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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Midtown East

Ice cream spots

Made for those who are perpetually searching for the next cold, creamy variation to satisfy their persistent sweet tooth.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 1
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 2
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Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop offers spacious, cute ambiance with open seating and dog-friendly policy. The setup includes an unusual counter arrangement that can cause some confusion. Prices are notably high, but the ice cream is creamy, flavorful, and rich with many dairy-free and gluten-free options.

Brown sugar cookie dough brownie offers a flavorful and satisfying end to meals. Desserts often follow dinners at the nearby Italian spot.

Ice cream here is creamy, flavorful, and rich with standout options like cereal milk and dark chocolate brownie. Generous scoops come with great service and include both vegan and dairy-free choices.

People are saying

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

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

"It's so Dog Friendly, my pup loved the doggy ice cream."

Good to know

1

They don’t accept cash; only card payments are allowed.

2

Be prepared for a very LONG wait during peak hours.

3

The ice cream is expensive, costing $7.51 for a small scoop.

02
Palladino’s Steak & Seafood image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space offers stunning views over Grand Central Station with rich, deep colors and a beautiful bar. Atmosphere blends sophistication and warmth, creating a remarkable setting for meals and cocktails. Different rooms provide varied experiences, suited for casual dinners or dates.

Desserts consistently impress with their quality and presentation. Staff provide excellent recommendations ensuring a satisfying experience from starters through to sweets.

Creamy ice cream features impeccable flavor and careful presentation. Sundae desserts serve as a perfect finish to meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"You have to try the Sundae dessert; it's enough for two."

"The sirloin and strip steak were outstanding and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand shortly after opening.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments only.

03
Fasano Restaurant New York image 1

Elegant dining space combines modern decor with an old-New York vibe for a refined atmosphere. Live jazz music from a talented band adds warmth and sophistication. The setting supports both intimate evenings and larger gatherings with private dining options.

Velvety and aromatic, the pistachio dessert offers an indulgently balanced flavor. Desserts provide a great surprise alongside exquisite food.

Ice cream here features a dessert gelato cremoso that stands out. The flavors pair well with cocktails and wine recommended alongside it.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was outstanding and full of flavor."

"The tiramisu dessert might be the best in NYC."

"The service here is attentive and genuinely welcoming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are confirmed 24 hours in advance, which is unusual for most venues.

2

The kitchen closes at 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect prices around $100 per person for entrees and desserts, excluding drinks.

04
Empellon image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful, multi-level space combines a large bar with white sculptures and an open kitchen view. Atmosphere ranges from buzzy and lively downstairs to quieter, more exclusive upstairs seating. Known for phenomenal margaritas, modern Mexican flavors, and an iconic avocado dessert.

An iconic avocado dessert stands out for its creativity and unique taste. Complementary desserts and corn ice cream tacos add variety to the sweet options.

Corn ice cream tacos stand out as a unique dessert option. The coconut sorbet with chocolate coating and rum caramel offers a special twist that adds depth to the ice cream selection.

People are saying

"The guacamole with the seven salsas is amazing."

"You have to try the avocado dessert; it's a memorable highlight."

"The avocado dessert is delicious and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Lunch is served until 2pm on Fridays.

2

The restaurant offers Taco specials on Tuesdays.

3

The lunch set comes with an appetizer, main, and dessert for $45.

05
Le Jardinier image 1
French restaurant

Dining space resembles an airy greenhouse with green marble and plush cushions, creating a sleek, refined vibe. Atmosphere blends casual elegance with a touch of corporate formality, evoking classic power lunch settings. Spacious seating suits both meetings and family gatherings.

Unique desserts like the Paris games and the steak and butterfly at Le Jardinier stand out. Both offer distinct and memorable flavors.

Plant-based ice cream stands out with its incredible texture and rich chocolate flavor. Mint sorbet with peach offers a refreshing and cool finish that feels invigorating.

People are saying

"The desserts here were on another level."

"I had a special, beautiful dinner that felt like perfection."

"You have to try the plant-based ice cream; you won't order it anywhere else."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The tasting menu costs around $100 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Jazz night happens every Wednesday in the upstairs lounge.

06
Charoen Krung Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Elegant decor and cozy ambiance create a warm, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Upstairs party space adds a lively dimension on weekends, while a well-stocked bar offers unique cocktails like lychee martinis and refreshing soju blends. The place balances authentic Thai flavors with a comfortable, airy setting.

Warm Banana Sticky Rice with coconut ice cream offers a perfect sweetness. Servers provide kind help in selecting desserts.

Desserts feature coconut ice cream with a perfect sweetness and come with varied toppings that add texture and flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Thai-style ice cream brought me right back to Bangkok summers."

"You have to try the mango sticky rice for dessert."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-7 PM with specials under $10.

2

Lunch specials include a meal for low $20s with salad and dumplings.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially for lunch.

07
Yezo Thai Isankaya image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space combines cozy Thai dining room style with Japanese decor and Thai movie posters. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting with live jazz music that supports conversation. Seating uses tiny kitchen stools, adding to the casual, intimate vibe.

Coconut ice cream and cheesecake creme brulee stand out as dessert options. The mango parfait is another notable choice. Free dessert comes with a 5-star review, which staff manually verify.

Coconut jackfruit ice cream offers a sweet finish. The dessert includes tiramisu paired with ice cream for a special touch. Complimentary ice cream is sometimes given on the house.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious and fresh food here."

"The homemade coconut ice cream is creamy, nutty, and delicious."

"I loved the cheesecake creme brulee's perfect texture."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has live jazz music from 8-9pm on Fridays.

2

There is a lunch special available.

3

Yezo Thai Isankaya does not have liquor but offers BYOB for beer and wine.

08
Tomi Jazz image 1
Jazz club

Small basement jazz club with live Japanese jazz bands playing close to diners creates an intimate atmosphere. Dim lighting and walls lined with books and knickknacks add to the cozy, eclectic vibe. Cocktails and Japanese-inspired dishes complement the engaging musical experience.

Honey toast stands out with its mind-blowing flavor and perfect sweetness. Desserts come fresh and delicious, complementing the solid food offerings.

Matcha ice cream stands out here, often paired with red bean paste for extra flavor. It has a strong green tea taste that can convert non-fans.

People are saying

"The live jazz here is incredible, complementing the amazing Japanese-Italian fusion dishes."

"The matcha ice cream with red bean paste is a favorite menu item."

"The honey toast dessert with green tea ice cream is perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Arriving at 4:30 PM guarantees a seat even on the busiest days.

2

There is a $10 live music cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

You should come during weekdays before 5:30 PM to avoid long waits.

09
OBAO Midtown Thai & Vietnamese restaurant image 1

Spacious Thai restaurant with outdoor seating and a full bar featuring large drinks and a variety of cocktails. The atmosphere combines pretty decor and great music, creating a lively and enjoyable vibe. Indoor seating is tight, but the back area offers more space and a cozy garden spot.

Staff often provide free dessert surprises for birthdays and anniversaries, sometimes with candles and singing. Homemade mango ice cream stands out as a lovely dessert option.

Condensed milk ice cream stands out with its rich vanilla flavor. Complimentary scoops like matcha green tea and mango sticky rice ice cream add a sweet and salty twist, often served with sticky rice or sorbet.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The mango ice cream here is the best I've ever had."

"The taro custard dessert was delicious and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour features $3 Sapporo beers from 11 AM to 6 PM.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special with a free appetizer on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 4 PM.

3

There is a $20 all-you-can-drink beer special available.

10
Rosemary's Midtown image 1
Italian restaurant

Indoor and outdoor seating blend with big windows that open, creating an almost indoor/outdoor dining experience. The atmosphere is lively and buzzing, with high noise levels that make conversation difficult. Tables are cramped, adding to the energetic but crowded vibe.

Desserts feature a moist Olive Cake topped with homemade whipped cream and fresh blueberry sauce. Chef Chris Casilo crafts sweets that are flavorful without being overly sweet.

Chocolate and vanilla flavors appear as classic choices. An affogato combines ice cream with amaro, sometimes served with a candle for celebrations.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The staff here is so kind and makes your birthday dinner special."

"The ice cream portions here are shockingly small."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early.

3

The restaurant charges $21 to store birthday cakes, $7 per person.

11
Hutong New York image 1
Chinese restaurant

Sleek interiors blend Art Deco style with Shanghai and New York influences, creating a stylish, futuristic vibe. Live jazz and a chilled bar atmosphere add to the sophisticated energy. Signature cocktails and a flaming Peking duck presentation highlight the experience.

Bao and soy milk dessert features a white chocolate shell with caramel inside and soy milk ice cream. Table-side tiramisu and a birthday bao with sesame ice cream also stand out.

Soy milk ice cream with sesame and caramel flavors pairs with a soft bao for a nostalgic dessert. The bao comes with a white chocolate shell and soy milk gelato, creating a unique texture and taste.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best in the city."

"The duck here is fatty, crispy, and really good."

"The ambiance here is classy, intimate, and elegant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, with a cancellation fee for late cancellations.

2

The Emperor Dinner Menu is available for a set price of $65.

3

Happy hour offers BOGO martinis, but the second one is charged initially.

12
Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecôte image 1

Seating feels extremely cramped with tables placed shoulder to shoulder in a lively, noisy atmosphere. The space fills quickly, creating a crowded environment that suits casual dining rather than intimate occasions. Wine selections often complement the menu well, adding to the energetic vibe.

Desserts here are consistently amazing and well worth saving room for after the main meal. The selection offers satisfying options that complement the dining experience.

Scoops come in an assortment with some melting but still tasty. The chocolate tower features a deep chocolate sauce that is rich but not heavy. Vanilla ice cream covered in dark chocolate offers a simple, decadent treat. Hazelnut ice cream stands out as crazy flavorful.

People are saying

"The steak frites here are a tasty treat with a secret recipe sauce."

"The steak and sauce were cooked to perfection."

"The steak and fries are served with a delicious secret sauce."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not take reservations, leading to long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of up to 2 hours during peak times.

3

Arrive before opening at 5:30 PM for the shortest wait.

13
Monkey Bar image 1
American restaurant

Bar area features Jazz Age murals and dim, intimate lighting that create an elegant, old-school Manhattan vibe. The space combines classic New York decor with lively jazz music and a bustling bar scene. Patrons enjoy carefully crafted cocktails and a setting that feels like stepping into another era.

Champagne pairs with carrot cake and strawberry meringue desserts. The sweets come with thoughtful service during celebrations.

Celebrations come with free ice cream treats like banana splits and scoops of vanilla. Strawberry ice cream and ice cream sundaes appear as popular dessert choices that pair well with other sweets.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the cheeseburger, is outstanding."

"The monkey bread dessert here is insane."

"Phillip's thoughtful service made the ice cream experience special."

Good to know

1

A reservation is effectively REQUIRED to be seated for dinner service.

2

They take reservations 14 days in advance at 9am.

3

Without wine, expect to spend at least $100-150 for a meal.

14
Sushi Hayashi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small sushi counter with 12 seats offers close interaction with chefs and detailed explanations. Atmosphere ranges from lively and fun to chill and relaxing, suitable for groups rather than intimate dining. Music varies, sometimes including loud Chinese tunes, creating a unique and casual vibe.

Dessert includes matcha ice cream served after a 14-course omakase. The meal features about 18 pieces plus dessert, with options for more before time ends.

Truffle and matcha ice cream stand out with rich, distinct flavors. The sea urchin (uni) ice cream offers a sweet, nutty, and creamy taste with a strong, unique profile.

People are saying

"I loved the all-you-can-eat Omakase with unlimited beer and sake."

"Their homemade matcha ice cream has a strong matcha flavor."

"I could order as many nigiri as I wanted from four selections for dessert."

Good to know

1

The pricing is great for what you get, especially for AYCE options.

2

Expect larger rice portions with the unlimited dinner option.

3

The experience may not be worth $100 per person if you don't drink alcohol.

15
The Polo Bar image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers equestrian-inspired decor with rich wood paneling and soft lighting that create a cozy, intimate vibe. Atmosphere blends timeless elegance and modern upscale style, attracting those who appreciate classic American design. Space feels warm and inviting, suitable for quiet dining or private events.

Coffee ice cream stands out with a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. The ice cream sundae offers a rich, indulgent treat alongside chocolate and coconut cakes.

People are saying

"The service here is attentive, polished, and genuinely kind."

"You've gotta save room for dessert; the coconut cake was divine."

"The ice cream here is a special, charming journey."

Good to know

1

Reservations can only be made by phone, 30 days in advance.

2

Call exactly at 10am to secure a reservation.

3

Expect long wait times on the phone when trying to book.

16
Izakaya Futago image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Interior blends traditional Japanese decor with modern sophistication, creating a serene and cozy atmosphere. Seating options include semi-private alcoves and bar areas, offering varied privacy levels. The vibe is relaxed and inviting, with friendly service and subtle background music.

Desserts include a parfait and Mont Blanc ice cream served as part of a $30 special menu. These options provide a sweet finish after the appetizer and main course.

Yuzu ice cream offers a bright, citrusy flavor. The matcha ice cream balances bitter and sweet notes for a refreshing treat. Desserts include parfaits and Mont Blanc ice cream as smooth finishes.

People are saying

"I found the soba here to be light and flavorful with a perfect chewy texture."

"The tempura, especially the pumpkin, is really good."

"The chestnut ice cream was delicious and perfect."

Good to know

1

During restaurant week, the restaurant offers a fantastic four course meal.

2

The yakitori (skewers) menu is only available for dinner.

3

The restaurant is really busy at lunch time.

17
The Best Sichuan image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Small, clean space offers a cozy atmosphere with authentic Sichuan flavors and spacious seating. Soft music creates a calm vibe, while staff interactions sometimes add a lively edge. The interior combines simple, modern design with a welcoming feel.

Purple yam dessert stands out as a favorite and a must-try. The Sweet Potato Rice Cake Coated with Sesame also offers a unique sweet finish. Desserts come as thoughtful gifts sometimes.

Haagen-Dazs ice cream is served as a complimentary treat. The ice cream at this spot is notably enjoyable and often given by the boss.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and incredible."

"The Sichuan food here is authentic and bursting with flavor."

"I found the desserts here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

A 20% tip is automatically added to your bill, so check your receipt.

2

The restaurant closes at 10:00 PM, but last seating is at 9:30 PM.

3

The lunch special ends at 3 PM, not 4 PM as advertised.

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Midtown East, New York

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