0 Followers
Mateo's Ice Cream & Fruit Bars
Master Critic Review
Mateo's Ice Cream & Fruit Bars
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Sweet Treats Escapes
Since 2000, this neighborhood favorite crafts Oaxacan-style paletas and creamy gelatos using fresh fruit pulped daily at each location. The extensive selection includes adventurous Latino flavors like leche quemada (smoked milk), horchata, mezcal, and mamey alongside classic strawberry and chocolate varieties.
Must-Try Dishes:
Leche Quemada Paleta, Mango Chile Paleta, Horchata Ice Cream
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Fresh fruit pulped in-house daily creates authentic Oaxacan paletas with over 30 exotic flavors
Who should go: Adventurous eaters seeking authentic Mexican frozen treats
When to visit: Early afternoon to sample full flavor selection
What to order: Leche quemada paleta, mango chile bar, pitaya sorbet
Insider tip: The chocolate-covered banana with coconut paleta is a local secret favorite
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking available; small lot behind shop; easy access typical for Del Rey
Dress code: Ultra casual - beach attire, shorts, flip-flops perfectly acceptable
Noise level: Low to moderate - family-friendly chatter, easy conversation
Weekend wait: 5-15 min during summer peak; counter service moves quickly
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - walk in and order
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - most fruit paletas and sorbets are naturally vegetarian
Vegan options: Extensive - all fruit-based paletas and sorbets; avoid cream-based gelatos
Gluten-free options: Yes - paletas and sorbets are naturally gluten-free; verify mix-ins
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates or post-dinner meetups - grab paletas and walk to nearby beach (1 mile). Low-pressure, affordable, memorable with exotic flavors to discuss.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed or accepted - it's counter service with indoor/outdoor seating. Order at counter, grab a spot, or take it to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely kid-friendly - colorful paletas, familiar flavors available, high chairs, outdoor seating. Perfect for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Cash-friendly price point for family outings.
What if I don't like adventurous flavors? 30+ options include classic American flavors - strawberry, chocolate, vanilla, cookies & cream. Staff encourages sampling before committing.
How long do I have to eat it? Paletas melt faster than hard ice cream in LA heat - plan 15-20 minutes. Beach or park nearby ideal for leisurely enjoyment; indoor seating available.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Oaxacan-style paletas with adventurous Latin flavors (mamey, mezcal, leche quemada) you won't find at Baskin-Robbins; budget-friendly family outings; fresh fruit quality over artificial flavors; cultural experience alongside dessert
Skip if: You want premium artisanal ice cream with boozy flavors (try Salt & Straw); need sit-down service with table ordering; prefer traditional American-style hard ice cream; want Instagram-worthy interior (this is neighborhood-authentic, not design-forward)