Welcome to the ultimate guide for Chicago’s tastiest ice cream and gelato! Let us take you on a delectable journey of the city’s finest frozen treats. From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, to creative combinations like salted caramel pretzel and lavender honey, there’s something for everyone!
Picture this: you enter one of Chicago’s iconic ice cream shops and are greeted by the scent of freshly made waffle cones. Each bite is full of creamy goodness, leaving a symphony of flavors dancing on your tongue. Plus, many places use locally sourced ingredients to ensure freshness and eco-consciousness.
Don’t worry if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant; there are plenty of dairy-free and vegan options! So grab a friend (or two) and explore the hidden gems of Chicago’s neighborhoods. Each shop has its own unique charm that will leave you wanting more.
Our guide is your compass! Experience new flavors, embrace each shop’s atmosphere, and indulge in the joy of every spoonful. The unforgettable journey awaits – don’t wait any longer!
Top Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
Chicago is renowned for its ice cream parlors! If you’re an ice cream lover, here’s a list of the best spots to try.
- Twisted Scoop – Wow your taste buds with Nutella Brownie Madness or Lavender Honey! Every scoop is pure bliss.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – High-quality ingredients make for exquisite flavors like Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks and Brambleberry Crisp.
- Margie’s Candies – Step back in time with classic sundaes topped with homemade hot fudge! Established in 1921.
- Black Dog Gelato – Explore bold flavors like Goat Cheese Cashew Caramel and Basil Lime Sorbet.
- The Original Rainbow Cone – An iconic five-flavor cone with chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House, pistachio, and orange sherbet. A timeless favorite since 1926.
For something different, try marshmallow-topped shakes or liquid nitrogen-frozen creations. Plus, many of these establishments are open year-round!
Fun fact: Brambleberry Crisp is the favorite flavor at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, according to Time Out Chicago.
Top Gelato Shops in Chicago
Chicago is known for its scrumptious gelato shops! Here are a few must-visits:
- 1. Scooter’s Frozen Custard – creamy and rich flavors, locals and tourists love it!
- 2. Black Dog Gelato – unique and innovative flavors make this one unforgettable.
- 3. Margie’s Candies – sundaes and smooth gelato options, what more could you want?
- 4. Paciugo Gelato & Caff – Italian gelato made with fresh ingredients – yum!
- 5. Frost Gelato – create your own masterpiece with their extensive range of flavors and toppings.
Did you know gelato was first made during the Renaissance? It was a frozen dessert for nobles and royals. Soon it was popular across Europe and eventually it made it to America. Now everyone loves it! If you’re ever in Chicago, don’t miss out on the city’s best gelato. Classic flavors and creative creations – there’s something for everyone.
Conclusion
Venture into Chicago’s best ice cream and gelato shops for a delectable array of flavors and textures. From classic to innovative, these treats offer something for everyone.
Visit Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams to sample Brambleberry Crisp and Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks.
Black Dog Gelato is known for their unusual flavors like Goat Cheese Cashew Caramel and Mexican Hot Chocolate.
Margie’s Candies will take you back in time with their homemade sundaes.
Sample the iconic Rainbow Cone at Original Rainbow Cone, layered with chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House, pistachio, and orange sherbet.
Or try something new at BomboBar, with their Gelato Sundaes served inside glazed donut cones or Hot Chocolate Bombs.
So embark on this frozen adventure and embrace the joy of indulging in these icy delights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best ice cream and gelato shops in Chicago?
A: Some of the best ice cream and gelato shops in Chicago include Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Black Dog Gelato, Margie’s Candies, Scooter’s Frozen Custard, Annette’s Italian Ice, and Sugar Factory.
Q: Does Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams have vegan options?
A: Yes, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams offers a variety of vegan flavors made with coconut milk or oat milk as a base.
Q: What flavors does Black Dog Gelato offer?
A: Black Dog Gelato offers a rotating menu of unique flavors such as Goat Cheese Cashew Caramel, Grapefruit Campari Sorbet, and Chocolate Passionfruit Sorbet.
Q: Can I customize my sundae at Margie’s Candies?
A: Yes, Margie’s Candies allows you to customize your sundae by choosing your favorite ice cream flavors, toppings, and sauces.
Q: Does Scooter’s Frozen Custard offer any dairy-free options?
A: Unfortunately, Scooter’s Frozen Custard does not offer any dairy-free options at this time.
Q: What are the popular flavors at Annette’s Italian Ice?
A: Some popular flavors at Annette’s Italian Ice are Lemon, Watermelon, Mango, and Raspberry.