Ice Cream Guide Chicago 2024: Where to Get the Best Scoops
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From traditional scoop shops to a variety of international desserts, Chicago offers an eclectic array of options.
Not confined to just conventional flavors, the city’s establishments go beyond the ordinary to provide unique and globally inspired cold treats.
North Side & Northwest Side
Saffron Persian Ice Cream and Faloodeh at Kabobi Persian and Mediterranean Grill
Saffron Persian ice cream at Kabobi showcases Persian culinary traditions, featuring a texture rich with nuts and the exquisite aroma of saffron.
Faloodeh, another must-try, offers a refreshing mix of icey noodles paired with cherry syrup and citrus for a delightful sweet-and-sour balance.
Address: 3224 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL 60625
Price: $5.95 for Persian ice cream, $6.95 for Faloodeh
Halo-Halo at Kubo Chicago
This Filipino classic, halo-halo, is a colorful blend of ingredients like candied sweet potato and purple yam, served with a mix of sweet beans, jellies, shaved ice, milk, and ube ice cream.
It’s presented beautifully and shared easily with friends.
Address: 1232 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60657
Price: $15
World’s Smallest Cone at Sideshow Gelato
At Lincoln Square’s Sideshow Gelato, ice cream takes on a whimsical turn.
The World’s Smallest Cone is among the diverse offerings, with other flavors like cappuccino ice cream with chocolate-covered espresso beans, and vegan cucumber dill sorbetto.
A unique feature is their “mystery flavor” challenge.
Address: 4819 N. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60625
Price: $1
Strawberry Shortcake Pop at Pretty Cool Ice Cream
Pretty Cool Ice Cream, co-founded by James Beard-nominated pastry chef Dana Cree, offers various innovative options.
The strawberry shortcake pop stands out with its vibrant strawberry shell and sweet cream interior, while other offerings include plant-based options and the classic orange Dreamsicle bar.
Addresses: 2353 N. California Ave. and 709 W. Belden Ave., Chicago, IL
Price: $6
Coco Con Coco Paleta at Isla Tropical
Isla Tropical takes the traditional Mexican ice pop to another level.
Their best-selling coconut milk ice pop is dipped in chocolate and covered in shredded coconut, making it a delightful summer street treat.
Address: 2335 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago, IL 60639
Price: $3
Superman Ice Cream at Pizza Matta
Pizza Matta’s unique take on the Michigan favorite, Superman ice cream, blends flavors into a nostalgic and flavorful delight.
Using ricotta for a chewier texture, this house-made ice cream fits perfectly within their pizza offerings.
Address: 3211 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL 60647
Price: $10
West Side & Near West Side
Stracciatella at Paulo Gelato
Paulo Gelato, a small shop run by Polish chef Pawel Petrykowski, offers delightful flavors like stracciatella, blending creamy vanilla with delicious bits of chocolate.
Other fun offerings include the Trio mix and dulce de leche.
Address: 1058 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60642
Price: $6 for a small
Pecan and Mango Con Chamoy Paletas at La Michoacana Premium
La Michoacana Premium boasts an array of options, but the pecan and mango con chamoy paletas are standout choices.
The pecan ice cream pops offer a rich texture, while the mango con chamoy pop blends a sour and mildly spicy twist, creating a refreshing contrast.
Address: 1855 S. Blue Island Ave., Chicago, IL 60608
Price: $3.39
Tamari Sweet Cream and Pineapple Mango Soft-Serve Swirl at Duck Duck Goat
Duck Duck Goat offers a delightful soft-serve combination of tamari sweet cream and pineapple mango sorbet.
The textures and flavors harmonize to create a joyful, simple dessert experience.
Address: 857 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Price: $6
South Side & Southwest Side
Avocado Ice Cream at Paleteria Arcoiris
On the South Side, Paleteria Arcoiris brings a unique twist with their creamy avocado ice cream.
This unusual yet satisfying flavor represents the inventive spirit of the shop, known for its wide variety of paletas and ice creams.
Address: 4143 W. 26th St., Chicago, IL 60623
Price: $3
Mango Sorbet at La Casa de Samuel
La Casa de Samuel offers a refreshing mango sorbet that perfectly captures the essence of summer.
Served in a cozy space, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a light yet flavorful dessert.
Address: 2834 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60623
Price: $4
Northwest Indiana
Blueberry-Lavender Ice Cream at Valpo Velvet
In nearby Valparaiso, Indiana, Valpo Velvet serves an aromatic and slightly tangy blueberry-lavender ice cream.
This handcrafted treat is a local favorite, standing out with its unique combination of flavors.
Address: 57 Monroe St., Valparaiso, IN 46383
Price: $5
