A LITTLE SOMETHING SWEET
Gelato, paletas, soft serve, and ice cream: these are our favorite sweet stops in North Park and nearby neighborhoods.
Travel times are approximate Google Maps estimates checked in October 2026. Driving times vary with traffic and exclude parking. Flavors and menu items may rotate; check availability before visiting.
We think this is some of the best gelato in San Diego. The Roman-style pizza has surprised us in the best way: it may not catch your eye at first, but every time we order it, it’s fantastic. This is a small grab-and-go spot with a little outdoor seating, perfect for a snack and a stroll.
Our favorites: cookies and cream, or olive oil orange gelato.
3066 B University Avenue · Google Maps ↗
Walking directions from Casa Miranda ↗A fun stop for Tijuana-style paletas in all sorts of flavors. We like sitting and relaxing here, and the playful hallway, racetrack-style details, and glow-in-the-dark touches make it a particularly fun outing with kids. There are a few food options, too.
Our favorites: cookies and cream, and mango paletas.
3016 University Avenue · Google Maps ↗
Walking directions from Casa Miranda ↗One of our favorites for classic soft serve. It’s a lovely choice when you’re craving a simple, really good ice cream treat.
Lauren’s favorite: the Streetcar Sundae.
3077 University Avenue · Google Maps ↗
Walking directions from Casa Miranda ↗A favorite nearby ice cream stop worth a short drive. We’ve chosen the University Heights location for its shorter driving distance from Casa Miranda compared with South Park.
Our favorites: s’mores and mango sticky rice, when available.
4404 Park Boulevard, Suite B · Google Maps ↗
Driving directions from Casa Miranda ↗We think the ice cream here is fabulous—everything we’ve tried has been great. The Hillcrest location is a short drive from Casa Miranda.
Our favorite: Sticky Fingers, when available.
1080 University Avenue, Suite H107 · Google Maps ↗
Driving directions from Casa Miranda ↗