Ice Cream Culture in Costa Mesa
Few treats capture the Southern California lifestyle quite like ice cream. In Costa Mesa, where warm weather lasts most of the year, a cone or cup is a natural way to cool off after shopping, a day at the beach, or an evening stroll. The local ice cream scene has evolved far beyond classic vanilla and chocolate, embracing small-batch production, global flavors, and inventive presentations.
Orange County has also been the birthplace of several popular ice cream concepts, many of which have expanded across the country. Combined with nationally celebrated artisan brands, Costa Mesa residents enjoy a remarkable variety of frozen desserts within easy reach.
How We Selected These Brands
We evaluated ice cream brands on flavor creativity, ingredient quality, texture, consistency, customer experience, and accessibility to Costa Mesa residents through local shops and retailers.
The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands for Costa Mesa
1. Afters Ice Cream
Afters Ice Cream was founded in Orange County and became famous for its Milky Bun, a warm glazed doughnut filled with ice cream. Its bold flavors, such as Cookie Monster and Cereal Killer, appeal to adventurous dessert lovers and have made Afters a local icon.
2. Salt and Straw
Salt and Straw is known for chef-driven flavors that celebrate local ingredients and seasonal inspiration. Its rotating menus feature unexpected combinations, such as honey lavender and sea salt with caramel ribbons, making every visit an opportunity to discover something new.
3. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Handel's offers classic, rich ice cream made fresh daily in each shop. With dozens of flavors and generous scoops, it has become a favorite gathering spot for Orange County families looking for a traditional ice cream parlor experience.
4. Creamistry
Creamistry, founded in Orange County, creates made-to-order ice cream using liquid nitrogen. The dramatic preparation is entertaining to watch, and the rapid freezing produces exceptionally smooth texture. Customers can customize bases, flavors, and toppings for a personalized treat.
5. McConnell's Fine Ice Creams
McConnell's, from nearby Santa Barbara, has been making ice cream from scratch for decades using milk from local grass-grazed cows. Its pints are widely available in Southern California markets, and flavors like Eureka Lemon and Marionberries are beloved for their purity and richness.
6. Hans' Homemade Ice Cream
Hans' Homemade Ice Cream has served Orange County for decades with old-fashioned, small-batch flavors. Its nostalgic atmosphere and loyal customer base make it a cherished local tradition, especially for families who have visited across generations.
7. Coolhaus
Coolhaus is a Southern California brand famous for architecture-inspired ice cream sandwiches and inventive flavors. Its products are sold in grocery stores and specialty shops, offering a fun and stylish treat for ice cream fans.
8. Van Leeuwen
Van Leeuwen is known for its French-style ice cream made with extra egg yolks for a dense, creamy texture. It also offers an impressive range of vegan flavors, making it a strong choice for guests with dietary preferences.
9. Kansha Creamery
Kansha Creamery is an Orange County shop specializing in Japanese-inspired flavors such as matcha, black sesame, and yuzu. Its refined approach and premium ingredients deliver subtle, balanced flavors that stand apart from typical ice cream shops.
10. Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins has been a household name for generations, and its Southern California roots run deep. Known for its wide variety of flavors and ice cream cakes, it remains a convenient and dependable choice for celebrations and everyday treats.
Ice Cream Trends in 2026
Global and culturally inspired flavors continue to grow in popularity, with ingredients like ube, mango chili, horchata, and pandan appearing on menus. Plant-based ice creams made from oat, coconut, and almond milk are improving in texture and flavor, attracting both vegan and dairy-loving customers.
Experiential desserts, such as liquid nitrogen preparation and creative hybrid treats, are also popular because they offer entertainment and shareable moments. Many brands now highlight local and sustainable ingredients as part of their identity.
Tips for Enjoying Ice Cream in Costa Mesa
Visit shops in the evening when the weather cools and the atmosphere becomes lively. Ask for samples before choosing, especially at artisan shops with rotating flavors. For parties and events, consider ordering pints or ice cream cakes in advance. If you have dietary restrictions, look for shops that clearly label vegan, dairy-free, and allergen information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand offers the most unique flavors? Salt and Straw, Afters, and Kansha Creamery are known for creative and unexpected flavor combinations.
Are there vegan ice cream options? Yes. Van Leeuwen, Salt and Straw, and several other brands offer dairy-free flavors made with plant-based milks.
Which is best for celebrations? Baskin-Robbins and Handel's are popular for ice cream cakes and party orders, while pints from artisan brands make excellent gifts.
Final Thoughts
Costa Mesa's ice cream scene is as sunny and diverse as the city itself. From Orange County originals to celebrated artisan brands, the ice cream makers on this list offer flavors and experiences that make every scoop a small celebration.