Craving a scoop of ice cream now that the weather is warmer? Here are four of our favorite ice cream shops with good vibes and great flavors. 

At Walnut Village Center, you’ll find a sweet new addition: Wanderlust Creamery. As the first location in Orange County, Wanderlust Creamery brings innovative flavors to the Irvine community. Seasonal and signature choices such as “Yuzu Creamsicle” and “Sticky Rice + Mango” will have you coming back for more – and you can taste the freshness of the ingredients!

Afters Ice Cream is an icon of Southern California, with locations in Westcliff Plaza and Irvine Spectrum Center. Stop by for a taste of the summery “Strawberry Cookie Crunch” or indulge in a cup of the classic “Milk and Cereal.” With a rotating menu and a hip environment, you’ll feel cool in more ways than one when you visit an Afters location. 

Saffron & Rose, located at Campus Plaza in Irvine, has a lane of its own with its family-owned and operated Persian ice cream. Luxurious ingredients and a velvety texture are signature to Saffron & Rose. From the simple sweetness of “Date” and “Pink Rose” to the complex creation of “Saffron Pistachio,” a trip to Saffron & Rose is an experience like no other. 

Ice cream fanciers, heads up. According to National Geographic’s The 10 Best of Everything list, the world’s best ice cream is now being scooped in Irvine at Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. Since 1945, Handel’s ice cream is made fresh daily on-site with the best ingredients available. With over 45 flavors served daily, you’ll find everything from classic Vanilla to more decadent options as well as seasonal favorites.