When Jake Godby and Sean Vahey opened Humphry Slocombe seven years ago, little did they know that their unique flavors (e.g., Jesus Juice Sorbet, Apple Coded Bacon, and their now famous Secret Breakfast), would garner worldwide attention, landing them in The New York Times and Vogue. We talked to the sweet treat-pushing duo about their favorite junk foods, future plans, lazy Sundays, and more. 

What inspired you to go sweet instead of savory?

JG: There were too many assholes working in the kitchen of the restaurant I was at prior to Humphry Slocombe. The only time I felt at peace were the moments I was sneak off to the basement and help out the pastry chef. 
SV: We have a good amount of both.

What’s your favorite junk food?

JG: Pepperidge Farm Goldfish (whole wheat, because they're healthy).
SV: Salt and vinegar flavored anything.

How are you able to work around so much sugar and still look so handsome?

JG: Smoke, mirrors, personal trainer

SV: Photoshop.

Where do you see your business heading this year?

JG: I'm not very good a predicting the future.
SV: New Kiosk @ The Yard and flirting with another location.

How has SF influenced you?

Fuck if I know. I've been here for 20 years.
SV: It's easier to let your freak flag fly in SF.

What’s your perfect lazy Sunday?

JG: Coffee at Four Barrell, back to bed, Mission Chinese Food delivery.
SV: Anywhere outside (or inside), armed with vino.

What’s your hands-down favorite thing to eat in SF?

JG: Spring rolls at Tu Lan (just don't look at the floor or use the bathroom there!)
SV:Grilled meat on a stick at any and all street fairs.

Where would you go for a night out on the town?

JG: Cocktail at the Big 4, dinner at Tosca Cafe, and a drag show.
SV: It's rare but there's usually a drag show involved.

Favorite Bay Area day trip?

JG: Russian River. It's a lot less methy than it used to be, but still like going back in time.
SV: I don't dare leave the city.

Quick-fire round:

Dolores Park or Golden Gate Park?

JG: Dolores Park

SV: GG (cruising for Bison)

Powerhouse or Hi Tops?

JG: Aunt Charlie's Lounge

SV: Hi Tops (for the corndog).

Bike or Muni?

JG: Walk

SV: Muni

Burrito or burger?

JG:Burger

SV: Burrito

East Bay or North Bay?

JG: I've heard good things about both

SV: Nope

Happy hour or brunch?

JG: Happy hour

SV: Happy hour

Divisadero or Valencia?

JG: Valencia

SV: Divis

Three words that describe SF to you?

JG: Sordid, messy, caffeinated

SV: Fog-tastic, glitter, delish


To whip up some of their sweet creations at home, be sure to pick up a copy of Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream Book.