Mitchell’s, has been a Mission District ice cream shop since the 1950s.

It is usually bustling with locals coming to grab gallons of their favorite flavors and tourists checking out the unique options. It was first recommended to us by a local, and it quickly became one of our San Francisco favorites.

Mitchell’s boasts a large selection of house-made flavors (they claim to make 400 gallons a day). With an extensive list of flavors, everyone in your group is bound to find one they like, if not more. They have all the classics as well as some unique flavors like purple yam, horchata, and avocado. They also have sundaes and shakes. According to their website, most flavors are gluten free and don’t contain eggs.

The hard thing here is that they’re not set up for you to try many flavors. Because it is so busy, servers expect you to know what you want when it’s your turn to order. You can try one or two flavors before ordering, so choose carefully.

Don’t expect this to be a quick experience! There is the same parking issue here as much of San Francisco: a few parking spots in the back and not much else. Because it is so busy, you will have to get a number and wait to be called. Make sure you are inside if you are there close to closing time, as they close the doors right at closing time, and if you’re outside you can’t get in even if you have a number. While you’re waiting, look around to read some of the history of their ice cream and business.

If you’re having dinner at the Front Porch around the corner - or anywhere nearby - this is a great option for dessert.

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