Swensen's Ice Cream San Francisco

Same corner since '48

Marcus from San Francisco

""Swensen's Ice Cream" in San Francisco hasn't changed since 1948. It's the chain's first store and I sill buy bulk ice cream here when I'm in the area..."

Swensen's really is a throwback. It's been dominating the same corner of Hyde Street since 1948, and from the way people frequent it, isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Swensen's, now a global chain, started in SF on this corner and consistently churns out a top-notch lineup of flavors. It's right on a pretty cool stretch of Hyde Street, where the trees overhead arch to create sort of a tunnel. Adding to the uniqueness is the cable car line that occupies the road, making Swensen's an ideal stop.

I can't say I buy bulk ice cream from too many places, but I do from here. It's not often that I find myself in the area so when I do, I make it a point to stock up. The flavors are really creative; often times they're something you wouldn't expect. But somehow they make even the most far-fetched flavor pairings work.

If you come here, take the cable car. Or, on the flipside, if you're taking the cable car, get off here. It's worth a stop even if it means waiting to catch the next car (which will most likely be less crowded than the one you're on anyways).

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San Francisco Spotter Marcus

About me I'm an SF native and have lived here since forever. I enjoy exploring, both within the city limits and around the area, specifically for places off the beaten path. I grew up near the Haight-Ashbury district and accordingly have developed a passion for the city's colorful music scene. I picked up playing guitar at age 6 and have continued to this day. I am currently in a band with some friends and we sometimes play at various small music venues around the city. Through music, both by attending concerts and performing, I've discovered a whole other layer to the city, one that is...

About this spot

Hyde Street 1999

Small scoop:

US$

Website

4157756818

Oct 10, 2025

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