Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Ice Cream in San Francisco

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Uji Time Dessert 8.2
Japantown
Taiyaki waffle cones stuffed with matcha, ube, or black sesame soft serve define this Japantown standby. The line moves quickly and flavors lean decidedly Japanese.
Must-Try Dishes: Matcha–ube swirl taiyaki soft serve, Black sesame soft serve cup, Hojicha soft serve with rice cracker crumble
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 8.4 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 7 Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Japanese soft serve in fish-shaped taiyaki cones with classic tea flavors.
Who should go: Fans of matcha, ube, and sesame soft serve
When to visit: Late afternoon to dodge dinner rush
What to order: Matcha–ube swirl, black sesame cup, hojicha soft serve
Insider tip: Ask for a taiyaki tail fill of red bean for extra texture.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid garage parking available in the Japan Center Mall; limited metered street parking nearby on Post and Geary Streets.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; many patrons stop by after meals or shopping in the plaza.
Noise level: Moderate during peak hours; generally conversational with mall background chatter.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during dessert rushes, especially on warm evenings.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; quick counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—soft serve and taiyaki are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—non-dairy soft serve not always available; check seasonal flavors.
Gluten-free options: Minimal options—taiyaki cones contain wheat; opt for cup instead.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's playful and low-pressure. Sharing taiyaki cones makes for an easy, fun post-dinner stop in Japantown.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed—this is a counter-service dessert spot with a few shared tables in the Japan Center common area.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—kids love the fish-shaped cones and colorful flavors. Expect families, especially on weekends.
Best For
Better for: Best for authentic Japanese-style soft serve and taiyaki desserts with photogenic presentation.
Skip if: Skip if you want sit-down service or a quiet cafe—this is a quick-serve mall stall built for fast treats and selfies.

Hours

Monday1pm - 8:30pm
Tuesday1pm - 8:30pm
Wednesday1pm - 8:30pm
Thursday1pm - 8:30pm
Friday1pm - 9pm
Saturday12:30pm - 9pm
Sunday12:30pm - 8:30pm