17 must-try ice cream shops in New York City
Ice cream shops in NYC are a dime a dozen, but each one offers a unique and delicious experience. From classic soft serve to inventive artisanal flavors, these shops showcase the diverse range of tastes and textures that make ice cream such a beloved treat. Whether you're a local or a tourist, exploring the many ice cream shops in NYC is a must-do activity.
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- 1. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
- 2. Sugar Hill Creamery
- 3. Sundaes and Cones
- 4. Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream
- 5. Eddie's Sweet Shop
- 6. Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain
- 7. Caffè Panna
- 8. Malai
- 9. Minus Celsius Ice Cream
- 10. OddFellows Ice Cream Co.
- 11. Urban Dessert Lab
- 12. Tipsy Scoop
- 13. Milk & Cream Cereal Bar
- 14. Max & Mina's Ice Cream
- 15. Sedutto
- 16. il laboratorio del gelato
- 17. Davey's Ice Cream 309 E 9th St
1. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
Family-run since 1978, an unofficial NYC landmark
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Zen Butter, a delightful combination of toasted sesame and peanut butter, is a must-try at The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory. Another standout offering is their lychee ice cream and sorbet, providing a unique and refreshing taste. For those who prefer something more traditional, the almond cookie ice cream is a popular choice, known to leave a lasting impression. Experimenting with a mix of almond cookie and black sesame ice creams results in a remarkable blend of flavors.
With a rich history spanning nearly half a century, The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is an iconic NYC destination that continues to attract locals and tourists alike. Offering a variety of exceptional flavors, this renowned establishment has successfully expanded to three locations in Chinatown, the Lower East Side, and Flushing. Among the distinctive choices are Chinese egg custard, red bean, and coconut fudge, each reflecting the unique blend of traditional and innovative approaches that have kept patrons coming back for decades.
Zen Butter, a delightful combination of toasted sesame and peanut butter, is a must-try at The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory. Another standout offering is their lychee ice cream and sorbet, providing a unique and refreshing taste. For those who prefer something more traditional, the almond cookie ice cream is a popular choice, known to leave a lasting impression. Experimenting with a mix of almond cookie and black sesame ice creams results in a remarkable blend of flavors.
With a rich history spanning nearly half a century, The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is an iconic NYC destination that continues to attract locals and tourists alike. Offering a variety of exceptional flavors, this renowned establishment has successfully expanded to three locations in Chinatown, the Lower East Side, and Flushing. Among the distinctive choices are Chinese egg custard, red bean, and coconut fudge, each reflecting the unique blend of traditional and innovative approaches that have kept patrons coming back for decades.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
2. Sugar Hill Creamery
A love affair between community and food
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A recent visit to Sugar Hill Creamery in Harlem resulted in the selection of the ice cream sundae featuring blueberry cheesecake and milk chocolate hazelnut ice cream. The temperature had reached a sweltering 90 degrees, making a cold indulgence a necessary choice over plain water.
Sugar Hill Creamery stands out as a charming ice cream parlor located in Harlem, NYC. It has garnered a reputation for serving inventive and modern ice cream flavors that cater to diverse palates. Among the available options are blueberry cheesecake, peach cobbler, blackberry cheesecake, honey lavender, and even a Senegalese Coffee flavor with peanut brittle, cardamom, and Selim pepper brownies. Customers are sure to find a flavor that suits their taste preferences.
A recent visit to Sugar Hill Creamery in Harlem resulted in the selection of the ice cream sundae featuring blueberry cheesecake and milk chocolate hazelnut ice cream. The temperature had reached a sweltering 90 degrees, making a cold indulgence a necessary choice over plain water.
Sugar Hill Creamery stands out as a charming ice cream parlor located in Harlem, NYC. It has garnered a reputation for serving inventive and modern ice cream flavors that cater to diverse palates. Among the available options are blueberry cheesecake, peach cobbler, blackberry cheesecake, honey lavender, and even a Senegalese Coffee flavor with peanut brittle, cardamom, and Selim pepper brownies. Customers are sure to find a flavor that suits their taste preferences.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
3. Sundaes and Cones
Generous scoops of unique flavors like Pistachio Almond
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This frozen treats establishment has earned high praise from this reviewer. A group of friends recommended it, promising an enjoyable experience for ice cream lovers. Indeed, it delivered - providing an array of unique and appetizing flavors.
The selection leans heavily towards Asian-inspired varieties, such as lychee, Thai iced tea, taro, black sesame, and matcha. These uncommon offerings set the establishment apart from its competitors and cater to those seeking a refreshing change from traditional ice cream options. The availability of such diverse flavors appeals to the adventurous palate and ensures a distinct, memorable experience.
This frozen treats establishment has earned high praise from this reviewer. A group of friends recommended it, promising an enjoyable experience for ice cream lovers. Indeed, it delivered - providing an array of unique and appetizing flavors.
The selection leans heavily towards Asian-inspired varieties, such as lychee, Thai iced tea, taro, black sesame, and matcha. These uncommon offerings set the establishment apart from its competitors and cater to those seeking a refreshing change from traditional ice cream options. The availability of such diverse flavors appeals to the adventurous palate and ensures a distinct, memorable experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
4. Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream
Changing the way people eat and think about ice cream
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The renowned ice cream parlor in Manhattan consistently meets and exceeds expectations as the best in the city. Their unique process involving less sugar and fat in their ice cream typically signals lower taste standards, yet this establishment proves such assumptions wrong. The ice cream delivered a fantastic flavor profile, exceptional texture, and outstanding creaminess, leaving customers highly satisfied.
During the tasting, the lemon curd ice cream showcased its exceptional qualities. It presented the perfect blend of lemony tartness and just the right amount of sweetness. Its creamy texture offered the quintessential lemon curd ice cream experience that any discerning palate would savor. This ice cream is truly a testament to the establishment's commitment to providing unparalleled delectable treats.
The renowned ice cream parlor in Manhattan consistently meets and exceeds expectations as the best in the city. Their unique process involving less sugar and fat in their ice cream typically signals lower taste standards, yet this establishment proves such assumptions wrong. The ice cream delivered a fantastic flavor profile, exceptional texture, and outstanding creaminess, leaving customers highly satisfied.
During the tasting, the lemon curd ice cream showcased its exceptional qualities. It presented the perfect blend of lemony tartness and just the right amount of sweetness. Its creamy texture offered the quintessential lemon curd ice cream experience that any discerning palate would savor. This ice cream is truly a testament to the establishment's commitment to providing unparalleled delectable treats.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
5. Eddie's Sweet Shop
Century-old soda fountain with vintage charm
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Banana Royale is an ice cream sundae that has achieved new heights of deliciousness. The combination of whipped cream and hot fudge is a must-try for anyone who wants to indulge in a truly decadent treat. The homemade touch given to the ice cream and toppings results in an unforgettable and delightful taste experience.
The Banana Royale is crafted from small-batch, homemade ice cream, with fresh toppings and whipped cream also made in-store. The quality of the sundae can be tasted in every bite, making the $12.00 price tag a worthwhile investment. This experience is sure to impress, whether seeking a special treat or celebrating a special occasion with family and friends.
Banana Royale is an ice cream sundae that has achieved new heights of deliciousness. The combination of whipped cream and hot fudge is a must-try for anyone who wants to indulge in a truly decadent treat. The homemade touch given to the ice cream and toppings results in an unforgettable and delightful taste experience.
The Banana Royale is crafted from small-batch, homemade ice cream, with fresh toppings and whipped cream also made in-store. The quality of the sundae can be tasted in every bite, making the $12.00 price tag a worthwhile investment. This experience is sure to impress, whether seeking a special treat or celebrating a special occasion with family and friends.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
6. Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain
A charming 1920s pharmacy turned soda fountain
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Nestled within an old pharmacy is a delightful soda and ice cream fountain, offering an extensive selection of sundaes, floats, and other sweet treats. The establishment's charm lies in its successful fusion of the vintage ambiance of a bygone era with the modern appeal of a popular dessert destination.
A case in point is the hot fudge sundae, featuring a luscious red velvet brownie, velvety whipped cream, and a drizzle of warm fudge, topped off with a perfectly toasted marshmallow and graham cracker. This delectable combination of flavors and textures results in an unforgettable dessert experience, leaving patrons eager for their next visit. The quality of the ingredients and the skilled craftsmanship of the staff harken back to the golden age of soda fountains, while the inventive menu places it firmly in the present.
Nestled within an old pharmacy is a delightful soda and ice cream fountain, offering an extensive selection of sundaes, floats, and other sweet treats. The establishment's charm lies in its successful fusion of the vintage ambiance of a bygone era with the modern appeal of a popular dessert destination.
A case in point is the hot fudge sundae, featuring a luscious red velvet brownie, velvety whipped cream, and a drizzle of warm fudge, topped off with a perfectly toasted marshmallow and graham cracker. This delectable combination of flavors and textures results in an unforgettable dessert experience, leaving patrons eager for their next visit. The quality of the ingredients and the skilled craftsmanship of the staff harken back to the golden age of soda fountains, while the inventive menu places it firmly in the present.
7. Caffè Panna
Italian-inspired ice cream, spun fresh in-house daily
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Caffe Panna, a gelato shop in NYC, offers a unique and decadent whipped cream topping known as panna that adds a special touch to their ice cream. A scoop of lemon pudding gelato with graham crunch, caramel drizzle, and the signature panna is a delightful and satisfying treat, all included in the price.
Caffe Panna has rapidly become a favorite sweet spot for many, including families. Their top-notch gelato, such as the seasonal pumpkin flavor topped with candied pecans, graham cracker crunch, and a generous portion of the rich and creamy panna, makes for a truly satisfying experience. The combination of high-quality ingredients and unique flavors makes Caffe Panna a must-visit destination for gelato lovers.
Caffe Panna, a gelato shop in NYC, offers a unique and decadent whipped cream topping known as panna that adds a special touch to their ice cream. A scoop of lemon pudding gelato with graham crunch, caramel drizzle, and the signature panna is a delightful and satisfying treat, all included in the price.
Caffe Panna has rapidly become a favorite sweet spot for many, including families. Their top-notch gelato, such as the seasonal pumpkin flavor topped with candied pecans, graham cracker crunch, and a generous portion of the rich and creamy panna, makes for a truly satisfying experience. The combination of high-quality ingredients and unique flavors makes Caffe Panna a must-visit destination for gelato lovers.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
8. Malai
Globally-inspired flavors with an unexpected twist
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Malai's Carroll Gardens location boasts an impressive selection of Indian-inspired ice cream flavors that are sure to delight. Among the offerings, the masala chai flavor stands out as a must-try, with its perfect balance of spices and sweetness.
The service at Malai is consistently friendly, making for a great overall experience. The staff are accommodating, creating a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of their unique and interesting flavors. The cleanliness of the space adds to the positive atmosphere, making it a enjoyable place to indulge in a scoop (or two!) of their delicious ice cream.
Malai's Carroll Gardens location boasts an impressive selection of Indian-inspired ice cream flavors that are sure to delight. Among the offerings, the masala chai flavor stands out as a must-try, with its perfect balance of spices and sweetness.
The service at Malai is consistently friendly, making for a great overall experience. The staff are accommodating, creating a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of their unique and interesting flavors. The cleanliness of the space adds to the positive atmosphere, making it a enjoyable place to indulge in a scoop (or two!) of their delicious ice cream.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
9. Minus Celsius Ice Cream
Create your dream dessert with unlimited toppings!
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Minus Celsius, a popular rolled ice cream stop, generously fills each cup to the brim, ensuring customers receive a satisfying portion. The ice cream is made to order, with vanilla and Oreo being a particularly tempting combination.
The establishment welcomes customers with ample seating and accepts both cash and credit card payments. While there are no bathrooms on site, the quality of the ice cream and the friendly service make for a positive experience.
Minus Celsius, a popular rolled ice cream stop, generously fills each cup to the brim, ensuring customers receive a satisfying portion. The ice cream is made to order, with vanilla and Oreo being a particularly tempting combination.
The establishment welcomes customers with ample seating and accepts both cash and credit card payments. While there are no bathrooms on site, the quality of the ice cream and the friendly service make for a positive experience.
10. OddFellows Ice Cream Co.
Over 500 wacky and weird flavors since 2013
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Odd Fellows Ice Cream Co. offers a truly distinctive and unforgettable ice cream experience. Their imaginative and delectable flavors, such as cornbread, vegan black sesame passionfruit, and olive oil strawberry, showcase their commitment to innovation. These exceptional combinations of ingredients result in a taste sensation that is sure to surprise and delight.
Furthermore, Odd Fellows is at the forefront of the exciting trend in experimental ice cream. Take, for example, their Miso Cherry flavor. It boasts a rich and buttery miso base, perfectly balanced with sweet cherry pieces. This adventurous combination of flavors demonstrates their skill in crafting truly unique and delicious treats. A scoop of Miso Cherry is a must-try for anyone seeking an extraordinary ice cream experience.
Odd Fellows Ice Cream Co. offers a truly distinctive and unforgettable ice cream experience. Their imaginative and delectable flavors, such as cornbread, vegan black sesame passionfruit, and olive oil strawberry, showcase their commitment to innovation. These exceptional combinations of ingredients result in a taste sensation that is sure to surprise and delight.
Furthermore, Odd Fellows is at the forefront of the exciting trend in experimental ice cream. Take, for example, their Miso Cherry flavor. It boasts a rich and buttery miso base, perfectly balanced with sweet cherry pieces. This adventurous combination of flavors demonstrates their skill in crafting truly unique and delicious treats. A scoop of Miso Cherry is a must-try for anyone seeking an extraordinary ice cream experience.
11. Urban Dessert Lab
Innovative vegan ice cream with customizable toppings
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A delightful frozen dessert experience awaits at this lower Manhattan establishment. The Coffee Waffle Crunch, with its sweet crème base and generous coating of crunchy waffle cone pieces and coffee sauce, proved to be a delicious and satisfying choice.
A delightful frozen dessert experience awaits at this lower Manhattan establishment. The Coffee Waffle Crunch, with its sweet crème base and generous coating of crunchy waffle cone pieces and coffee sauce, proved to be a delicious and satisfying choice.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegan Options
12. Tipsy Scoop
Liquor-infused ice creams for adults only (21+)
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The Raspberry Limoncello and Strawberry White Sangria Sorbet are both delightful choices for those seeking a refreshing and flavorful treat. The Raspberry Limoncello is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, providing a burst of fresh raspberry flavor combined with the subtle hints of limoncello liqueur. On the other hand, the Strawberry White Sangria Sorbet offers a fruity and invigorating experience, with the sweetness of fresh strawberries complemented by the tanginess of white wine.
The vanilla bean bourbon is a standout flavor - rich, creamy, and indulgent with the perfect amount of bourbon-infused warmth. However, it's important to note that the other flavors are not far behind in terms of quality. Each option is skillfully crafted, and the attention to detail is evident. These carefully curated flavors work together to create a truly memorable experience, making it impossible to choose just one favorite.
The Raspberry Limoncello and Strawberry White Sangria Sorbet are both delightful choices for those seeking a refreshing and flavorful treat. The Raspberry Limoncello is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, providing a burst of fresh raspberry flavor combined with the subtle hints of limoncello liqueur. On the other hand, the Strawberry White Sangria Sorbet offers a fruity and invigorating experience, with the sweetness of fresh strawberries complemented by the tanginess of white wine.
The vanilla bean bourbon is a standout flavor - rich, creamy, and indulgent with the perfect amount of bourbon-infused warmth. However, it's important to note that the other flavors are not far behind in terms of quality. Each option is skillfully crafted, and the attention to detail is evident. These carefully curated flavors work together to create a truly memorable experience, making it impossible to choose just one favorite.
13. Milk & Cream Cereal Bar
Blend your favorite cereals with ice cream!
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A recent visit to this establishment was motivated by the desire for a refreshing treat on a hot day. The concept of incorporating cereal into ice cream was intriguing, although cereal is not regularly consumed. The soft serve ice cream with mixed cereal turned out to be a delightful surprise.
However, the cereal milk ice cream did not leave a favorable impression. The taste was reminiscent of old milk, which was disappointing. Despite hearing rave reviews about other desserts offered at this location, the cereal milk ice cream did not live up to the expectations. It is unlikely that this particular option will be chosen again in the future.
A recent visit to this establishment was motivated by the desire for a refreshing treat on a hot day. The concept of incorporating cereal into ice cream was intriguing, although cereal is not regularly consumed. The soft serve ice cream with mixed cereal turned out to be a delightful surprise.
However, the cereal milk ice cream did not leave a favorable impression. The taste was reminiscent of old milk, which was disappointing. Despite hearing rave reviews about other desserts offered at this location, the cereal milk ice cream did not live up to the expectations. It is unlikely that this particular option will be chosen again in the future.
14. Max & Mina's Ice Cream
Eccentric flavors like Cajun, Lox, and Purple Mint Chip.
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Max & Mina's offers an exceptional ice cream experience that truly stands out. Rather than settling for artificial-tasting flavors, customers can enjoy the unparalleled taste of each selection. The shop's charming and unique cultural atmosphere further enhances the experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Max & Mina's has been a long-standing fixture on ice cream lovers' bucket lists, and for good reason. The shop's quirky and colorful decor, featuring cereal box cutouts on the walls, adds to its charm. Not to mention, the owners' warm and welcoming personalities make customers feel right at home. One of the shop's standout features is the ability to combine flavors in one scoop, making it a truly customizable and delicious treat. It is certainly an underrated gem that deserves more recognition.
Max & Mina's offers an exceptional ice cream experience that truly stands out. Rather than settling for artificial-tasting flavors, customers can enjoy the unparalleled taste of each selection. The shop's charming and unique cultural atmosphere further enhances the experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Max & Mina's has been a long-standing fixture on ice cream lovers' bucket lists, and for good reason. The shop's quirky and colorful decor, featuring cereal box cutouts on the walls, adds to its charm. Not to mention, the owners' warm and welcoming personalities make customers feel right at home. One of the shop's standout features is the ability to combine flavors in one scoop, making it a truly customizable and delicious treat. It is certainly an underrated gem that deserves more recognition.
15. Sedutto
A neighborhood favorite for sweet treats.
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The frozen dessert spot is renowned for its delicious, handmade chocolate peanut butter ice cream. The use of natural ingredients ensures a rich and authentic flavor that is unmatched by other establishments. The ice cream is carefully crafted, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. The hot fudge topping is a perfect complement, with its rich and velvety consistency adding a touch of decadence to the dish. It's important to note that this is real hot fudge, not just warm chocolate syrup, adding a depth of flavor that is truly delightful.
The peanut butter sauce is another standout component, expertly blending with the ice cream and hot fudge to create an irresistible combination of flavors. The service at this establishment is also noteworthy, with friendly and attentive staff who contribute to an overall enjoyable experience. Overall, this is one of the top spots in the city for frozen desserts, offering a truly unforgettable chocolate peanut butter ice cream experience.
The frozen dessert spot is renowned for its delicious, handmade chocolate peanut butter ice cream. The use of natural ingredients ensures a rich and authentic flavor that is unmatched by other establishments. The ice cream is carefully crafted, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. The hot fudge topping is a perfect complement, with its rich and velvety consistency adding a touch of decadence to the dish. It's important to note that this is real hot fudge, not just warm chocolate syrup, adding a depth of flavor that is truly delightful.
The peanut butter sauce is another standout component, expertly blending with the ice cream and hot fudge to create an irresistible combination of flavors. The service at this establishment is also noteworthy, with friendly and attentive staff who contribute to an overall enjoyable experience. Overall, this is one of the top spots in the city for frozen desserts, offering a truly unforgettable chocolate peanut butter ice cream experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
16. il laboratorio del gelato
A flavor lab for chefs and gelato enthusiasts
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Il Laboratorio del Gelato offers an incredible selection of unique and delicious gelato flavors that are sure to delight. The line can be long at peak times, but it moves quickly, and the staff is friendly and helpful, making the wait a pleasant experience. The real challenge is deciding which flavor to choose, as it can be hard to pass up your old favorites while also trying new and exciting options.
The gelato at Il Laboratorio del Gelato is truly a cut above the rest. With a rotating menu of over 200 flavors, there is always something new and exciting to try. From classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like black sesame and gorgonzola dolce, there is truly something for everyone. The gelato is made fresh daily in small batches, ensuring that each and every scoop is packed with rich, creamy flavor. It's no wonder why this popular gelato shop has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Il Laboratorio del Gelato offers an incredible selection of unique and delicious gelato flavors that are sure to delight. The line can be long at peak times, but it moves quickly, and the staff is friendly and helpful, making the wait a pleasant experience. The real challenge is deciding which flavor to choose, as it can be hard to pass up your old favorites while also trying new and exciting options.
The gelato at Il Laboratorio del Gelato is truly a cut above the rest. With a rotating menu of over 200 flavors, there is always something new and exciting to try. From classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like black sesame and gorgonzola dolce, there is truly something for everyone. The gelato is made fresh daily in small batches, ensuring that each and every scoop is packed with rich, creamy flavor. It's no wonder why this popular gelato shop has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
17. Davey's Ice Cream 309 E 9th St
This is the brainchild of graphic designer-turned-dessert expert David Yoo, who's turning out all-natural sweet cream-based salon classics like salted caramel and toasted pistachio, along with tons of toppings. If it's one of those days where a few scoops won't do, whole ice cream pies are also available.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats