Celebrate St. Patty’s Day with pistachio ice cream

Megan Lander | Student Life Editor

March 6, 2026

With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, it is a must to get yourself a green treat! While green-colored treats are usually mint-flavored, pistachio is another flavor that deserves equal attention. This green ice cream gives a nutty flavor and a unique taste of pistachios compared to the toothpaste-esque flavor of the typical teal mint flavor. To celebrate the season of luck, there are several local ice cream shops that offer their own version of pistachio ice cream.

Lucky Dog Gelato:

Located in the southern part of El Camino Real, Lucky Dog Gelato makes unforgettable pistachio gelato. The reason this place stands out is that it is actually gelato, meaning the dessert contains a lower milk fat content and less air, resulting in a creamier, denser texture. Using real ingredients, the pistachio flavor is fragrant, rich, and natural. Another highlight would be that there is a slight grainy texture from the tiny bits of crushed pistachio, adding a burst of energy in each bite. Senior Kiara Kernot, who works at Lucky Dog, said, “We use very tasty ingredients, and pistachio is one of the flavors that runs out the quickest. Be sure to stop by this month!” Overall, the pistachio Lucky Dog’s Gelato is overly delicious if you seek a seriously nutty and flavorful, silky and creamy gelato. 

Handel’s Ice Cream:
Another place to grab green pistachio ice cream is Handel’s, right off Estrella. This version is a more classical type of ice cream where the texture is thick, creamy, and slightly fluffy. Here, the flavor is a little more balanced with a nutty taste, but not overwhelmingly. Handel’s makes pistachio such an easy flavor to enjoy with vanilla undertones and small bits of pistachio mixed in to enhance the experience. Senior Schae Parrish said, “I love Handel’s ice cream. I think later this week I might try the pistachio!” For people who love a traditional pistachio ice cream, Handel’s is the place to go to embrace St. Patty’s Day!

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream:

Driving down Pacific Coast Highway, you are guaranteed to see the big cherry sign reading “Bruster’s Real Ice Cream” Their pistachio flavor is unique and one of the most classic flavors sold. According to the shop, pistachios represent happiness, good health, and even good fortune. These qualities make this flavor even more fitting for the holiday, bringing a positive atmosphere. The ice cream is formulated with a creamy base and includes some chunks of real pistachio. The texture makes every bite get more and more special. Make sure to check out Bruster’s later this week!

Whether you choose to grab a gelato or an ice cream at any one of these lovely shops, make sure you get a green sweet treat to celebrate the holiday. Even better, go out of your comfort zone and try the pistachio in celebration as St. Patrick’s Day approaches. Lucky Dog Gelato, Handel’s Ice Cream, and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream each have their own individual twists on the nutty, pistachio ice cream. If you are in need of a change from regular mint chip, pistachio is definitely a flavor worth trying, especially at one of these places.