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Mashti Malone's Ice Cream
Master Critic Review
Mashti Malone's Ice Cream
8.4
Persian ice cream institution serving exotic Middle Eastern flavors since 1980. Uses natural ingredients and family recipes passed down through generations to create unique offerings like saffron rosewater, orange blossom, and French lavender alongside traditional favorites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Saffron Rosewater, Orange Blossom with Pistachio, Ginger Rose Water
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: LA's iconic Persian ice cream shop with 40+ years of exotic handcrafted flavors
Who should go: Adventurous eaters seeking authentic Middle Eastern dessert experience
When to visit: Evening hours when the neighborhood comes alive with foot traffic
What to order: Saffron rosewater, Persian cucumber, Alfonso mango with pistachio
Insider tip: Many flavors are dairy-free using soy, almond, or hemp milk bases
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, typically easy to find along Sunset Boulevard or side streets. Free after 8pm.
Dress code: Ultra casual - come as you are. T-shirts, shorts, flip-flops all standard.
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - counter service shop with minimal seating, easy conversation
Weekend wait: 10-15 min line during peak evening hours (7-9pm)
Weekday lunch: 5 min or less, very manageable
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - virtually all flavors are vegetarian
Vegan options: Extensive options - many flavors use soy, almond, or hemp milk bases instead of dairy
Gluten-free options: Yes - ice cream is naturally gluten-free, though always verify cone ingredients
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for casual early dates or post-dinner dessert. Low-pressure counter service environment lets you focus on conversation while trying unique flavors together. The exotic options (saffron rosewater, Persian cucumber) create natural talking points. Not ideal for formal first impressions.
Can I get served without waiting long? Yes on weekdays and daytime weekends. Expect 10-15 minute lines Friday/Saturday evenings during summer months. Counter service moves efficiently - you'll taste samples and order quickly even when busy.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly. Casual counter service, generous sampling policy lets kids find flavors they'll enjoy, and traditional options available alongside exotic ones. All ages welcome, though adventurous eaters of any age will appreciate it most.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Middle Eastern flavors you can't find elsewhere in LA. Choose Mashti's over generic ice cream chains when you want distinctive, natural-ingredient flavors with cultural heritage (saffron, rosewater, orange blossom). Also superior for dairy-free options without sacrificing flavor complexity.
Skip if: You want an Instagram-worthy sit-down dessert experience with full table service - this is counter service with limited seating. Also skip if you prefer conventional American flavors like cookie dough or brownie batter. For elaborate ice cream sundaes or extensive seating, try Salt & Straw or Wanderlust Creamery instead.