Salt & Straw

With wild monthly flavors found nowhere else, Portland-based Salt & Straw puts an artisanal churn on the standard scoop. Their extensive menu boasts options both indulgent and curious—many of which feature ingredients exclusive to Southern California, reflecting the company’s “farm-to-cone” philosophy. The best part? You don’t have to choose just one: Guests can opt for an ice cream flight including your choice of four flavors from both classic and seasonal menus. Over the years, I’ve come to love perusing the line-up of Salt & Straw’s monthly flavors, from the out-there Halloween creations made with actual bugs to the return of their cereal-inspired series every March. In neighborhoods like Brentwood, West Hollywood, Glendale, Manhattan Beach and the Arts District, it’s my first pick for ice cream; in other parts of town with other ice cream options like Culver City, Venice and Larchmont, not so much. Despite the fact I’ve found the consistency here to be a little scattershot at times, Salt & Straw is still one of the best all-around ice cream shops—and with every location open until 11pm, it’s the best option around once everyone else closes up shop at 10pm.