Sugar 'n Spice

251

762

5687

28 days ago

"There's always money in the banana stand." Pop culture fans may be interested to know that Sugar 'n Spice is the inspiration for Bluth's Original Frozen Banana Stand from the TV series, Arrested Development. Located on Marine Avenue in Balboa Island, Sugar 'n Spice has been serving the original frozen bananas and Balboa Bars since 1945. P The biggest downside is their hours; they don't open until 11 AM, which is disappointing for those with a sweet tooth who want an early treat. I tried the frozen bananas and must say, Sugar 'n Spice has a superior frozen banana. The chocolate was delicious, the toppings were fresh, and the banana wasn't too frozen - if that makes sense! The staff was friendly and provided helpful service. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Delicious chocolate dipped frozen bananas with a peanut topping - a perfect, sweet tr - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - container - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - sign - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - side - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Zachary C.

0

9

37

28 days ago

There's always money in the banana stand! We came as fans of Arrested Development but were pleasantly surprised to find the dessert good and didn't feel too tourist trappy. Sugar 'n Spice is on the only road in and out of Balboa island so don't expect to find plenty of parking. The wait was quick and the prices weren't awful. We ordered the frozen banana and balboa bar with premium chocolate and peanuts. The Balboa Bar was delicious, exactly what you would want for a quick dessert option. The frozen banana was good, maybe a little too frozen but that is expected from a literal frozen banana. The line felt more touristy then local but overall I'd go again. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Stand exterior - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Frozen Banana & Balboa Bar - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Menu - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Ernest C.

3

137

57

28 days ago

The Balboa Bar with dark chocolate and peanuts is absolutely heavenly. It's not overly sweet--just the right balance--while still delivering that rich, creamy indulgence that feels totally worth the blood sugar spike. Every bite hits that perfect mix of smooth and crunchy. Only wish this place was closer... I'd be here way too often. read more

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Kali F.

189

94

119

2 months ago

Best place to get a frozen chocolate covered banana on Balboa Island! The line can sometimes be long but don't be fooled, they move fast and do it with a smile. There is no where to sit inside but there are plenty of benches nearby to enjoy the warm sunshine while you eat your frozen treat. We got the chocolate covered frozen banana with Reese's on top and it did not disappoint. The banana might have been the biggest one I've ever seen, the two of us shared it and were stuffed! You have plenty of options when looking for a banana stand in Balboa, but Sugar 'n Spice is the best place to stop! read more

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Kristen V.

19

198

305

3 months ago

Sugar, spice, and everything nice! My boyfriend and I visited Balboa Island for a quiet evening walk and some time to sit at the waterfront. While we were here, we just had to stop for a sweet treat. The service was super quick and friendly. I had a hard time deciding between a frozen banana or Balboa bar, but once I saw that they had strawberry shortcake crunch toppings I knew that I had to have it on top of a banana. The frozen banana wasn't too hard that it would break your teeth. It's like eating a popsicle. I loved the crunchy toppings and the bittersweet flavor of the dark chocolate. read more

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Sunday B.

25

175

532

4 months ago

Iconic to balboa island- the frozen banana reigns supreme! (And I gotta believe it's healthy- I mean it IS a banana!) They have this running like a well-oiled machine. Don't let the line intimidate you. You order at the window and they make your dessert right in front of you. Even before I had my money out..they rolled my banana in dark chocolate and fresh big almonds chunks. (And they don't skimp.) $8.08 as of 1/2026. It's such a fun treat to walk around Balboa and snack on a I delicacy. ;) read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Dark chocolate dipped banana rolled in almonds - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Menu as of 1/2026 - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - The OG - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Outside walk up window. (Don't be confused by the competition- look for the banana!) - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Natalie Y.

23

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835

5 months ago

I've been wanting to try this for so long and im so happy i finally got to go I got a dark chocolate dipped frozen banana! It's such a simple yet delightful treat! i also added some almonds for texture. Not too sweet and not too bad for u which how could i possibly argue against that ?! Service was super quick and straightforward. Its made fresh right in front of you! Its right by the sidewalk so many ppl are walking past but its not too bad or rowdy at all~ lots of benches nearby to sit and enjoy your treat! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Balboa Bar and Frozen Banana - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Jennifer F.

86

206

434

2 months ago

Wooohooo for the short wait. Easy to read menu. Fast service. I ordered the Balboa Bar (Vanilla ice cream) dipped in classic chocolate with peanut butter sauce for $7.50. It was sooooo delicious! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Taken 3/16/2026 - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Trinity G.

4

104

278

2 months ago

Delicious!! I had heard from friends that this is the best frozen banana place and that I had to come here. I have never had a frozen banana with chocolate but was pleasantly surprised. The banana wasn't too hard to bite into and the chocolate with brittle was delicious. I also ordered the chocolate ice cream bar with Oreo and that was so yummy! The staff was kind and the shop was adorable. There isn't any indoor seating but plenty of benches and seating options outside the store. read more

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Jessie Z.

424

768

4703

4 months ago

Open as a downtown later night spot. Quite popular. The banana is very customizable and fast. Not too sweet. The butterscotch and pecan crunch was a solid combo, i think it would be good with dark chocolate. The butterscotch flavor isnt that strong but also not too sweet, i think the pecan toffee crunch was most of the flavor. Its a pretty decent amount and dessert for the price. The chocolate sauce drizzle did end up falling off lol. Its a bit silly but I wish they did nonfrozen bananas. I don't really like biting into a frozen banana texture, but if this was a normal banana with the toppings i would devour it. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Chocolate banana - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Truman W.

104

916

2376

4 months ago

Frozen bananas. Who thought that was a good idea?? All these youtube influencers are raving about this place so I had to check it out while in the area. For $8 I felt I should've gotten an ice cream bar instead. The frozen banana was hard to bite off, and it's VERY MESSY to eat especially in the car (toppings exploding all over the place). read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Frozen banana with oreo topping and regular chocolate $8 - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Kylie J.

3

129

49

3 hours ago

such a good treat! service was so quick and it's only $8 for a balboa bar. loved it here! thanks you guys! read more

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Daniel A.

515

355

2039

11 months ago

I hate sayin' goodbye To those sweet summer vibes with you I don't like sayin' goodbye To those hot summer nights with you... Desert that will melt your heart or hunger away. If you're taking a stroll around Balboa Island, this place will satisfy your sweet tooth, it's true. Great customer service. The young lady who helped me offered her suggestions. Lucky enough there wasn't a lot of people the day we went. I can imagine on the weekend or for parades days it will be busy. Went with a frozen banana and frozen cheesecake on a stick. Yes you read that right. Talk about a full dessert in one. You can add all kinds of toppings. Both were excellent. Although my wife and son highjacked the cheesecake out of my hand right away. If you're in town, stop at Sugar n Spice and everything will be nice. God bless read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Outside - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Frozen Banana Frozen Cheesecake-On-A-Stick - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Mitchell N.

282

235

978

4 months ago

Sugar and Spice is an absolute Orange County classic and there is a reason it has been around forever. Anytime you are in Newport or Balboa you almost have to stop here for the iconic frozen chocolate dipped banana. I have had it many times and it never misses. Simple high quality ingredients with the perfect chocolate shell and your choice of nuts or sprinkles. This visit I decided to switch things up and try one of their ice cream cookie sandwiches and I was pleasantly surprised. I went with cookies and cream and strawberry with sprinkles around the outside. The cookies were honestly the standout. Soft and warm in the center with a slight gooey texture that paired perfectly with the ice cream. They were not too hard or crumbly which made it easy to bite into without everything falling apart. The ice cream itself was very creamy and both flavors were well balanced and not overly sweet. Everything came together really nicely with each bite. It is a simple affordable dessert but done really well. Overall Sugar and Spice is a must stop dessert spot and a true Newport staple. Great for families kids or just a casual walk by the water. Always worth it. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Outside Street View - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich & Staff member lol - 9/10 - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Full Menu - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Gabriella C.

13

80

117

9 months ago

Drove from San Diego to try this place. The ice cream sandwich with Reese's was really good. The frozen banana was just ok! Probably wouldn't get it again but it was part of the experience. Good service and quick. They also gave my dog a pup cup, it was HUGE (he's 8 pounds) but he enjoyed it lol Cute little area! read more

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Jenny P.

7

419

799

4 months ago

Friendly service and good frozen bananas! We topped ours with chocolate and strawberry ($8) during Valentine's day. A must if you're on Balboa Island. read more

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Jamie W.

41

157

426

5 months ago

Their chocolate dipped treats are a must get when on the island! I usually get the cheesecake with chocolate sprinkles, and this time tried the banana with everything. It was great and not too sweet. Their pricing over the years has been pretty consistent too, reasonable increases due to inflation. I always look forward to going back, and bring friends that are visiting OC here. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Everything topping Frozen Banana - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Connie V.

545

446

321

5 months ago

Balboa Island is apparently also known for their frozen bananas?? So we naturally just had to get one. I've never really had one until now I guess. My husband got one for us to share and you can choose your sauce and topping. Anything tastes good because everything is just really sweet. Thankfully they give it to you on a small tray, otherwise the whole sidewalk will be filled with chocolate and sprinkle hahaha Don't get sugar and spice mixed up with the other banana shop down the way. This is the original so I would try this one first before heading to that one! read more

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Haydee A.

0

101

35

5 months ago

Looooove it here! So many options to choose from. I love that they have a dark chocolate option too. Usually crowded but totally worth it. Quick service once your order is taken. There are so many options to choose from where toppings! Totally recommend. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Dark chocolate/peanut frozen banana. - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Catherine Z.

26

256

533

1 year ago

Lovely treat! We got the frozen banana ($7) and came with two toppings (we chose Oreo and heath). We loved the wide selection of toppings available and how yummy it was. It's also VERY cold and frozen when you get it, so we had to wait for it to thaw a little before biting into it. Definitely would return again if we're in the area! read more

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Hanaka F.

196

58

265

8 months ago

I wanted an ice cream and came across this place instead. It's in such a cute little area with lots of shops and restaurants. It seems this area really favors their chocolate dipped bananas. It was really good and fun to try. The bananas are made to order and were prepared quickly and in front of us. I definitely want to come back and try the butterscotch! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Dark chocolate nut and chocolate fruity Dino bites - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Jenina M.

130

285

745

9 months ago

Sugar & Spice Frozen Ice Cream Bar Shack is the perfect stop for an after-dinner treat. The ice cream bar was massive--I especially loved the dark chocolate sauce paired with almonds and toffee toppings. I wish there were a few other nut options available though. Service was quick and friendly, and I appreciated learning about the shop's history displayed in the window. There's seating nearby, though I would have loved a few more tables to sit and enjoy. With so many competing ice cream dessert shops in the area, this spot really stood out for flavor. It adds perfectly to the Balboa Peninsula vibe, and we'll definitely be back! read more

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Alan R.

16

330

932

9 months ago

I was excited to finally try a frozen banana from Sugar n Spice. The banana was a bit expensive at $8 but I thought it was enjoyable and more filling than what I expected. Although I probably wouldn't get this frequently, it was an enjoyable experience and I am glad I tried it. read more

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Jeff S.

1

34

13

4 months ago

You can't go to Balboa Island and not stop to get a Balboa Bar. Great choice of toppings. Friendly service and generous portions! Plenty of outdoor bench seating to people watch and enjoy your ice cream. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Generous amount of Heath Bar topping on my Balboa Bar - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Jenn B.

217

128

72

10 months ago

Like most tourist spots, everyone claims to have the "original" or "best" frozen banana on Balboa Island. But based on reviews, we chose Sugar 'n Spice and were glad we did! I got one dipped in dark chocolate with toasted coconut - perfectly balanced and not too sweet. My son loved his milk chocolate + Oreo combo. My daughter, who limits sugar, asked for just a plain frozen banana. The staff was so surprised they triple-checked, but she was thrilled, and honestly, it was worth the $6 to see her so happy. Friendly service, fun stop, and simple treats done right. Highly recommend! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Frozen Banana with milk chocolate and Oreo crumbs - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Frozen Banana with dark chocolate and toasted coconut - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Carolyn W.

4

64

99

11 months ago

Obsessed with this place is an understatement. Even with the change of owners, the taste is still on point and the options are GREAT! We love coming here when coming to balboa island - and Rosie has been taking care of us for years here :) she always manages to get everything right for us and make us feel at home - and last time Grayson took care of us too. This business fits the Balboa island vibe of a small town with the cutest setting - check it out, you will not be disappointed! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Chocolate covered banana with Oreo and chocolate sprinkles - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Balboa bar with hot fudge, marshmallow sauce, and heath bar crunch on top (we went overboard, but they took care of us) - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Lisa F.

126

75

395

11 months ago

I love a good frozen banana! We had heard this was one place we had to stop at while visiting. There was a small line and we waited a little, but it wasn't too bad. It was really good! read more

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Nick C.

451

382

916

2 years ago

This is the classic banana stand of Arrested Development fame. The line may look long from afar, but it moves very quickly (~5-10 min wait the few times I've gone). I like getting the chocolate covered banana, and they have many different toppings you can choose from. It is a bit pricy for what it is, and note there aren't many benches around that area. It's definitely a fun visit though if you are a fan of Arrested Development, but those who don't know the show may not enjoy their visit here as much. read more

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Rain Bow T.

217

653

2830

2 years ago

OG spot for chocolate covered bananas on balboa Island. They have a wide variety of ice cream flavors. The main draw has to be their chocolate-covered bananas. They're perfectly made--just the right balance of chocolate to frozen banana, and they are pretty sweet The staff is friendly and always ready to offer recommendations, making the experience even more enjoyable. If you're in the area, don't miss out on this gem; it's the perfect spot to indulge in some delightful treats! read more

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Kayiona G.

Elite 25

13

281

971

5 months ago

I've been wanting to try the iconic Balboa Island frozen bananas for a while! Sadly, it was mediocre and overpriced. $8 for a frozen banana is insane! I enjoyed the two free toppings that were added. I probably wouldn't go back, but I am glad that I tried it. read more

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Maddy M.

1158

782

4674

9 months ago

I happened to just stumble upon this place and I'm so glad I did! This is a total mom and pop joint, specializing in chocolate dipped frozen treats, specifically the frozen banana! We waited in line for a short while before ordering and once we got to the window we were so excited! You can pick your type of flavor for dipping as well as your toppings. I went with a class chocolate dipped banana with sprinkles and peanuts. My husband got the frozen cheesecake with peanuts and HOLY MOLY! That was the most decadent and delicious dessert I've had in a long while. You probably could share that between two people easily. There were a couple benches along the sidewalk where we were able to sit and enjoy our desserts. This place is just so cute and classic. You can tell it's run with love and care. The two young folks working in the shop the night we went were so friendly and fast. If you are in the area, I highly highly recommend checking out Sugar 'n Spice! read more

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Bay M.

473

904

6515

2 years ago

Home of the OG frozen bananas in Balboa Island since 1945, they say. Street parking. Few benches on the sidewalk. We love the ice cream bars dipped in your choice of chocolate and topped with whatever toppings your heart desires. My go to order is the vanilla ice cream bar dipped in dark chocolate and topped with oreos. The frozen bananas are also a hit. Pretty huge serving, we normally share between 2. No matter the season, they still seem to have lines... even in the winter. Local favorite. read more

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Brian I.

1550

967

2733

1 year ago

My friends and I planned on visiting after dinner, and since it had rained a little, there was a rainbow! What a nice day. We had some ice cream. I debated between a frozen banana and a Balboa ice cream, so I went with the latter. You get to choose your toppings, so I went for it and it was delicious. There was a little line, but it wasn't too bad since it went by quickly and was easy to order. It was a lovely night to enjoy a frozen dessert post-rain and rainbow. read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Waiting in line - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Happened to see a rainbow and there's the spot! - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Robert H.

92

498

1132

1 year ago

Local institution. If you like chocolate and banana then you must stop. Lots of topping options read more

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Ed L.

163

276

67

7 months ago

It's one of those things you have to do in OC... great desserts, nothing complicated. Service is fast but the lines can get a little slow during peak tourist season. Parking is difficult nearby. Prices are good. The Oreo and chocolate syrup covered bananas are top notch. read more

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Ram R.

0

115

1

3 months ago

Excellent treats! We got the dark chocolate banana with Reese's and almonds and it was delicious. Same with the cookie dough ice cream with Oreo crumbles. Definitely recommend! read more

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Sepideh S.

8

85

176

1 year ago

Love their frozen bananas, they have a variety option for toppings and if you don't want a super duper high calorie desert you can choose the premium dark chocolate. read more

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Jenna H.

10

68

143

1 year ago

Such a perfect treat on a warm day! This charming walk-up stand on Balboa Island is a must-visit. Parking can be a bit tricky, but if you drive further down into the neighborhood, you'll usually find more available spots. We ordered a Balboa Bar with Heath pieces and a frozen banana topped with Oreo crumbles--both were made to order and absolutely delicious. The staff was super friendly and helpful, especially when we were deciding what to get. Highly recommend stopping by! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Balboa Bar with heath bar bits and Frozen Banana with Oreo pieces - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Rochelle M.

92

466

2438

2 years ago

My favorite place for frozen bananas! They're made to order, customized to your choice of dip and toppings. I especially enjoy that they are always at the perfect soft frozen state that's easy to eat. Today I ordered mine dipped in milk chocolate, then rolled in heath pecan crunch. My husband and daughter love the Balboa Bar. They chose milk chocolate topped with almonds. So, so good! read more

Sugar 'n Spice - Frozen Banana - milk chocolate & heath pecan crunch - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Balboa Bar - milk chocolate & almonds - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - My favorite Balboa Island treat! - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Sugar 'n Spice - Seasonal Selections - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Derek T.

782

1337

3307

2 years ago

Is that a frozen banana or are you just happy to see me? Throw on some sugar 'n spice, and everything nice, and you got yourself a sweet treat on a hot summer day. So whether you crossed the bridge or ferried over, treat yourself. The balboa bar or frozen banana are both good choices. Since it's overly sugary, try to get the dark chocolate to feel somewhat healthier. You can offset the healthiness by just putting every single topping on your banana or bar. It's pretty bomb but can be messy. Also, if your teeth are sensitive, bite carefully lest you hurt yourself. Anyway, not much else to it, grab this sweet treat and walk down the rest of Oldtown Newport for a grand ol' time! read more

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More info about Sugar 'n Spice

310 Marine Ave
Newport Beach, CA 92662
Directions
(949) 673-8907
Call Now
Visit Website
http://Sugarnspice.co

Full menu

Hours

What time does Sugar 'n Spice open?

Sugar 'n Spice opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Sugar 'n Spice close?

Sugar 'n Spice closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Sugar 'n Spice closes at 10:00 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMFri-Sun 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Sugar 'n Spice take Bitcoin?

No, Sugar 'n Spice does not take Bitcoin.

Does Sugar 'n Spice take credit cards?

Yes, Sugar 'n Spice takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Sugar 'n Spice have a drive thru?

No, Sugar 'n Spice does not have a drive thru.

Indoor Amenities

Does Sugar 'n Spice allow dogs?

Yes, Sugar 'n Spice allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Sugar 'n Spice have bike parking?

Yes, Sugar 'n Spice has bike parking.

Does Sugar 'n Spice have parking?

Yes, Sugar 'n Spice has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Sugar 'n Spice wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Sugar 'n Spice is wheelchair accessible.

Does Sugar 'n Spice have free WiFi?

No, Sugar 'n Spice does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

History

Established in 1945.

Sugar 'N Spice was the Original Frozen Banana Shop on Balboa Island. We stay true to the history of the business and have many generations visiting our shop. It's such a landmark, that there was a little TV show loosely based on it....;)

Meet the Business Owner: Sugar 'n Spice 8.

Sugar 'n Spice is The Original Frozen Banana and Balboa Bar since July 4, 1945. It is a landmark on Balboa Island, CA. We have served millions with our Frozen Bananas and Balboa Bars and look forward to serving more as we approach the 100 year mark.

More Info

Special Hours, Health Score

Sugar 'n Spice Reviews in Other Languages

Japanese
1 Review
Spanish
1 Review

Review Highlights - Sugar 'n Spice

“. The service was fast, the ladies will dip your frozen banana in chocolate, and add any topping you would like”

Mentioned in 217 reviews

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Handel's Homemade Ice Cream

4.4(247 reviews)

Just what I was craving and what I needed while in town. Came to newport for a quick weekend trip…read morewith family and we were staying right around the corner from this area, which was amazing. We walked around after lunch and of course I needed a sweet treat! I had JUST had Handel's for the first time ever only a couple weeks before at my friends house and it was delightful. I ended up getting a mint chocolate chip ice cream in a chocolate dipped cone. They really stacked it up, which was AWESOME! It was perfect for a hot day. This is a grab and go place where you walk up to the window, place your order and take your ice cream to go of course enjoy the beach. It's perfect. I enjoyed taking my cone to go and walking around the area. It was delicious! I want to try more of their flavors at the location in Vegas now, but definitely recommend this spot. They were super quick, too! And who doesn't love ice cream at the beach?!

First time trying ice cream at Handel's! I've passed by many times and finally stipper by to check…read moreit out. I ordered a single scoop called Monkey Business. I had no clue what it really was. The names and images were on a big poster marquee and I figured it looked like caramel, fudge and maybe banana... so why not. Right away the texture stood out. Not too soft, not frozen solid, just that perfect scoopable consistency where every bite melts slowly instead of disappearing instantly. It starts creamy and mellow, then suddenly you run into caramel and chunks of chocolate brownie and it turns into a totally different bite. Every spoonful kind of surprises you a little. It ended up being way richer than I expected and honestly one of the best single scoops I've had in a long time. Super friendly lady slso was behind the window too, felt welcoming right away. Definitely coming back because if this was a random pick off the menu, I want to see what the rest taste like.

Open Mother's Day 11am-10pm

Every Thanksgiving dessert table deserves a quart of apple pie & pumpkin pie ice cream

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Birthday Cake Every bite is a celebration!

Milk & Cookies

4.6(363 reviews)

Locally owned & operated

Free WiFi

Friends and I weren't craving donuts while in Newport, so we decided on Milk & Cookies to satisfy…read moreour sweet treat cravings. You could tell the cashier was ready to go home, but I found her endearing. She was very helpful and provided descriptions of some of the cookies they had displayed. My friend got the cowboy cookie and I got the M&M cookie. We both opted out of enjoying our cookies with milk, which I guess defeats the purpose.. but the cookies were warm and tasty. They were a great size for a decent price.

I've been coming to this spot since 2020 during the COVID days, and the cookies remain great. They…read moreoffer a wide variety of flavors, and the best part is that the cookies are always served warm. The Order: * My Go-To: I highly recommend the chocolate chip cookie with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on top. * Variety: They have every flavor of milk, ice cream, and cookies you could want. Timing & Atmosphere: * Avoid Weekends: I would not recommend coming here on a weekend. The store is tiny, and because it's right next to all the bars, the area gets crowded with a lot of drunk people. If that isn't your scene, stick to a weekday visit. * Rewards: It is quite expensive, but it's a nice treat. Plus, you can sign up with your phone number to get discounts for future visits. The Parking Situation: * Virtually Non-Existent: There is no parking lot, so you are stuck looking for small spots along the side of the road. * Accessibility: There is no designated handicap parking, so keep that in mind if you aren't prepared to walk a bit from a side street. Final Verdict: It's a perfect weekday spot for a warm dessert, just be prepared for the peninsula parking struggle!

Inside

Chocolate chip cookie and brown butter toffee ice cream

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Cookies

Salt & Straw

4.5(321 reviews)

1.7 mi

Food! Service! Ambiance! Cannot believe it's possible that these girls amber Malia Tamara and…read moreRachel could be SO full of love and joy!!! Definitely my favorite ice cream shop for the remainder of my eternal existence before I go to be in the presence of Yahweh

This location is wonderful! The sweet server who helped us was so incredibly patient and…read morethoughtful, suggesting so many flavors because we didn't like any of them... She helped me narrow it down to the safe lavender and honey, which is so delicious! Of course salt and straw is known for their crazy flavors, but chewing bread in chocolate ice cream was a new one for me. The inside is super clean and minimal, but there is no seating inside or outside. It's great to stop by after dinner or before an event!

Arbequina Olive Oil and Double Fold Vanilla

Tonight's delights

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Single Scoop

Newport Coffee

4.2(617 reviews)

2.2 mi

Stopped in today to get my coffee fix, and I think I've found my new go-to spot whenever I'm in the…read morearea. I tried one of the barista's recommendations, and it did not disappoint. It wasn't overly sweet, which I really appreciated. I also love that they offer gelato, açaí bowls, tea, and smoothies--such a great variety. Emma mentioned they carry ceremonial-grade matcha and said it's a must try, so needless to say, I'll definitely be back for that. Shoutout to Emma for being so kind and for turning me into a repeat customer.

Matcha so delicious, I had it two days in a row! What a cute coffee spot. Definitely can tell this…read moreis a favorite of the locals for sure as it seemed like there were a lot of regulars there. They have a little bit of seating inside, but outside there's more seating available. I loved that they had a wall of poloroids of dogs that come in haha. And you can tell the staff LOVES dogs. A man walked in with a husky puppy and they all stopped to say hi ahha it was so cute. We walked down from our Airbnb when we were on vacation this past weekend. The girl helping us was really nice. They had a variety of teas and my husband loves tea so he got the peach tea. It was sooo good! I ordered the matcha and that was delicious! WOW! I literally had to have it two days in a row because it was soooo good. Such a cute coffee shop to grab coffee and go walk down the pier, which is what we did. It was perfect. Highly recommend this coffee spot!

Interior

I love taking photos like this... so cute in front of the mini snake plant on their counter!

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Self serving creamer area

Stella Jean’s Ice Cream

4.6(492 reviews)

Yuzu Matcha Cloud (seasonal) is so bright and zingy. Love the yuzu pop! The strawberry oat crumble…read moreis nice to pair with the yuzu matcha. The little hidden oat crumbles make you feel like you're eating a slice of crumb pie. And the best part is you can get a single scoop but split with two flavs... all the better Thankful to have V & Gf options. Service was commendable. I do wish that an ingredients list were available as well as nutrition facts. Allergens information is available though.

I've tried a lot of ice cream spots--it's one of my favorite desserts--and I can honestly say this…read moreis some of the worst ice cream you can get in Orange County. I've been here twice now and tried about five different flavors total, and every single one was gross. The Experience: * Bad Flavors: On my last visit, I actually had to ask the worker to swap my flavor because I was convinced I just got a "bad" one. The second flavor was somehow even worse. I didn't even finish it; I just threw it away because it was that nasty. * Texture & Taste: It tastes like watered-down diet ice cream. It lacks any of the richness or flavor you'd expect from a specialized shop, especially for how expensive it is. I wouldn't even go back if the ice cream were free. The Location Trap: This place is right on 17th Street next to Sidecar Doughnuts and Pop Pie Co., which is a great, convenient location. I think people only go here because it's a "cool-looking" spot to stop at while driving to the beach or grabbing a donut next door. If it weren't for the location, I don't see how they would stay in business. Final Verdict: Don't be fooled by the convenient location or the surrounding shops. The ice cream is truly disappointing and definitely not worth the price. I won't be coming back ever.

(D) Brown Butter Pecan - Pint

Ube Pandesal Toffee over Baklava Cheesecake. 5/5

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Yummy goodness!

Kulfi Me

4.7(160 reviews)

2.2 mi

Mango Lassi was delicious. Good service, worker was nice and offered us water and checked up on us…read moreoften. We felt very welcomed. Chill atmosphere.

I went here on Galentine's with my bestie, and we had the most amazing time! The place has a…read morebeautiful ambience and such a cozy vibe. It's family-owned, and the mother-son duo are some of the warmest and kindest people you'll ever meet. They were incredibly respectful and served us with so much love and care. The food was absolutely delicious! We had Maggi and the Poppin Paneer Sandwich with Indian fries, along with tea. For dessert, we tried their Kulfi platter -- and wow! Every single dish was so flavorful and comforting. It truly took us back to the Indian street food we grew up enjoying back home. If you're looking for authentic Indian street food along with amazing kulfi and faloodas, this is definitely the place to go. I've been searching for a spot like this for ages and finally found one in Orange County! We will definitely be visiting very often. Highly, highly recommend this place. I wish I could give more than 5 stars for their hospitality, delicious food, and the wonderful experience we had there!

IG: happyfoodieoc

Best Maggi Noodles in Town, only at Kulfi ME

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Mango lassi and rose milkshake - so good!

Pipeline

3.7(98 reviews)

2.2 mi

It was ok. I like the customer service but I ordered the real Hawaiian shaved ice. It's not really…read morereal. They had vanilla effing ice cream...at the bottom. It should be macadamia. I think that was like $8. I may not get it again. The rest of shaved ice is just your generic shaved iced. It didn't standout to me.

Nice little spot on the beach, food is decent a bit pricey but for its location everything around…read moreit is as well. Recommend if you're looking for a quick snack to eat

Kitchen

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Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop

4.1(390 reviews)

0.0 mi

Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop is well-known for its Chocolate Frozen Bananas, Balboa Bars, and hippo…read morecookies. The shop has been a Balboa Island staple since 1960, when it was opened by Joe "Dad" Anderson. According to local lore, a group known as the "Dew Dads" began a tradition in the 1960s of gathering early for coffee and donuts, and that tradition continues today. Some regulars even have their own hooks on the wall for their coffee mugs. The hippo sugar cookies change with the holidays. I visited around Easter, and they had Easter colors. We got a glazed donut for my son, and he loved it. I got a hippo cookie to share; it was a standard sugar cookie, but the little, colorful hippo was adorable. It's a great treat for kids of all ages. We also got a frozen banana covered in chocolate with sprinkles. My son didn't care for it, but I really enjoyed it. I appreciate that Dad's Donuts opens early, allowing visitors to sample their goodies. It felt like a classic mom-and-pop shop, and I could tell many are regulars, as the staff was on a first-name basis with some patrons. Dad's Donuts is definitely a gem on Balboa Island, and their delicious treats and charming, family-friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit.

Dad's Bakery on Balboa Island is such a fun, lively spot !! I absolutely love coming here! It's…read morealways bustling, and you can see why everyone flocks to this place. This time I tried something new, and while the cheesecake and Dubai weren't really my favorite, the original is still my absolute favorite especially with sprinkles on top! Even though I don't have a picture this time, the flavors and the charm of Dad's Bakery always make it worth the visit. If you're on Balboa Island, this is definitely a must stop for sweet treats and a great atmosphere!

Cute Cookies!

Everything mix frozen banana

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Honey almond granola frozen banana

Cowafornia Ice Cream

4.1(150 reviews)

0.7 mi

If you're walking around the Balboa Fun Zone or just getting off the ferry, Cowafornia is a great…read morespot to cool down. It has that classic, nostalgic beach-shack vibe that fits Newport perfectly. Frozen Lemonade: This was exactly what I needed! It was incredibly refreshing and had that perfect slushy consistency--not too sweet, just a great zesty kick for a warm day. Acai Bowl: The first thing you'll notice is the size--the portion was absolutely huge. It's definitely large enough to share or to serve as a full meal. While the base was a bit watery compared to some dedicated acai shops, the sheer volume and the fresh toppings made it a solid value for the price. The Vibe: The shop is right in the heart of the action on Bay Ave. It's a fun, bright place to stop by while you're exploring the peninsula. The service was quick, which is impressive considering how busy this area can get during the afternoon rush. Come here if you have a big appetite! Whether you want a refreshing drink or a giant bowl of fruit and acai, you definitely get your money's worth here.

Nice small town shop. Be sure to ask for a sample. It's a beach town so inventory has the…read morepotential to sit for a while longer and not be as fresh. My friend said that her chocolate chip ice cream had an old freezer burned taste.

05/12/25

Inside store 8/2025

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Inside 8/2025

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16 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Patrick C.

194

207

738

2 years ago

Sugar 'n Spice is a hidden gem with a sweet history that makes their original frozen banana a must-try! The story goes that Don, the son of the original owners, accidentally left bananas in the freezer instead of the refrigerator. This happy accident led to the creation of their famous frozen banana, which has become a beloved treat in Balboa Island ever since. I had the frozen banana dipped in chocolate and topped with Reese's peanut butter chunks, and it was simply fantastic. The frozen banana was perfectly ripe, offering a refreshing, creamy texture that paired wonderfully with the rich chocolate coating. The Reese's peanut butter topping added a delightful crunch and a hint of saltiness that balanced the sweetness perfectly. The accidental origin of this treat makes it even more special, and you can taste the love and history in every bite. If you're in the area, this unique dessert is definitely worth stopping by for! read more

Michael M.

0

14

24

2 months ago

We stumbled across Sugar 'n Spice while walking along the shops on Balboa Island, and I'm so glad we did! This place is perfect if you have a sweet tooth. Everything on display looks both sweet and savory, and the variety of add-ons you can choose from is honestly impressive. We decided to try the chocolate-covered frozen banana with Reese's toppings, and it did not disappoint. The banana was perfectly balanced - sweet, but not overpowering - and the toppings added just the right amount of extra flavor and texture. It's a fun, classic treat done really well. I'll definitely be coming back and would highly recommend this spot to anyone craving something sweet while exploring the area. read more

Mefa L.