Best Ice Cream Spots: Bi-Rite Creamery
By the Food Editorial Team
Tucked away towards the end of 18th Street in the Missions district of San Francisco is a place where long lines are the norm. Regardless of what time of year it is, the line exists and it exists for one reason - ice cream.
Bi-Rite Creamery was founded in 2006 as a part of the Bi-Rite family of businesses (which started with Bi-Rite Market in 1940). They make baked goods from cakes, pies, puddings, pastries, granola, and breads year-round with organic flour and sugar; with a changing menu that reflects each season as well as holiday traditions. However, they also made fresh ice cream with recipes from scratch. It really is that ice cream that keeps people coming back for more.
Since it's still winter time, their seasonal menu includes Earl Grey and organic Orange Cardamom ice creams to take advantage of the California citrus harvests. We opted for a mix of the classic Rose, Early Grey, and Birthday Cake.
First off, all three flavors were delicious. The "Rose" had the perfect amount of rose flavor but did nothing to overpower the fact that it's still in the form of ice cream. It did not taste like eating oses . The "Early Grey" was had only a hint of earl grey, which while very enjoyable, for earl grey lovers, could definitely use a stronger amount.
"Rose" on top and "Earl Grey" on the bottom all in a classic Sugar Cone.
The favorite of the three was most definitely "Birthday Cake". Mixed with bits of chocolate cake, sprinkles, and vanilla ice cream, this was the perfect blend and definitely not for someone who wants a lighter experience. It really packed in the flavor.
"Earl Grey" on top and "Birthday Cake" on the bottom in a classic Sugar Cone.
We also want to give a special shout out to the sugar cone. Many times at ice cream shops, you can the quality of the cone is something that many forget about. Bi-Rite's sugar cones were fresh and on point.
Next time you're in San Francisco, definitely take some time to visit Bi-Rite Creamery. and get in line. It'll be worth the wait!