I've rounded up a list of my favorite Insta-worthy ice cream shops for you to visit this summer, in no particular order. Stay tuned for my upcoming guide on NYC's top scoop shops!
1. Taiyaki
(Chinatown)Address: 119 Baxter St, New York, NY 10013
This little fishy is an Instagram favorite, and it's easy to see why. These warm fish-shaped cones, traditionally filled with red bean paste, are a mainstay at Japanese street fairs and festivals. At Taiyaki in Chinatown, you can choose your preferred flavor and toppings - my faves are matcha & strawberry!
2. Wowfulls
(Alphabet City)Address: 309 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
These bubble waffle cones are a derivative of the 1950s-style Hong Kong egg waffle, called Gai Dàn Jai. Crispy on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside, this delicious treat is perfect for the 'gram! Get the Madagascar Vanilla ice cream - it's rainbow!
3. Black Tap
(Soho)Address: 529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
The OG epic milkshake joint, Black Tap is well-known for their diabetes-inducing monster milkshakes. Take note - only go here if you're prepared to spend a decent amount of time waiting in line.
4. Amorino
(Chelsea, Upper West Side, Union Square)
Address: Several locations
I mean, it's a gelato rose. You can also get a gelato macaron on top, as pictured above. What more could a girl (or boy) want?!
5. Frozen Sweet
(Nolita)
Address: 184 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012
Thai rolled ice cream has been trending around NYC for the past couple of years, probably because there is something oddly satisfying about watching your flattened ice cream become fashioned into delicate ice cream rolls. I love Frozen Sweet because they add cute little animal cookies, and I am a 5-year-old on the inside.
6. Tac 'N' Roll
(East Village)
Address: 124 E 4th St, New York, NY 10002
This neighborhood taco fave offers ice cream (in lychee, black sesame, and matcha flavors) ensconced in a warm paratha bread shell. Called a "Sweet Tac," this dessert is available with a variety of toppings, including a toasted marshmallow, bacon, and classics like (heart-shaped!) strawberries.
7. ChikaLicious Dessert Bar
(East Village)
Address: 203 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003
Take a quick walk from Tac 'N' Roll and you'll find yourself at ChikaLicious Dessert Bar, where you can order a churro ice cream cone, drizzled with goodness. Be careful, these babies drip quickly!
8. Emack & Bolio's
(Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Brooklyn Heights)
Address: Several locations
These epic cones are loaded with cereal favorites like Froot Loops and Cookie Crisp. Choose from a huge selection of flavors to create a truly jaw-dropping cone masterpiece.
9. New Territories
(East Village)
Address: 190 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Choose from a milkshake or classic bubble cone at New Territories, a cute new shop in the East Village. The store has an adorable interior, with several small seating areas.
10. Macaron Parlour
(Lower East Side)Address: 44 Hester St, New York, NY 10002
If you've followed me for a while, you may have noticed I have a small soft spot for macarons...so what could be better than a macaron ice cream sandwich?! The answer is....a rainbow macaron ice cream sandwich - with caramel ice cream. SO. DAMN. GOOD. It's called the "Care Bear Stare" and it's available from Macaron Parlour in the East Village.
