Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Cool ice cream shops in New York

An ice cream shop that manages to be cool without feeling like it is trying too hard to impress the neighborhood.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Max & Mina's Ice Cream image 1
Max & Mina's Ice Cream image 2
Max & Mina's Ice Cream image 3
View all

Walls covered with nostalgic cereal box art create a friendly, casual vibe that feels like stepping into a time capsule. The shop offers unique, rotating ice cream flavors with unlimited sampling, inviting visitors to explore unusual tastes in a lively, upbeat atmosphere.

Offers a unique ice cream experience that stands out from typical shops. Provides a great variety that feels different and refreshing.

Walls and ceilings feature funny or cool designs everywhere. The store offers cool and fun flavors to try. Every corner shows diverse and cool sights creating a unique vibe.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is unbelievably delicious and creative."

"The ice cream flavors here are amazing date spots."

"This ice cream shop's walls are covered in nostalgic cereal box art."

Good to know

1

The establishment closes at 5:50 PM on Tuesday.

2

There is nowhere to sit at the location.

3

You can try any flavor you want before deciding.

02
Aubi & Ramsa image 1
Ice cream shop

Bar-style setup serves liquor-infused ice cream with top-shelf alcohol in a sleek, sophisticated space. Atmosphere feels serene and jazzy, blending dessert with cocktail lounge vibes. Patrons are adults enjoying unique boozy flavors in a calm, stylish environment.

Aubi & Ramsa serves ice cream in a bar setting rather than a traditional shop. It offers a relaxing spot to take a break, combining elements of bars and ice cream parlors.

Organizing ice creams by liquor type creates a unique twist. The cool bar setting pairs well with some of the best ice cream around. Music adds a cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so delicious, rich, and creamy."

"I loved the alcohol-infused ice cream; it's a cool idea."

"The ice cream shop's flavors had a noticeable alcohol taste."

Good to know

1

You need to be 21+ to enter this place as all ice cream is infused with liquor.

2

The venue can get quite packed during events like tech meetups.

3

The price of the ice cream is high compared to the quantity.

03
Oddfellows Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop with a circus-themed interior and colorful, funky design creates a welcoming, cool vibe. Large groups of teens often gather, adding lively energy. Offers unique vegan-friendly flavors with massive portions and a mix of classic and unusual tastes.

Atmosphere feels cool and funky with awesome vibes and music. The guy behind the counter adds to the unique vibe.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"This ice cream shop has so many delicious flavors and vegan options."

"The ice cream here is so rich and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is not open at 10:30 PM.

2

The restroom is only for staff.

3

Odd Fellows has vegan options available.

04
Elio's image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop with wide variety of flavors and unique donut toppings offers a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and fun interior design. Retro Pac-Man game adds a nostalgic touch while customers enjoy their treats. Space includes a separate area to relax and savor ice cream and milkshakes.

Offers a plethora of great desserts mostly made on the spot with many delicious flavors. The shop has a friendly atmosphere and serves both ice cream and donuts.

Color-changing spoon adds a unique touch. Walls covered with post-it notes create a lively vibe. The decor stands out with a modern, edgy look.

People are saying

"The ice cream staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"I thought it was the best ice cream shop."

"The ice cream here is ridiculously addicting, I loved it."

Good to know

1

The dessert spot is open until 2AM on the weekend.

2

John Depp ice cream is 21+ only.

3

The ice cream sandwich costs $15.00.

05
Anita La Mamma del Gelato image 1

Colorful gelato displays fill a beautifully decorated space with indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere blends sophisticated design with a fun, lively vibe, supported by loud music and energetic energy. Outdoor tables offer a pleasant spot for people watching and enjoying fresh air.

Lines form even in cold weather, showing strong demand. Ice cream offers excellent flavor and exquisite taste that stands out among nearby shops.

Cool, old-fashioned design creates a comforting vibe. Flavors stay cool and tasty, making it a great spot to relax after walking.

People are saying

"This gelato is the best ice cream I ever had."

"The ice cream shop has so many delicious flavors."

"The gelato here is really good, especially the fruity flavors."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line at night because it is a very popular place.

2

Anita's is open until midnight.

3

The gelato is very expensive at $9 after tax.

06
Venchi Chocolate and Gelato NOMAD image 1

Ice cream shop offers free gelato sampling and a small, cozy seating area with a chocolate waterfall feature. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a clean and pleasant environment. Outdoor seating is limited but adds to the relaxed vibe.

Beautiful design creates a welcoming atmosphere. The ice cream features excellent quality and stands out among shops in major cities. Rich flavors make it a notable spot for ice cream lovers.

Staff like Miguel are super cool and welcoming. The store feels clean and cozy with a chocolate-looking waterfall by the seating area.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly, they helped me pick the best gelato."

"The ice cream flavors here are so delicious."

"I found the place to be super cool and clean."

Good to know

1

A scoop with choco sauce in Venchi's tiniest cup costs $8.66 plus tip.

2

The price for 2 cones with 2 flavors is surprisingly high at $20.

3

Customers must pay before trying or selecting a flavor, which is an unusual system.

07
Venchi image 1
Ice cream shop

Space shaped like a tapering triangle features chocolate pouring walls and a chocolate fountain at the back. Atmosphere feels like a warm, welcoming Wonka fantasy with free chocolate samples and soothing music. Seating areas include an intimate corner with a waterfall and outdoor spots for relaxed enjoyment.

Offers a large selection of ice cream and chocolate. Combines variety with a pleasant atmosphere.

Chocolate walls and a chocolate waterfall create a visually striking backdrop. The seating arrangement complements the cool decor, making it a neat spot to enjoy treats.

People are saying

"The gelato here is so creamy and delicious."

"The chocolate here is amazing and creamy."

"Douglas made the ice cream shop experience personal and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

There is no parking in this area.

2

The prices are crazy expensive.

3

Customers must decide on the size and pay before trying the flavors.

08
Shh omakase image 1
Japanese restaurant

Hidden behind a soft serve shop, the space offers a cozy, speakeasy vibe with intimate counter seating that invites close interaction with chefs. The atmosphere balances friendly energy and quiet intimacy, making it feel like a small Tokyo eatery. Unique omakase dishes pair with fresh sake slushies, creating a distinctive dining experience.

The spot has a speakeasy vibe that sets it apart. It started purely as an ice cream shop and keeps that focus.

Casual, cool vibes with a strong 90s hip Japan feel set this place apart. The owner and staff bring a relaxed, authentic energy that keeps the atmosphere far from sterile.

People are saying

"This Japanese food spot feels like a cool, casual local secret."

"The staff here is so friendly and accommodating with great ice cream options."

"It's a cool, cozy spot with a hidden speakeasy vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at set time intervals, so book in advance.

2

The restaurant offers a late seating option on Friday nights.

3

You can enjoy either a 14-course or an 18-course omakase experience.

09
Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain image 1

Old-school soda fountain and vintage pharmacy decor create a nostalgic atmosphere filled with knickknacks and collectibles. Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, with board games and picture books adding to a relaxed vibe. Unique offerings include adult ice cream floats featuring beer or rose.

Charm comes from the old school aesthetic and classic ice cream parlor vibe. Quality products match the nostalgic setting well.

Classic soda fountain style and old pharmacy memorabilia create a very cool atmosphere. The spot stands out as a really cool place for desserts.

People are saying

"The ice cream and sundaes here are delicious and worth every calorie."

"It's a super quaint, old school ice cream shop."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Customers need to order inside and find a table or seat outside.

2

The restaurant has limited seating for two, which can be an issue.

3

The place gets pretty busy at night.

10
Eddie's Sweet Shop image 1
Ice cream shop

Old-style soda fountain with vintage decor and 1930s tiles creates a strong sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Wooden swivel stools line a marble bar, enhancing the classic ice cream parlor atmosphere. The shop feels like stepping back in time with original structures and handwritten notes adding to its charm.

A vintage ice cream parlor with a candy counter that keeps the old school charm alive. Ice cream is made from scratch, following a tradition over 50 years old.

A lively spot with a cool soda shop feel and old-school stools at the counter. The atmosphere stays vintage and vibrant, perfect for cooling down with something sweet.

People are saying

"This century-old ice cream shop has a truly old-school charm."

"I enjoyed the best hot fudge sundae I ever had."

"This old-fashioned ice cream shop feels like stepping back in time."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash; no credit or debit cards are accepted.

2

There is an ATM inside with a $2.50 convenience fee.

3

Make sure to bring cash when visiting the ice cream shop.

11
Chelsea Market image 1

Large covered market inside a restored industrial factory blends historic architecture with modern culinary culture. Vibrant atmosphere fills the space with diverse shops and food stalls, attracting many visitors. Outdoor heated booths offer comfortable spots to eat despite the busy, sometimes warm environment.

An ice cream parlor inside an air-conditioned indoor market offers various flavors. Staff behavior includes racist treatment, which affects service quality.

Former Oreo biscuit halls house a cool food market with many unique shops and small eateries. The artists' market offers unforgettable pieces and great spots to pick up gifts or souvenirs.

People are saying

"This market has endless food options and great shopping."

"This place has a cool, different vibe and atmosphere."

"I found numerous ice cream shops inside this indoor market."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half price on oysters and beers/wine.

2

Chelsea Market hosts various events, including cooking classes and pop-up shops.

3

Expect a 20-minute queue outside every restaurant during peak hours.

12
OddFellows Ice Cream Co. image 1

Small ice cream shop with a retro carnival vibe and quirky decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Offers vegan and non-dairy options alongside unique flavors like chick o stix and olive oil. Window views add to the charm while seating and power outlets provide convenience.

Cozy and cute setting creates a welcoming vibe. Offers a delightful range of ice cream flavors with a focus on quality.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so creamy and delicious."

"The ice cream shop's flavors are unique and playful."

"The ice cream flavors here are unique and playful."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during the summer, especially on weekends.

2

The establishment closes at 10 PM, but may refuse service at 9:45 PM.

3

Prices are high, with one scoop costing $6.39.

13
Amorino Gelato - New York Times Square image 1

Gelato served in rose-shaped presentation stands out visually. Loud club music fills the space, creating a high-energy atmosphere. Self-serve ordering kiosks speed up lines, while outdoor seating expands capacity year-round.

Offers solid ice cream options with a good overall experience. Some other parlors nearby provide more variety or flavors.

Cool treats like gelato offer a refreshing way to beat the heat. The store's design keeps the space comfortable year-round and the vibe stays friendly and relaxed even with a long line.

People are saying

"You have to try their specialty hot chocolate with gelato inside."

"The gelato here is so creamy, especially the dulce de leche."

"The ice cream shop has excellent, friendly service."

Good to know

1

Customers must go to a kiosk to place their order and pay before standing in line.

2

In the event of a large crowd, expect a long wait.

3

Customers are not allowed to taste flavors before purchasing due to long lines.

14
Serendipity 3 - Upper East Side image 1

Whimsical and iconic atmosphere fills a tiny, tightly packed space with nostalgic charm. Delightful photo service and outdoor terrace add unique touches. Heat can be intense, but the vibe remains adorable and fanciful.

Known for its lively atmosphere, this ice cream shop serves standard flavors similar to other parlors. The place often fills with kids, adding to the noisy environment.

Offers a very cool NYC adventure with a unique vibe that stands out. The atmosphere feels distinctively cool and engaging.

People are saying

"The frozen hot chocolate was fantastic and creamy."

"The frozen hot chocolate here is great and super delicious."

"The ice cream shop servers are so kind and helpful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at Serendipity 3 to avoid long wait times.

2

There is a minimum spend of $19 per person to enter.

3

Expect a long line if you visit without a reservation.

15
Morgenstern's BANANAS image 1
Ice cream shop

Bright, colorful shop with a banana-themed decor and fun, inviting atmosphere. Space feels small and cramped with limited seating and low countertops. Crowd tends to be young and trendy during busy times.

Non-dairy treats feature prominently alongside classic options in a cute, well-decorated setting. Small soft serve shops offer quick, tasty options near busy areas.

Cool vibe fills the space with a unique concept and stylish interior. Staff adds to the cool atmosphere, making it a great spot for pictures.

People are saying

"The dairy-free ice cream is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor."

"The ice cream here is creamy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"The ice cream here is so creamy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Morgenstern's BANANAS does not accept cash as payment.

2

There are no samples available for customers to try flavors beforehand.

3

The soft serve options are limited to four flavors: banana, chocolate, peanut butter, and coconut vanilla.

16
UES. image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop fronts a hidden speakeasy bar with creative cocktails and ice cream-infused drinks. Speakeasy features spacious seating and a high ceiling, contrasting with the small, close tables in the ice cream area. Atmosphere shifts from casual ice cream vibes to a fun, date-friendly bar scene.

A unique feature is the ice cream shop transforming into a nightclub. Friendly staff create a cool and fun atmosphere. Drinks often include ice cream, adding a distinctive twist.

A secret ice cream door leads to a speakeasy with a cool and intimate vibe. The transformation from ice cream shop to nightclub feels well executed and the cocktails look fun and stylish.

People are saying

"This speakeasy's concept and charming decor make it feel special."

"I found the place to be cool and fun."

"It's a cool ice cream shop with a hidden speakeasy in the back."

Good to know

1

Come with a reservation to avoid a long waitlist.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Thursday.

3

Walking in without a reservation resulted in a 45-minute wait.

Discover more

New York, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...