Best of 13 ice cream shops in Upper East Side NYC
"Ice Cream Shops in Upper East Side NYC" are a delight for both locals and tourists alike. With a variety of flavors and styles, these shops offer a sweet escape in the heart of the city. From classic favorites to innovative creations, these Upper East Side establishments are sure to satisfy your ice cream cravings. Whether you're taking a stroll in Central Park or exploring the neighborhood's charm, be sure to stop by one of these "ice cream shops in Upper East Side NYC" for a scoop of pure joy.
1. Anita La Mamma del Gelato
Over 150 rotating gelato flavors, all made in-house

Guests consistently rave about the exceptional and amiable service provided at this establishment. Takeout and delivery options are available, and there are seating options inside for those who choose to dine in. The small cups may overflow with gelato, but the medium-sized cups are a popular choice due to the $1 price difference. While the prices may be slightly higher, the quality of the gelato makes it worth the extra cost.
Despite having to wait in line for 30 minutes on a prime Friday evening, the service and gelato were well worth the wait. A large box of takeout gelato was ordered, containing four different flavors: dark chocolate, strawberry mascarpone, pistachio, and cookie crumble. All of the flavors received high praise and were thoroughly enjoyed. Along with the gelato, the establishment provided additional items such as boxes of cones, extra cups, spoons, and waffles. Overall, Anita gelato has received rave reviews for their high-quality gelato and excellent customer service.
2. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in Upper East Side

The ice cream offered at this establishment in Manhattan is likely some of the best that can be found. The staff are welcoming and create a pleasant atmosphere, while also being generous with their scoop sizes.
If you're looking for delicious food, on-time delivery, and accurate orders, this is an excellent choice. Among the many unique flavors available, the Earl Grey Tea ice cream is highly recommended. The tea flavor is robust and complements the creamy texture of the ice cream perfectly. Overall, it's a satisfying and enjoyable treat.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
3. Dubl Twister Ice Cream
Family-owned spot with friendly service and unique flavors

Dubl Twister Ice Cream is a beloved local establishment known for its variety of delicious ice cream flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The shop offers a range of options, with cookie dough being a consistent favorite among patrons. Prices are kept reasonable, and the staff is always friendly, making for an enjoyable experience. The ice cream itself is consistently described as having the perfect balance between icy and creamy textures.
Dubl Twister Ice Cream and Coffee Shop boasts a strong 4.3 rating based on 29 customer reviews. Reviewers consistently rave about the shop's offerings, praising both the quality of the food and the promptness of delivery. Popular items on the menu include soft ice cream and a range of coupes like the Coupe Romanoff and Coupe Cookie. Customers appreciate the care taken to ensure that orders are correct and delivered on time, making Dubl Twister a go-to destination for ice cream lovers in the area.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
4. 16 Handles
Endless toppings bar for your sweet cravings

Nestled in Manhattan's Upper East Side, 16 Handles Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream is a highly-rated dessert destination. Known for its gourmet and homemade offerings, the establishment prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients to create delectable treats. Among the standout menu items are the red velvet cake, Graham Cracker, and pumpkin pie, each made with care and attention to detail.
Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, 16 Handles is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make for a welcoming experience, while the wide range of flavors and toppings ensure that there's something for everyone. Be sure to try the aforementioned menu items, as they are prime examples of the establishment's commitment to quality and taste.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
5. Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream
Indulgent flavors crafted for moments of luxury

The Cookies and Cream Dazzler Sundae is a highly recommended dessert for ice cream lovers. The ice cream itself is rich and creamy, providing a delightful base for the sundae. The toppings do not disappoint, as they are both plentiful and well-balanced. This particular Häagen-Dazs location offers an impressive variety of flavors, but the Cookies and Cream Dazzler Sundae truly stands out.
As a fan of high-quality ice cream, this Häagen-Dazs shop exceeded expectations. The vast array of available flavors ensures a satisfying experience for every visitor. Whether you're in the mood for a classic favorite or an exotic new flavor, you're sure to find a delicious choice at this ice cream shop. Overall, the excellent quality and variety make this one of the best ice cream shops in New York City.
6. Tasti D-Lite
Guilt-free indulgence with a variety of flavors

Prepare to be impressed! This is truly an exceptional product. The rich and creamy texture is a delight, providing all the indulgence without any heaviness. The variety of flavors offered is outstanding, with standouts like peanut butter, Snickers, chocolate, and vanilla. Each one has its own unique taste that is guaranteed to satisfy.
Beyond the delicious flavors, the atmosphere of the place where this product is enjoyed is not to be missed. It is designed to create a clean and soothing ambiance, perfect for winding down and relaxing. Customers can even take in a news story on the TV, adding to the pleasant experience. Overall, this product offers an unforgettable combination of taste and comfort that keeps customers coming back for more.
7. Venchi Chocolate & Gelato UES
Celebrating the Italian Art of Living through chocolate

Venchi is an exceptional ice cream shop known for its fresh and delicious gelato. The establishment's gelato is renowned for its creamy texture and intense flavors. Additionally, Venchi is famous for its high-quality chocolate, which is a must-try for any chocolate lover.
This ice cream shop is highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-notch gelato experience. The flavors are rich, authentic, and truly delightful. Whether you're in the mood for a classic flavor or something more adventurous, Venchi is sure to have something to satisfy your cravings. With its fresh and delicious offerings, Venchi stands out as one of the best ice cream shops in the city.
8. Pinkberry
Hand-cut fresh fruit toppings daily

Pinkberry is a well-known and beloved frozen yogurt spot, offering a wide range of flavors and toppings that have been delighting customers for years. Whether you prefer classic options like original or unique flavors like Nutella, Pinkberry has something for everyone. The service is consistently friendly and patient, providing the opportunity for customers to sample the yogurt before making a decision.
However, there were some issues with a recent to-go order from Pinkberry. The quarts were not filled as expected, and there was a problem with the delivery. On top of that, the extra toppings that were paid for were not included in the order, with no notification or refund provided. This was certainly disappointing and detracted from the overall positive experience that Pinkberry is known for providing.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
9. Sedutto
Neighborhood favorite for ice cream lovers

Sedutto is a delightful dessert place that offers a charming and whimsical experience. Despite its small size, it manages to create a magical atmosphere that is sure to impress. One of the standout features of Sedutto is its soft ice cream, which is simply divine.
This establishment is known for its high-quality frozen desserts, and it's easy to see why. The service is friendly and efficient, making it a great place to visit for a quick treat or a leisurely dessert adventure. Overall, Sedutto is a top choice for anyone looking for a frozen dessert in the city. Its favorites are always timely and of great quality, making it one of the best spots for a sweet indulgence.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
10. Emack & Bolio's in Upper East Side
Outrageous flavors and rock 'n roll roots

The service at this establishment is consistently described as excellent, with staff going above and beyond to provide friendly and attentive care to their patrons. Their quick and efficient delivery is also noteworthy, ensuring that customers receive their orders in a timely manner.
Moving on to the dessert offerings, they are widely regarded as lovely, refreshing, and wonderful. The use of fresh and high-quality ingredients is evident in each dish, resulting in a delightful and satisfying experience for diners. However, it is worth noting that the service and dessert are the standout features of this establishment, as other aspects may not be as consistently impressive.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
11. UES.
Business in the front, party in the back

Some guests have described the service as terrible, slow, and of poor quality. They have reported long wait times and a lack of attentiveness from the staff. However, other guests have had a completely different experience and have praised the service for being kind and wonderful. They have reported friendly and helpful staff who went out of their way to make their dining experience enjoyable.
To ensure a table is available, it is recommended to make a reservation as the restaurant can get quite busy, especially on Friday evenings. Guests who have made reservations have reported a smoother dining experience, as they were able to be seated promptly and did not have to wait as long for their orders to be taken and served.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Late Night
12. Mochidoki UES
Crafting moments of joy and discovery

Mochi lovers must visit this delightful destination! The mochi offered is truly delectable, with a perfect combination of chewy exterior and creamy filling. The staff's exceptional politeness and warmth make for an unforgettable experience. Their kindness and eagerness to help customers create a welcoming atmosphere.
The mochi's taste and texture are top-notch, making it a must-try for anyone who loves this traditional Japanese treat. While the package size may be a tad small, the unbeatable flavor of the cake batter and vanilla chip mochi make up for it. Despite the lack of crowds, this place is worth visiting for a unique and satisfying mochi ice cream experience.
13. Dolce Brooklyn

Banana and passion fruit sorbet. A raspberry macaroon with mango iced tea. These are just a few dessert power couples, and this Gowanus candy shop has invented one more: crunchy macaroons and rich ice cream. Get a 12-pack of macarons and find your perfect ice cream pairing (we're considering the fior di latte with milk), or opt for the mini sundae, a scoop of ice cream topped by a perfect macaron.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch