Serving up Soft Serve: This Charming Ice Cream Shop in Southern California Won Me Over

Tucked away in the sun-dappled alleys of Old Town Pasadena, Kinrose Creamery is redefining what it means to enjoy a scoop of ice cream. With its enchanting fusion of Persian and Egyptian flavors and eye-catching presentations, this boutique creamery is not just a dessert stop — it’s a full cultural experience. Founded by Maria Oveysi and Moe Kamal, Kinrose began as a beloved vendor at Smorgasburg Los Angeles and quickly cultivated a loyal following. Today, their brick-and-mortar shop is a destination in its own right, attracting curious foodies, locals seeking comfort, and travelers looking for something sweetly unexpected.

A Cultural Scoop

At Kinrose, the ice cream is more than just dessert — it's a passport to the Middle East. Each flavor is deeply inspired by Oveysi and Kamal’s heritage, blending traditional ingredients with the creamy richness of soft serve. A must-try is the Orange Flower and Pistachio, which delicately weaves together the floral notes of orange blossom with the nutty crunch of pistachios, a flavor combination that feels both exotic and comforting. Another standout is Walnut Baklava, which manages to capture the decadent layers of the famous pastry, from its spiced walnuts to its sticky honey sweetness. And if you’re craving something with a tangy twist, look no further than their Sour Cherry, elegantly topped with a cloud of Persian Fairy Floss. This spun sugar not only adds whimsy but also a perfect balance to the cherry’s tartness.

More Than Just Ice Cream

But Kinrose isn’t content with just flavor — it’s about presentation, experience, and joy. Each cup or cone is lovingly adorned with ornate toppings like dried rose petals, saffron honey, and phyllo crunch. These garnishes do more than elevate the taste, they create edible art that’s as photogenic as it is flavorful. Inside the shop, the vibe is colorful and playful, with pastel-toned furniture, warm lighting, and even a vintage Pac-Man machine in the corner. It’s a gathering space that feels as much like a whimsical tea parlor as it does an ice cream shop. Whether you’re out for a girls’ night, a cozy date, or just flying solo, Kinrose offers the perfect excuse to slow down and savor something special.

Community and Celebration

At its core, Kinrose Creamery is about connection — between cultures, between people, and between the past and present. Oveysi and Kamal are deeply committed to honoring their roots, often debuting limited-edition flavors tied to cultural celebrations like Nowruz and Ramadan. Their ethos extends beyond the scoop. When the 2025 California wildfires displaced many residents, the Kinrose team kept their doors open, offering outlets, refreshments, and kindness to those in need.

They’ve even added a dash of comedy to the mix, hosting live stand-up shows that pair perfectly with a cool swirl of cardamom or rose.

Plan Your Visit

Kinrose Creamery is open Monday through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., and open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from noon to 10:30 p.m. Parking in Pasadena is a breeze with street parking and plenty of parking structures.

Whether you’re a curious tourist or a local in need of a serious pick-me-up, Kinrose Creamery is a must-visit that promises an ice cream experience full of flavor, culture, and heart.

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