Bear with a Sweet Tooth: Uninvited Guest Raids California Ice Cream Parlor

Residents of El Dorado County, California, are still chuckling after an unexpected patron decided to satisfy its sweet cravings in the most unconventional way. On the evening of August 20, 2025, a rather bold black bear made headlines by sauntering into a local ice cream shop, much to the surprise and amusement of everyone involved – and those who later watched the surveillance footage.

The incident unfolded when the furry foodie, seemingly unfazed by human presence, casually pushed open the door of the popular Scoop & Swirl ice cream parlor.

With an air of absolute confidence, the bear ambled inside, its nose twitching, undoubtedly drawn by the irresistible aroma of waffle cones and various sugary delights. It bypassed the counters and display cases, making a beeline directly for the back storage area, a testament to its highly developed sense of smell or perhaps prior reconnaissance.

Eyewitnesses and surveillance cameras captured the incredible scene as the bear explored its surroundings, appearing to 'shop' for its preferred treat.

While no actual tubs of ice cream were directly consumed on-site by the bear, the creature did manage to knock over a few items and leave a memorable impression before deciding its impromptu visit was over. Shop owner, Maria Rodriguez, recounted the surreal moment, stating, 'I’ve seen deer, raccoons, even a bobcat near the shop, but never a bear actually walking in! It was shocking, but honestly, a little bit funny too.

Thankfully, it left as calmly as it arrived, and no one was hurt.'

Wildlife officials were alerted, though by the time they arrived, the bear had already made its retreat back into the surrounding wilderness. They reiterated the importance of securing food sources and keeping doors closed, especially in areas bordering bear habitats.

While bear sightings are not uncommon in El Dorado County, a bear entering a business in broad daylight is certainly a rare and notable occurrence, adding a touch of wild charm to the local lore.

The incident has since become a lighthearted topic of conversation throughout the community, with many joking about the bear's discerning taste and questioning what flavor it might have been after.

Scoop & Swirl has taken extra precautions, reinforcing its doors, but the 'bear incident' has undoubtedly become a unique part of its history, proving that even in a quiet California town, you never know who – or what – might walk through your door next.