30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Ice Cream in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Nevería El Oasis
7.8
Vibes:
Sweet Treats Escapes
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
A Oaxacan-style nevería turning out handcrafted paletas, esquimales, and street snacks like esquites and elote from a casual storefront on Santa Monica Blvd. The draw is regional specificity — these are frozen treats rooted in Oaxacan technique rather than generic ice cream shop fare, at prices that make repeat visits easy. Expect a no-frills counter experience where the product speaks for itself.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mangoneada, Esquites, Oaxacan Ice Cream Paletas
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Authentic Oaxacan-style nevería making handcrafted ice creams, paletas, and Mexican street snacks on Santa Monica Blvd.
Who should go: Families and anyone craving real Oaxacan frozen treats
When to visit: Weekday afternoons for shortest wait and full selection
What to order: Start with esquites or an elote, then choose a mangoneada and a paleta in a flavor you've never tried — the burnt milk and horchata are customer favorites
Insider tip: Ask about the esquimales — paletas dipped in chocolate and coated with nuts or dried coconut
Logistics & Planning
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not a traditional date spot — this is a small, colorful counter-service paletería (Mexican ice cream shop), not a sit-down restaurant. That said, it works well as a fun, low-pressure stop during a casual date exploring Sawtelle. Grab Oaxacan-style ice cream or mangonadas and stroll the neighborhood. Best as part of a date itinerary, not the main event.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-up counter-service shop with no reservation system. You order at the counter and enjoy your treats on the spot or take them to go. It can get busy during peak hours and weekends, so visit during off-peak times if you want to avoid a line.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — this is an excellent spot for kids. The menu is packed with child-friendly options like paletas (popsicles), esquimales (chocolate-dipped popsicles with toppings), mangonadas, and Hot Cheetos with cheese. Staff are noted for being patient with kids deciding on flavors. The casual, vibrant atmosphere makes it stress-free for families. No kids menu needed — everything here appeals to all ages.
Is it good for groups? A group can all order together at the counter, but this is a small shop — not a sit-down restaurant with table seating for large parties. Best for small groups of 2-4 grabbing treats together. For larger groups (6+), plan to eat your ice cream outside or while walking Sawtelle rather than expecting to sit together inside.
Is there outdoor seating? Not confirmed — no verified outdoor seating area has been documented. The shop is located in a strip mall section of Santa Monica Blvd, so there may be a bench or small standing area outside, but dedicated patio seating is not advertised. Call (424) 832-7945 to confirm before planning to sit outside.
Best For
Better for: Families with kids looking for affordable, colorful Mexican frozen treats — mangonadas and mango chile sorbet are standouts, and the staff is notably friendly and patient
Consider Alternatives If: You're after hot food — the elotes and nachos get mixed reviews, and some recent visitors noted portions feeling smaller than before
Hours
Monday10:30am - 8:30pm
Tuesday10:30am - 8:30pm
Wednesday10:30am - 8:30pm
Thursday10:30am - 8:30pm
Friday10:30am - 8:30pm
Saturday10:30am - 8:30pm
Sunday10:30am - 8:30pm