When the weather warms up, discovering the best ice cream spots in New York can be a delightful adventure. Fortunately, the city has some fantastic places to grab a cone! While there may be differences between New York’s ice cream and Italy’s gelato, you’ll find traditional scoops and unique frozen yogurts here, each offering something special.
Let’s look at five must-visit ice cream shops where you can enjoy refreshing treats and even experience some unique New York flair. For a truly immersive experience, try an expert-led guided New York Food Tour.
FIGO Il Gelato Italiano
Located in Greenwich Village, FIGO Il Gelato Italiano is a must for fans of authentic Italian gelato. Formerly known as M’o Gelato, this shop specializes in handcrafted Italian gelato and sorbet using traditional Italian techniques and recipes.
The ingredients are 100% natural, with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. FIGO, a popular stop on most New York Food Tours, serves classics like vanilla and pistachio, as well as Italian-style affogatos and frappés. This spot is a perfect refreshment stop during a city walk around Greenwich, SoHo, and Little Italy, allowing you to indulge in a taste of Italy right in New York City.
Big Gay Ice Cream
Starting as a food truck, Big Gay Ice Cream quickly grew into one of the most famous ice cream spots in the U.S. Now, with multiple locations, it offers a fun twist on traditional soft-serve.
Known for creative options like the “Salty Pimp”—a vanilla soft-serve cone with dulce de leche, sea salt, and chocolate dip—this shop brings personality to every cone. Big Gay Ice Cream is also celebrated for its inclusive and welcoming vibe, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.
Il Laboratorio del Gelato
For an artisan experience, head to Il Laboratorio del Gelato on the Lower East Side. This spot isn’t just an ice cream shop; it’s a working “lab” where you can watch gelato being made behind a glass wall. Il Laboratorio offers a rotating selection of flavors, from the classics to unique choices like olive oil and Earl Grey tea. This experimental edge has made it a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts looking for something different.
With over 150 flavors created in-house, there’s always something new to try. You can also enjoy a variety of sorbets and shakes, perfect for a refreshing break in the city.
Eataly Gelato
Nestled within Eataly, the Italian food market in the Flatiron District, this gelato counter serves scoops made with high-quality Italian ingredients. The milk is locally sourced and organic, while toppings like hazelnuts, pistachios, and chocolate come straight from Italy.
You’ll find flavors inspired by classic Italian desserts, including tiramisu and salted caramel. Eataly’s gelato is made fresh daily, offering an authentic Italian experience that feels like an escape to Italy amid New York City’s hustle and bustle.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Van Leeuwen started as a food truck in Brooklyn and has since become a staple across New York City. Known for its creamy, traditional-style ice cream, Van Leeuwen is dedicated to using organic ingredients and creating rich, dense flavors.
They offer vegan options made with cashew or coconut milk alongside classics like chocolate and mint chips. Seasonal flavors like honeycomb and black sesame bring unique tastes to the menu. If you want to try various flavors, Van Leeuwen is a great place to go, especially if you’re seeking high-quality, natural ingredients.
The Ice Cream Tour
From classic Italian gelato to unique New York creations, NYC offers a dessert scene that reflects its cultural diversity and passion for food. Whether exploring alone or joining a food tour, New York’s ice gelaterias promise a refreshing break for an unforgettable taste experience!
