Williamsburg, known for its vibrant street art, trendy boutiques, and eclectic mix of cultures, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious ice cream scene. From artisanal scoops to classic cones, this guide navigates the best places to satisfy your sweet tooth in this hip Brooklyn neighborhood. Finding the perfect ice cream shop in Williamsburg is a delicious quest, and this list will help you conquer it.
The Cream of the Crop: Top Ice Cream Picks in Williamsburg
This list isn't just about any ice cream; it's about the best ice cream experiences Williamsburg offers. We've considered factors like ingredient quality, unique flavors, atmosphere, and overall customer satisfaction to bring you these top contenders.
1. Ample Hills Creamery
Ample Hills is a Williamsburg institution. They're known for their inventive and often whimsical flavor combinations, like "Ooey Gooey Butter Cake" and "Salted Caramel". The quality of their ingredients shines through in every bite. Expect lines, especially on weekends – it's worth the wait!
- Must-try: Salted Caramel
- Vibe: Fun, family-friendly
- Pro Tip: Check their website for seasonal specials!
2. Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream
Morgenstern's is less about quirky flavors and more about the purest expression of ice cream. They use high-quality ingredients and focus on classic techniques, resulting in unbelievably rich and creamy ice cream. Their Black Sesame ice cream is legendary.
- Must-try: Black Sesame
- Vibe: Upscale, sophisticated
- Pro Tip: Go for a scoop in a cup to truly appreciate the texture.
3. Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
This spot prides itself on its artisanal approach, using locally sourced milk and cream whenever possible. They've got a rotating selection of interesting flavors, and they're always experimenting with new combinations.
- Must-try: Whatever's seasonal!
- Vibe: Casual, neighborhood gem
- Pro Tip: Ask the staff for their recommendations – they're ice cream experts.
4. Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream
With multiple locations across the city, Van Leeuwen maintains a consistently high standard of quality. Their vegan options are especially noteworthy, often surpassing the creaminess of traditional ice creams.
- Must-try: Honey Lavender (vegan)
- Vibe: Modern, stylish
- Pro Tip: Their ice cream sandwiches are also incredible.
5. Mikey Likes It Ice Cream
This popular shop offers a playful and exciting menu of ice cream flavors, many with unexpected combinations. They often have collaborations with other local businesses, resulting in truly unique ice cream experiences.
- Must-try: A flavor collaboration (check their website)
- Vibe: Energetic, trendy
- Pro Tip: Their ice cream cakes are perfect for parties.
6. Grom
A little slice of Italy in Williamsburg, Grom uses fresh, high-quality ingredients imported from Italy. Their flavors are classic but expertly crafted, delivering an authentic Italian ice cream experience.
- Must-try: Pistachio
- Vibe: Elegant, authentic
- Pro Tip: Try their gelato – it’s slightly different from ice cream.
7. Shake Shack
While not strictly an ice cream shop, Shake Shack's ice cream is consistently delicious and a popular choice for a quick and satisfying treat. Their custard is creamy and rich, and their concrete (ice cream blended with mix-ins) is a must-try.
- Must-try: Concretes
- Vibe: Casual, fast-food-style
- Pro Tip: Order it with your burger for a classic combo.
8. The Ice Cream Bar
A smaller, local ice cream shop, The Ice Cream Bar focuses on quality ingredients and fresh, seasonal flavors. This is a great choice for a less crowded, more relaxed ice cream experience.
- Must-try: Whatever seasonal flavor they offer!
- Vibe: Relaxed, neighborhood-friendly
- Pro Tip: Check their social media for daily flavor updates.
9. Milk Bar
While famous for their cookies, Milk Bar also offers a selection of delicious ice cream flavors that perfectly complement their other offerings. Their unique and often unexpected combinations make them a fun choice.
- Must-try: Crack Pie ice cream
- Vibe: Hip, trendy
- Pro Tip: Pair your ice cream with a Compost Cookie for the ultimate Milk Bar experience.
10. L'Albero dei Gelati
Another option for authentic Italian gelato, L'Albero dei Gelati boasts a wide array of classic and unique flavors. Their gelato is smooth, creamy, and incredibly refreshing.
- Must-try: Stracciatella
- Vibe: Casual, classic Italian
- Pro Tip: Their portions are generous!
11. Juliana's Pizza (Ice Cream)
While primarily a pizza place, Juliana's offers a surprisingly good selection of ice cream to complement their pizza. This is a great choice for those looking for a post-pizza sweet treat.
- Must-try: Vanilla bean
- Vibe: Casual, pizzeria-style
- Pro Tip: Pair your ice cream with a slice of their famous pizza.
12. Dough Doughnut
Another non-traditional ice cream destination, Dough Doughnut uses house made ice cream in a variety of their creative doughnut creations. This might be the most fun option on this list.
- Must-try: Ice cream filled doughnuts
- Vibe: Playful, creative
- Pro Tip: Be prepared for a sugar rush!
Beyond the Scoop: Finding Your Perfect Williamsburg Ice Cream Experience
This list offers a diverse range of ice cream shops in Williamsburg, each with its unique offerings and atmosphere. Whether you're craving classic flavors or adventurous creations, there's a perfect scoop waiting for you in this exciting Brooklyn neighborhood. So grab your friends, and embark on your own Williamsburg ice cream adventure! Remember to check each location's hours and potential lines before you go! Enjoy!