In the vibrant tapestry of New York City’s neighborhoods, the presence of bears may seem an oddity, yet the fascination behind bear sightings has inspired a whimsical trend in ice cream parlors across the boroughs. For the adventurous and the curious, these establishments have creatively capitalized on the concept of bear-themed treats, delivering not just deliciousness but also a sense of wild wonder. Below are ten ice cream parlors that embrace this theme, each offering a unique experience accompanied by pertinent details for your next delightful outing.
1. Eddie’s Sweet Shop
Address: 104-02 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Contact: (718) 520-2621
Website: eddiessweetshop.com
Nestled in the leafy neighborhood of Forest Hills, Eddie’s Sweet Shop boasts a charming retro vibe. The decor, reminiscent of yesteryears, sets a pleasant backdrop for their signature “Bear Tracks” sundae—rich chocolate ice cream with swirls of peanut butter and studded with chocolate-covered marshmallows. The bear theme resonates with visitors seeking nostalgia and a comforting treat.
2. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Address: 162 Ainslie St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 599-2020
Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com
A pioneer in the artisanal ice cream movement, Van Leeuwen’s Brooklyn outpost features an eclectic menu that includes a playful “Grizzly Bear” flavor—an infusion of cinnamon ice cream sporting chunks of chocolate-covered biscuit. The vibrant energy of the neighborhood marries perfectly with the spirited flavors, appealing to the inner child in patrons who seek both indulgence and intrigue.
3. Ample Hills Creamery
Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (347) 406-2962
Website: amplehills.com
Ample Hills Creamery harnesses the wild in its “Grizzly’s Gypsy” flavor, combining maple ice cream with chunks of caramelized pecans and swirls of chocolate. The location, situated near Prospect Park, often attracts nature enthusiasts reminiscent of the great outdoors. The conceptual theme captures the spirit of exploration and adventure that defines both bears and human wanderers alike.
4. Sausages, Sandwiches & Ice Cream
Address: 2458 86th St, Brooklyn, NY 11214
Contact: (718) 265-2100
Website: sausageandicecream.com
This eclectic establishment boasts an innovative offering of “Bear Claw Sundae.” Comprising a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with crunchy bear paw cookies, this treat encapsulates the whimsy of bear-related creativity. Local patrons are drawn not only for the unique flavor combinations but also for the fun ambiance, which celebrates the culinary adventure that mirrors the playfulness inherent in bear symbolism.
5. Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
Address: 1 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 246-3900
Website: brooklynicecreamfactory.com
Situated along the picturesque Brooklyn waterfront, Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory features luscious, creamy scoops that create a sublime experience. Their “Bear Cub” flavor—featuring rich chocolate with playful pops of marshmallow—represents the connection between flavors and the primal inspiration of wildlife. The waterfront view offers a serene backdrop for reflecting on nature’s wonders as you savor your treat.
6. Ice Cream House
Address: 309 Montauk Hwy, W Babylon, NY 11704
Contact: (631) 893-0545
Website: icecreamhouse.com
The Ice Cream House embodies the spirit of coziness, offering delightful flavors perfect for families. Their “Bear Hug” creation—vanilla ice cream layered with rich fudge and colorful gummy bears—fosters a sense of community. Children and adults alike flock here, drawn by the nostalgic comfort and cheerful ambiance that celebrates local delight.
7. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Address: 49 6th Ave, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 965-0244
Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com
With a revered reputation in New York’s bustling Soho, this branch of Van Leeuwen exemplifies the lively spirit of the city. Their “Polar Bear” sorbet, brimming with refreshing fruit flavors, serves as a perfect summertime treat. The urban vibrancy around the shop heightens the experience, inviting visitors to indulge while exploring the eclectic neighborhood.
8. Milk Bar
Address: 251 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 494-1115
Website: milkbarstore.com
Known for its daring confections, Milk Bar introduces the “Bear-y Fun” flavor, which features cake truffles sprinkled into creamy vanilla ice cream. This playfulness resonates with visitors of all ages who seek a delightful sanctuary from the bustling streets, drawing in curious gourmands on a quest for innovation and nostalgia combined into an irresistible treat.
9. Sweet Cow
Address: 1451 14th St, Boulder, CO 80302 (while originally from Boulder, this location recently opened a NYC franchise)
Contact: (303) 543-5763
Website: sweetcow.com
This charming ice cream shop encapsulates the essence of sweet forestry with its “Bear Trail” flavor, featuring a delectable mix of chocolate and raspberry swirls. The franchise expands the opportunity for city dwellers to connect with nature through taste, as each bite transports patrons back to picnics in the woods where bears might roam freely.
10. The Ice Cream Shop
Address: 210 N Main St, Southampton, NY 11968
Contact: (631) 283-4084
Website: theicecreamshop.com
The Ice Cream Shop in Southampton offers an array of nostalgic flavors that include a beloved “Happy Bear” sundae, featuring buttery caramel and chocolate-covered peanuts. The establishment celebrates community and warmth, drawing families looking for a comforting treat that brings a tapestry of shared memories to the forefront of their minds.
This eclectic collection of ice cream parlors, each with its own whimsical connection to bears, captures both the imagination and the palate. As patrons indulge in these delightful concoctions, they also partake in a narrative that reflects the interconnectedness of nature, community, and joyous adventure. In the heart of New York City, the spirit of bears is playfully preserved, inviting everyone to enjoy the flavors of a wild world.
