Niederfrank's Ice Cream

The best homemade ice cream in town. We tried the coffees, strawberry and lemon ice cream and it's great. Will be going here for my icecream treats. Ooh, and the lady is very respectful and patient.

12/19/25 @6 pm I've never been to Neiderfrank's and had no idea it's been around since 1948. The counter has a menu to the right and on paper menus on the right. While you can't go inside or use the bathroom, there are two tables outside and there are interesting. things to see inside. A friendly woman helped us. There were three cones to chose from, a sugar, homemade waffle, and cake cone. I picked the rum raisen and the butterscotch marble on a cone. They were great! My friend got the brownie Sunday with vanilla. We sat outside and everyone who came by was in a good mood and had fun stories to share about their favorite flavors. I hope to go again soon to try the apple strudel.

I finally got to try this spot, and the ice cream was really good, but I was hoping to be able to walk into the store and admire its classic vibe. I didn't know they had a type of kiosk thing at the entrance, and pretty much that's where you order and wait for your ice cream. Still, everything was fine. I'm glad I got to try it after living in National City for 23 years.

It's between this place and Fosselman's ice cream of Alhambra, California for who has the best ice cream is in the state. Having been to most of the good ice cream shops in the whole country, this place is competitive with all of them and easily stands out as one of the best in the nation. There are very few places left where you can have ice cream that tastes this good and is made like this.

Great ice cream, we like this historical spot. Unfortunately the staff is always grumpy and just not as friendly as I’d hope. It’s also kind of weird they block the front door with a makeshift counter so you can’t even go in and enjoy the quaint shop. The attitude and blocked door diminish its charm, but the ice cream is good.

This is one of the oldest ice creameries in town. The line might look long but it does fast. The hardest part of picking which flavor to try! Honestly you can't go wrong with any of them! Thai tea is a family fave. & Strawberry Cheesecake and Golden Pistachio. The sorbets are off the charts too! I saw a couple getting a banana split and was a little jealous....next time, next time.

It's a small place, but they serve some of the best ice cream in So-Cal. Nice and tasty, with charming little seasonal events and specials that truly pleasure the palate. Not to mention the quaint, humble atmosphere of the place. I could actually taste more of the flavor than the cream.

So I remember my dad taking us kids here when we were little. Few and in-between because we were poor. But it was such a fantastic highlight in my memories. I eat ice cream once in a while, since I don't like feeling cold. But today, I had that craving. I decided to make a trip to see how good it is, because they are over 70 years strong. Amazing how they have survived! Unlike a franchise, the dining area is only on the outside. Here everything is handmade. The fruit flavors are "locally picked." Isn't that awesome? So my husband got a scoop of Khalua Krunch and a scoop of CocoJack. I got a scoop of Vanilla Brownies & Cream and a scoop of Mango. So yummy 😋 😍 😊 nummy!!! She gave me a taster of the Avocado Pistachio, oh my freaking goodness sakes. This stuff is soooo 👏 🙀 amazing! So I bought a half gallon. Come out to Neiderfrank's and support local community and small business owners so we can thrive together! ❤❤❤

Love local. So many delicious flavors to try. Stopping here for ice cream is always a treat. We like to buy the ice cream pies for special occasions. They do charge 3.5% if you use credit card. If you can, bring cash to avoid the fee. Staff are always friendly. Seating is outside on the sidewalk and adjacent Market on 8th patio.

A legendary San Diego area ice cream shop that I finally got to stop by yesterday and wow was I impressed! It's a little tucked away hidden gem in National City that serves delicious ice cream made daily with quality ingredients and with many unique flavors! The lady serving me was so friendly and told me about how their ice cream was made and how they developed flavors back in the day after talking with sailors coming back from deployment. I ended up getting 2 scoops with my flavor choices being Honey Bourbon Fig & Sweet Cream Peanut Butter. The ice cream here is amazing and my 2 scoops were delicious! The honey bourbon fig was quite interesting and a great flavor combination that I would order again and my favorite of the 2 but sweet cream peanut butter was also tasty with a good amount of peanut butter mixed in! This shop easily gets a 5/5 recommendation from me and you should definitely stop by to get ice cream here and it's easy to grab and go or you can even get a half gallon container if you want to take some home!

Niederfranks is a staple in the south bay and has been around for a very long time. They have unique flavors and that's what keeps me going back(besides it just being so creamy and delicious). They've had the inside closed since covid so u gotta order at the door and eat outside or in ur car. They sell pints and gallons and they're pricy. It's a small business and I don't mind spending on good quality. The service can't say much about since they chose to stay closed to indoor service/seating. /dining.

The ice cream is good but hugely disappointed that the ice cream parlor is closed and all you can do is order from this dumb counter. It's all in there still but they don't even turn on the lights. Sad.

Meh, not impressed. The lady working was super unfriendly and seemed put out to help us , no samples, small overpriced scoops and my ice cream was freezer burned. I wish it had been a better experience but won't be returning. Two stars because they have a lot of flavors to choose from and the texture of the ice cream was good .

Quick service , creamy traditional ice cream . I ordered a cappuccino crunch . It's wasn't too sweet but definitely flavorful. Parking can be an issue in peak hours . I recommend parking across the street in residential neighborhood.

Niederfrank's is the oldest ice cream maker in San Diego, but it's technically located in National City. The shop is located on what seems like a random block so perhaps back in the day, this area might have been busier. The presence of the new food hall next door will certainly bring more foot traffic. The inside was not open for customers as the entrance was blocked off and functioned as a de facto service counter. I found that disappointing given how every ice cream spot has reopened to pre-pandemic conditions. Maybe a staffing shortage was the reason for this setup. Close to 50 choices were available on the list of Today's Flavors which were broken down into the categories of Vanilla, Crazy 'bout Coffee, Chocoholics, Nutty by Nature, Fresh n Fruity, Spice is Nice, Creative Creations, Sorbet, and Sherbet. I didn't get to see it in person, but an inside sign stated, "We make our ice cream by some of the most antique, inefficient, outdated, and expensive process in the world." I guess it's appropriate if they have been open since 1948 and using equipment that goes back nearly 100 years. The product has a lower cream content and less air, however 100% natural ingredients are used which is a feather in their cap. The two flavors I selected were from the Creative Creations... Blueberry Cheesecake and Rum Raisin. The second one had a strong presence of rum flavor with plenty of raisins mixed in. Compared to some of the modern gourmet ice cream and gelato parlors, Niederfrank's was not offering taste samples. The scoop sizes were also not quite as generous as I have seen at a few places. The prices have now increased to $5.25 for a single and $8.25 for a double.

Best ice cream in San Diego.. and their ice cream pies are truly one of a kind! There's a reason they have been around longer than I've been a live. Definitely a must try if you're ever visiting San Diego or if you live here and never been.

Great little ice cream place! I love the taste of it. It's quick (no long line when I went) service. Love that it's not some ridiculous giant portion. Recommend the peanut butter flavor and Kahlua crunch flavor. The macadamia nut one wasn't as good as I expected. I like the waffle cone/bowl! Will go back to try more flavors! Street parking. Parking wasn't bad. I went on Sunday early afternoon. It's street parking. A quick grab and go. Not many space for you to sit down and enjoy.

Stumbled upon this place after visiting market on 8th. This place is kinda like a mom and pop shop, there was only 1 lady in the front helping us. We tried the ube and thai ice tea and was kinda disappointed. However, the third flavor we tried was the Kahlua krunch and I really enjoyed that. Reminds me of Java chip. Kinda pricey for a small scoop though. There are definitely better ice cream/gelato joints in the SD area in my opinion.

Hidden gem! -Does not offer samples (check out the recommended flavors from others) -Parking can be tough on the busy weekends -Ingredients are direct (less air, less fluff) -Love the staff and their friendliness -Store is an ice cream shack for quick grab and go orders

Great ice cream. Super cool business. Definitely a hidden gem! I love the old school vibes and the flavors are amazing.

The lady was so sweet. Love these spots. The tangello was so refreshing- the texture and flavor were perfect.

Been coming here for years!!! Family owed and always serving amazing flavors. Located on A St & E. 8th St. in National City. Tue-Sat 11:30 ~ 6, Sunday 12-5, closed Monday.

Finally came here to try it out. I had come a few times but they were closed. They close early around 6 most days. Local ice cream shop that has fresh made ice cream with local ingredients. There is so many flavors that change daily. It was hard making a decision. I ended up picking pumpkin. It was so good. Creamy and delicious. One of the best pumpkin flavor ice cream I have ever tried. You order outside in a little stand and can't go inside I think since Covid. It has been in San Diego for a while and it is so good. They sell pints and pies as well. Can't wait to go back and try some of the other flavors. There was a line out the door but they were quick to help and give you the ice cream. Lots of parking around.

75 years of THE BEST ICE CREAM IN SAN DIEGO! Naturally Homemade good stuff. My family has made Niederfrank's a tradition since before I was born. I remember going with my Grandmother and Grandpa to the Navy Base to shop, then coming here afterwards to get ice cream; if we were good kids. This creamy, flavor filled, deliciousness is DIVINE! Will ALWAYS come back. They have 3 CHEESECAKE FLAVORS: Plain. Blueberry, and Blackberry...ALL ARE DELICIOUS! Thank you for being consistently delicious.

First time trying their ice cream. It was creamy and so good. I got their blueberry cream cheese ice cream and I highly recommend the flavor. We will come back often.

Randomly came across this place and decided to give it a try. I've heard its an SD local favorite so had to give it a try! I got the cookie dough ice cream and really enjoyed it. It wasn't mind blowing but I can see how this can be a weekend favorite spot. They had a ton of other flavors and dessert options to try. I can see this is a great spot to take your kids on a nice weekend!

Nice mom and pops ice cream shop next door to the Market on 8th. Liked the cappuccino crunch I bought. $7.50 for two scoops. Bit pricey but welcome to inflation folks. I don't think it's going away ever at this rate. But yeah. It was a nice treat even on a cold day. Storefront is literally at the entrance door. You can't walk in. Maybe the rona had something to do with that my guess.

When you see this place it may look like a random hole-in-the-wall spot on a random street in National City, but they have a great product and long history. They have been making ice cream the old fashion way since about 1940 and it's delicious. There's actually a wide variety of flavors. My kids couldn't decide on which chocolate to get, so they chose 2 - triple chocolate and double fudge brownie. I close my fruity flavors of coconut and banana . I was pleasantly surprised. Is creamy and does not have that artificial taste like store bought ice cream. I'll make sure to come by to fill my sweet tooth each time I'm in the area.

Niederfrank's is legendary but I never had the opportunity to go because of their hours and location. They have lots of options to pick from. I ordered Macademia Nut and Kahlua Krunch. Wonderful combination!!! It is strictly outside seating. The location is in an area where parking is at a premium. That being said ... the ice cream is worth trying at LEAST once!!!!

Oh my gosh! This ice cream is ahhhhhmazing! Lemon is my new absolute favorite. Their horchata is delicious too! I've not tasted 1 of their delectable treats & been disappointed with it. A must try! We will be back again & again!

I have never been here and they've been around forever! We had just finished lunch at Market on 8th. Me: alright guys, see you later! She: oh there's ice cream Me: Oh I have time for ice cream.... They have a lot of flavors to choose from...so many it's hard to decide. I went with the lemon custard and the almond joy....both so creamy and delicious! I will have to agree that the scoops are not as big as the price warrants but I was in a good mood and I love ice cream.

I'm obsessed with this place. You can get ice cream by the cone, cup, quart, pint, and gallon. I believe they're all house made. So good. The waffle cones are always so sweet. My favorite is the mango sorbet which I love when it's available by the quart. Perfect summertime treat !

Love the unique flavors. Seems like there are regular flavors and rotating flavors. Their ice cream is more on the creamy side, rather than the sugary side, which I like. There's outdoor seating and plenty of street parking.

This is one of the oldest ice creameries in town. The line might look long but it does fast. The hardest part of picking which flavor to try! Honestly you can't go wrong with any of them! Thai tea is a family fave. & Strawberry Cheesecake and Golden Pistachio. The sorbets are off the charts too! I saw a couple getting a banana split and was a little jealous....next time, next time.

This is an old school hidden gem!! If you haven't had original old fashion hand crafted ice cream with good ingredients then you MUST try Neiderfranks. The ice cream is so delicious and they always have a good variety to choose from. My all time favorites Red Mint Chip, Strawberry Cheesecake , Blueberry Cheesecake, Coffee, Pumpkin Pie (seasonal only). They have seating outside with some sunshades. Pre-COVID you could go inside and be taken back in time. So make sure to take a look inside and enjoy some time travel. It's adorable! The service is always on Patty the owner sometimes will be working and she is so kind and friendly. The last time I was there you guys helped me and he was super polite and friendly as well. Hands down my favorite Ice Cream I always get some when I'm there and take a couple half gallons to go!

I am ashamed that I have lived in San Diego all my life and I just came here for the FIRST time just a few weeks ago! If you're looking for Old Fashioned style ice cream this is the spot to go. Niederfrank's has been making their ice cream pretty much the same way as it was YEARS ago and when I say years ago literally since the late 1940s. A very cute storefront with so many different flavors to choose from there is something to entice one's palette! There is street parking available and tables right in front. Support your local shops! My family and I will definitely drop by again if we're in the area.

Stopped by on a Sunday afternoon and there was no line. The lady behind the counter was very nice and helpful as we tried to make up our mind. They have a lot of flavors to choose from. The ice cream was very good, but a little bit expensive for such a small scoop.

After seeing Niederfrank's as one of the top 10 things to do in national city I had to give this ice cream shop a try! Niederfrank's is located in downtown and when I came on a Tuesday afternoon there was a lot of street parking available. There is only outdoor seating and a little store front where you can place your order. I ordered a double scoop of mango and raspberry champagne sorbet. The sorbet was nice and refreshing for a warm day! The texture was more icy than smooth and the double cost $7.50! Overall, a nice, small, old fashioned ice cream shop that you should support!!

We love coming to this place. The ice cream is tasty and the service is always on point. They have unique flavor along with the traditional flavor. There is only street parking. If you have not tried this place out pleas stop by you won't be disappointed. Thank you Niederfrank's Ice Cream for another yummy cup of ice cream. We will definitely be back.

This is the best place for ice cream! There are so many great flavors to choose from you can't go wrong. They've been making ice cream at this spot for a long time one of the oldest maybe the oldest in So Cal to start ice cream shops and they know ice cream.

Very good ice cream selection, including more than 20 flavors. $4.50 for one scoop, $7.50 for two scoops. Street parking and a few tables right in front.

What a popular spot! We were checking out the food hall next door when I spotted Niederfrank's and knew we had to try it. We were hovering around the door when it opened and the ladies opening up the shop were very nice and friendly. We ordered the jamaica sorbet and a strawberry. The jamaica was really unique and tasted just like jamaica. It was quite refreshing, it would be perfect for a hot summer day. The strawberry was honestly a bit underwhelming. It didn't have that strong strawberry taste I was looking for. Nevertheless, they had a ton of flavors and I would definitely be back to try something new. Right after they opened, they had a line that never stopped growing. Saw lots of people ordering pies too, perhaps ice cream and a pie next time!

Yummy butterscotch marble!! Must try! Service is pretty okay. They also have tables and chairs outside of the icebreaker parlor.

Good place in National City for ice cream. We got the turtle cheesecake, avocado-pistachio and ube flavored ice creams and walked around the next door market hall for a bit.

Always friendly service and great ice cream! Golden pistachio and peanut butter and cream are a must!

A great ice cream stop for a hot summer day! I came here after lunch and it was the boost I needed to get through the heat wave in SoCal. I got the avocado pistachio and it was delicious! I'm a huge pistachio ice cream lover and the addition of avocado in the ice cream made it extra creamy. The service was quick and the staff were really friendly.

Our favorite ice cream place!!! she's always so sweet and nice every time we come, my son loves it here

Met the mayor at a local park and she told us to go here. Can't go wrong with a local recommendation! These flavors are really amazing when looking at the menu. Recipes from 70 years ago! The guy in front of me chose sweet corn out of curiosity and was very pleased. He's a regular and told me that I had to get the fig flavor once they harvest them. The cashier said that flavor will be ready in a week. I chose avocado pistachio and the 3 of us devoured it in less than 5 minutes. It's a well-loved institution.

Their ice cream is delicious but I think their forks are too cheap for such delicious ice cream . It brings the level down

Love this historical Ice cream shop it's been around for decades grew up coming here. My favorite is the chocolate peanut butter ice cream you can literally taste the fresh pieces of peanut butter with the chocolate batter. The mango ice cream taste like an actual mango and the flavor is on point. The best part that makes this location authentic aside from its history it's the freshness that the ice cream is made from scratch not processed. The lady that attended me with my order is so kind and sweet great customer service. If you're looking for a historical ice cream shop and supportive of the community I highly recommend this location a visit.

Such a good little ice cream place!!! Wish they were open later but if you're looking for great homemade ice cream and waffle cones this is the place!

The best ice cream I've ever had anywhere. No artificial flavor, no artificial covering and the service is spot on. If you've never been here, please be sure to give it a try. An old fashioned ice cream parlor for sure!.

Awesome! Loved my visit to Niederfrank's. It has that local feel - from the exterior decor to the menu design. Very charming. Service was prompt. Macadamia toffee nut scoop was delicious. Decadent flavor with a creamy texture.

Located outside of the Market on 8th Food Hall is Niederfrank's Ice Cream. I walked past so many times and I finally got to try it this past Mother's Day weekend. The line got long but it was also a Sunday so it was expected. I got a Coffee Almond Fudge scoop and it was delightful! I would love to try more flavors because the list is actually really long. The ice cream shop has been around since the 40s which is so crazy! A lot of history here and their ice cream was for sure tasty.

Wondering what was missing today since most of these reviews are so positive! Tonight's experience was unfortunately disappointing. 6 pm on a Saturday, and you could hardly tell the place was open. Super dark, uninviting. The inside is closed so you order outside. Seemed to be a one person show, and they were definitely over it. Customer service was barely, barely there. Tried 2 flavors, honey bourbon fig and rum raisin. The rum raisin was excellent, honey bourbon fig was not. The size of one scoop is very small for the price. There is also no sampling still as of November 2022, so keep that in mind. Even the spoons and cups are such low quality. Never has my ice cream cup completely broken within 5 minutes, even the spoon was bending just trying to use it! At this point, with all the great ice cream spots in SD will definitely not be back.

Wonderful history and amazing ice cream that you can't find anywhere else!! The people are friendly and always happy to see you!!

Historic spot in National City, you must try! Homemade ice cream with a gazillion flavors! I love cinnamon which is hard to find and it was spot on! Not much seating but plenty of wall space or just walk around. Lots of kids lined up to get a cone- sorbets too!

Absolutely outstanding! I ordered a sugar cone with ginger ice cream. Never seen that offered as a flavor anywhere else. Ice cream was delicious. Service was super friendly. Prices are very fair. (No 10 dollars per scoop served by surly millennials at Niederfranks!!) VERY highly recommend this establishment. And a great old-fashioned sign as well.