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The 16 Best Ice Cream in New York City

When it comes to indulging in a sweet treat, ice cream is always a top choice for many people. And if you happen to be in the bustling metropolis of New York City, you're in luck - the city is home to a plethora of ice cream shops and parlors that serve up some of the most delectable frozen desserts around.

Whether you're a fan of classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, or prefer more unconventional options like black sesame or matcha, there is something for everyone in the Big Apple's vast array of ice cream offerings. And with so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go for your next cold treat. That's where our list of the top ice cream spots in New York City comes in handy.

So if you're on the hunt for the best ice cream in New York City, look no further than our carefully curated list below!

How this guide is ordered

Chosen by our New York editors from places across the five boroughs, giving weight to a long track record with locals, current opening details and how well each one delivers on what it promises. Lists are revisited often; tell us when a spot closes or moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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Compare 16 local options

Taiyaki NYC Japanese Ice Cream#1
What stands out
  • Delicious ice cream served on a soft baked cone

  • Friendly and helpful staff

  • Small location with a cozy ambiance

Taiyaki NYC Japanese Ice Cream

4.53,197 reviews
119 Baxter St, New York, NY 10013, United States

Taiyaki NYC Japanese Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop located in New York City. With a rating of 4.5 stars, this establishment offers a variety of service options such as kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, and takeaway. Customers rave about the delicious ice cream served on a soft baked cone, topped with chocolate drizzle and a wafer cookie. The ambiance may be small, but the friendly service and amazing flavors make it a top spot for ice cream lovers.

Anita La Mamma del Gelato#2
What stands out
  • Customers rave about the extensive selection of flavors, including dark chocolate, lemoncello, strawberry mascarpone, ricotta, macadamia cream, pistachio, peanut butter, and more.

  • Visitors appreciate the quick service and friendly staff who are always willing to help make flavor decisions easier by offering unlimited taste tests.

  • The gelato is described as rich, creamy, and delicious, with many highlighting their favorite combinations such as pistachio and dark chocolate, hazelnut mousse with chocolate crunch, and more.

Anita La Mamma del Gelato

4.71,071 reviews
1141 Broadway, New York, NY 10001, United States

Anita La Mamma del Gelato is a beloved ice cream shop located in the heart of New York City. Offering a variety of flavors and options, this spot is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff make every visit a delightful experience.

With a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 and over 1000 reviews, Anita La Mamma del Gelato is a top choice for gelato enthusiasts looking for an authentic and delightful experience in NYC.

Tipsy Scoop#3
What stands out
  • The flavors are silky smooth and you can't taste the alcohol

  • The staff is amazing and provides top-notch service

  • Customers love the cozy and cute ambiance

  • There is a variety of class options for a fun experience

Tipsy Scoop

4.61,600 reviews
217 E 26th St, New York, NY 10010, United States

Tipsy Scoop is a well-known ice cream shop located in New York, offering a unique twist by infusing their delicious ice creams with alcohol. Customers can enjoy a variety of flavors such as cake batter vodka martini, vanilla bean bourbon, chocolate whiskey salted caramel, tequila Mexican hot chocolate, raspberry lemoncello sorbet, and more. What sets Tipsy Scoop apart is the perfect balance between the alcohol and the creamy ice cream, creating an unforgettable experience.

Soft Swerve Ice Cream#4
What stands out
  • Customers rave about the black sesame soft serve and other unique flavors

  • The portions are satisfying, but some find the prices a bit high

  • The ube soft serve is highly recommended and described as a masterpiece

  • Guests appreciate the nostalgic decor and generous serving sizes

Soft Swerve Ice Cream

4.61,204 reviews
85B Allen St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Soft Swerve Ice Cream is a popular ice cream shop located in New York. They offer a variety of unique flavors like black sesame, matcha, green tea, ube, and more. Customers can enjoy their soft serve with toppings or in pints to go. The shop provides service options such as delivery, in-store pick-up, takeaway, and dine-in. Payment options include credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream#5
What stands out
  • "The ice cream is average, wanted more flavor intensity. The texture was not creamy and rich enough." - 3 stars

  • "Delicious ice cream! Must try the earl grey flavor. Friendly staff." - 5 stars

  • "Whacky flavors are fun to try, and the ice cream is on par with the best. Enjoyed the flavor I tried." - 4 stars

  • "Great selection of vegan and gluten-free options. Inconsistent service but great product overall." - 3 stars

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

4.61,181 reviews
152 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014, United States

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a trendy ice cream shop located in New York City that offers a variety of delicious and unique flavors. Customers can enjoy delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, takeaway, and dine-in options. The shop has a quick visit atmosphere, making it perfect for a spontaneous treat.

The shop is known for its creamy ice cream and friendly staff. Customers highly recommend flavors like honeycomb and brown sugar cookie dough. The ice cream company also offers coffee for those looking for a caffeinated treat.

Here are some summarized reviews from customers:

With a rating of 4.6 stars, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a must-visit for ice cream lovers in the Big Apple.

The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory#6
What stands out
  • Customers love the delicious and unique flavors like coconut and taro.

  • The vintage charm and friendly staff create a delightful experience.

  • Although prices are a bit high, generous portion sizes make up for it.

  • Visitors appreciate the variety of Asian-inspired flavors available.

The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

4.52,003 reviews
65 Bayard St, New York, NY 10013, United States

The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory offers a unique variety of flavors, allowing customers to taste before they buy. With options like coconut, taro, Thai tea, durian, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Customers rave about the deliciousness of the ice cream, with many highlighting the coconut and taro flavors as must-tries. The shop's vintage charm and friendly staff add to the experience, making it a favorite spot for ice cream lovers. Although some find the prices a bit high, the generous portion sizes make up for it. Overall, visitors appreciate the variety of Asian-inspired flavors and the quality of the ice cream at this iconic ice cream shop.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream#7
What stands out
  • Various flavors and high-quality vegan options

  • Smooth and refreshing ice cream, perfect for cooling off

  • Friendly staff and cozy environment, great for trying new flavors

  • Aesthetic appeal of ice cream and delightful taste experiences

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

4.51,391 reviews
48 1/2 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a popular ice cream shop located in New York, known for its wide range of flavors and high-quality offerings. The shop offers various services such as delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, takeaway, and dine-in, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their favorite treats. They also provide same-day delivery for those craving a quick ice cream fix.

The atmosphere at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is described as trending, creating a fun and lively experience for visitors. Customers appreciate the quick visit planning option, allowing them to stop by for a delicious treat without a long wait. The shop accepts credit cards and debit cards for easy payment.

With a rating of 4.5, based on 1391 reviews, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Customers praise the shop for its delicious and high-quality ice cream flavors, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. Some key points from customer reviews include:

A La Mode Shoppe#8
What stands out
  • Hosted a fantastic birthday party with seamless service and delicious ice cream for kids and adults alike.

  • Excellent ice cream, lovely service, and adorable decorations make this shop a hit with all ages.

  • Heartwarming gesture of charging half price for a smaller portion shows the shop's kindness and generosity.

  • A wide variety of unique and interesting flavors, generous portions, and friendly staff make this spot a must-visit for ice cream lovers.

A La Mode Shoppe

4.8261 reviews
360 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022, United States

A La Mode Shoppe is a whimsical ice cream shop located in the heart of New York City. With a rating of 4.8 stars out of 5, it's clear that customers adore this place. Here are some key points from the customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a quick visit for a scoop of your favorite flavor or planning a special event, A La Mode Shoppe has you covered. With offerings like coffee, ample seating, and Wi-Fi amenities, this shop is the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the magic of A La Mode Shoppe!

Amorino Gelato - New York Times Square#9
What stands out
  • Customers praised the rose-shaped ice cream cones and the informative service provided by the staff.

  • One visitor enjoyed the fantastic coffee and the best pistachio ice cream they ever had.

  • Although some found the flavors slightly bland, others appreciated the self-serve kiosks and the ability to mix and match multiple flavors in a small cup.

  • Amorino Gelato was commended for its superb sweetness, creaminess, presentation, and quality coffee.

Amorino Gelato - New York Times Square

4.42,240 reviews
721 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States

Amorino Gelato - New York Times Square offers a delightful experience for ice cream enthusiasts in the heart of New York. With a rating of 4.4, it's evident that customers appreciate the quality and variety of gelato flavors. The range of service options includes kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store shopping, and more, ensuring convenience for all customers. The shop is described as family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming all visitors with open arms.

Discover a world of delicious treats and friendly service at Amorino Gelato - New York Times Square!

Smoove Ice Cream#10
What stands out
  • Ube boba float is delicious and they can't wait to go back and try other flavors.

  • The Taro boba drink and croffles were delightful, making it worth the trip multiple times a week.

  • Super friendly staff allowed customers to try multiple flavors before deciding, and the portion sizes were generous.

Smoove Ice Cream

4.7352 reviews
279 Grand St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Smoove Ice Cream is an enticing ice cream shop located in New York, NY. They offer various services such as delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy a quick visit to the shop and make payments conveniently using credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. The establishment is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all customers.

This charming ice cream shop has received rave reviews from its patrons, with an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5. Some customers have shared their experiences, highlighting a few key points:

With a cozy seating area and an array of sweet beverages and snacks, Smoove Ice Cream is the perfect spot to chill with friends and family while enjoying flavorful treats. Visit their website to explore their offerings and plan your next visit!

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream#11
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the variety of flavors available, from classic options like Cookies and Cream to unique ones like Honeycomb and Earl Grey Tea.

  • The staff is patient and accommodating, always ready to help customers try different flavors and make informed choices.

  • Many visitors praise the creamy texture of the ice cream and the clean, friendly atmosphere of the shop.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

4.6525 reviews
224 Front St, New York, NY 10038, United States

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop located in New York City. With a rating of 4.6 based on 525 reviews, this place is known for its exceptional service and a wide range of flavor options for both traditional and vegan ice cream lovers.

Whether you're looking for a quick indulgence or a relaxing dessert experience, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream offers a combination of excellent flavors and top-notch service that keeps customers coming back for more.

Morgenstern's BANANAS#12
What stands out
  • Generous portions and unique flavors

  • Perfect blend of salty and sweet

  • Friendly service and trendy atmosphere

Morgenstern's BANANAS

4.31,837 reviews
2 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Morgenstern's BANANAS is a trendy ice cream shop located in New York, offering a unique experience for dessert enthusiasts. Their menu includes non-dairy soft serve with various toppings, such as the Banana Vanilla and Ube flavors. Customers have praised the creamy and delicious alternatives to traditional ice cream.

Customers have also enjoyed the icy smoothness and bold flavors provided by Morgenstern's BANANAS. With a rating of 4.3 based on 1837 reviews, this shop has become a popular choice for those looking for a dairy-free ice cream option. Whether it's for delivery, takeaway, or a quick coffee break, Morgenstern's BANANAS has something to offer to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Stuffed Ice Cream#13
What stands out
  • A customer praised the friendly staff and prompt service despite the AC issues and dry donuts.

  • Another visitor suggested hiring more staff to handle the busy summer shifts but appreciated the great ice cream.

  • An satisfied customer enjoyed the Instagrammable dessert experience but found the ice cream flavors lacking.

  • A loyal customer raved about the delicious ice cream flavors, recommending the stuffed donuts for a tasty treat.

Stuffed Ice Cream

4.4701 reviews
139 1st Ave., New York, NY 10003, United States

Stuffed Ice Cream is a unique ice cream shop in New York that offers a variety of delicious treats. Customers can enjoy no-contact delivery, delivery, in-store pick-up, and takeaway options for their convenience. With quick visit planning available, patrons can easily satisfy their sweet cravings.

This beloved ice cream spot has received a rating of 4.4 from 701 reviewers. Whether you're craving a stuffed donut or a unique ice cream bouquet, Stuffed Ice Cream is the place to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream#14
What stands out
  • Staff were lovely and scoops were generous in size.

  • The honeycomb flavor is really good with a variety of toppings to choose from.

  • Great selection of vegan options with creamy and flavorful textures.

  • Amazing choice of flavors catering to all dietary requirements.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

4.3694 reviews
1250 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020, United States

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop in New York that offers a wide range of delicious flavors and options for all customers. Whether you're looking for delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, takeaway, or dine-in experience, this place has it all. The ice cream is known for its rich and creamy texture, with flavors like vegan options, honeycomb, and pumpkin cheesecake.

According to 694 reviews, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream has received a rating of 4.3 stars. Customers have praised the staff for their friendliness and generous scoops of ice cream. Some highlights from the reviews include:

Don't miss out on an opportunity to indulge in some of the best ice cream in town at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream!

Davey's Ice Cream#15
What stands out
  • Great ice cream flavors and quality.

  • Generous portions and variety of options.

  • Warm and welcoming customer service.

  • Convenient ordering and delivery options available.

Davey's Ice Cream

4.758 reviews
309 E 9th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

Davey's Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream shop located in New York, offering a variety of flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth. The shop provides a range of services such as in-store shopping, takeaway, and delivery, making it convenient for all customers.

With a superb rating of 4.7 stars, customers rave about the delicious ice cream and exceptional service at Davey's Ice Cream. Here are some key points summarizing customer reviews:

Visit Davey's Ice Cream to indulge in a delightful ice cream experience that will leave you wanting more!

Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream#16
What stands out
  • Delicious flavors with creamy texture

  • Friendly staff

  • Generous portions

  • Unique and innovative flavor combinations

Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream

4.11,307 reviews
88 W Houston St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream is a popular ice cream shop located in New York offering a wide range of delectable flavors to satisfy customers' sweet cravings. They provide various service options such as delivery, in-store pick-up, takeaway, and dine-in to accommodate different preferences.

Customers rave about the creamy and delicious flavors offered at Morgenstern’s, making it a must-visit spot for ice cream lovers. Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a solid rating of 4.1, and a long list of satisfied customers, Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream is a top choice for anyone looking to indulge in high-quality ice cream in the heart of New York City.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Taiyaki NYC Japanese Ice Cream 4.53,197
#2Anita La Mamma del Gelato 4.71,071
#3Tipsy Scoop 4.61,600
#4Soft Swerve Ice Cream 4.61,204
#5Van Leeuwen Ice Cream 4.61,181
#6The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory 4.52,003
#7Van Leeuwen Ice Cream 4.51,391
#8A La Mode Shoppe 4.8261
#9Amorino Gelato - New York Times Square 4.42,240
#10Smoove Ice Cream 4.7352
#11Van Leeuwen Ice Cream 4.6525
#12Morgenstern's BANANAS 4.31,837
#13Stuffed Ice Cream 4.4701
#14Van Leeuwen Ice Cream 4.3694
#15Davey's Ice Cream 4.758
#16Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream 4.11,307

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Map of Ice Cream in New York City

Indulge in a sweet treat while exploring the bustling streets of New York City with our comprehensive map of ice cream shops. Whether you're craving classic flavors or unique creations, this map will guide you to the best ice cream spots in the city. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and discover new favorites along the way!

How to choose Ice Cream in New York City

  1. Location.
  2. Flavor variety.
  3. Price point.
  4. Special offerings (vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
  5. Customer reviews.
  6. Atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions

Best Places to Get Ice Cream in New York City

When visiting New York City, there are numerous places to satisfy your ice cream cravings. From trendy shops to classic parlors, the city offers a wide variety of options for indulging in this sweet treat. Some highly recommended ice cream spots in New York City include: Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream. Big Gay Ice Cream. Sundaes and Cones. Emack & Bolio's.

Popular Ice Cream Flavors in New York City

New York City is known for its diverse culinary scene, and this extends to the world of ice cream flavors. Whether you prefer classic options or unique creations, you'll find something to tempt your taste buds in the city. Some of the most popular ice cream flavors in New York City include: Classic Vanilla. Rich Chocolate. Strawberry Cheesecake. Salted Caramel.

Ice Cream Trends in New York City

New York City's food scene is constantly evolving, and this includes trends in the world of ice cream. From extravagant milkshakes to artisanal gelato, there are always new and exciting ways to enjoy this frozen dessert in the city. Some current ice cream trends in New York City are: Ice Cream Sandwiches with Unique Fillings. Nitrogen Ice Cream. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options. Locally Sourced Ingredients.

History of Ice Cream in New York City

New York City has a rich history when it comes to ice cream, dating back to the early 19th century. Over the years, the city has been home to many iconic ice cream parlors and has played a significant role in the evolution of this beloved dessert. Some key moments in the history of ice cream in New York City include: The Introduction of the Ice Cream Cone at the 1904 World's Fair. The Popularity of Egg Creams and Ice Cream Sodas. The Creation of Classic New York Flavors like Black and White Cookies and Cannoli.

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