Pampas Helados Argentinos

Recommended by @monstermunching_oc, this Argentinean “helado” parlor in Aliso Viejo will remind serious local ice cream fans of Irvine’s Persian specialty shop Saffron & Rose: Straight out of their freezer, Pampas ice creams are atypically creamy and almost stretchy, akin to a sandwich spread in texture. Even if the flavors weren’t strong, texture alone would really benefit their outstanding dulce de leches (go with the chocolate chip-laden granizado version) and rich chocolates (including one with alfajor cookies), which taste powerfully intense compared with most other caramel or chocolate ice creams you’ll find locally.

Other flavors sound exotic but don’t stand out as much in flavor. “Pure” pistachio, tiramisu, and a coffee (with “touch of cognac”) were all pretty good but not stellar, especially compared with Saffron’s versions. Thankfully, you can sample before you commit to any scoop, and you should; a three-scoop cup goes for $10.50. Pampas also sells Argentinean cookies, cakes, shakes, pet pops, and coffee for those who are looking for them.