San Diego Comic-Con is packed with panels, collectibles, and cosplay — but when it’s time to cool off and recharge, there’s nothing better than a scoop (or three) of locally made ice cream. That’s where Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream comes in. Back for their second year at the San Diego Convention Center, this beloved family-owned business is expanding their presence in 2025 with not one, but two carts on-site — one outside Ballroom 20, and another just outside Hall H. And they’ve also got a home base in the Gaslamp (425 Market St).
“We started offering Cali Cream at SDCC in 2023, and each year has been better than the last,” co-owner Juliana Ortiz shared. “As a family-owned business that began in 2016 in Encinitas, it’s been amazing to grow through word of mouth, especially at the Convention Center. SDCC holds a special place in my heart — I was an attendee long before we ever dreamed of being on the vendor list.”
Cali Cream isn’t just slinging standard scoops either — they’re bringing exclusive flavors themed to Comic-Con, available only during the event. “We love hearing suggestions from fans,” Ortiz said. “This year, in addition to our spots at the Convention Center and in the Gaslamp, you’ll also be able to find us at the Rady Shell activation during SDCC.”
If you’re not sure where to start, locals swear by their “Graham Central Station” flavor — a graham cracker-based ice cream swirled with graham sauce and studded with chocolate-covered honeycomb. But with over 70 rotating flavors made in-house, fresh daily, you really can’t go wrong. Part of what makes their ice cream so special is that their daily is “ultra-fresh”, coming straight from the farm within 7 days of milking. They joke that’s it’s “7 days from cow to cone”.
“When you visit us at SDCC, the Gaslamp shop, or the Rady Shell, you’re supporting a local business known for two things: unforgettable ice cream and top-notch guest service. We wouldn’t be where we are without the support of our amazing community,” Ortiz said.
To celebrate SDCC, we’re teaming up with Cali Cream to give away a $50 gift card to one lucky winner — perfect for fueling your con weekend or visiting their Gaslamp location post-show. To enter, follow the instructions on Instagram or Facebook.
