As the warm weather beckons and the sun shines brighter in the vibrant streets of New York, few treats capture the whimsical essence of summer quite like cotton candy ice cream. This delightful fusion of fluffy, sugary sweetness and creamy goodness creates a uniquely indulgent experience that’s both nostalgic and novel. Whether you find yourself in the heart of Manhattan or nestled in the eclectic neighborhoods of Brooklyn, there’s a plethora of ice cream shops serving this delightful confection. Embark on a flavorful journey with this curated list of the top ten cotton candy ice cream destinations across various New York neighborhoods.
1. Ample Hills Creamery
Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 230-3295
Website: amplehills.com
Ample Hills Creamery has quickly transformed into a staple of Brooklyn’s dessert scene. The “Cotton Candy” flavor here is a must-try, featuring a swirling vortex of blue and pink hues, reminiscent of the carnival classic. It’s a playfully indulgent treat that aims to evoke fond memories of summer fairs, and it certainly delivers.
2. Ice Cream House
Address: 64-01 Forest Ave, Queens, NY 11385
Contact: (718) 366-0884
Website: icreamhouse.com
Nestled in the borough of Queens, Ice Cream House boasts a whimsical menu featuring an enchanting cotton candy flavor. The soft serve served here is a delightful creation, characterized by its rich texture blended with the nostalgic taste of cotton candy. Their vibrant neon decor adds to the playful ambiance, making it a perfect stop for families and friends.
3. Cones
Address: 272 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 675-2020
Website: conesnyc.com
Located in Greenwich Village, Cones is a haven for ice cream lovers. Their cotton candy ice cream is a vibrant, ethereal delight that stands out not only for its flavor but also for its presentation. Each scoop is delicately crafted, making it an aesthetically pleasing experience, ideal for those Instagram-worthy snapshots.
4. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Address: 70 W 5th St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 256-0860
Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream champions artisanal, high-quality ingredients, and their cotton candy offering is no exception. This shop, located in Nolita, serves a smooth and creamy blend that strikes the perfect balance between sweet nostalgia and luxurious texture. Their commitment to flavor innovation keeps locals and tourists alike coming back for more.
5. The Big Gay Ice Cream Shop
Address: 125 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (646) 850-2576
Website: biggayicecream.com
The Big Gay Ice Cream Shop, famous for its quirky flavors and euphoric ambiance, offers a delightful twist on traditional cotton candy ice cream. Their concoction, often transformed into whimsical sundaes, brings together cotton candy ice cream topped with an array of delectable goodies. It’s not just an indulgence; it’s an experience.
6. Kith Treats
Address: 605 Bowery, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 228-1900
Website: kith.com
Kith Treats specializes in cereal-based confections, and their cotton candy ice cream is a harmonious blend that nods to childhood innocence. Each serving is generously adorned with colorful sprinkles and puffed cereal, making it a quirky yet nostalgic treat that appeals to both the young and the young at heart.
7. Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream
Address: 2 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (646) 766-3092
Website: morgensternsnyc.com
Morgenstern’s is renowned for its classic yet daring flavors. The cotton candy ice cream here is crafted using a meticulous process that results in a remarkably smooth and flavorful treat. The delicate notes of sugar combined with the silky cream create a delightfully rich experience that transports one back to simpler times.
8. Sweet Shoppe
Address: 2215 7th Ave, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (646) 549-9622
Website: sweetshoppenyc.com
The Sweet Shoppe features a nostalgic approach to ice cream, incorporating classic elements reminiscent of old-school candy shops. Their cotton candy ice cream is a festive treat, perfect for the young and the young-at-heart. With a cozy interior and friendly staff, it’s a delightful retreat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
9. The Milk Bar
Address: 251 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 361-6288
Website: milkbarstore.com
While not a traditional ice cream shop, Milk Bar serves a uniquely imaginative cotton candy soft serve that creatively incorporates their signature ingredients. It’s a whimsical and playful take on this classic flavor, ensuring every visit is filled with delightful surprises and contemporary culinary innovation.
10. Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
Address: 1 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 852-1999
Website: bklynicecreamfactory.com
Situated by the waterfront, Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory is as picturesque as it is delicious. Their take on cotton candy ice cream is refreshingly light and perfect for a summer’s day. Enjoy a scoop while taking in stunning views of the Manhattan skyline—an idyllic ending to your ice cream quest.
Visiting these ice cream parlors not only fulfills a sweet craving but also immerses you in the diverse tapestry of New York’s culinary landscape. Each shop brings a unique flair to the classic cotton candy experience, making it a delightful endeavor for anyone with a penchant for sweets. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a curious visitor, exploring these ten neighborhood gems will surely add an extra layer of joy to your summer outings.
