Nothing says summer quite like savoring a good, old-fashioned ice cream cone.
Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or craving something more adventurous, there is no shortage of ice cream parlors to satisfy your sweet tooth. From local institutions that have been beloved by generations to new shops pushing the limits of frozen treats, Nassau County, Long Island, has it all.
The list below includes spots that offer some of the best ice cream in Nassau County. Bring the family along and make it your mission to hit all of them. Your taste buds will thank you.
Looking for the best ice cream in Nassau County? Make sure to stop at Frozen Cow Ices & Cream. The best part about visiting this location is its rotating menu of creamy creations. Frozen concoctions have included unexpected flavor combinations like Cracker Jack Fudge and Ricotta Fig. If you’re craving something a bit more savory, Frozen Cow also offers hot dogs, tater tots, and pizza.
Try this: Be adventurous and try the Lavender Honey, Banana Pudding, or Holy Cannoli flavors.
Take a trip back in time at this century-old ice cream parlor. The Hicksville Sweet Shop serves heartier fare like wraps, salads, and burgers, but the stars of the menu are the ice creams and syrups made in house.
Try this: Order the vanilla egg cream. You’ll thank us.
Hildebrandt’s calls itself “a classic soda shop with a twist.” Founded in 1929, this restaurant was on the brink of closure after a rent increase. However, it was saved by long-time customers who purchased the Williston Park staple. Today, the diner-style restaurant continues to dish up burgers, salads, all-day breakfast plates—as well as some of the best ice cream in Nassau County, involving more than a dozen ice cream flavors.
Try this: Snag a scoop (or two) of the seasonal ice cream flavors, like the pumpkin and chocolate graham cracker, when they’re offered.
The International Delight Café is more of a diner than an ice cream parlor. But with more than 80 flavors of gelato on its never-ending menu, those with a sweet tooth may want to pay this café a visit. Gelato is richer than ice cream, due to using more milk than cream and not containing egg yolks. Aficionados will find all the classic flavors here—or be daring with an order of the Kitchen Sink, Zuppa Inglese, or Hawaiian Heaven flavors.
Try this: Order a scoop of whatever you’re craving (we dare you to choose just one) on a Belgian waffle.
Since 1953, this retro diner, outfitted with bright blue booths and red stools at the counter, has been dishing up some of the best ice cream in Nassau County and other treats. You know it’s good when patrons have included Alec Baldwin, Jerry Seinfeld, and Tom Cruise. Try one of the more unusual ice cream flavors, like Burgundy Cherry or Rice Crispy Treat.
Try this: Test your stomach capacity with the Kitchen Sink Challenge. This banana split comes with 10 scoops of ice cream, two bananas, three toppings, whipped cream, sprinkles, waffle wedges, and a cherry. If you can finish it on your own in under an hour, it’s on the house.
Founded in 1951, this Long Island institution began serving up frozen custard. Today, it offers shakes, slushies, soft serve ice cream topped with candy, nuts, and flavored bonnets, and so much more at its Lido Beach and Long Beach locations. Marvel’s also has non-dairy and vegan options.
Try this: You probably want to try the dulce de leche soft-serve dipped in sprinkles.
Smusht is an ode to gloriously gooey ice cream sandwiches. Customers choose their favorite homemade ice cream flavors and then sandwich them between two chocolate chip or Funfetti cookies. These colorful, frozen creations are then rolled in your pick of crunchy toppings.
Try this: Try the Peanut Butter & Jelly Ring ice cream “smusht” between two chocolate chip cookies and covered in your choice of crunchy candy.
Customers come here for frozen treats, best enjoyed while soaking in the views of Manhasset Bay. This family-favorite ice cream parlor offers a variety of homemade ice creams, frozen yogurts, Italian ice, shaved ice and other brain freeze-inducing goodies. Those with dietary restrictions can find lactose-free and kosher options on the menu.
Try this: Get your caffeine fix with a scoop of Coffee Oreo and another of Mocha Chunk served in a chocolate-dipped, waffle bowl.
