Handel's Ice Cream Opens in the Heart of San Diego's Little Italy

SAN DIEGO, CA, June 01, 2026 // FranchisePR.com // — Handel’s Ice Cream is officially expanding its footprint in San Diego with a brand-new location, in the heart of the iconic Little Italy. The scoop shop will celebrate its Grand Opening on Thursday, June 11. To commemorate the occasion, starting at 11:00 a.m., the first 50 customers in line will receive Free Ice Cream for a Year, and throughout the day, guests can look forward to exciting giveaways and promotional surprises.

The Little Italy location is operated by local residents, with a local group involved in management. This is one of several Handel’s locations in the San Diego region.

“We chose Handel’s because we love the ice cream. It’s a simple concept, but the quality, portion size, and value really stand out,” said Joshua Barton, Co-owner of the Little Italy Handel’s Ice Cream. “Handel’s has been around since 1945, and the process has stayed the same, everything is made fresh in the store daily in small batches. We are excited to bring that experience into the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy.”

Josh and Dianna Barton are San Diego residents with experience in franchising and restaurant operations. Sam Nord is originally from Northeast Ohio and has worked with the Handel’s brand for more than ten years, bringing knowledge of the company to the San Diego region. The group has previously opened and operated Handel’s locations in the San Diego area.

The team is engaged with the local community, supporting schools, sports teams, and organizations through fundraising and catering. They work with SDSU Athletics, supporting events at Snapdragon Stadium and Viejas Arena.

The Little Italy location operates daily from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and offers 48 rotating flavors, with pickup and delivery via third-party services, and catering services.

SOURCE Handel’s Ice Cream