Saffron & Rose Persian Ice Cream

Persian ice cream is fantastic – thickened using gum arabic or a similar additive to become unnaturally stretchy – and Saffron & Rose isn’t just the best place to experience it yourself; it’s one of OC’s best ice cream shops, period. Even if the texture wasn’t as compelling as it was, we’d return frequently for their particularly excellent renditions of classic flavors, including rich dark chocolate and walnuts, bold French espresso coffee, chip-heavy mint chip, or a butterscotchy caramel crunch, as well as unique options that are hard if not impossible to find anywhere else in the county.

Some of these flavors are inspired by ingredients commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisines: Their signature yellow saffron pistachio is a true standout, as are gentle lavender and pink rose flavors, orange blossom, and coconut. If you love hazelnuts (and who doesn’t?), their Nutella ice cream is also a treat. Sorbets are also available, including seasonal and always-available fruit flavors (passion fruit!), mild options such as cucumber, and the particularly distinctive Faloodeh, a Persian ice cream alternative made with thin rice noodles and rosewater. If you try the Faloodeh, an acquired taste, make sure to seek out one of Saffron & Rose’s lime juice bottles – a quick squeeze brightens up its flavor.