As the Bay Area finally starts to warm up, it’s time to shift our diets to seasonally appropriate fare like tomatoes, corn and–of course–ice cream. Here’s our guide to ice cream options in Berkeley, Oakland and Emeryville, highlighting four relatively new places that offer exciting, non-traditional ice cream options. Not interested in branching out from the classics? We’ve also included a list of other nearby ice cream spot, so you can pick one that matches your preferences (plus, don’t miss our old list for other East Bay shops). We’ve tried to be as comprehensive as we can, but if we missed your favorite spot, let us know.
Every weekday around noon, Emeryville’s Public Market is flooded with crowds of hungry office workers, their key cards swinging from lanyards as they choose between ramen, sushi or sandwiches. Now, those hordes have a new option for dessert. Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery, from owners Ari and Andrew Cohen, opened its second location there in March, with a cheery staff serving up their cashew-based ice cream from a zhooshed-up shipping container. A sign informs you that it’s dairy-free, additive-free, vegan, gluten-free, soy-free and organic, but lest that scare you off, let me reassure you that this ice cream isn’t just good for vegans, it’s good, period. It’s full-bodied and rich, with none of the watery grittiness of other dairy-free ice creams. Their roasted cashew flavor had a deep, sweet flavor from the roasted nuts, while their mocha chip was creamy and decadent.
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery (Flagship store is in Albany)
5959 Shellmound St. [Map]
Emeryville, CA 94608
Ph: (510) 350-8171
Hours: Mon-Sat, 11am-9pm; Sun, 11am-8pm
Facebook: Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery & Frozen Desserts
Twitter: @MrDewies
Instagram: @mrdewies
Yelp: Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery
Price range: $ (Entrees $10 and under)