitan (combining matcha, hojicha, and black sesame flavors), a Filipino Ube, and a Swedish vanilla raspberry. One of the choices is a three scoop sampler, smaller scoops allowing you to try multiple flavors. I will definitely be going back!
How to reach Wanderlust Creamery
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Why Wanderlust Creamery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Wanderlust Creamery with your friends? Wanderlust Creamery offers a uniquely memorable experience, perfect for social gatherings and group meetups. This exceptional ice cream shop draws inspiration from global flavors, allowing visitors to embark on a taste journey around the world without ever leaving their seats. What makes it especially appealing for groups is the chance to sample a wide variety of inventive flavors, sparking lively conversations and shared discoveries. Its welcoming atmosphere, combined with the excitement of tasting artisanal ice cream crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, creates an ideal setting for friends and family to connect over a shared love of food and adventure. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a fun outing, the vibrant, culturally inspired flavors encourage exploration and enjoyment together. The intriguing menu keeps each visit fresh and exciting, making Wanderlust Creamery a destination where groups can return repeatedly to experience new tastes and create lasting memories.
What activities does Wanderlust Creamery offer that make it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, the ice cream tasting experience itself is a key group activity. Wanderlust Creamery lets you try as many flavors as you want before committing, turning ice cream selection into a fun, interactive group activity. Sharing bites and discussing the various tastes — from creamy Ube Malted Crunch to spicy Fire & Blood sorbet — fosters a communal atmosphere, engaging everyone’s palate. In addition, Wanderlust’s rotating and seasonal flavors such as those inspired by Game of Thrones (“Game of Cones”) add excitement and exclusivity to a meetup, giving groups something special to look forward to. The unique global inspirations behind each flavor invite conversation about travel and culture, making it more than just an ice cream shop but an educational and sensory adventure. With several locations around Los Angeles, each with ample seating and a chic, inviting design, it’s conducive to long hangouts where friends or family can relax and savor their treats at leisure.
Why is Wanderlust Creamery’s flavor variety a big draw for groups? The wide range of flavors, many inspired by international cuisines and ingredients, offers something for every palate. From sweet, creamy profiles like The White to bold and spiced compositions such as the Smoky Road or the tart Children of the Forest Fruits, the variety ignites curiosity and encourages mix-and-match tasting. Groups love being able to sample internationally influenced flavors like Catalonian olive oil with chocolate-dipped baguette or Thai Tea, which offer an adventurous twist on conventional ice cream. This diversity means that whether you're a fan of fruity, nutty, spicy, or rich desserts, everyone finds options that delight them. Moreover, the ability to try endless samples before choosing fosters a low-pressure, inclusive vibe perfect for groups with differing tastes. People enjoy the novelty of trying carefully researched ingredients from places ranging from Vietnam to Iceland, reinforcing Wanderlust Creamery as the perfect backdrop to share new experiences with friends.
How does the ambiance and location contribute to its group appeal? Wanderlust Creamery’s design is modern yet warm, with thoughtful touches that reflect its globe-trotting inspiration. The spacious layout allows group gatherings to feel comfortable without overcrowding. Many locations, including Venice and Atwater Village, are nestled in vibrant neighborhoods, making it convenient for friends planning a full day out. The shops blend a creative, worldly aesthetic with friendly, welcoming service, which is critical for relaxed social meetups. While some reviews note variability in customer service, many guests praise the friendly atmosphere, especially when the staff are fully engaged and ready to share the story behind each flavor. Ample seating and a clean, Instagram-worthy environment also make it ideal for groups who enjoy not just eating but also capturing moments together. Additionally, the combination of high-quality artisan ice cream and an expertly curated atmosphere elevates casual meetups to a more memorable outing.
What makes Wanderlust Creamery an experience beyond just dessert? At its core, Wanderlust Creamery offers more than ice cream—it provides a cultural and sensory journey. Each flavor comes with a backstory tied to a country or concept that invites exploration and conversation. This makes it an educational experience, especially fun for groups who appreciate travel or global cuisine. Seasonal themed offerings, like those inspired by Game of Thrones, add a pop culture layer, appealing to fans and enhancing the sense of occasion. The shop's dedication to using fresh ingredients and crafting each flavor meticulously ensures the highest quality, which groups recognize and appreciate. By combining artisanal food craft with imaginative international flair, Wanderlust creates a gathering place where people celebrate curiosity, creativity, and connection. This makes it a vibrant locale where meeting up is not only about enjoying a treat but about sharing stories, sparking curiosity, and building community around a beloved indulgence.
How can celebrating occasions at Wanderlust Creamery enhance group experiences? Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or casual catch-up, hosting a meetup at Wanderlust Creamery adds an element of fun and discovery. The opportunity to explore distinct and rare flavors together turns a simple outing into a shared adventure, strengthening bonds as everyone discusses preferences and reactions. The fact that the shop is well-regarded with a strong 4.6 rating from over 130 reviews speaks to its reliability as a quality destination for food lovers. For those who love novelty, the rotating menu and special seasonal flavors, including vegan and dairy-free options, cater to diverse dietary needs, ensuring no one feels left out. Small groups can leisurely enjoy their cones or cups while larger ones can take advantage of the ample space and vibrant atmosphere to celebrate in style. The experience of collectively tasting an internationally inspired menu creates lasting memories that transcend the usual ice cream run.
Why is Wanderlust Creamery a great choice for families and kids? Despite some mixed reviews about service, many families find Wanderlust Creamery to be a child-friendly destination due to the wide-ranging, imaginative flavors that appeal to younger palates and foster excitement. The approachable pricing for sampling multiple flavors encourages kids and adults alike to experiment and find their favorites without pressure. This exploratory tasting approach makes dessert time playful and special. The shop's use of fresh ingredients and natural flavors also assures parents a level of quality often missing from typical ice cream chains. Plus, the vibrant, colorful presentation and waffle cones add a layer of fun that kids enjoy visually as much as with taste. The venue’s atmosphere, particularly in its more spacious locations, allows families to relax and share both the joy of ice cream and meaningful time together in a casual setting.
How does Wanderlust Creamery support repeat visits and long-term customer loyalty for groups? The constant rotation of flavors and the global inspirations behind each season’s menu make Wanderlust a place people want to return to regularly. Groups of friends or family find it exciting to plan visits based on new flavor launches, turning ice cream outings into a recurring social ritual. The seasonal and themed flavors—like the “Game of Cones” lineup inspired by popular culture and exotic ingredients—keep the menu dynamic and newsworthy. This continual reinvention ensures that each visit offers something novel, encouraging customers to bring others along to share the latest tastes. Wanderlust also offers vegan and dairy-free options, broadening its appeal and making it accessible to groups with diverse dietary needs. Through quality, creativity, and continuous novelty, Wanderlust Creamery creates an environment where groups feel confident and eager to meet repeatedly, turning casual indulgence into a beloved tradition.
In what ways does Wanderlust Creamery balance artisanal craftsmanship and accessibility for groups? Wanderlust Creamery’s commitment to making every flavor fresh and carefully crafted is balanced by an inviting, approachable experience that suits both ice cream connoisseurs and casual visitors. The option to taste unlimited samples removes hesitation and makes the experience inclusive, ideal for groups where tastes vary widely. While the pricing is somewhat premium, many guests feel the quality and unique flavor profiles justify the cost, making it a worthwhile treat when gathering with loved ones. The inventive flavor combinations reflect expertise in food science and culinary creativity, elevating the standard ice cream outing into something artisanal and educational. At the same time, the casual shop environment and friendly service model promote accessibility and warmth, ensuring that even first-time visitors or larger, less formal groups feel welcomed and valued during their experience.
Overall, Wanderlust Creamery stands out as a premier destination where groups of friends and family can celebrate ice cream in a way that is both delicious and culturally enriching. With its broad and dynamic selection of globally inspired flavors, welcoming ambiance, and thoughtful approach to group interaction, it offers a unique venue ideal for socializing, sharing memories, and discovering new tastes together. Whether you’re looking to dive into adventurous flavors, enjoy a relaxing setting, or host a special occasion, Wanderlust Creamery delivers an exceptional and repeat-worthy experience for any group meetup.