Though this wasn't a planned stop, the line winding up the block made up stop to look. And we are so glad that we did. Ici in Berkeley's Elmwood area was an foodie's ice cream dream come true.First, they make everything there in the kitchen and work with local, organic farmers to get the freshest and in-season ingredients. Second, all of their packaging and servingware is compostable: the ice cream cups and bowls are made from baggase which is derived from sugar cane; spudware spoons are made from potato starch and soy oil; and their clear plastic cups - for the free sparkling water - is made from a corn by-product.
And then there's the ice cream itself...amazingly unique concoctions that were as tasty as they were lovely. Voluptuous mounds of ice cream in delicate shades whose subtle flavors inspired moans of appreciation from everyone in the family. Wow.
I chose a scoop of pink peppercorn with a scoop of candied blood orange. Dylan opted for a chocolate-mint sorbet. Riley selected vanilla bean while Jacob tried a scoop of chai and a scoop of chocolate. We were in ice cream heaven.
Dare I saw that it was better than the San Crispino gelateria in Rome? Maybe it wasn't quite that good. But it's close.
Oooh, I'm going to have to try that the next time we're up there! Have you been to Bi-Rite in the SF Mission district? It, likewise, has a line going around the block, but it moves quickly and is well worth the wait. The Sam's Sundae is drizzled with Bergamot Olive Oil and is sprinkled with Maldon sea salt. It's one of the best things I've ever eaten!
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