Polly Ann Ice Cream, the beloved Outer Sunset ice cream parlor known for its globally inspired flavors, is opening a new location in San Francisco’s Financial District at 160 Pine Street.
The company’s second location is taking over the former Bar Chica space, according to SF Standard, with a three-month pop-up lease. The expansion is supported by Vacant to Vibrant, a program run by SF New Deal and the city’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development. Owner Alex Viafara expects to open within two to three weeks, and plans to offer the same artisanal ice cream experience that has made the Outer Sunset shop a local staple. Customers can expect the signature “wheel of flavors” to help navigate the shop’s 48 to 50 rotating daily flavors, including durian, taro, Thai tea, merlot, pineapple hibiscus, and brigadeiro.
Polly Ann Ice Cream opened in 1955 and has built a reputation for creative, high-quality ice cream. The original location gained recognition on Anthony Bourdain’s television program and was granted legacy business status in 2024. The Financial District location marks the brand’s first expansion beyond the Outer Sunset, with plans to maintain the same artisanal quality and globally inspired flavors.
The pop-up shop at 160 Pine Street will serve customers for the initial three-month lease with hopes of becoming a permanent location if successful. The space offers a convenient downtown address, attracting office workers, residents, and tourists seeking a premium ice cream experience. Viafara aims to preserve the community-focused spirit while introducing Polly Ann’s unique offerings to a wider audience.
Polly Ann’s menu features more than 50 inventive flavors, including Black Sesame, Acai Sorbet, Bubble Gum, Bumpy Freeway, and the “Star Wars” flavor with vanilla cake ice cream, marshmallows, and rainbow sprinkles. House-made baked goods such as cookies and brownies are available as scoops companions or standalone treats. Ice cream sizes range from a Junior Scoop at $4.95 to a Monster Scoop with three flavors at $9.90. Sundaes, milkshakes, pints, and quarts are also available, allowing customers to enjoy Polly Ann’s globally inspired flavors in multiple ways.
