Ice cream parlors across the United States offer a delightful array of frozen treats, ranging from classic flavors to innovative creations. These establishments showcase the diversity and creativity of American ice cream culture, providing both comfort and surprise to dessert enthusiasts.
Here’s a curated list of 20 of the best ice cream parlors in the country, each offering a unique take on this beloved dessert.
Salt & Straw, Portland, Oregon
Salt & Straw is renowned for its inventive flavors, such as Pear & Blue Cheese. They are also known for their commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients and a constantly evolving menu.
Bi-Rite Creamery, San Francisco, California
Bi-Rite focuses on small-batch, organic ice creams made with locally sourced ingredients. Their Salted Caramel flavor has achieved cult status among ice cream lovers.
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Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Columbus, Ohio
Jeni’s has gained national recognition for its unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. Their Goat Cheese with Red Cherries exemplifies their innovative approach to ice cream making.
Ample Hills Creamery, Brooklyn, New York
This Brooklyn-based creamery has won hearts with flavors like Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. Their playful approach extends to themed collections, often inspired by pop culture.
Graeter’s Ice Cream, Cincinnati, Ohio
A Cincinnati institution since 1870, Graeter’s is famous for its French Pot process and oversized chocolate chips. Their Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip remains a perennial favorite.
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Leopold’s Ice Cream, Savannah, Georgia
Founded in 1919, Leopold’s combines old-world charm with modern flavors. Their Tutti Frutti ice cream, an original 1919 recipe, continues to delight customers.
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, Santa Barbara, California
McConnell’s has been crafting ice cream from scratch since 1949 using local, sustainable ingredients. Their Eureka Lemon & Marionberries flavor showcases their commitment to quality.
Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream, New York City, New York
Morgenstern’s takes a chef’s approach to ice cream, creating unique flavors like Salt & Pepper Pine Nut. Their modern parlor in Lower Manhattan has become a destination for ice cream enthusiasts.
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The Bent Spoon, Princeton, New Jersey
This small-batch artisanal ice cream shop is known for its use of local, organic ingredients and inventive flavors. Their Lavender Mascarpone showcases their commitment to creative offerings.
Humphry Slocombe, San Francisco, California
With unconventional flavors like Secret Breakfast (bourbon ice cream with cornflakes), Humphry Slocombe has carved out a niche in San Francisco’s competitive ice cream scene. Their inventive approach has earned them national acclaim.
Toscanini’s, Cambridge, Massachusetts
Often cited as serving exceptional ice cream by The New York Times, Toscanini’s is a Cambridge institution. Their Burnt Caramel flavor, created by accident, has become their signature offering.
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Azucar Ice Cream Company, Miami, Florida
This Cuban-inspired ice cream shop brings the flavors of Little Havana to its creations. Their Abuela Maria flavor, featuring guava, cream cheese, and Maria crackers, encapsulates their unique approach.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, St. Louis, Missouri
A St. Louis landmark since 1930, Ted Drewes is famous for its ‘concrete’ shakes, so thick they can be served upside down. Their frozen custard has become a must-try for visitors to the city.
Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream, Seattle, Washington
Molly Moon’s commitment to local, seasonal ingredients shines through in flavors like Stumptown Coffee. Their dedication to sustainability adds appeal to their delicious offerings.
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Lick Honest Ice Creams, Austin, Texas
Lick’s artisanal approach focuses on unique flavors inspired by Texas landscapes and culture. Their Roasted Beets & Fresh Mint flavor exemplifies their creative, locally-focused ethos.
Sweet Action Ice Cream, Denver, Colorado
This Denver favorite is known for its rotating selection of innovative flavors, many featuring local ingredients. Their Stranahan’s Whiskey Brickle showcases their commitment to representing local tastes.
Fifty Licks, Portland, Oregon
Fifty Licks stands out in Portland’s competitive ice cream scene with its French-style custard base and unique flavor combinations. Their vegan Chocolate AF demonstrates their range and creativity.
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Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery, St. Louis, Missouri
Clementine’s offers both traditional and boozy ice creams, catering to various tastes. Their ‘naughty’ flavors like Maple Bourbon with Salted Candied Pecans have earned them national attention.
Moomers Homemade Ice Cream, Traverse City, Michigan
Located on a dairy farm, Moomers offers farm-fresh ice cream with a view of the source. Their Cherries Moobilee flavor, featuring local Michigan cherries, exemplifies their commitment to showcasing regional ingredients.
Big Gay Ice Cream, New York City, New York
Starting as a food truck and expanding to storefronts, Big Gay Ice Cream has made a name for itself with playful flavors and toppings. Their signature Salty Pimp cone has become an iconic New York treat.
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America’s Best Ice Cream Spots for a Sweet Treat
These ice cream parlors represent some of the finest frozen desserts in America, each offering a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and local flavor. These establishments demonstrate the enduring appeal and versatility of ice cream, transforming a simple treat into a gourmet experience.
Whether patrons prefer classic flavors or daring new combinations, these parlors prove that America’s love for ice cream is as diverse as it is enduring.
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