Mitchell’s Ice Cream

What you need to know

Mitchell’s Ice Cream has been making ice cream at the corner of San Jose Avenue and 29th Street since June 6, 1953. Brothers Larry and Jack Mitchell opened it and built the business on tropical and Filipino-inspired flavors that reflected the changing neighborhood. The shop was the first in the Bay Area to introduce mango ice cream. Over 70 years later, the shop still operates from the same location, still family-owned, still making everything by hand.

The Food

Over 40 flavors rotate at any given time. Mango is the original and still one of the best. Ube (purple yam), lychee coconut, and macapuno (coconut sport) draw from Filipino traditions. Mexican chocolate is rich and spiced. The range runs from classic vanilla and strawberry to flavors you won’t find at any other shop in the city.

Pints are available to take home. Mitchell’s also supplies retailers throughout the Bay Area, but the shop is the real thing.

The Space

A neighborhood ice cream parlor in the simplest sense. Counter, freezer cases, and a line that stretches out the door on warm evenings. The corner location catches afternoon sun. The crowd is multigenerational.

Practical Info

Price: Scoops and sundaes at standard ice cream prices, pints available
Reservations: None. Line up and order.
Hours: Daily 11:30am to 11pm
Address: 688 San Jose Avenue, between the Mission and Bernal Heights
Getting there: J-Church Muni line stops nearby. Street parking usually available on San Jose Avenue.

📍 Location: This restaurant is in The Mission District. Explore the neighborhood →