What’s the Best Ice Cream Shop Near West Oakland, California?

One of the most significant of these ice cream factories was the H.C. Capwell Company, which was founded in 1889 and became one of the largest retail department stores in the region. The company also operated its own ice cream factory, which produced high-quality ice cream that was sold in Capwell's stores and distributed throughout the Bay Area.

Another important ice cream factory in West Oakland was the Diamond Ice Cream Company, which was founded in 1904 and specialized in making ice cream using fresh cream and natural ingredients. The company's products were widely popular in the Bay Area, and Diamond Ice Cream became known for its high quality and innovative flavors.

The early ice cream factories of West Oakland played a significant role in the development of the ice cream industry in the United States, and their legacy can still be felt in the area today. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in West Oakland's ice cream history, with new businesses and initiatives focused on celebrating the neighborhood's culinary heritage.

Why Visit West Oakland? Top 3 Attractions in West Oakland, California

West Oakland, California, is a vibrant neighborhood that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and art. Here are the top three attractions to check out when visiting West Oakland:

1.West Oakland Murals

The West Oakland Murals offer visitors a unique and colorful outdoor art experience. The murals are spread throughout the neighborhood and depict a variety of themes, from historical figures to social justice issues to whimsical designs. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the murals or join a guided tour to learn more about the artists and their work.

In addition to admiring the murals, visitors can also participate in a variety of fun and engaging activities in West Oakland. Here are a few ideas:

Take a walking tour: Join a guided walking tour of West Oakland's murals to learn more about the artists and their work. Tours are available through local organizations like the Community Rejuvenation Project and Oakland Urban Paths.

Visit local galleries: In addition to the outdoor murals, West Oakland is home to several galleries showcasing local artists. Check out spots like Joyce Gordon Gallery and SoleSpace to see the latest exhibitions.

Explore local cuisine: West Oakland is known for its diverse food scene, with options ranging from soul food to Mexican to Ethiopian. Grab a bite at local favorites like Brown Sugar Kitchen, Tacos Oscar, or Cafe Colucci.

Attend community events: West Oakland is a tight-knit community with a strong sense of pride and togetherness. Keep an eye out for community events like block parties, festivals, and farmers markets to get a taste of the local culture.

2. Jack London Square

Jack London Square is a bustling waterfront district in Oakland, California, named after the famous author who once lived in the area. The square offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Jack London Square:

Dining: Jack London Square is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, serving up everything from seafood to pizza to Mexican cuisine. Some of the most popular spots include The Forge, Bocanova, and Plank.

Entertainment: Jack London Square is a hub for entertainment, with a variety of options to suit all tastes. Catch a movie at the Regal Cinemas Jack London, take in a live music show at Yoshi's Oakland, or enjoy a comedy night at the Laugh Boat Comedy Club.

Waterfront Activities: Jack London Square is located right on the waterfront, and visitors can take advantage of a range of water-based activities. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from California Canoe and Kayak, go for a sunset sail with the Bay Voyager, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront trail.

Shopping: Jack London Square is home to a variety of shops, ranging from boutique clothing stores to specialty food shops. Check out spots like Oakland Supply Co., Jinxi Eats, and Oaktown Spice Shop for unique and locally-made goods.

Historical Sites: Jack London Square is steeped in history, and visitors can explore several historical sites in the area. Check out the USS Potomac, a presidential yacht that once belonged to Franklin D. Roosevelt, or the Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a historic bar that was a favorite spot of Jack London himself.

3. Linden Street Brewery

Linden Street Brewery is a popular craft brewery located in West Oakland, California. The brewery is housed in a historic brick building that was once a cannery, and it offers visitors a unique and laid-back atmosphere to enjoy some delicious beer.

There are a variety of fun and engaging activities to enjoy at Linden Street Brewery, including:

Beer Tastings: The brewery offers a variety of tasty craft beers, ranging from traditional German-style lagers to more experimental brews. Visitors can sample a flight of beers or enjoy a pint in the cozy taproom or outdoor beer garden.

Tours: Linden Street Brewery offers tours of its facilities, giving visitors an inside look at the brewing process and the history of the building. Tours are available by appointment, and they include tastings of the brewery's signature beers.

Events: Linden Street Brewery hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music shows, food truck nights, and holiday celebrations. Check out the brewery's calendar of events to see what's coming up.

Games: The taproom at Linden Street Brewery is equipped with a variety of games, including ping pong, cornhole, and giant Jenga. Visitors can enjoy some friendly competition while enjoying a cold beer.

Private Events: The brewery's taproom and outdoor beer garden can be rented out for private events, including birthday parties, corporate events, and wedding receptions. The brewery also offers catering options and customized beer labels for events.

Overall, Linden Street Brewery is a great spot to relax with friends and enjoy some tasty craft beer in a unique and historic setting.

Best Ice Cream Shop in West Oakland - Fentons Creamery

Fentons Creamery is the Ice Cream Shop Team Your Family Will Love

Get ready to indulge in the sweetest treat in Oakland! Fentons Creamery, a legendary ice cream shop, has been a favorite since it opened its doors in 1894. Our handcrafted ice creams and sauces have been satisfying cravings for generations, and our Black & Tan Sundae, made with the iconic Toasted Almond ice cream flavor created by Melvin Fenton himself, is a must-try. Fentons Creamery has achieved worldwide fame thanks to features in TV shows on the Travel Channel, the History Channel, and the Food Network, as well as in print media like USA Today, Zagat, and the SF Chronicle. And if that's not enough, you can even book a tour of our ice cream production facilities! Don't miss out on the chance to taste the best ice cream of your life – come visit Fentons Creamery today!

Top 3 Questions People in West Oakland, California Have About the History of Ice Cream

1.Who were some famous historical figures known for enjoying ice cream in West Oakland, California?

Ice cream has been enjoyed by many famous historical figures over the years. Here are a few examples:

George Washington: According to legend, George Washington was a big fan of ice cream and regularly served it to guests at his home in Virginia. In fact, there is a recipe for his favorite vanilla ice cream that is still available today.

Thomas Jefferson: Thomas Jefferson was also a fan of ice cream and is said to have brought the recipe for vanilla ice cream to the United States from France. He even had a special ice house built at his home in Monticello to store ice cream and other frozen treats.

Dolley Madison: Dolley Madison, the wife of President James Madison, is said to have served strawberry ice cream at the first inaugural ball in 1809. This helped to popularize the flavor and cement it as a classic ice cream flavor in the United States.

Queen Victoria: Queen Victoria of England was a big fan of ice cream and even had a special ice cream freezer made for her. She reportedly enjoyed a variety of flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, and pistachio.

Napoleon Bonaparte: Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have enjoyed ice cream while in exile on the island of Saint Helena. Legend has it that he offered a reward to anyone who could come up with a way to keep ice cream from melting in the hot tropical climate.

2. How did ice cream production change over time in West Oakland, California?

The production of ice cream has undergone significant changes over time, as new technologies and ingredients have been developed. Here are some of the key developments in the history of ice cream production:

Hand-cranked churns: The earliest ice cream was made by mixing cream, sugar, and flavorings by hand and then freezing the mixture in a container surrounded by ice and salt. In the 18th and 19th centuries, hand-cranked churns were developed that made it easier to churn the mixture and create a smoother, creamier texture.

Mechanized production: In the 20th century, mechanical refrigeration and other technologies made it possible to produce ice cream on a larger scale. Today, most ice cream is made in large factories using continuous freezers and other automated equipment.

New ingredients: Over time, new ingredients have been added to ice cream to improve its texture, flavor, and nutritional value. For example, stabilizers and emulsifiers like guar gum and soy lecithin are often added to keep the ice cream smooth and prevent ice crystals from forming. Other ingredients, like nuts, fruit, and candy, are added for flavor and texture.

Specialized styles: In addition to traditional hard-packed ice cream, many new styles of ice cream have been developed over the years, including soft serve, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. These styles differ in their ingredients, production methods, and texture.

Overall, ice cream production has become increasingly sophisticated and efficient over time, allowing for a wider variety of flavors and styles to be produced and enjoyed by people around the world.

3. What were some early ice cream flavors in West Oakland, California?

Early ice cream flavors were often simple, relying on basic ingredients like cream, sugar, and fruit. Here are a few examples of early ice cream flavors:

Vanilla: Vanilla was one of the first ice cream flavors to be popularized, and it remains one of the most popular flavors today. Early versions of vanilla ice cream were often made with real vanilla beans, which gave the ice cream a rich, complex flavor.

Strawberry: Strawberry ice cream was another early favorite, especially in the summertime when fresh strawberries were plentiful. Early versions of strawberry ice cream were often made with fresh strawberries, which gave the ice cream a sweet, tangy flavor.

Chocolate: Chocolate ice cream was a bit slower to catch on, as early versions were often made with unsweetened chocolate, which was bitter and not very appealing. However, as sweetened chocolate became more widely available, chocolate ice cream became more popular.

Fruit flavors: In addition to strawberry, other fruit flavors like peach, raspberry, and apricot were popular in early ice cream recipes. These flavors were often made with fresh fruit or fruit preserves, which gave the ice cream a bright, fruity flavor.

Spices and herbs: Some early ice cream recipes also included spices and herbs like cinnamon, nutmeg, and lavender. These ingredients gave the ice cream a more complex flavor profile and helped to mask any off flavors that might have come from less-than-fresh ingredients.

Map to Our Location from West Oakland, California

Are You Looking for an Amazing Ice Cream Experience in West Oakland?

Founded in West Oakland, California in 1894, Fentons Creamery is a landmark institution that has served its famous handcrafted ice creams and sauces to generations of fans. Our ice cream sundaes are world-famous – the Black & Tan Sundae is our signature item, made with one of the many ice cream flavors invented by Melvin Fenton – Toasted Almond. Fentons Creamery has been featured in the Pixar movie “Up” on countless tv shows on the Travel Channel, the History Channel, the Food Network, and in print like USA Today and Zagat, SF Chronicle, and hundreds more.  Fentons Creamery even offers ice cream production tours by appointment!  Come see what the buzz is about and enjoy the absolute best ice cream you’ve ever had.