Fentons Creamery is a family-owned and operated retro soda fountain shop in Oakland that showcases daily ice cream production and fountain sundae making. Founded in 1894, Fentons is a landmark institution that has served generations its famous handcrafted ice creams and sauces. Walking in, you’ll immediately notice the vintage aesthetic — gleaming counters, period details, and the working ice cream production visible throughout the space. It’s the kind of place that feels genuinely stuck in time, which is exactly the appeal.

Their ice cream sundaes have serious credentials, having been featured on the Travel Channel, History Channel, and Food Network, plus coverage in USA Today and Zagat. The Black & Tan Sundae is the signature item, made with toasted almond ice cream, one of many flavors invented by Melvin Fenton himself back in the day. The menu goes beyond just ice cream — there are grilled sandwiches, burgers, and salads if you want something more substantial before or after your sundae.

The real draw beyond the food is the ice cream production tours available by appointment, where you can actually see how they make the stuff. It’s educational without being overdone, and kids and dogs both find it interesting. The outdoor patio is where you’ll want to be with your dog anyway — it’s the more relaxed section of the restaurant, and well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome there. You get that classic Oakland vibe, people-watching opportunities, and the novelty of being at a place that’s been making ice cream the same way since before your great-grandparents were born.

Fentons also has a second location in Vacaville at 1669 E Monte Vista Ave if you’re headed that direction and craving their ice cream, though the original Oakland spot has more character and history.