In a city renowned for its eclectic culinary scene, the humble root beer float emerges as a timeless treat that tantalizes the taste buds while evoking nostalgic memories of sun-soaked summers and carefree days. This delightful concoction, a harmonious blend of creamy vanilla ice cream and effervescent root beer, invites enthusiasts to experience a familiar flavor in an extraordinary context. Join us as we explore ten must-visit locales across the diverse neighborhoods of New York City, each promising a unique interpretation of this classic dessert.
1. Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain
Address: 513 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 599-2210
Website: brooklynfarmacyandsodafountain.com
Nestled in a quaint corner of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain evokes the essence of yesteryear with its vintage decor and artisanal treats. The root beer float here is a celebratory affair, featuring house-made root beer paired with velvety scoops of locally sourced ice cream, served in a classic soda fountain glass. This artisanal twist transforms a simple indulgence into an experience that delights at every sip.
2. The Ice Cream House
Address: 55-19 69th St, Queens, NY 11378
Contact: (718) 441-1001
Website: icecreamhousequeens.com
In the heart of Queens, The Ice Cream House serves as a sanctuary for dessert aficionados. Their root beer float stands out with an effervescent fizz that dances on your palate, amplified by the signature vanilla soft-serve ice cream. Customers can customize their floats by choosing from a variety of root beers, each offering a distinct flavor profile that piques curiosity and encourages exploration.
3. Jenni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Address: 12 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 598-1545
Website: jennis.com
While nestled within the bustling confines of Union Square, Jenni’s Splendid Ice Creams captivates with its artisanal approach to frozen delights. Their root beer float is crafted with a delightful house-made root beer, complemented by hand-churned ice cream. The result is a creamy, effervescent concoction that not only tantalizes the senses but also promises to redefine your preconceived notions of this nostalgic classic.
4. Soda Souls
Address: 2991 Broadway, New York, NY 10025
Contact: (917) 477-8836
Website: sodasouls.com
Perfectly situated near Columbia University, Soda Souls embodies a whimsical take on the soda fountain culture. Offering an impressive array of retro sodas, their root beer float becomes a whimsical creation. Topped generously with whipped cream and a cherry, this float not only revives childhood memories but also serves as a delightful refreshment after a long day of exploration.
5. Ample Hills Creamery
Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 857-5040
Website: amplehills.com
Ample Hills Creamery stands as a testament to the artistry of ice cream making. Here, the root beer float is elevated with their famous “Vanilla” ice cream, which effortlessly melds with the sweetness of gourmet root beer. This float delivers an enchanting texture and a flavor profile that induces both nostalgia and joyful discovery, making it a must-try for any connoisseur.
6. Big Gay Ice Cream
Address: 125 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (347) 799-2020
Website: biggayicecream.com
Big Gay Ice Cream is a vibrant hub of creativity and flavor based in the East Village. Known for its playful spins on classic desserts, their root beer float features a soft-serve ice cream base dressed up with innovative toppings and flavors, promising to surprise in every sip. This playful take not only embraces delight but invites guests to consider a new dimension of this classic treat.
7. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer
Address: 529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (646) doub045-5171
Website: blacktap.com
Famed for its extravagant milkshakes, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer ventures into root beer floats with flair. Their rendition combines rich chocolate ice cream with classic root beer, transforming this traditional beverage into a whimsical dessert. The presentation is just as important as the taste, promising an experience that is both visually stunning and delectably memorable.
8. The Meltaway
Address: 139 Mercer St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 370-5470
Website: themeltaway.com
Located in SoHo, The Meltaway brings a contemporary twist to nostalgic flavors. Their root beer float is designed with a modern touch, using artisanal root beer and a unique selection of ice creams. Each float is thoughtfully curated, ensuring that every ingredient complements the others, offering a new perspective on a time-honored treat.
9. The Sweet Shop NYC
Address: 829 E 166th St, Bronx, NY 10459
Contact: (718) 328-6666
Website: sweetshopnyc.com
The Sweet Shop NYC champions traditional candy and ice cream. The root beer float here is served in a whimsical presentation, layered artfully to enhance the drinking experience. With choices of variety root beers and homemade ice cream, each visit beckons the adventurous spirit to explore unique flavor combinations hidden within this delightful float.
10. Ice Cream Factory
Address: 1829 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (929) 238-0081
Website: icecreamfactoryny.com
The Ice Cream Factory is a veritable treasure trove of flavors, each craftily developed to ignite curiosity. Their root beer float is a decadent creation, featuring their house-made root beer and a rotating selection of ice creams. The inviting ambiance and creative approach make it a delightful stop for anyone looking to savor this classic refreshment.
In traversing New York City to seek out these ten root beer floats, one is transported back to simpler times while also embracing the innovative twists these establishments have to offer. Each experience invites a renewed appreciation for this timeless treat, transforming it into an exploration of culinary creativity found only in the vibrant fabric of the city. Whether you are a lifelong aficionado or a curious newcomer, these floats promise to delight your senses and expand your palate.
