15 best ice cream shops in Rochester New York
Rochester, NY, is a haven for ice cream lovers, boasting numerous ice cream shops that cater to a variety of tastes. From classic creamy flavors to vegan options, these establishments in Rochester NY pride themselves on creating unique and delicious treats. Whether you're a local or a tourist, a visit to one of these ice cream shops in Rochester NY is a must. Come and indulge in the cool, creamy goodness that awaits you in this upstate New York city.
- 1. Hedonist Artisan Ice Cream & Chocolates
- 2. Netsins Ice Cream
- 3. Russell's Ice Cream
- 4. Scoop N Twist
- 5. Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
- 6. Pittsford Farms Dairy
- 7. Abbott's Frozen Custard
- 8. Andy's Ice Cream & Candy Co
- 9. Polar Freeze Greece
- 10. Roc City Ice Cream
- 11. Grandma Gail's Ice Cream Shoppe
- 12. Drip Ice Cream Shop LLC
- 13. A & J Ice Cream
- 14. I-Scream at The Market at I-Square
- 15. Thurston Village Ice Cream Shop
1. Hedonist Artisan Ice Cream & Chocolates

A friend of ours had a hankering for ice cream late at night, leading us to a small shop located in a charming area of town. After trying a few samples offered by a friendly employee, I decided on a scoop of banana-flavored ice cream. Although the other samples were quite delightful, the banana flavor did not meet my expectations. Nevertheless, the overall quality of the ice cream purchased was excellent, and our group thoroughly enjoyed their scoops.
After enjoying a spicy meal at another restaurant, we decided to look for an ice cream shop to cool down. Fortunately, this particular shop was just a short distance away, and exceeded our initial expectations. Despite offering only 6-8 flavors that change daily, the richness and fullness of their tastes were truly remarkable.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Weekend Dining
2. Netsins Ice Cream
Neighborhood favorite for over 20 years!

The catering service provides good food and service, but there is room for improvement in the variety of ice cream offered. The limited selection of flavors may not satisfy all guests, particularly those with specific preferences.
The ice cream on offer is impressive, with excellent non-dairy and regular options available. This catering service is an excellent choice for families with dietary restrictions, as they can accommodate a range of needs without sacrificing taste or quality. Teens and adults alike will enjoy the diverse selection and delicious flavors.
3. Russell's Ice Cream
A sweet escape with friendly service and cozy atmosphere

Russell's Ice Cream is a popular destination for ice cream lovers in Rochester, with an impressive rating of 4.72 from 233 customer reviews. The glowing feedback from 151 customers is a testament to the high level of satisfaction among its clientele.
4. Scoop N Twist
Scoops of happiness in every twist!

Scoop N Twist, a locally owned ice cream parlor, provides a wide selection of gelato, soft-serve, and hard ice cream along with sweet treats such as sundaes and cakes. The welcoming and patient staff make it an ideal destination for families.
Ice cream lovers can enjoy a variety of flavors at Scoop N Twist, including hard ice cream and soft serve. Popular choices include vanilla and coconut, often served in a crispy waffle cone. The friendly and patient staff make it a pleasant experience for families and individuals alike.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Breakfast
- Dinner
5. Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Refreshing treats made fresh daily with real fruit flavors

Rita's Italian Ice is known for its exceptional service and quick delivery, even when faced with long lines of customers. The establishment's Italian Ice is always a delight, and the rotating menu adds an element of excitement for returning patrons.
For those visiting Rita's, the Gelati with Cherry Ice and Vanilla Custard is a highly recommended choice. The combination of these two flavors provides a perfect balance of tart and sweet, complemented by the velvety smoothness of the custard. It is a truly satisfying treat for ice cream and Italian Ice lovers alike.
6. Pittsford Farms Dairy
Fresh, locally sourced ingredients for all products

Pittsford Farms Dairy, established in 1888, has come a long way from its roots in scientific agriculture and prize-winning Jersey cattle. The dairy is now renowned for its delightful, homemade ice cream made from raw milk sourced from local farms. With an extensive range of flavors, including Grasshopper Pie, Landslide, and Coconut Almond Crunch, customers can enjoy their ice cream in a cone, dish, or quart.
A return to Pittsford Farms Dairy is always a pleasure, especially for those who grew up in the town. The ice cream remains as delicious as ever, with flavors for every palate. During a recent visit, a pumpkin caramel swirl with gingersnap cookies was tried, and the combination of flavors offered a delightful experience. Another popular favorite, the mint ice cream with Oreo cookies, did not disappoint. The espresso flavor remains a staple for many, while the oatmeal Scotchie was a recent discovery and tasted great the next day while watching the Bills win. While the ice cream may be considered pricey, the use of local ingredients and small-batch production ensures that customers enjoy top-quality ice cream.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. Abbott's Frozen Custard
Fresh made frozen custard since 1902

The Ice Cream Factory in Rochester is a beloved fixture of the local community and a popular destination for families looking for a fun and delicious outing. Whether you choose to visit in the summer afternoon or evening, you're sure to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and top-quality treats.
The Ice Cream Factory offers an impressive selection of ice cream flavors, including classic favorites and unique creations. The chocolate almond flavor is a standout, with a rich and creamy texture that's been delighting customers for over 20 years. If you're in the mood for something lighter, you can opt for their frozen yogurt. No matter what you choose, you'll be treated to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a delicious, satisfying treat. In addition to their scoop shop, the Ice Cream Factory also offers packaged treats in their freezer section, making it easy to enjoy their delicious ice cream at home.
8. Andy's Ice Cream & Candy Co

There are a number of delightful candy stores scattered throughout Rochester that seem to go unnoticed by many. These stores occasionally appear, only to disappear again, much like a charming secret. As a native of Rochester, I feel it is almost a duty to visit Andy's Candy whenever I am in town. Their store on Hudson Avenue is always well-stocked, but on this particular visit, I found another location near our hotel.
Andy's Candy is a local favorite, known for its high-quality confections. The store on Hudson Avenue was bustling with activity, yet the atmosphere remained cozy and inviting. The assortment of candies was impressive, and the employees were friendly and eager to offer recommendations. Similarly, the second location had a welcoming ambiance and a tempting selection of sweets. Both stores were reminiscent of a simpler time, before mass-produced treats, and it was a pleasure to indulge in these nostalgic favorites.
9. Polar Freeze Greece
Delicious ice cream with a variety of fun options

This establishment offers quick and tasty meals that are sure to please. The portions are generous, making it an excellent value for the price. The menu has a variety of options to choose from, and the quality of ingredients used is top-notch.
The ice cream served here is truly delicious, with a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The flavors are made to perfection, and the service is exceptional. Whether visiting with family or friends, this is an excellent place to enjoy a sweet treat. The welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail make for a memorable experience.
10. Roc City Ice Cream

11. Grandma Gail's Ice Cream Shoppe

12. Drip Ice Cream Shop LLC

13. A & J Ice Cream

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
14. I-Scream at The Market at I-Square
Delightful ice cream experience with unique flavors

I-Scream at The Market at I-Square provides a charming ice cream experience for all to enjoy. The staff is not only friendly but also attentive, ensuring a pleasant visit for every customer. With a wide range of flavors like pumpkin pie, berryblast, and banana cream pie, there's something for everyone to love.
This destination is highly recommended for ice cream enthusiasts. The diversity of flavors is sure to impress, and the freshness of the ice cream is unmatched. The welcoming demeanor of the staff contributes to an enjoyable atmosphere, and the location is ideal for families looking for a fun outing.
15. Thurston Village Ice Cream Shop
