Taking advantage of the proximity of the coastal Marin and Sonoma milk shed, local ice cream makers are keeping things cool. On a hot day, these spots are tops.
Fairfax Scoop
In downtown Fairfax (pictured), the Martin family opened this modest business (the shop is only seven feet wide) 14 years ago. Known for its handmade organic ice cream with unique flavors like toasted hazelnut and vanilla honey lavender, this creamery often draws crowds that pour out into the street. 63 Broadway Blvd (Fairfax), 415.453.3130
Honeymoon Brand
Started three years ago by David Young, Honeymoon Ice Cream has several aspects that set it apart. The milk comes solely from the Jersey breed of cows, making it high in protein, vitamins and minerals, and everything that goes into the ice cream — from the jams to the biscuits — is made from scratch. 34 Miller Ave (Mill Valley), honeymoonbrands.com
Silbermann’s
The origin of Silbermann’s goes back to 1966 when Alfred and Ilse Silbermann took over a Swensen’s Ice Cream store in the Northgate mall. In 1989, their son (and the current owner) Curtis incorporated the family name into the store’s title. It’s an ideal spot for a hot afternoon: enjoy classics like banana splits in one of the booths or take one of the treats to go. 96 Northgate One (San Rafael), silbermanns.com
Three Twins Ice Cream
Neal Gottlieb started Three Twins Ice Cream in San Rafael 11 years ago, on a mission to make delicious and affordable ice cream using organic ingredients only. Today, flavors like strawberry balsamic vinegar and lemon cookie are widely loved and recognized. 2231 Larkspur Landing Circle (Larkspur), 631 Del Ganado Road (San Rafael), threetwinsicecream.com
Woody’s Yogurt Place
Michael Woodson (Woody) has owned and operated this popular destination since 1998. Here you can find a broad assortment of cool goods ranging from gluten-free ice cream to Mr. Smith’s Frozen Custard, in addition to plenty of classic flavors. 802 Strawberry Village (Mill Valley), woodysyogurtplace.com
Kasia Pawlowska loves words. A native of Poland, Kasia moved to the States when she was seven. The San Francisco State University creative writing graduate went on to write for publications like the San Francisco Bay Guardian and KQED Arts among others prior to joining the Marin Magazine staff. Topics Kasia has covered include travel, trends, mushroom hunting, an award-winning series on social media addiction and loads of other random things. When she’s not busy blogging or researching and writing articles, she’s either at home writing postcards and reading or going to shows. Recently, Kasia has been trying to branch out and diversify, ie: use different emojis. Her quest for the perfect chip is never-ending.
