25 Best Ice Cream Shops in NYC to Try This Spring

As you step out into the warm NYC spring, the craving for a cool treat is inevitable. You’re in luck, because the city’s ice cream scene is about to become your new obsession. From nostalgic charm to adventurous flavors, NYC’s best ice cream shops have got you covered. But where do you start? With so many options, it can be overwhelming. Let’s narrow it down – get ready to discover the 25 must-try spots that’ll make this spring a sweet indulgence.

Serendipity 3: A Sweet Upper East Side Institution

Stepping into Serendipity 3, you’re enveloped in a whimsical world of sugar and spice, where the sweet-toothed fantasies of childhood come alive.

This iconic Upper East Side institution has been a NYC staple since 1954, boasting a rich history and nostalgic ambiance that’s hard to resist.

Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream: A Lower East Side Favorite

As you wander into Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream, the retro-chic decor and bustling energy of the Lower East Side envelop you, making it impossible not to feel the excitement of discovering a beloved local gem.

Try these standout Morgenstern’s flavors:

1. Burnt Honey Vanilla: a sweet and savory masterpiece
2. Pistachio Cardamom: a revitalizing twist on a classic
3. Sicilian Pistachio: rich and nutty, with a hint of brightness
4. Rice Pudding with Candied Fruit: creamy and indulgent

Eileen’s Special Cheesecake and Ice Cream: A Nolita Treat

You’re likely to stumble upon Eileen’s Special Cheesecake and Ice Cream while wandering through Nolita’s charming streets, and that’s exactly how you’ll feel – charmed.

This Nolita dessert haven serves up creamy ice cream and decadent Eileen’s cheesecake, a perfect pairing that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth.

The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory: A Cultural Icon

Vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas beckon you to The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, a cultural icon that’s been serving up sweet treats since 1978.

This beloved shop is woven into Chinatown’s history, offering a unique ice cream culture experience.

Must-try flavors include:

1. Pandan: a Southeast Asian-inspired coconut ice cream
2. Green Tea: a revitalizing, subtly bitter treat
3. Lychee: a sweet and tangy flavor reminiscent of Chinatown’s streets
4. Black Sesame: a rich, nutty ice cream that’s a game-changer

Emack & Bolio’s: Boston-Inspired Ice Cream in the Big Apple

This Boston-born ice cream brand brings a taste of Beantown to the Big Apple, and Emack & Bolio’s unique flavors are a revitalizing change of pace from the usual NYC ice cream scene.

You’ll find authentic Boston flavors like Fenway Fudge and Boston Cream Pie, paired with unique toppings like crushed Oreos and chocolate chips.

Big Gay Ice Cream: Creative Flavors in the East Village

Big Gay Ice Cream’s East Village shop is a mecca for adventurous eaters, beckoning passersby with its rainbow-colored facade and tantalizing aromas wafting out onto the sidewalk.

You’ll find unique flavor inspiration here, born from the owners’ passion for ice cream culture.

Try these standout flavors:

1. Mermaid: key lime curd, blueberry, and crushed graham crackers
2. Salty Pimp: vanilla, chocolate chips, and crushed pretzels
3. Gobbler: pumpkin, cranberry, and sage
4. Golden Ticket: vanilla, sea salt, and caramelized banana

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream: Artisanal Goodness in Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village’s charming streets are where you’ll find Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, a haven for those seeking artisanal goodness in every scoop.

You’ll discover unique Van Leeuwen flavors like honey ginger and earl grey tea, crafted with high-quality ingredients.

Founded in 2008, Van Leeuwen honors ice cream history while innovating with creative flavors that will leave you wanting more.

MihMih: Unique Flavors in the Lower East Side

Vibrant street art and eclectic shops set the tone for a sweet adventure in the Lower East Side, where MihMih’s unique flavors await.

This shop’s creativity shines in its flavor combinations.

Try these must-haves:

1. Honey Lavender: a soothing blend of floral and sweet.
2. Pistachio Cardamom: a revitalizing twist on a classic.
3. S’mores: a campfire treat reimagined.
4. Turmeric Ginger: a spicy kick in a cold treat.

MihMih’s flavors will transport you to a world of taste and delight.

Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beer: Crazy Ice Cream Concoctions

You’re about to leave the artistic streets of the Lower East Side behind, but don’t worry, your sweet tooth will still get its fix.

Head to Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beer, where outrageous ice cream concoctions await. Their menu boasts Instagram-worthy desserts, like cotton candy-topped milkshakes and cookie dough-stuffed sundaes that are almost too beautiful to eat. Almost.

The Good Batch: Gourmet Ice Cream in Clinton Hill

Three Brooklyn neighborhoods later, you’ll find yourself in Clinton Hill, where The Good Batch serves up gourmet ice cream that’s well worth the trip.

This artisanal scoop shop boasts unique flavors crafted with love and care.

Be sure to try:

1. Honey lavender, infused with fresh honey and dried lavender petals.
2. Browned butter candied bacon, a sweet and savory masterpiece.
3. Strawberry balsamic, featuring fresh strawberries and a hint of balsamic glaze.
4. Pistachio cardamom, a creamy and aromatic Indian-inspired delight.

Olio E Piu: Italian-Inspired Gelato in Chelsea

After indulging in The Good Batch’s artisanal ice cream, head to Chelsea to experience the Italian-inspired gelato at Olio E Piu.

You’ll be transported to the Tuscan countryside with unique gelato flavors like pistachio and ricotta honey.

The charming Chelsea atmosphere complements Olio E Piu’s rustic-chic decor, making it the perfect spot to savor each creamy bite.

Grom: Authentic Italian Gelato in the West Village

While exploring the charming West Village, gelato enthusiasts will stumble upon Grom, an authentic Italian gelato shop that’s been a neighborhood favorite since 2003.

You’ll be tempted by their unique gelato flavors made with high-quality Italian ingredients.

Try these must-haves:

1. Pistacchio: rich, nutty, and utterly addictive
2. Cioccolato: rich, dark chocolate that’s simply divine
3. Nocciola: hazelnut gelato that’s creamy and dreamy
4. Limone: zesty, revitalizing lemon that’s perfect for spring

Baci Di Firenze: Tuscan-Inspired Gelato in the Upper West Side

You’ll find more Italian flair on the Upper West Side at Baci Di Firenze, where Tuscan-inspired gelato flavors await.

This family-owned shop brings a taste of Tuscan culture to NYC, using traditional gelato techniques to craft unique flavors like pistachio and ricotta.

With each bite, you’ll experience the rich heritage of Italy in every creamy, dreamy spoonful.

Ecreamery: Customizable Ice Cream in Astoria

Ecreamery in Astoria takes the concept of customizable ice cream to a whole new level, offering a staggering array of bases, mix-ins, and toppings that let you create the perfect scoop (or two, or three) tailored to your unique taste preferences.

With Ecreamery, you’re the ice cream craft master.

Try:

1. Custom flavors like matcha and pistachio.
2. Unique mix-ins like cookie dough and peanut butter cups.
3. Decadent toppings like hot fudge and caramel.
4. Creating your own ice cream sandwich with freshly baked cookies.

The Creamery: Farm-to-Table Ice Cream in the East Village

In the East Village, The Creamery is serving up a revitalizing change of pace from the endless options of customizable concoctions.

You’ll appreciate the farm-to-table benefits, as they source high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring a more sustainable ice cream experience.

Enjoy unique flavors like honey lavender and strawberry balsamic, crafted with care and a focus on ice cream sustainability.

Mikey Likes It: Unique Flavors in the Lower East Side

Head to Mikey Likes It in the Lower East Side for a taste adventure that will leave you wanting more.

This artisanal shop is known for its creative combinations and unique flavor inspirations.

Be sure to try:

1. Strawberry Cheesecake: a sweet and tangy blend of fresh strawberries and creamy cheesecake.
2. Pistachio Cardamom: a revitalizing and exotic mix of ground cardamom and crunchy pistachios.
3. S’mores Please: a campfire classic reimagined with rich chocolate and toasted marshmallows.
4. Rice Krispy Treat: a nostalgic favorite turned into a creamy, crunchy delight.

Ice & Vice: Artisanal Ice Cream in the Lower East Side

You’re still in the Lower East Side, but now you’re about to experience artisanal ice cream on a whole new level at Ice & Vice.

Their unique, handcrafted flavors will blow your mind.

Try the “Tea Dance” (earl grey, honey, and lavender) or “Miso Cherry” for a taste adventure.

Coolhaus: Architecturally Inspired Ice Cream in SoHo

As you make your way to SoHo, the architectural inspiration behind Coolhaus’ unique ice cream flavors will have you screaming for more.

Be sure to try:

1. Snickerdoodle: a sweet and spicy blend that’ll make your taste buds dance.
2. Mango Sticky Rice: a tropical getaway in every bite.
3. Browned Butter Candied Bacon: a savory and sweet symphony.
4. Strawberry Balsamic: a revitalizing twist on a classic combo.

Coolhaus’ architectural inspiration shines through in every unique flavor!

La Newyorkina: Mexican-Inspired Ice Cream in the East Village

La Newyorkina’s vibrant flavors transport you south of the border, leaving Coolhaus’ architectural inspirations behind.

You’ll find yourself in the heart of the East Village, surrounded by authentic Mexican flavors.

Try the unique horchata or spicy mango chili ice cream, and experience a revitalizing twist on traditional treats.

Ample Hills Creamery: Brooklyn-Made Ice Cream in Gowanus

Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge, Ample Hills Creamery’s Gowanus location beckons with its creative, Brooklyn-made flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Immerse yourself in their unique flavors, rooted in ice cream history. Be sure to try:

1. The Hook: a salty, crunchy blend of peanut butter, pretzels, and caramel.
2. Ooey Gooey: a sweet, sticky mix of marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham crackers.
3. Snap, Crackle, Pop: a nostalgic treat filled with crispy rice cereal and a hint of vanilla.
4. Salted Crack Caramel: a rich, salty flavor with a crunchy caramel crunch.

The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory: Waterfront Treats in DUMBO

You’ll find The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory nestled in DUMBO, its picturesque waterfront location making it the perfect spot to indulge in a cool treat on a hot day.

Enjoy stunning DUMBO views while savoring unique flavors like honey lavender or peach. The waterfront ambiance is unbeatable, making this spot a must-visit for a sweet spring treat.

OddFellows Ice Cream Co.: Handcrafted Flavors in Bushwick

While making your way through the trendy streets of Bushwick, be sure to stop by OddFellows Ice Cream Co., where creativity meets craftsmanship in every handcrafted flavor.

You’ll find unique ingredients in each scoop, making every bite a surprise.

Be adventurous and try:

1. Saffron Pistachio: a subtle, nutty delight
2. Earl Grey Tea: a creamy, citrusy twist
3. Miso Cherry: a sweet and savory fusion
4. Browned Butter Candied Bacon: a rich, savory treat

Cream: High-Quality Ice Cream in Multiple Locations

With its multiple locations scattered throughout the city, Cream has become a staple for high-quality ice cream in NYC, offering a diverse range of unique flavors that cater to every palate.

You’ll love their gourmet dairy ice cream paired with artisanal toppings, creating a match made in heaven that will leave you craving for more.

Chilly Hazel: Artisanal Ice Cream in Ridgewood

Ridgewood’s Chilly Hazel is a game-changer, serving up artisanal ice cream that’s a cut above the rest.

You’ll love their unique flavors made with local ingredients. Be sure to try:

1. Strawberry Balsamic, featuring fresh strawberries from a nearby farm.
2. Pistachio Cardamom, with a hint of spice.
3. Brown Butter Candied Bacon, a sweet and savory mix.
4. Coffee Chip, made with beans from a local roaster.

Enjoy the best of NYC’s artisanal ice cream scene at Chilly Hazel!

Taiyaki NYC: Japanese-Style Ice Cream in Chinatown

You’ve had your fill of artisanal ice cream in Ridgewood, now it’s time to head to Chinatown for a taste of Japan.

Taiyaki NYC brings innovative taiyaki innovations to the table, combining crispy, fish-shaped waffle cones with unique flavors like matcha and black sesame.

This cultural fusion is a revitalizing change of pace from the usual ice cream shop.

Conclusion

You’ve made it through the sweetest of lists, and now it’s time to get scooping! With these 25 exceptional shops, you’ll be indulging in the city’s best ice cream this spring. From nostalgic charm to adventurous flavors, every palate will find a perfect match. So, grab a cone and take a stroll through NYC’s vibrant neighborhoods – your taste buds will thank you!