New York City is a haven for ice cream lovers. From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate to unique combinations like lavender honey and olive oil, there is no shortage of delicious frozen treats to try.
Whether you're a native New Yorker or just visiting the city, you won't want to miss out on the best ice cream shops that the city has to offer.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start your ice cream adventure. But fear not – we've got you covered.
We've scoured the city to find the best ice cream shops that are worth a visit. From small mom-and-pop shops to larger chains, we've tried them all to bring you the top picks.
In this blog post, we'll share our favorite ice cream shops in New York City. We'll cover everything from classic flavors to unique creations that will tantalize your taste buds.
So grab your spoon and get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious ice cream the city has to offer.
1. FIGO il Gelato Italiano
FIGO il Gelato Italiano is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian gelato. The gelato is smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, and they allow you to try the flavors before purchasing. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
The shop also offers a variety of desserts, including cannolis and a dessert salami that is a unique and delicious treat.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic flavor or something more adventurous, FIGO il Gelato Italiano has something for everyone.
2. Ray's Candy Store
Ray's Candy Store is a funky and colorful ice cream destination that has been around since 1974.
They offer a variety of comfort snacks and sweets, including fried Oreos, beignets, and egg creams.
The owners are friendly and the service is great. Ray's Candy Store is open 24 hours, making it a convenient spot to grab a late-night treat.
This is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a unique and authentic NYC experience.
3. Caffe Panna
Caffe Panna is a gelateria in New York City that offers a variety of inventive and delicious flavors.
The staff is helpful in offering samples and the portions are ample. The gelato is on the pricey side, but worth it for the quality.
The flavors change daily, so there's always something new to try. The outdoor seating is a great place to enjoy the creamy, rich gelato.
Don't forget to try their daily special and their flagship affogato. This is definitely a destination location for tourists and gelato lovers alike.
4. Anita La Mamma del Gelato
Anita La Mamma del Gelato is a must-visit ice cream shop for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying treat.
The selection of gelato flavors is amazing, and the quality is top-notch. The staff is friendly and provides great service.
Although the line may be long at times, it moves quickly, so don't be discouraged. The ambiance inside is comfortable, making it a great spot to enjoy your gelato.
If you're looking for the best gelato in town, Anita La Mamma del Gelato is the place to go.
5. A La Mode Shoppe
A La Mode Shoppe is a charming ice cream shop that's perfect for families with children.
They offer a variety of flavors, including dairy-free options, and their ice cream is nut-free, egg-free, and sesame-free. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the shop is clean and well-maintained.
They also have a separate room for children with small tables, chairs, and toys. The shop is a bit small, but they do have limited outdoor seating available.
If you're looking for a fun and safe place to enjoy some delicious ice cream with your family, A La Mode Shoppe is definitely worth a visit.
6. Cones Artisanal Ice Cream
Cones Artisanal Ice Cream is a small ice cream shop that offers a dazzling array of traditional and exotic flavors.
The gelato is made with high-quality ingredients and is creamy and rich, not greasy. The staff is friendly and provides exceptional hospitality, making the experience memorable.
The signature flavors like Dulce de Leche and Sabayon are insanely delicious and worth every penny. The portion sizes are good, and the prices are reasonable.
This is a heaven sent for ice cream lovers who appreciate authentic and absolutely delicious Argentine-style ice cream.
7. Sam's Fried Ice Cream
Sam's Fried Ice Cream is a unique ice cream shop that offers a variety of flavors and crusts for their signature fried ice cream.
Customers can choose from 8 different flavors of ice cream, 3 different crunchy, sweet, and crispy crusts, and a variety of drizzles to top it off.
The prices are affordable with a single scoop of ice cream costing $3 and the fried ice cream costing $6. The shop is small with standing room only, but there are benches outside to sit on.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick. It's a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious and indulgent dessert experience.
8. Sugar Hill Creamery
Sugar Hill Creamery is a family-owned ice cream shop that offers a unique selection of flavors.
Their thoughtful and complex flavors provide a rich texture that is sure to satisfy any ice cream lover's cravings. They even have vegan options available!
The staff are friendly and attentive, and they allow customers to try different flavors before making a purchase. The outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy your ice cream and catch up with friends.
Sugar Hill Creamery is definitely one of the best ice cream shops in the city, and their delicious flavor combinations will keep you coming back for more.
9. Dubl Twister Ice Cream
Dubl Twister Ice Cream is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
This ice cream shop offers a variety of hand-made ice creams that are sure to satisfy any craving.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the shop is clean and well-maintained.
They offer workshops for kids to make ice cream and have fun while doing it. If you're in the mood for a sweet treat, Dubl Twister Ice Cream is the place to go.
10. Sundaes and Cones
Sundaes and Cones is a gourmet ice cream shop that offers a wide range of bold flavors, including Asian-inspired options.
The homemade ice cream is creamy, rich in flavor, and never icy.
Customers rave about the hazelnut, strawberry, and taro flavors. The shop also offers homemade waffle cones that are a must-try.
Sundaes and Cones is a great spot for dessert lovers looking for a unique and delicious ice cream experience.
11. Seed + Mill
Seed + Mill is a contemporary ice cream shop that specializes in sesame seed-based desserts and spreads.
Their vegan halva ice cream and oat ice cream are amazing, with so many flavors to choose from. The staff is friendly and encourages customers to sample their products.
The tahini-based soft serve is a must-try, and the goat milk frozen yogurt with tahini sauce is a crowd favorite.
If you're a fan of halva, you'll be enthralled with all the unique flavors available. Seed + Mill is a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth with something unique and delicious.
12. il laboratorio del gelato
Il Laboratorio del Gelato offers a unique and exciting ice cream experience. With a wide variety of flavors, including some more unconventional options, there is something for everyone.
The gelato is made with genuine ingredients and is thick and creamy in texture.
The shop is clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a sweet treat.
If you're looking for high-quality gelato in a chic and modern setting, Il Laboratorio del Gelato is a must-visit.
13. Catch'N Ice Cream
Catch'N Ice Cream is a unique and entertaining ice cream shop that offers a fun experience for customers.
With a routine that reminds one of a Benihana, the staff throws ice cream to each other and customers can catch it if they want.
The ice cream itself is quite tasty, with flavors like Chocolate Brownies and Cookie Dough, but some customers have mentioned that the topping to ice cream ratio is a bit high.
Despite this, the atmosphere is cool and friendly, making it a great spot for a fun and delicious treat.
14. Aubi & Ramsa
Aubi & Ramsa is an ice cream shop that offers a unique twist to traditional ice cream flavors. With over 30 different boozy options to choose from, this place is perfect for anyone looking for an adult treat.
The ice cream is velvety and smooth, with just the right amount of sweetness and a noticeable kick of alcohol.
The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful in suggesting flavors to try. Prices are reasonable, and the packaging is high quality.
The ambiance is classy, and the decor is chic without being pretentious. Aubi & Ramsa is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking to indulge in something different and delicious.
15. Surreal Creamery
Surreal Creamery is an ice cream shop that offers unique and creative flavors. Their portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable for what you get.
The staff is friendly and helpful in guiding customers through the many options available.
The presentation of the ice cream is Instagram-worthy, served in mason jars with handles. They also offer bubble tea and milkshakes.
If you're looking for a fun and delicious ice cream experience, Surreal Creamery is worth a visit.
