The Craving: Frozen Yogurt in Culver City

On hot summer days, and even cool nights, I love an excuse to walk to local stores. Culver City has several sugar fixes that fit my budget, while allowing me to still fit into my bathing suit. Now that's a win-win. 

1) Menchie's Frozen Yogurt

For a slightly more expensive, but more picky sweet tooth, Menchie's seals the deal with sherbet and lactose-free options. For frozen yogurt lovers tired of the same old takes on vanilla and chocolate, I have two favorites to share: White Chocolate Macadamia Nut and Cake Batter.

Other flavors include: Strawberry-Banana, Raspberry, Pomegranate, Kiwi-Strawberry, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup and chocolate. The toppings are plentiful here, too. Choices include: chopped walnuts, assorted sprinkles, chocolate chips, assorted cereals and more.

My 10 oz. cup of fruit-topped treat costs $3.70. The price for yogurt: $0.37 an ounce.

Menchie's, 5622 Sawtelle Blvd.; (310) 915-7190

2) California Roll & Sushi

Three words: Red Mango yogurt. Yes, the brand that Pinkberry is rumored to be modeled after. I stumbled upon this find last month when looking for some good sushi at a price that I could live with. I ended up going for the cheap lunch special, and avoiding sushi all together, thanks to an alluring $4.50 for an order of chicken teriyaki with miso soup, rice and vegetables.

The whole in the wall place was charming. As I was just about to leave  after my last bite, I was stopped, and was given a small to-go cup of Red Mango yogurt for free.

Yogurt price: $4 for a small serving, or, according to the cashier, free with certain food orders.

California Roll & Sushi, 6251 Bristol Pkwy.; (310) 337-7775

3) Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt

With eight rotating flavors, this cheap nonfat sugar fix with a rich taste proves to be a winning combination in a place that is conveniently located.

Flavors include: Coconut, Vanilla, Chocolate and Taro. Fruit toppings were just as alluring as the yogurt and with many, many more options, including banana, blackberry, blueberry, kiwi, mango and strawberries. As if I hadn't had enough sugar, I walked over to the dry toppings to see candy and nuts toppings galore. Dry toppings include: plain almonds, brownie bites, Butterfingers, graham crackers, granola, gummy bears, cookie dough, Oreos, and semisweet chocolate chips.

My 10 oz. cup of sugary splendor cost $3.90. The price for yogurt: $0.39 an ounce.

Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt, 6000 Sepulveda Blvd., Westfield Culver City Mall

4) Mateo's Ice Cream & Fruit Bars

Strictly based on names, Mateo's would not have made the yogurt mark. But the creamy, smooth and fruity flavors get so close to the yogurt zone that I have decided to grant this hidden gem access to my top five frozen yogurt list.

The Fruit Cream flavors that tastefully mimic yogurt's texture and sweetness include: Strawberry, Pistachio, Cookies & Cream and Banana. Those who dare to try can choose exotic flavors like Cactus Fruit, Smoked Milk and Yellow Cherry. It is a real find in the middle of streamlined frozen yogurt land.

Price for frozen yogurt-like bliss: $1.50 per scoop.

Mateo's Ice Cream & Fruit Bars, 4929 Sepulveda Blvd.; (310) 313-7625

5) Cafe 70 Degrees

Sometimes even I get sick of fro-yo, but still want something very similar: a cold, refreshing burst of dairy and sugar-infused sweetness. I, along with many people in Los Angeles, have found it: the Boba. A mix of milk, tea and jelly pearls. I tried the Lavender Snow and was especially blown away by the sweetness. There are many different flavors, including: Milk Tea, Mango Tea, and Thai Iced Tea.

Cafe 70 Degrees is still new, and often known to locals as the former stomping ground for a great sandwich, Westsubs. Fortunately for business, many of the characters who frequented West Subs have been coming to Cafe 70 Degrees seeking satisfying frozen yogurt alternatives.

Hawaiian shirts and fedoras are only a few of the costume choices. The result?  A refreshing dairy drink and a fun local hub to spend a lazy afternoon in.

A small (but really big) boba drink: Approx. $3, depending on modifications.

Cafe 70 Degrees, 3863 Overland Ave.; (310) 837-6000

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