Sugar &#x27;n Spice

13

179

369

21 days ago

Iconic spot on Balboa Island! If you're looking for some delicious treats while walking around, you gotta try Sugar 'n Spice. They're known for their frozen bananas so I'd recommend getting one of them! The best part is getting to customize them however you like. We got ours dipped in chocolate and coated with Reeses Cup and Oreos. Just wow! The only reason this is 4 stars is due to the fact that they don't have soft serve! They do offer regular ice cream and sherbet here though. Overall, great spot and worth the visit! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Erik G.

259

785

5844

2 months 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

See all

Helpful 11

Thanks 8

Love this 12

Oh no 0

Ernest C.

3

140

71

2 months 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

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

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kali F.

189

97

131

3 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

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Kristen V.

20

207

324

4 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Sunday B.

30

180

559

5 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

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Zachary C.

0

9

37

2 months 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 - Menu - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Newport Beach, California

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Natalie Y.

23

336

848

6 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

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Jennifer F.

86

208

438

3 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

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Trinity G.

4

104

278

3 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jessie Z.

424

785

4799

5 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

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Daniel A.

520

365

2112

1 year 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

See all

Helpful 16

Thanks 5

Love this 17

Oh no 0

Gabriella C.

13

80

117

10 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Truman W.

104

922

2434

5 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

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Mark C.

0

30

7

9 days ago

If you guys like rock hard frozen bananas that are hard to bite into. This is the spot, just wait about 10 mins for it to thaw out and it will be edible. It's a bit overpriced for a frozen bananas, we tried it side by side with the other location a few doors down. There was barely any noticeable difference between the two. I'd suggest just going to whatever place has a shorter line or just freeze a banana at home, it will taste identical read more

Business owner information

Golden R.

Hi Mark,…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Mitchell N.

282

236

986

5 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jenny P.

7

450

847

5 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jamie W.

42

168

462

6 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Connie V.

545

448

321

6 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Haydee A.

0

104

38

6 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Catherine Z.

27

279

599

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

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Kylie J.

3

131

50

1 month 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Hanaka F.

196

58

268

9 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tyler R.

0

3

1

6 days ago

this place frickin sucks, it stinks!!!! i got a banana and it had a hair on it and tasted like a turd!!!!!

Business owner information

Golden R.

Hi Tyler,…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jenina M.

130

288

749

10 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Alan R.

16

330

932

10 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

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 1

Jeff S.

1

34

13

5 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jenn B.

217

128

72

11 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Carolyn W.

4

65

99

1 year 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lisa F.

126

85

442

1 year 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nick C.

451

384

931

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

See all

Helpful 5

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Rain Bow T.

219

653

2898

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

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Maddy M.

1164

802

4745

10 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

See all

Helpful 11

Thanks 7

Love this 11

Oh no 1

Bay M.

473

906

6529

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

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 1

Kayiona G.

Elite 25

13

281

971

6 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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Robert H.

93

503

1164

1 year ago

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

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ed L.

163

276

67

8 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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

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

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Page 1 of 13

See more reviews

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 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Sugar 'n Spice close?

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

Mon-Sun 10:00 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

Review Highlights - Sugar 'n Spice

“This is a total mom and pop joint, specializing in chocolate dipped frozen treats, specifically the frozen banana!”

Mentioned in 218 reviews

You might also consider

Seaside Donuts Bakery

If you're by Newport Pier you have to stop by and get a donut. This is a very nostalgic spot that…read morehas been around ever since I can remember and their prices are definitely reasonable. The service is good, they're quick and efficient.

Came here to see what the hype was all about. It was later in the evening so there was no line…read more Walked right in and placed our order. Just a typical donut store with glass shelves to see the donuts. Not the most friendly staff. No line behind us or in front of us but we felt like we were being rushed to hurry up and decide what to order. We purchased 6 donuts some of which were chocolate. We also bought one ham and cheese jalapeño croissant. He warmed it up and put it in the same plastic bag with our chocolate donuts!! Who does this?!? Apparently the shop worker did. Needless to say our chocolate donuts were ruined and I had some upset kids! Taste of everything was ruined due to the experience. I will not be returning.

Turkey cheese jalapeños croissant yum

Donuts

See all

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream

Matt was awesome ! He was patient and kind as he served me and my husband some of their best scoops…read more! Will be back !

they have a great selection of ice creams, and many options to choose from with great affordable…read morepricing this is the best ice cream by far in the bay area

Open Mother's Day 11am-10pm

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

See all

Celebrate Dad with a moment that matters. We're OPEN this Father's Day and serving up small‑batch scoops and big smiles 11am-11pm

Milk & Cookies

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!

Chocolate chip cookie and brown butter toffee ice cream

Cookies

See all

Salt & Straw

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

See all

Single Scoop

Newport Coffee

I love this coffee shop and I highly recommend going there, best coffee, nicest workers, and right…read moreby the beach! And it just gives of such a great vibe. Keep it up

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.

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

Interior

See all

Self serving creamer area

Stella Jean’s Ice Cream

Stella is the best ice cream. I can't believe it made it to Costa Mesa! We didn't have this before…read morewhen we use to live here. I got the seasonal flavor- banana turon. Omgoodness. Who makes these flavors. The creators really know how to have these Filipino desserts come to ice cream life. It's incredible. You can taste the crunchiness and even the jackfruit. I absolutely love it. Who could ever come up with this stuff! Ube pandesal and mango sticky rice are my classic favorite! Service was great. It's always a plus when you can taste test! Casual ambiance.

Came in for a quick ice cream treat and the options did not disappoint!! They have many flavors…read morethat rotate out and the flavors are very unique which is great. I compare it to a Salt and Straw and the price point was also similar/average. Service was friendly and patient, they allow you to try as many flavors as you want! Ambiance is aesthetic and nice, a little spot to stop by for a quick treat!

(D) Brown Butter Pecan - Pint

Ube Pandesal Toffee over Baklava Cheesecake. 5/5

See all

Yummy goodness!

Kulfi Me

4.7

(164 reviews)

2.2 mi

The bhel puri was incredibly fresh and yummy. The rice crispies were not soggy. The bhel was well…read moreseasoned and not dry. The blend between the sweet and spicy chutneys was perfect. It was delicious and hit the spot! I also tried the mango kulfi and it was yummy and brought back fond childhood memories!

Nice place if you are into this type of unique ice creme, they have offerings and flavours that you…read morewould not get elsewhere normally. I like to try new stuff so enjoyed trying few things here. This spot is near the NP beach and also offers some snacks and bites of you want to have something more than ice creame. The owners lady is nice and these are all her own recipes that they are serving here. Overall will give 6 out of 10 on my DVFM* score. *Dees value for money score

Best Maggi Noodles in Town, only at Kulfi ME

IG: happyfoodieoc

See all

Mango lassi and rose milkshake - so good!

Pipeline

This restaurant is nice and convenient since it is right next to the beach by the pier. There is…read morealso some outdoor seating tables. The food here is well priced and yummy. I got the BLT and it was good, my only note is that there was a little too much lettuce and mayo for my liking. The pineapple and vanilla swirl kids soft serve was delicious and I'd recommend it.

We chose this restaurant because the website looked good and had fairly good reviews. We were…read moredisappointed. Our burgers were severely undercooked - we could not even finish them. The fries were very greasy, the orders were messed up. Everyone seemed quite confused as to what was the orders were supposed to be. The images on the website should be made current to show how run down the place actually looks.

Kitchen

See all

Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop

We decided to spend a day in Irvine/Newport Beach area, and I saw a blog that talked about the…read morefrozen bananas here. We decided try it out! The employee there welcomed and greeted us, and she was kind. The inside of the small shop looked clean. Parking is on residential streets, and it wasn't that hard to find; it took us 5-10 min to find parking. The frozen banana with coconut was pretty good! It was not too sweet. The medium size was adequate between me and my partner.

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.

Everything mix frozen banana

Cute Cookies!

See all

Honey almond granola frozen banana

Cowafornia Ice Cream

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.

We loved Cowafornia so much we went twice in one day! My kids enjoyed the frozen bananas, we love…read morethat they use Giradelli Chocolate, you can taste the difference compared to other places! The bananas are so good as well! I enjoyed a balboa bar and that was also good! The bar melts super fast even on a cool evening so it did get a little messy, but still delicious! We also received great customer service.

See all

Surf City Bouncers

5.0

(112 reviews)

6.0 mi

Surf City Bouncers were a delight to work with!! Steve, owner, was SO RESPONSIVE and such a…read morepleasure to work with. This is a family run business. He was very professional, easy to make changes on my order, and furniture was in very good condition. Delivery and pick up was very timely!! If you are looking for a company to help with your event, this is the company you need to call. Marion L

Amazing! Super easy to work with. We rented a bounce house, chairs and kids table/chair combo…read morerecently and will definitely use them again. Answered all my questions prior to booking and easily communicated via text with changes when needed. They reached out a couple days before the event to coordinate drop off and pick up and the person who came out was super friendly and efficient. Thanks again Surf City Bouncers!

5in1 Combo and Wiggly Tube Man

Sky Castle

See all

Slushy / Margarita Drink Machine

Beach Bouncers

5.0

(40 reviews)

12.0 mi

Family-owned & operated

Committed to satisfaction

Beach Bouncers is AWESOME! I started planning my toddler's birthday party way too early…read more(overzealous mom here ) and Kirk walked me through everything from permits to setup. He was incredibly responsive, quick to answer questions, and helped with details I wouldn't have even thought about. When the weather started looking iffy, I thought I might have to cancel, but Kirk was super flexible, offering advice and reassuring me he could reschedule or refund if needed. Luckily, the sun came out and the party went on as planned. He showed up right on time, was friendly, professional, and made the whole process seamless. The bounce house was so affordable and a huge hit. Every single kid had a blast, and multiple parents asked me for his info because they were so impressed. THANK YOU KIRK! We will definitely be back for a water slide soon!

I can't thank Kirk enough for the obstacle course this weekend. With 15+ kiddos under 6 a normal…read moresize bouncer wasn't going to work & the costs with other companies were astronomical. My son's birthday was a success because of your kindness! From the initial meeting of your staff at the Pacific air show (extremely polite and helpful of getting older kids out of the bouncers for my little guy to be able to spend some time bouncing) to our first conversation, Kirk and his staff were amazing! The drop off and pick up went flawless. The parents that saw them vacuuming the course before packing it up were highly impressed. Next bday if he wants one, I will be calling again for sure! I also had a few parents asking about info so maybe some additional business will be coming your way. The only con: my son woke up today starving cause he was "too busy" playing all day that he literally didn't eat anything during the party! ‍

Standard 13x14 Module Jumper Rental

Purple Crush Combo Bounce House Rental

See all

Large Combo Module Bounce House Rental

Splash N Slide

5.0

(3 reviews)

3.3 mi

Very professional and great service!…read more The owner was prompt at answering all my questions about the size of the bounce house, if we needed a tarp under the jumper, and if it was large enough to house children who are around 8 years old and around 10 of them. He was also not only on time but was early too. The bounce house that I rented had an area that was a ball pit and the owner and his employee were very helpful in figuring out what to do concerning a safety issue. They were very professional and calm concerning my concerns with children possibly getting hurt with how the ball pit section wasn't cushioned. After trying to figure out what to do he even gave me a discount due to my concerns which was very kind. Overall I would rent from them again!

Absolutely wonderful experience! Landon & his crew were…read moreextremely helpful and friendly. Our slide was in pristine condition and most importantly CLEAN! Cannot recommend enough!

Our Inflatable Water Slides in local neighborhoods!

See all

Our Inflatable Water Slides in local neighborhoods!

Cal Jump

4.9

(66 reviews)

9.5 mi

Cal Jump is a great place to rent for your kids or adult events! I rented from Cal Jump for my…read moredaughter's baby shower. Our guests were able to bring their kids, and did not require to hire a baby sitter. The kids had a great time bouncing. We had a couple of adults watching the children, so the adults did not have to worry about their children. Thank you Cal Jump! Great prices! Tina A

Horrible customer service shady business. Rented a bounce house 5/16, asked me to pay after…read moredropping off, Zelle'd him the balance. 5/18 I see a second charge on my debit card attached on file. Called customer service multiple times and I just keep getting the same BS "I'm going to let the owner know and get back to you". We are now at 5/29 2 weeks later and I still haven't gotten my refund. And no response from the owner. Would definitely avoid this business.

Blue Crush Obstacle Combo. Large jumping area, basketball hoops, obstacles, climbing wall, and a large slide.

Pink Dazzle Backyard Combo

See all

Pink Dazzle Backyard Combo

OC Bouncers

4.9

(63 reviews)

5.1 mi

We got the EZ Tropical Dry jumper & it was super fun! Has a basketball hoop inside. Bought some…read moreinflatable basketballs and the kids all had a blast. It was a huge WIN! During summertime, you can add the attachment for a pool. The kids can slide right into the pool (or yourself haha). Yelp helped me send out quote requests to several jumper rental businesses and OC Bouncers was the first to respond with details. Extremely responsive, organized, professional, and helpful from beginning to end. Kept me in the loop with all of the steps (delivery, set up, pick up) and made payment as easy as possible. Answered all of my questions. I like their selection and designs for their jumpers as well. The one we got was in great condition and clean. Everything you need to know is on their website. I had a very good feeling about them and I'm so glad I went with them. Will definitely be using OC Bouncers for our next event!

Amazing company!! They give a time frame for drop off and pickup did both within the promised time…read moreframe. They also send a text 10-15 minutes before dropping off and picking up to let toy know they are on their way. The driver was friendly and courteous. Ny communication with everyone I talked to was wonderful and I would definitely do orders from them again!! Highly recommend!

18ft Dual Lane Waterslide with a huge pool.

See all

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

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

15

25

3 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.