It's a small, blogosphere-crazed wonder that a small, slightly tattered ice cream shop—secreted behind LACC and away from the main thoroughfare of Vermont Ave.—would gain such an enormous following. Proprietor and sole flavor engineer, Tai Kim has been called the Thomas Keller of ice cream, with good reason. The unassuming ice cream maker shares the same modest demeanor, avant-garde flavor profiles and flair for foie gras as the Napa Valley demi-god. Traditional chocolate, vanilla and fruits are cut through with the full catalogue of spice, herb, liquor, et al. While the fluctuating menu reflects Kim's artistic whims, chocolate-wasabi and brown bread have cycled around often enough to become representatives of Scoops' genius. Don't be shy: Kim patiently lets you sample to your heart's desire. And even with the explosion of popularity, the "single scoop" price of $2 still gets you two scoops of two varying flavors.
Getting There
Cross Streets:
Melrose Ave.
Parking:
Street
The Basics
Hours:
Mon.-Sat. noon-10 p.m.
Closed Sun.
Cuisine:
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, and Vegan
Price Range:
$ (Under $9)
Features
Atmosphere and Personality:
Laid Back Casual
Worth Noting:
Daily offerings include several vegan options. Leave suggestions for the next-best flavor combination on the dry erase board, next to the nook which houses the curious video library
