Welcome to Tucker's Ice Cream
Tucker's Ice Cream, a cherished Alameda institution, has been delighting locals since the 90s. Nestled along Park Street, this Asian- and women-owned gem radiates classic ice cream parlor charm, inviting patrons to relish its vibrant flavors in a cozy, patio setting beneath blooming jacaranda trees. Offering an array of gluten-free and vegan options, Tucker's ensures everyone can indulge. Signature treats, like giant ice cream sandwiches and the nostalgic Cho Cho, highlight its creative menu. With its inviting atmosphere and attentive service, Tucker's Ice Cream isn’t just a dessert stop; it’s a sweet experience that fosters community and joyful memories.
Tucker's Ice Cream: Reviews & Ratings
Very yummy. Been in business since the 90's. Maybe earlier. Solid place for dessert. Nice setting. Looks like an old European cafe inside. Service is nice. Solid A!
As part of my Alameda Restaurant Week tour, I made sure to include Tucker's Ice Cream in my photo collection. The place immediately stands out as a downtown institution - it feels straight out of a movie with its classic ice cream parlor charm. They have this great back patio with a beautiful blooming jacaranda tree that creates a perfect setting to enjoy their desserts. The variety of great flavors gives everyone something to love, which is probably why it's become the family spot for Alameda locals over the years.
Ice cream is delicious! Thank you to that one employee AJ that was the only one who helped me! He went above and beyond!
I love a good ice cream, especially if it's got local flavor and some quirks. Tucker's fits the bill. Along Park Street in Alameda, the space looks like an old Spanish villa and they got some quirky signs and slogans ("Life is short, eat dessert first"). And the ice cream is great! I got the fudge brownie on a cake cone - smooth, creamy with big chewy chunks of brownie. It was so smooth, they had to put it in a cup with the cone atop like a hat. I also noticed their "baby cones" which are tiny little cones for babies. That's cool. A nice cap to the evening, if you're traveling through Alameda, stop at Tucker's for a fun ice cream stop!
I've heard this place is a staple so had high hopes. It's more of an old school vibe here, and on this Saturday night, there was a huge line. I really wish these joints that experience long lines have some sort of menu that's visible further down the line so we have something to look at. I hate it when people get to the front and take forever to order, especially after they have to sample like 5 different flavors. I get anxious when I get to the front. I just went for the tried and true pistachio. The kiddos went for standard choco chips. Mines was good. Nothing too memorable, but better than average. I'm not sure if I was feeling the vibe in this place though. I'm more of a McConnell's type, but for sure I'll always recommend a neighborhood ice cream joint.
This review is for two different visits recently. The first time, I tried both the honey lavender, which is quite sweet and honestly tastes more like sweet cream with hints of lavender, and the marble butterscotch which is also really sweet. I ultimately opted to get the honey lavender, single scoop in a cup. It's soft and smooth in texture, and I feel Tucker's single scoop size is quite large, so maybe a junior scoop would've actually been adequate for anyone not looking for a large treat. The second time, I tried the pistachio, pumpkin cheesecake, strawberries and cream, toasted almond, strawberries and cream, and toasted almond before deciding what to get. Pistachio - you can taste the actual pistachio, which I thought was nice for texture. Pumpkin cheesecake - quite sweet, and actually surprisingly sour. It was a stronger-tasting flavor than I expected. Strawberries and cream - very sweet, it's more like vanilla cream with strawberry jam on it. Toasted almond - quite nutty, I liked it a lot as it was sort of savory but also sweet. I ultimately opted for a double junior scoop of pumpkin cheesecake and toasted almond and was pleasantly surprised by how much ice cream they packed in. The workers have been friendly and patient, and did not put any limit on how many samples I could get. They also have a few seasonal flavors that change periodically. There's a lot of indoor tables including an upstairs level, but not any outdoor tables that seem to belong directly to Tucker's; however, if you walk just a short distance, you can easily find benches along the street.
It's been a while since we've been back, as my wife doesn't live in East Bay anymore. But Tucker's is near and dear to her heart. They have been serving the community since 1941. Amazing! Their ice cream is creamy, smooth, and rich. Old fashion classic flavors. They have other specialty items Light house music playing. Old rustic decor. Several tables inside to sit at. Both a men and women's restrooms are available.
Location
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1349 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501 Hotline: (510) 522-4960
Welcome to the charming world of Tucker's Ice Cream, a beloved bakery and dessert haven nestled at 1349 Park St in Alameda, California. Having stood the test of time since the 1990s, Tucker’s has become a cherished institution for locals and a delightful stop for visitors. With its nostalgic ice cream parlor ambiance reminiscent of classic European cafes, it sets the perfect scene for indulging in delectable treats.
As you step inside, you are welcomed not only by the enticing aroma of freshly made desserts but also by hospitable staff eager to share their extensive menu. Offering a variety of flavors that cater to every palate—gluten-free and vegan options are available—Tucker's ensures that everyone can indulge without compromise. Highlights include:
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Try the iconic giant Oreo cookie filled with a scoop of Tucker's signature ice cream, priced at just $5.25.
- Cho Cho: A delightful throwback to the 1950s, this chocolate malt ice cream comes served in a unique cup that adds an interactive twist to your dessert experience, priced at $4.75.
- Single Scoops: Choose your favorite flavor, served in a cone or cup for only $5.25.
- Half Gallon Takeaway: Perfect for sharing at home, you can take a half gallon of your favorite flavor for $15.00.
For those who enjoy outdoor settings, Tucker's boasts a lovely patio with a blooming jacaranda tree, creating a picturesque backdrop for desserts. Whether you're enjoying a float with classic sodas or celebrating a special occasion with their catering services, every visit feels special. The cafe is accessible to everyone, including those with mobility needs, which reflects its welcoming ethos.
Customer experiences echo the warmth that Tucker's Ice Cream embodies. Patrons rave about not only the delicious flavors but also the caring service. One customer, AJ, went above and beyond to help, making a lasting impression on many visitors. The overall vibe is playful and relaxed, making it an ideal spot for families and children. As customer Paul J. highlights, Tucker's quirky signs and creative offerings—like adorable baby cones—add character to your visit.
So whether you are in the mood for a classic pistachio scoop or feeling adventurous with a fudge brownie cone, Tucker’s is sure to satisfy. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traversing through Alameda, perfect for a fun and tasty memory filled with laughter and sweetness. Don’t forget to stop by the enclosed outdoor seating where dogs are welcome, making it an irresistible treat for everyone in the family!
Next time you're in Alameda, remember: Life is short, eat dessert first, and there’s no better place to do it than at Tucker’s Ice Cream.
