New York City, a vibrant collage of cultures, offers a treasure trove of culinary delights. Among these delights, ice cream stands out as a timeless favorite, transforming an ordinary day into an extraordinary one. The phenomenon of the $10 scoop has emerged as a delightful exploration of flavors. It’s not merely about quenching a craving; it’s an invitation to embark on a delectable journey of indulgence. Below, we delve into ten enchanting spots where a $10 scoop promises more than just ice cream—it offers a slice of NYC’s eclectic neighborhoods, each with a unique story to tell.
1. Ample Hills Creamery
Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 240-2082
Website: www.amplehills.com
Ample Hills Creamery paints an epicurean canvas with its whimsical flavors and inviting ambiance. Known for its artisanal approach, each scoop is crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Try the “Salted Crack Caramel” or “Malted Milk Ball,” each an exquisite balance of sweet and salty. The vibrant décor complements the playful, yet sophisticated ice cream experience, positioning this gem as a must-visit.
2. Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream
Address: 200 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 678-2028
Website: www.vanleeuwenicecream.com
Steeped in a philosophy of simplicity, Van Leeuwen promises unadulterated pleasure with every scoop. Their commitment to exceptional ingredients is evident, and flavors such as “Earl Grey,” infused with tea leaves, offer an aromatic leap into the unexpected. With locations scattered across the boroughs, indulging in their exquisite creations is a win-win for ice cream aficionados.
3. Milk Bar
Address: 251 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 402-1234
Website: www.milkbarstore.com
Milk Bar has redefined classic desserts with its playful yet sophisticated offerings, and their ice cream is no exception. With flavors like “Cereal Milk” that taste exactly as nostalgic as they sound, every scoop is a reminder of childhood delights reborn with a modern twist. The surroundings echo a playful creativity, making it popular among both the young and the young at heart.
4. Sundaes and Cones
Address: 95 East 10th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 477-1646
Website: www.sundaesandcones.com
Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Sundaes and Cones offers a quintessential ice cream experience that takes diners through an extensive array of flavors—from traditional to the exotic. The “Green Tea” and “Black Sesame” scoops are not just palate pleasers; they are explorations of international cuisine, all packaged in a cheerful, charming atmosphere where nostalgia meets novelty.
5. Momofuku Milk Bar – East Village
Address: 207 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 864-3875
Website: www.milkbarstore.com
While the Milk Bar chain is widely recognized, the East Village location holds a special allure. Here, you can feast on whimsical creations like “Birthday Cake” ice cream, which encapsulates celebrations in every spoonful. The ambiance is a lively nod to late-night cravings and spontaneous escapades, encouraging patrons to indulge without reservation.
6. Gelato Ti Amo
Address: 266 E 10th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 254-6100
Website: www.gelato.tiamonyc.com
Revel in the rich, creamy texture of authentic Italian gelato that’ll transport you straight to the streets of Rome. Offering flavors ranging from “Stracciatella” to seasonal fruit sorbets, Gelato Ti Amo prioritizes freshness and quality. The cozy, rustic space provides a charming backdrop, inviting you to linger as you savor each scoop, embodying the art of Italian dessert-making.
7. OddFellows Ice Cream Co.
Address: 75 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 782-0590
Website: www.oddfellowsnyc.com
Embrace the whimsical flair of OddFellows, where avant-garde meets tradition. With an accessible $10 scoop, adventurous flavors like “Brown Butter Bacon” and “Sweet Corn” beckon the bold and the curious. Each visit feels like a joyful adventure, designed to surprise your taste buds and encourage fun conversations.
8. Chikalicious Dessert Bar
Address: 203 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 995-9511
Website: www.chikalicious.com
For those with a flair for the finer things, Chikalicious offers ice cream in conjunction with a multi-course dessert experience. Their artisanal takes, often featuring seasonal and local ingredients, shine through in whimsical choices. The space feels intimate, encouraging a leisurely experience that transforms simple scooping into a celebration of sweet indulgence.
9. Blue Marble Ice Cream
Address: 193 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 852-3600
Website: www.bluemarbleicecream.com
Blue Marble curates organic, fair-trade ice cream with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Their eclectic flavors include delightful options like “Vanilla Bean” and “Mint Chip,” made from ethically sourced ingredients. Here, each scoop represents a commitment to both flavor and ethical responsibility, enveloping you in a refreshing sense of joy while savoring your treat.
10. The Ice Cream House
Address: 2095 W 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11204
Contact: (718) 996-3355
Website: www.icecreamhousebk.com
Experience nostalgia in the fantastically whimsical Ice Cream House. This haven of sugary joy serves a plethora of choices from classics to innovative blends, including “Pistachio” and unique options like “Taro.” The cheery atmosphere radiates warmth, making it an ideal hangout spot that redefines community bonding through the simple pleasure of ice cream.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of New York City, these ten establishments elevate the humble scoop to an art form. Each ice cream shop not only serves as a sanctuary for flavor enthusiasts but also as a vibrant testament to rich local cultures. The thrill of discovering these gems—and indulging in a $10 scoop—invites you to transcend the ordinary. As you embark on this flavorful journey, allow curiosity to lead the way, and celebrate the diverse stories that each scoop has to offer.
