Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill Sanford
Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill Logo

Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill

4.63607 reviews

Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill is a cherished eatery in Sanford. It has deep roots, dating back to 1926. This family-run spot combines the best of timeless recipes and a passion for quality food. Known for its cozy atmosphere, it invites guests to enjoy classic American dishes alongside legendary ice cream. The charm of this place lies in its nostalgic decor and family history. Grandfather Phil C. Yarborough started with Fairview Dairy. His legacy continues today with his grandchildren in charge. Feel the warmth of family traditions here. You’ll discover comfort food and delightful desserts in a charming setting.

About

Nestled at 132 McIver St in Sanford, Yarborough's has been a staple for nearly a century. Each corner is filled with memorabilia and hints of its history. Guests can relish delicious food while gazing at nostalgic decorations. The restaurant has roots in dairy operations, evolving into the grill and ice cream shop it is today. Carol M. Yarborough expanded the original Fairview Dairy into a delightful dining experience in 1973. Generations of diners have savored meals here, making it a beloved spot for families and visitors. The building radiates a welcoming vibe, perfect for anyone seeking comfort food with a side of history.

Get in Touch

132 McIver St #4341, Sanford, NC 27330, United States

Opening Hours

  • Monday 10:00-20:00
  • Tuesday 10:00-20:00
  • Wednesday 10:00-20:00
  • Thursday 10:00-20:00
  • Friday 10:00-21:00
  • Saturday 10:30-21:00
  • Sunday 11:00-20:00

Where to Visit

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Customer Reviews

"We really enjoyed this place! It was like stepping back in time. There were antique ice cream and soda themed decorations all around. The lady at the counter was kind. We placed our order, fixed our drink then picked a table to wait for them to bring our food. Everything was really tasty. After we were done eating, we grabbed some ice cream. It was very delicious as well!"

- Deidra

"Yarborough's never disappoints. I brought a couple of friends from Fayetteville here for lunch yesterday. Both ladies loved it, just as my family has for the 16 years I've lived here. The staff are always very kindhearted and expedient and the food is deliciously simple without being plain - it makes me feel like I'm back home enjoying a cookout with my family. Last, but never least, the homemade ice cream is sinfully delectable and impossible to skip. I highly recommend the banana pudding and praline and cream flavors, but also fell in love with the eggnog ice cream. If you enjoy the Cookout eggnog milkshake, skip it and go to Yarborough's. It is perfectly creamy and flavorful, but not too rich or sweet. Absolutely 10/10 for every visit."

- Cheryl Q.

"Outstanding chef. He's Outstanding. Above and Beyond. Even brought out our food and they were busy. Excellent food. I've always had excellent food good quality and delicious food. But please check in on what's going on? The last two weeks I've been there three times two times on double Bacon I received no bacon the first time I said something nicely I was looked. At like I was lying. Even came out to my table to pull apart burger to look. Then today. 12/1/25 no bacon plus water $30 cent's.. install nu.aqua filtration system 7 stage UV light install for water drinker's. Otis Lilly Installed ours $300 bucks for filtration system. That Sanford water was terrible. Thank you."

- Kirt C.

"Who doesn't love an old-fashioned ice cream shop?? This is a popular place to be prepared if there is a line. Their burgers and fries are really good, but the food takes a while to come out. The ice cream is good, and the portion sized for the price is a great deal. I love the vibe, very nostalgic. It's definitely a beloved part of Sanford."

- Vanessa Z.

"My wife and I recently moved to the area and discovered this place. Got lunch and ice cream. The food was fresh and it was easy to see why they have won so many awards for their ice cream."

- Nicholas T.

"Yarborough's Home Made Ice-cream is the absolute best! I had the coconut/pineapple Ice-cream. It had coconut and pineapple bits in it. The Ice-cream was smooth and tasted wonderful. I also had a chocolate chip cookie. There were giant pieces of chocolate in it. I recommend this store for dessert."

- Charles S.
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Why Visit

Visiting Yarborough's means stepping back in time while enjoying top-notch food. The highlight? The homemade ice cream—absolutely a must-try. Order the banana pudding flavor for a taste of nostalgia. Seating is family-friendly, and the atmosphere feels inviting. Expect a casual vibe, ideal for lunch or dinner with friends or even solo dining. Prepare for possible lines, especially on weekends. But trust that the experience is worth the wait. For a quick cease to routine, grab a burger and pair it with a refreshing milkshake. Many locals love to come back for the quick service and excellent food. Don't miss the chance to relax with a scoop of ice cream after your meal.

Most Liked things

Many patrons rave about the homemade ice cream. Flavors like peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie consistently delight guests. The comforting atmosphere makes it easy to unwind. Service is fast and friendly, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. Guests appreciate the nostalgic decor featuring vintage ice cream parlor memorabilia. Family-friendly vibes keep drawing people back. Budget-friendly pricing attracts both locals and tourists. It's a popular go-to spot for lunch and dinner, making it a cherished community gathering place.

Most Disliked things

Some diners express concerns about wait times during peak hours, particularly on Saturday afternoons. While the food is generally well-received, a few guests have experienced issues with orders not being prepared as expected. Occasionally, the food can take longer than anticipated to arrive, which can disrupt the overall experience. It’s worth noting that the popularity may lead to crowded conditions. Some diners wish for more variety in the menu offerings. Overall, these drawbacks are minimal compared to the positive dining experiences guests typically have.

FAQ

What is the history of Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill?

Yarborough's has deep roots dating back to 1926, when Phil C. Yarborough opened Fairview Dairy. In 1935, he added an ice cream parlor. The restaurant's name evolved to Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill in 1973.

What are the must-try dishes?

The legendary homemade ice cream is a must. Try flavors like Rocky Road and Nutty Coconut. Also, don't miss the Chicken Salad and the Hamburger Combo for a full meal experience.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Yes, outdoor seating is available, perfect for enjoying ice cream on warm days. The atmosphere lets you enjoy your treats while soaking in the local community vibe.

What are the price expectations?

Expect a price range between $1 to $10. Affordable for families wanting quality food and dessert, making it a fantastic spot for all.