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ZipPicks Awards
Best Ice Cream in Los Angeles
Master Critic Review
Awan
7.7
A vegan ice cream shop built on Southeast Asian technique—coconut milk and palm sugar as the base instead of dairy, with flavors like saffron pistachio and matcha that lean into that foundation. The 81% five-star rate on 101 reviews suggests the product lands consistently. Works for non-dairy seekers who want something more specific than oat milk soft serve.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan Ice Cream, Oreo, Saffron Pistachio
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Southeast Asian-inspired vegan ice cream made with coconut milk and palm sugar instead of dairy
Who should go: Vegans and non-dairy ice cream seekers with adventurous palates
When to visit: Afternoon for full flavor selection before sellouts
What to order: Try the Oreo or Saffron Pistachio as signatures, then explore a Southeast Asian flavor like palm sugar
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose or Larchmont—more spots typically available on Larchmont
Weekend wait: Expect lines on Saturday nights—described as busiest location
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Fully plant-based menu—all items are vegetarian
Vegan options: 100% vegan coconut-based ice cream with Indonesian-inspired flavors
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the moody, cave-like interior with dramatic lighting creates an intimate, Instagram-worthy atmosphere that sparks conversation. The unique vegan ice cream flavors (Balinese vanilla, blue yuzu lemonade) give you something interesting to discuss and share. Best as a dessert stop after dinner rather than a standalone date destination given limited seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - Awan is walk-up counter service only; no reservations are taken or needed. However, expect lines of 20+ minutes on weekend evenings and after dinner hours. Weekday afternoons (3-6pm) are your best bet for minimal wait. The Larchmont location is their busiest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - they offer a kids scoop for $6, staff are generous with samples when not busy, and the plant-based coconut ice cream accommodates dairy allergies. The cave-like interior may intrigue older kids. Note: seating is very limited, so grabbing scoops to-go works better for families. No high chairs confirmed - call ahead if needed.
Is it good for groups? Not ideal - this is a small ice cream shop with very limited indoor seating (a few tables/seats). Groups of 4+ will likely need to eat standing or take ice cream outside. No private event space. For larger gatherings, plan to order at the counter and enjoy your scoops in the adjacent outdoor area or while walking the neighborhood.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - seating available directly in front of the shop and next door at sister business Dayglow Coffee. Uncovered sidewalk-style seating. Dog-friendly. A good option when indoor tables are full, though limited shade during daytime hours.
Best For
Better for: Instagram-worthy dessert runs, pet owners (dog-friendly), dairy-free ice cream cravings
Skip if: You want quick counter service on warm weekend evenings—lines form at this small cave-like space
Hours
Monday3pm - 10pm
Tuesday3pm - 10pm
Wednesday3pm - 10pm
Thursday3pm - 10pm
Friday3pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 10pm