Top 18 milkshakes in Downtown San Diego
Downtown San Diego is a vibrant hub with a diverse food scene, and milkshakes are a popular treat among locals and visitors alike. From classic flavors to innovative twists, milkshakes in Downtown San Diego offer a delicious escape for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness that these milkshakes have to offer, and discover the unique and delicious offerings from the various establishments in the area.
- 1. Salt & Straw
- 2. Hodad's Downtown
- 3. Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream
- 4. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
- 5. Shake Shack Little Italy
- 6. Seaport Fudge Factory, in Downtown San Diego
- 7. Bobboi Natural Gelato
- 8. The Crack Shack - Little Italy
- 9. The Melt in Downtown San Diego
- 10. Ben & Jerry’s in Downtown San Diego
- 11. Chocolate SD
- 12. Burger Lounge
- 13. Werewolf
- 14. Jack in the Box
- 15. San Diego Burger Co.
- 16. Pop Pops Paleta
- 17. Gelato Love
- 18. Hodad’s Petco Park
1. Salt & Straw
Small-batch ice cream handmade in Portland, Oregon

Salt & Straw is renowned for its delicious and innovative milkshakes. The consistency of these milkshakes is reportedly perfect, and they offer a variety of unique flavors. Among the creative options is the sea salt caramel milkshake, which is described as exceptional.
Visitors to Salt & Straw should not miss out on trying their milkshakes. One standout flavor is the sea salt caramel milkshake, which has been highly praised for its taste. Whether you're looking for a classic flavor or something more adventurous, Salt & Straw's milkshake menu is sure to have something for you.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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2. Hodad's Downtown
Casual beach-shack vibe in the heart of downtown

The restaurant serves delicious, thick hamburgers with great buns and dressings. A variety of toppings, including plenty of onions, are loaded onto the patties. For a perfect meal, pair your burger with their fresh and hot fries or onion rings. Their chocolate shake is also a must-try – it’s cold and wonderful.
During a recent visit, we ordered the bacon cheeseburger, hamburger, fries, onion rings, and a vanilla milkshake. The burgers did not disappoint – they were fantastically prepared and loaded with toppings. The onion rings were cooked to perfection, providing a satisfying crunch with fresh onions inside. The service at the restaurant was exceptional, making it a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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3. Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream
Family-owned and operated, handmade ice cream since 1996

Cali Cream is renowned for serving exceptional milkshakes. Two significant characteristics of their milkshakes are their unique flavors and creamy, rich textures.
Visiting Cali Cream is highly recommended if you're in the area. Their milkshakes, with their distinctive tastes and smooth, indulgent consistencies, are not to be missed. The establishment offers a variety of flavors that are both unique and delightful, making for an unforgettable drinking experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
Handcrafted chocolates, historic building, offers sundae funday deals

The chocolate milkshake I enjoyed was outstanding, although it came with a higher price tag. The cost was justified by the shake's high quality. Its rich and delicious chocolate flavor was especially noteworthy.
This chocolate shake was a treat worth savoring, despite its high price. Its richness made it a rare indulgence. While not an everyday drink, the occasional chocolate milkshake splurge is definitely worth it.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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5. Shake Shack Little Italy
Sustainable, antibiotic-free, humanely raised beef

The Oreo milkshake, and particularly the malt version, is a standout offering. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the distinct taste of Oreo cookies, makes it a delightful treat. The addition of malt adds a further layer of flavor, creating a delicious and indulgent drink.
Oreo milkshakes are a popular choice for those looking for something sweet and satisfying. Made with real Oreo cookies, these milkshakes are a cookie lover's dream. The malt version adds a unique twist, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the establishment. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat or a refreshing drink, the Oreo milkshake is sure to hit the spot.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. Seaport Fudge Factory, in Downtown San Diego
Handmade fudge made on-site, Unique flavors like Lavender Honey, Veteran-owned business

The variety of treats at this destination exceeded my expectations, including fudge, milkshakes, peanut butter cups, and unique nacho apples. The quality of the food was exceptional, leaving a lasting impression. I am eagerly awaiting the end of quarantine to visit again and observe the creation process of these delicious delicacies. This place has become my new favorite spot for indulging in sweet and savory treats.
The atmosphere of the place was warm and inviting, making the experience even more enjoyable. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent customer service. I was impressed with their attention to detail and commitment to creating high-quality treats. The presentation of the food was also visually appealing, adding to the overall enjoyment of the experience. I look forward to returning to this new favorite spot of mine and highly recommend it to others.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Cheap Eats
7. Bobboi Natural Gelato
All milkshakes are made with organic milk and gelato, and can be made dairy-free upon request.

Bobboi's milkshakes are a must-try in San Diego, known for their exceptional taste and high-quality ingredients. Two popular flavors are the vanilla milkshake with chocolate flakes and the chocolate milkshake.
The vanilla milkshake with chocolate flakes is a top choice, offering a delightful balance of flavors. It's a great option for those who enjoy a sweet treat. The chocolate milkshake is equally impressive, with its perfect balance of sweetness and rich chocolate flavor. Both flavors are highly recommended for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious milkshake.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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8. The Crack Shack - Little Italy
Offers picnic tables and lawn games in a spacious outdoor seating area

The Crack Shack is renowned for its exceptional milkshakes. Two popular flavors, vanilla and chocolate, are standouts. The vanilla milkshake is a customer favorite, offering a delightful and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the chocolate milkshake is equally impressive, with its balanced sweetness making it a refreshing treat.
Visiting The Crack Shack for their milkshakes is highly recommended. The vanilla milkshake has gained a strong reputation for its delicious taste and creamy texture. Similarly, the chocolate milkshake is prepared to perfection, featuring a well-balanced sweetness that leaves a refreshing sensation. Both are must-try options for any milkshake enthusiast.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
- Downtown Spots
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9. The Melt in Downtown San Diego
Open late, Quirky and fun atmosphere, Free milkshake with purchase of a entree on Wednesdays

The milkshakes at this establishment are handspun and offer a delightful experience. They are ideal for hot days in San Diego, providing a refreshing and satisfying treat. The milkshakes are popular for their delicious taste and creamy texture.
These milkshakes are truly exceptional, known for their thickness and richness. They have just the right amount of sweetness, making them a perfect choice for those with a sweet tooth. It is highly recommended to try these milkshakes, as they are a standout feature of the location.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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10. Ben & Jerry’s in Downtown San Diego
Committed to using non-GMO ingredients and fair trade products

Ben & Jerry's offers a great variety of milkshakes with delicious flavors that are rich and creamy. The Chocolate Fudge Brownie milkshake is a must-try, with its indulgent combination of chocolate and brownie chunks. The staff at this location is super friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.
If you're looking for a great milkshake, Ben & Jerry's is the place to go. The Chocolate Fudge Brownie milkshake is a standout, but there are many other flavors to choose from. The friendly staff and indulgent milkshakes make this location a great choice for a treat.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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11. Chocolate SD
Serving handcrafted ice cream and desserts with a vintage atmosphere

The milkshakes at Chocolate SD are truly delicious. The chocolate milkshake, in particular, stands out for its rich and creamy taste. The establishment offers a great variety of milkshake flavors, all of which are amazing and satisfy milkshake lovers' cravings.
Chocolate SD's milkshakes are a must-try for anyone who loves a good milkshake. The chocolate milkshake's rich and creamy taste is a testament to the establishment's high-quality ingredients and dedication to creating delicious treats. With a variety of flavors to choose from, milkshake lovers are sure to find one that suits their taste buds.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Burger Lounge
Uses grass-fed, free-range beef and sustainable seafood, and offers vegan and gluten-free options.

Milkshakes were a standout option, with generous servings that were sure to satisfy. The price of the milkshakes was reasonable, considering the location of the establishment.
The milkshakes served here are a delicious treat that I would highly recommend. They have a thick and creamy consistency that is incredibly satisfying. With a variety of flavors to choose from, there is something for everyone.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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13. Werewolf
Unique horror-themed decor and outdoor patio dining

The milkshakes at Werewolf are a popular menu item, known for their creamy texture and delicious taste. Visitors to the establishment should not miss out on the opportunity to try one.
In particular, one milkshake from Werewolf stands out as exceptional. It boasts a thick and rich consistency, with a full-bodied flavor that is unmatched. Anyone who tries this milkshake is sure to highly recommend it to others.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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14. Jack in the Box
24/7 drive-thru service, mobile ordering available

The author, who is from the east coast, has never had the opportunity to try Jack in the Box before moving to San Diego. After research, they discovered that the best milkshake from Jack in the Box is located at 1
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
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15. San Diego Burger Co.
Located near the San Diego Bay with a beautiful view and a cozy, nautical-themed interior.

The milkshakes at this location are exceptional, well-known for their thick and creamy texture. A wide selection of flavors allows for a personalized and delightful experience. The chocolate milkshake, in particular, stands out for its balance of sweetness and refreshing quality.
Visitors are recommended to try the establishment's milkshakes, which have gained a strong reputation for their thick and creamy textures. Among the various flavors available, the chocolate milkshake is a highlight, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness and a cooling, refreshing sensation.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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16. Pop Pops Paleta
Artisanal popsicles and milkshakes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients

The vegan dark chocolate paleta topped with crushed walnuts and a few sour gummies is an absolutely delicious treat. It is rich in chocolate flavor, not overly sweet, and very filling. I would definitely return for another one. Compared to Salt & Straw, I enjoyed the flavor of this paleta far more.
During our stay in Little Italy, we visited this place multiple nights and were never disappointed. The establishment offers numerous flavors and combinations to choose from, with the Dulce de Leche and Cookies and Milk pops being personal favorites, especially when dipped in chocolate and topped with a white chocolate drizzle. The staff were delightful, providing great inspiration while helping us decide on our order. This place is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
17. Gelato Love

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
18. Hodad’s Petco Park

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Weekend Dining