Best of 22 ice cream shops in Chicago
Chicago is a city that offers a wide variety of delectable ice cream shops, each with its own unique flavors and styles. From classic creameries to artisanal scoop shops, ice cream lovers in Chicago are in for a real treat. These ice cream shops not only provide delicious desserts but also contribute to the vibrant food culture of the city. Whether you're a Chicago local or just visiting, be sure to check out these amazing ice cream shops in Chicago.
- 1. Margie's Candies
- 2. Legend Tasty House
- 3. Cone Gourmet Ice Cream
- 4. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
- 5. Pretty Cool Ice Cream
- 6. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
- 7. KURIMU
- 8. Shawn Michelle's Homemade Ice Cream Bronzeville
- 9. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
- 10. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
- 11. Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream
- 12. Annette's Italian Ice
- 13. Lickity Split Frozen Custard & Sweets LLC
- 14. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
- 15. Sugar Shack
- 16. Richard's Super Premium Ice Cream
- 17. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
- 18. Scooter's Frozen Custard
- 19. Black Dog Gelato
- 20. Cold Stone Creamery
- 21. Eli’s Ark
- 22. The Original Rainbow Cone - Navy Pier
1. Margie's Candies
Old-fashioned candy store with charm

The sundaes at this soda shoppe are large and visually appealing, featuring generous helpings of homemade hot fudge sauce and delicious raspberry sauce. A highlight of the shop's decor is a display case with a display dedicated to the Beatles, who visited the establishment during a trip to Chicago in the 1960s. This location, known as the Western Street shop, is the first and flagship shoppe of the chain.
This ice cream parlor is highly regarded and a favorite among patrons. The staff is known for being consistently friendly and dedicated to their work. The shop's late operating hours are a plus, making it a convenient option when other ice cream parlors are closed. Despite potential wait times, customers believe the exceptional quality of the ice cream makes it worth the wait, deeming it the best ice cream in Chicago.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Budget-Friendly Eats
2. Legend Tasty House
Friendly service and cozy atmosphere

Today, I tried something new despite the freezing cold weather - Thai rolled Ice Cream from Legend's Tasty House in Chinatown. The unique experience was worth the wait, as it took around 15-20 minutes for my order to be prepared. The ice cream comes in eight different flavors, and I chose 'Monkey Business,' a combination of banana and Nutella. The cup was topped with more banana, caramel, and a biscuit stick, adding to the overall delicious taste.
Although priced higher than other dessert options in the area ($5.29), I found that the cost was justified due to the unique experience and the flavors. Other guests also recommend trying the fresh fruit smoothies, which are highly rated and considered to be better than the milk tea section, particularly for a mango smoothie. Overall, the fair prices and unique menu options at Legend's Tasty House make it a standout dessert destination in Chinatown.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
3. Cone Gourmet Ice Cream
Named best ice cream in Chicago

Bailey's ice cream is truly exceptional, offering a wide range of cone options such as those adorned with sprinkles or made from cookies. During a recent visit, I opted for the Cookie Monster flavor, following a taste test of that and the Blueberry Cheesecake option.
My first time at Bailey's ice cream left me impressed with their extensive menu. I chose the Cookie Monster after trying samples of it and the Blueberry Cheesecake. The variety of cones, especially those featuring cookies and sprinkles, adds to the delightful experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
4. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Small-batch, handcrafted ice creams

Jeni's is a popular ice cream shop known for its unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. After anticipating the experience for some time, one customer was left feeling underwhelmed. The ice cream was described as just okay, and some flavors were even considered boring and muted. Moreover, the steep prices did not justify the mediocre experience. The customer does not plan on returning.
Jeni's offers a variety of creamy and delicious dishes, with an emphasis on their soft and fluffy waffles and unusual ice cream flavors. Some of the flavors tried included chocolates, brickles, and lavender, but they did not offer any sugar-free options. Despite the lack of sugar-free flavors, the quality of the ice cream and the overall experience was not tarnished by this.
5. Pretty Cool Ice Cream
Seasonal and unique flavors, popular demand favorites

The author expresses their regret for not having discovered the place sooner, mentioning that they wish there was a closer location to them. They are impressed by the wide variety of fun and unique flavors available, and have a strong desire to try them all. The author shares their positive experience with the caramel horchata crunch flavor, which they describe as amazing.
During their visit, the author tried two different ice creams: Ricky's Coffee Pretzel Toffee and Strawberry Sherbet. Unfortunately, the specifics of their experience with these flavors are not provided. However, the author's interest in trying multiple flavors during their visit suggests that they generally enjoyed the ice cream they tasted.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Celebrations
- Hidden Gems
6. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, sustainable practices

After dinner, my family and I decided to visit Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream for dessert. Despite my expectations, the wait was relatively short, thanks to the efficient process established by Jeni's staff to move people through the store. The ice cream parlor boasted an impressive variety of flavors, and the quality of the ice cream was exceptional. Moreover, the staff provided excellent service, making our experience even more enjoyable.
One of the flavors I tried was coffee, which had a delightful taste and complemented the chocolate flavor perfectly. The coffee flavor was not overly sweet, and its bittersweet taste was particularly enjoyable. Overall, I was impressed with the quality and variety of flavors offered at Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Personal Celebrations
7. KURIMU
Popular among food bloggers and locals

I recently visited a popular ice cream shop in the city that I had seen on Fox Chicago a few weeks prior. My fiancé and I made the trip in from the southwest suburbs, and we were not disappointed. The ice cream looked delicious and tasted even better. I ordered a scoop of sweet corn ice cream and another of cookies and cream, which was surprisingly made with brownie crumbles instead of cookies. My fiancé opted for purple yam and a type of chocolate ice cream, served in a pink and dark vanilla waffle cone, respectively.
This small but charming ice cream shop is known for its unique flavors and reasonable pricing. I tried the avocado and purple yam flavors, which were both delicious. The shop also features a rotating soft serve swirl that looked tempting. For those feeling fancy, there's also the option to add gold foil to your order. Despite the line of customers, the shop's popularity was well worth the wait.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
8. Shawn Michelle's Homemade Ice Cream Bronzeville
Supporting local businesses and communities

Shawn Michelle's Homemade Ice Cream in the Bronzeville neighborhood provides customers with a welcoming atmosphere and top-notch service. The staff is known for being approachable and knowledgeable, offering recommendations and encouraging taste tests before customers make their selections.
The ice cream on offer is truly delectable, boasting a diverse range of flavors to suit every palate. Indulgent options such as strawberry cheesecake milkshake and pralines and cream are just a couple of the unique offerings that make Shawn Michelle's a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
9. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Pints and merchandise available for purchase

The ice cream offered at this establishment is truly delicious, with a wide selection of 7 unique flavors and the opportunity to try free samples. The service is commendable, enhancing the overall positive experience. However, the cost is relatively high, with a family of four spending $40 plus tip for just two half scoops each.
The ice cream stands out for its creative and imaginative flavors, appealing to those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path. Its taste is nothing short of amazing, even for the most discerning ice cream connoisseurs. The waffle cones, freshly made on-site, are a delightful addition to the ice cream and further contribute to the overall satisfying experience.
10. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Small-batch production, scoop shop experience

Talenti and this unnamed brand offer unique and delicious ice cream flavors, with consistent quality in every scoop. The unnamed brand's brown butter almond brittle and honey vanilla bean flavors are particularly noteworthy, providing a rich and delightful taste. Their service is also commendable, ensuring a positive experience for the customers.
When it comes to chocolate cravings, the Texas sheet cake flavor from this brand is a must-try, while every other flavor tested has also been satisfying. Overall, this brand and Talenti are two of the top ice cream brands available today, providing an exceptional ice cream experience for consumers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
11. Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream
Voted as one of the best ice cream shops in Chicago

The individual enjoys trying different flavors of ice cream, with Mint Chip and Fat Elvis (banana ice cream with peanut butter ribbon and chocolate chips) being among their favorites. They have a tendency to stick to their preferred flavors but have recently branched out and tried Mackinac Fudge and Zanzibar Chocolate.
The ice creams mentioned offer unique and indulgent experiences for the individual. Mackinac Fudge, a rich and creamy ice cream with chunks of fudge swirled throughout, gives a satisfying taste of decadence. Zanzibar Chocolate, a flavor offering a more exotic experience, is made with high-quality dark chocolate and provides a deep, intense chocolate flavor. These new flavors have expanded the individual's palate and given them a greater appreciation for the variety available in the world of ice cream.
12. Annette's Italian Ice
Seasonal flavors, vegetarian-friendly

An adorable Italian ice shop with a classic and timeless feel offers a unique and heavenly dessert - Italian frozen yogurt, a delightful blend of tangy and creamy flavors. The quality of the ice cream and Italian ice, along with the delicious toppings, makes this shop stand out from the rest in the neighborhood.
Despite the requirement of cash payment and potential wait in line, this local gem is well worth the extra effort. The authenticity and dedication to providing high-quality and delicious Italian frozen yogurt sets it apart from other ice cream shops in the area. The perfect combination of flavors and textures makes this a must-try destination for dessert lovers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Cheap Eats
13. Lickity Split Frozen Custard & Sweets LLC
Family-owned since 1956, handcrafted custard

Crazy Cake concrete and Scarlett's Last Fall are two delightful offerings from a menu that features blended cupcakes with frozen custard. The first, Crazy Cake concrete, consists of a whole cupcake blended with frozen custard, creating a unique and tasty treat. The second, Scarlett's Last Fall, is a red velvet cupcake blended with custard, raspberries, and marshmallow, topped with whipped cream and a cherry. Both options are surely tempting for any sweet tooth.
The custard concretes, Peanut Butter Blowout and Bing Crosberry, are equally impressive. These concretes are fresh, sweet, and smooth, with an interesting flavor that is sure to please. The Peanut Butter Blowout combines the rich taste of peanut butter with the creamy texture of frozen custard, while the Bing Crosberry features the fruitiness of Bing cherries in a delightful custard blend. These options showcase the versatility and deliciousness of frozen custard in a whole new way.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
14. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Handcrafted in small batches, unique flavor combinations

Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream Shop in Chicago is a standout destination for ice cream enthusiasts. The shop boasts an impressive array of flavors that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Among the offerings are unique selections, such as the Burnt Orange Dreamsicle, that differentiate Jeni's from other ice cream providers.
In addition to the enticing variety of flavors, the shop is known for its staff's friendly and welcoming demeanor. The positive atmosphere makes for a must-visit experience, elevating Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream above typical ice cream shops. Whether you're a local or a tourist, a visit to Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream in Chicago is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
15. Sugar Shack
Open late-night with a relaxed and cozy atmosphere

The establishment offers reasonable prices for its goods and services. Customers can enjoy affordable options without compromising on quality. The staff is a highlight, known for their professionalism and friendly demeanor. They contribute to a welcoming and positive atmosphere.
However, there are some downsides to the customer experience. The business can be extremely busy, with long wait times that can exceed an hour. This is often accompanied by large crowds and long lines of people waiting together. The high level of activity may be overwhelming for some customers.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
17. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
Ghirardelli chocolate origin and historic charm

The ice cream shop, located on the second floor, can be accessed by an elevator and is known for its tantalizing smell of waffle cones. The chocolate ice cream they serve is a must-try, with its rich and delicious taste. The shop can get quite busy, but the service remains excellent, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors.
Visitors to the ice cream shop should be sure to take the elevator to the second floor and follow the enticing scent of waffle cones. The chocolate ice cream is a standout option, with its high-quality taste. Despite how crowded the shop may be, the service is consistently excellent and contributes to a pleasant atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Weekend Dining
18. Scooter's Frozen Custard
Famous for frozen custard

Fred's Frozen Custard is a popular dessert spot, known for their delicious and creamy treats. They offer a variety of options, including soft serve and concretes - a type of custard that has mix-ins blended into it. A friend's influence led me to add hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry on top of my original order.
At Fred's, customers can also enjoy other tempting treats such as sundaes. The addition of mix-ins to the soft serve takes the dessert to a new level, making it a must-try for custard lovers. The hot fudge, whipped cream, and cherry on top added an extra touch of indulgence to my order, making for a truly satisfying treat. Whether you prefer a classic sundae or a custom concrete, Fred's Frozen Custard has something for everyone.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Suburban
19. Black Dog Gelato
Rotating selection of seasonal flavors and vegan options

Black Dog Gelato is a popular frozen dessert retail store, known for providing delicious treats that satisfy evening cravings and make the perfect end to a meal. The service offered is wonderful, with staff who are friendly, reliable, and focused on maintaining transparency and credibility with their customers.
The gelato served at Black Dog Gelato is heavenly and truly delightful. The flavors are creative, rich, and indulgent, making it a great option for anyone looking for high-quality gelato in the city. The excellent service and charming ambiance further enhance the experience, making it a top choice for a decadent and sweet escape.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
20. Cold Stone Creamery
Signature creation process, choose-your-own mix-ins

Coldstone Creamery is known for its delicious ice cream, with Mint Mint Chocolate Chip being a popular flavor. Some customers have raved about the friendly, quick, and professional service they received. They appreciate the excellence of the service.
On the other hand, there have been some complaints about the customer service at Coldstone. While some customers have had positive experiences, others have reported poor service. It's worth noting that experiences with customer service can vary from location to location and from one visit to the next. Regardless, Coldstone is a well-known and popular destination for ice cream lovers, and many customers continue to enjoy their Mint Mint Chocolate Chip and other flavors.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
21. Eli’s Ark
Dedicated to promoting learning and creativity in children.

Eli's Ark offers a one-of-a-kind ice cream experience with a variety of unique and tasty flavors. One standout option is their coconut milk almond flavor, which is vegan-friendly and features a rich chocolate drizzle. Another highlight of Eli's Ark is the ability for customers to personalize their ice cream experience. Not only can you choose from a range of flavors, but you can also select animals to add to your ice cream and even stack them on top of each other to mix and match flavors.
Eli's Ark goes beyond just serving delicious ice cream. With a focus on customization, customers can create their own unique combinations by adding animals to their ice cream. The combination of fun animals and high-quality ingredients makes Eli's Ark a must-visit spot. The variety of options and the ability to mix and match flavors ensures that every visitor can find something they'll love.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots