McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams – A Sweet New Addition to Carlsbad
The newly opened McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams in Carlsbad brings the beloved Santa Barbara tradition to North County, offering the same creamy, handcrafted flavors that made the original famous.
All the classic favorites like Vanilla and Chocolate are available, but the seasonal offerings really steal the show. For Spring 2025, McConnell’s has teamed up with See’s Candies to roll out some fantastic collab flavors:
Vanilla with California Brittle
Chocolate with Polar Bear Paws
Banana Cream with Toffee-ettes
Coffee with Molasses Chips
Each one blends rich, creamy ice cream with crunchy, flavorful add-ins, creating a dynamic and satisfying bite. A standout for me was the Katy Perry’s Baby You’re a Firework Blue Raspberry—a fun, colorful option that perfectly balances sweet and tangy.
The staff were super friendly and let me sample a few flavors before making a decision, which I really appreciated. The pricing is reasonable for the quality, though seating is limited. There are only outdoor chairs, with no indoor dining space, so it’s best for a quick treat while shopping at the plaza.
Overall, this location is a great stop for dessert lovers looking to try creative seasonal flavors or stick with tried-and-true classics. A refreshing treat in a lively...
Read moreMy brother came to visit for the holidays and we had to stop in so I could introduce him to the best ice cream in San Diego. They certainly did not disappoint with the quality and selection of flavors! Sweet cream caramel brownie is a favorite but the holiday flavors are amazing as well. Pumpkin with caramel and pecans is my other favorite but you really can’t go wrong with any of them. Fantastic service and very generous portions really make this small ice cream shop shine. Cannot recommend this...
Read moreThe staff is super nice. The ice cream is delicious! I love how they use metal spoons when you ask for samples to reduce waste. They are really charging premium pricing. It's $6.50 for a single scoop (wow, that's a lot) + $1.50 to add a waffle cone (which I find to be reasonable). If the price doesn't bother you then this place is excellent. Otherwise, you might find ice cream that's just as delicious at a better value at Cali...
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