Nothing tastes better than a cool ice cream cup or cone on a hot New York City day. When you think about it, ice cream tastes good in the winter, too; you just don't think about eating it as much during the cold weather. That's OK, because many NYC ice cream shops serve all year long.
If you consider yourself a connoisseur of frozen confections, then you may prefer gelato. You can find places that specialize in gelato in NYC, so you can enjoy your "upscale" dessert as often as you wish.
Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, 65 Bayard Street, Frnt B
It is believed that the Chinese were the first to invent ice cream, in the Tang Dynasty period. If this is the case (and who is to say it isn't) then it stands to reason that the best ice cream would be found in Chinatown.
Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is family-owned and operated, and has been in business for over 28 years. The second generation of the family is now stepping forward to continue the tradition, and don't worry. They know what they're doing.
BBC Ice Cream LLC, 456 West Broadway
This is actually an ice cream distributor, but they have recently opened a store at 456 West Broadway. The store is open from 12:00 noon until 6:00 PM every day, so if you want Billionaire's Boys Club ice cream (yes, the same BBC that sells clothes, shoes, and accessories) you'll have to go between those times.
If you own a business that sells ice cream, you can contact BBC Ice Cream LLC about carrying their ice cream brand. You'll know you're getting the authentic ice cream and not a "knock-off" if you contact only them, so don't be fooled by someone who says he offers BBC ice cream.
Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, 1 Cadman Plaza West, Apt. 2, Brooklyn
There are only two places in Brooklyn that make and sell Brooklyn ice cream. One is at the Fulton Ferry pier (in a reconverted lighthouse, to be exact) while the other one is in the Greenpoint district.
No matter which location you choose, you can be sure of getting the freshest, most delicious ice cream around. That's because only very small batches are made, and only the finest ingredients are used.
L'Arte Del Gelato, Inc., 75 9th Avenue
Gelato lovers, we haven't forgotten about you. You can find the most authentic Italian ice cream (that's what gelato is, although there are differences between gelato and ice cream—we'll explain them in a minute) here.
Gelato has less fat and a creamier texture than ice cream. That means it is healthier for you than regular ice cream, and also tastes much different. In fact, the flavor you choose will be much more intense than regular ice cream flavors.
True gelato must be made on Italian gelato machines, in small batches. Once made, it should be served as soon as possible, and that's what L'Arte Del Gelato does. You'll get the freshest gelato imaginable.
Laboratorio Del Gelato, 95 Orchard Street, Frnt B
The retail cafe is small—in fact, it's only a walk-up business, but the window at which you order allows you to actually watch the gelato being made. You'll see that it is made in very small batches; this is to ensure the freshest taste and highest quality.
Laboratorio Del Gelato encourages chefs, caterers, and others who are in the food preparation and service business to give them suggestions as to the different flavors of gelato that can be developed. The company will work with them as much as possible to make this happen.
