Whether you’re a local or a tourist, New York City is a hub of delicious food and desserts. And when it comes to ice cream, the city doesn’t disappoint. From classic flavors to innovative creations, there’s no shortage of amazing ice cream shops in NYC. Here are some of the best places to get your ice cream fix:
1. Ample Hills Creamery
Located in Brooklyn, Ample Hills Creamery is a must-visit for any ice cream lover. The shop offers a wide range of creative flavors, including fan favorites like Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and The Munchies. Their ice cream is made in small batches using high-quality ingredients, resulting in a rich and creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
2. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
With multiple locations throughout the city, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a staple in the NYC ice cream scene. Their classic flavors, such as Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Mint Chip, are made with simple, natural ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavor. They also offer vegan options, making it a great spot for all ice cream enthusiasts.
3. Big Gay Ice Cream
Known for their playful and eclectic flavors, Big Gay Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop in NYC. Their signature flavor, Salty Pimp, is a must-try, featuring vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, sea salt, and a chocolate dip. They also offer a variety of other unique flavors, such as Bea Arthur, which consists of vanilla ice cream, crushed Nilla wafers, and dulce de leche.
4. Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream
Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream is a Lower East Side gem that offers a variety of classic and adventurous flavors. Their Black Coconut Ash flavor is a standout, featuring a charcoal-infused coconut base that provides a smoky and unique taste. They also offer seasonal flavors, such as Pumpkin Honeycomb during the fall months.
5. Milk Bar
While Milk Bar is known for their baked goods, they also offer a variety of delicious ice cream flavors. Their Cereal Milk Soft Serve is a fan favorite, providing a nostalgic taste reminiscent of childhood cereal bowls. They also offer unique mix-ins, such as pretzel crunch and cornflake crunch, to add an extra layer of texture and flavor to their soft serve.
6. Ice & Vice
Located in the Lower East Side, Ice & Vice offers a range of bold and inventive flavors. Their Basic B flavor, which consists of Mexican vanilla ice cream and black lava sea salt, is a fan favorite and a must-try. They also offer rotating seasonal flavors, such as Fall AF, which features spiced honey crisp apple ice cream and maple caramelized apples.
7. Il Laboratorio del Gelato
Il Laboratorio del Gelato is a renowned gelato shop that offers a range of classic and unique flavors. Their Pistachio flavor is a standout, made with high-quality Sicilian pistachios that provide a rich and nutty taste. They also offer sorbet flavors for those who prefer a lighter option.
In conclusion, NYC is home to some of the best ice cream shops in the world. Whether you prefer classic flavors or more innovative creations, these shops offer something for everyone. So go ahead and treat yourself to a sweet and creamy scoop of ice cream at one of these top-notch spots.