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ZipPicks Awards
Best Ice Cream in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Freddo
8.3
Freddo brings classic Argentine gelato to DTLA with a roomy café setting, espresso drinks, and a long list of dulce de leche–driven flavors. Downtown office workers and residents stop in for rich cups, cones, and take-home containers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dulce de Leche Granizado, Sambayón Gelato, Chocolate Negro Gelato
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Argentinian-style gelato with multiple dulce de leche variations and café seating.
Who should go: Downtown workers, gelato fans, and afternoon coffee-and-scoop people.
When to visit: Mid-afternoon for a quiet gelato-and-espresso break.
What to order: Dulce de Leche Granizado, Sambayón, and a classic chocolate scoop.
Insider tip: Pair a small gelato with a hot espresso for an informal affogato-style treat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be hit-or-miss in the Historic Core, but you can usually find a metered spot within a few blocks. Several paid garages on 6th and Spring offer easier access if you don’t want to circle.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are. Workout gear, office wear, or weekend comfy clothes all fit in.
Noise level: Generally low to moderate. You can comfortably chat, study, or enjoy a quiet solo moment.
Weekend wait: Very minimal. Evenings see light lines but they move quickly—5 to 10 minutes max.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though you might see a short line of office workers grabbing mid-day treats.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—nearly all gelato flavors are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited but present—typically a couple of fruit sorbets and sometimes a dairy-free chocolate.
Gluten-free options: Most gelato flavors are naturally gluten-free. Avoid cones and ask staff to confirm cross-contact if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. It’s casual, low-pressure, and the café seating lets you chat over gelato without committing to a full meal. Sweet flavors and relaxed vibes help lighten the mood.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Absolutely. Freddo doesn’t take reservations, and its roomy café setup usually has open seating. The only exception is during peak summer weekends when it may briefly fill up.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Lots of seating, approachable flavors, and a bright environment make it great for families. Even toddlers can enjoy fruit sorbets, and there’s enough space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Rich dulce de leche varieties, classic Argentine flavors, and a spacious sit-down environment that’s nicer than many grab-and-go ice cream shops.
Consider Alternatives If: You want edgy, experimental flavors or plant-based gelato—other DTLA dessert spots cater more heavily to vegan and avant-garde offerings.
Hours
Monday9am - 9pm
Tuesday9am - 9pm
Wednesday9am - 9pm
Thursday9am - 9pm
Friday9am - 9pm
Saturday9am - 9pm
Sunday9am - 9pm