Summer has finally arrived for San Francisco, and with two new ice cream purveyors looking to open shop, the ice cream train doesn't seem to be slowing down any time soon.
SoMa: Gelatipop
135 4th Street (between Mission and Howard streets)
We begin this week with several changes in SoMa, including Cako Creamery's closure inside the Metreon. Cako Creamery is an online bakery that specializes in cupcakes, mini cupcakes and macarons that can be customized.
Although shoppers may still see Cako Creamery's signage near the booth, tipster extraordinaire Al confirmed to Hoodline that Gelatipop is definitely taking over the space.
"Gelatipop specializes in gelato in the form of a popsicle," said Al. "You can CYO [create-your-own] or go house way with already pre-made [popsicles] in the freezer."
The business is based in Alameda. Al told us that the lease for Gelatipop's location at 2228B South Shore Center was up in May, and the owner was looking for someone take over the empty space. He added that the owner "would like to move the whole operation to Metreon, if given a choice."
The pops come in a variety of flavors, including vanilla, pineapple sorbet, strawberry lemonade and others for $3.65 to $3.80 each. Cupcakes, macarons, cake pop and infused fruit teas are also available.
If you're not feeling any of the flavors on display, choose from an assortment of dipping sauces and toppings to create your own.
SoMa: Juice Craze
865 Market Street
At Westfield Centre, Al said 'Juice Craze,' which was located in the basement in front of Pacsun, has closed.
The juice shop took over Napoleon's Macarons empty booth this past May, and shut down after only four months. It used to offer freshly squeezed juices to customers for $5 to $6 a glass.
"They had been closed for over two weeks with no notice to the public," said Al. "Today, signs went up that the next exciting retailer is coming in, though I don't know the name or what new business offering [will be coming in] just yet."
SoMa: Icicles
829 Mission Street (between 4th and 5th streets)
Continuing on the ice cream train, Albertino relayed that Icicles—a San Jose-based rolled ice cream shop—is opening at 829 Mission St, taking over the empty space that used to be home to IceBee, a frozen yogurt shop once known for its wide range of flavors and toppings.
"They're quietly building it out, without much fanfare or hype, and the inside looks to be somewhat set, but final touches are needed," said Al.
This will be the first outpost in San Francisco for the business, which has locations in San Jose, Cupertino, Pleasanton, Newark and San Mateo. Customers can expect to find flavors like matcha, mai tai, avocado, Oreo and more. Dairy-free options include raspberry, strawberry lemonade and mango.
Icicles has not revealed an opening date, but we'll keep readers posted.
Tenderloin: L and O Bagels
325 Mason Street (at O'Farrell St.)
Finally, in the Tenderloin, Al let us know that L and O Bagels will be opening up shop at 325 Mason Street, Suite #10. The spot used to house Glutless, a gluten-free bakery that closed last month.
Located inside Hertz, the car rental agency, Al said that there have been no changes made to the interior of the space, and that the place looks ready to open for business soon.
See something interesting while you’re out and about? Text Hoodline and we’ll try to learn more: 415-200-3233.
