Imagine indulging in a delectable scoop of ice cream that is so creamy, it practically melts in your mouth. In the vibrant city of St. Louis, there is a hidden gem that promises to fulfill all your ice cream dreams. Prepare to embark on a delightful adventure as you discover the creamiest ice cream in town, a sweet treat that will leave you craving for more. Whether you prefer classic flavors or unique combinations, St. Louis has a variety of ice cream parlors to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide you with a truly unforgettable experience.
Introduction
St. Louis: A Destination for Ice Cream Lovers
When it comes to indulging in the sweetest of treats, there’s no place quite like St. Louis. With its rich and diverse ice cream scene, this city has become a haven for those with an insatiable love for frozen deliciousness. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors, experimental creations, gourmet gelato, vegan options, or unique combinations, St. Louis has it all. Get ready to embark on a delectable journey as we explore the creamiest delights that this vibrant city has to offer.
Classic Ice Cream Shops
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
No discussion about ice cream in St. Louis would be complete without mentioning Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. This iconic institution has been serving up delectable frozen custard since 1941. Known for its velvety smooth texture and heavenly flavors, Ted Drewes has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The rich and creamy custard is made using a secret family recipe, and the shop offers a range of classic and seasonal flavors. Don’t miss out on their famous Concrete, a thick and indulgent shake filled with your choice of mix-ins.
Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery
For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with a touch of naughtiness, Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery is the place to be. This innovative ice cream shop prides itself on creating unique flavors that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream. From flavors like “Gooey Butter Cake” to “Salted Crack Caramel,” each scoop is a flavor adventure. Made with locally sourced ingredients and a passion for creativity, Clementine’s offers a truly unforgettable ice cream experience.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
With its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and inventive flavor combinations, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has become a must-visit destination for ice cream enthusiasts in St. Louis. Jeni’s offers a wide array of flavors, ranging from classics like “Brambleberry Crisp” to more adventurous options like “Sweet Potato with Torched Marshmallows.” Their ice cream is made using a unique process that ensures a smooth and creamy texture that is bursting with flavor. Whether you opt for a cone, a sundae, or their famous ice cream sandwiches, you’re in for a treat at Jeni’s.
Experimental Flavors
Ices Plain & Fancy
Step into a world of ice cream innovation at Ices Plain & Fancy. This charming ice cream parlor takes pride in concocting flavors that are as visually striking as they are delicious. From their signature liquid nitrogen ice cream technique to their exciting flavor combinations, Ices Plain & Fancy offers a truly immersive and delightful ice cream experience. Expect the unexpected as you savor unique creations like “Lavender Honey” and “Blackberry Sage.”
Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised at Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream. This beloved ice cream shop is known for its whimsical and ever-changing flavor options. With a rotation of over 200 flavors, there’s always something new to try at Serendipity. From classics like “Cookies and Cream” to more unusual choices like “Balsamic Strawberries and Basil,” every scoop is a delightful adventure. Don’t forget to pair your ice cream with their homemade waffle cones for a truly blissful experience.
Gourmet Gelato
Gelato Di Riso
For those seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of St. Louis, Gelato Di Riso is the place to go. This charming gelateria specializes in crafting artisanal gelato using traditional Italian techniques and flavors. With an emphasis on quality, Gelato Di Riso uses only the finest ingredients, resulting in a velvety smooth and intensely flavorful gelato. From classics like “Stracciatella” to unique creations like “Sour Cherry Pistachio,” each scoop will transport you straight to the streets of Italy.
La Bonne Bouchee
Experience a touch of French decadence with every bite at La Bonne Bouchee. Known for its exquisite pastries and desserts, this patisserie also offers a selection of gourmet gelato flavors. Made with a blend of French and Italian influences, the gelato at La Bonne Bouchee is rich, creamy, and made with the utmost attention to detail. Indulge in flavors like “Crème Brûlée” and “Caramel au Beurre Salé” as you savor the sophistication and refinement of French gelato craftsmanship.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
Lulu’s Local Eatery
For those who follow a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle, Lulu’s Local Eatery is a paradise of plant-based delights. While not exclusively an ice cream shop, Lulu’s offers a selection of vegan ice cream options that cater to those with dietary restrictions. Made with ingredients like coconut milk and almond milk, Lulu’s vegan ice cream is just as creamy and delicious as its dairy counterparts. From flavors like “Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup” to “Matcha Green Tea,” you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth at Lulu’s.
Fountain on Locust
Step into the elegant and retro surroundings of the Fountain on Locust, where vegan and dairy-free ice cream options abound. This classy ice cream parlor offers a range of dairy-free and vegan flavors, made with rich coconut milk and other alternative ingredients. From classics like “Chocolate Velvet” to unique creations like “Tropical Tango,” each scoop offers a burst of flavor without compromising dietary preferences. The Fountain on Locust even offers gluten-free cones, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their sweet treats.
Unique Creations and Combos
Crown Candy Kitchen
For a taste of yesteryear and some truly unique ice cream concoctions, look no further than Crown Candy Kitchen. This St. Louis institution has been delighting visitors with its nostalgic charm and delicious treats since 1913. While their classic sundaes and malt shakes are a must-try, it’s their unusual ice cream creations that truly steal the show. From the “10-Scoop Sundae” piled high with toppings to the famous “Bacon Ice Cream,” Crown Candy Kitchen offers a one-of-a-kind ice cream experience.
Frozen Gold
Prepare to be amazed by the shimmering delights that await you at Frozen Gold. This artisanal ice cream shop takes ice cream to a whole new level with its unique creations. Known for their edible gold leaf toppings and glitter-infused ice creams, Frozen Gold offers a truly magical ice cream experience. Indulge in flavors like “Unicorn Dreams” and “24 Karat Magic” as you bask in the enchantment of these visually stunning and delicious desserts.
Farm-to-Cone Ice Cream
Bailey’s Range
Experience the farm-to-cone movement at Bailey’s Range, where ice cream is made using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Known for their commitment to supporting local farmers and producers, Bailey’s Range offers a rotation of delicious ice cream flavors that celebrate the bounty of the region. From classics like “Vanilla Bean” to more unique options like “Goat Cheese Blackberry,” each scoop is a celebration of the rich flavors that only fresh, local ingredients can provide.
Pint Size Bakery & Coffee
Satisfy your sweet tooth and support local farmers at Pint Size Bakery & Coffee. This charming bakery is known for its delectable pastries and, of course, its irresistible homemade ice cream. Made with locally sourced ingredients and a dedication to quality, Pint Size Bakery & Coffee offers a range of flavors that change with the seasons. From fresh fruit sorbets to rich and creamy ice creams, each scoop is a testament to the bountiful goodness of the local farms.
Asian-Inspired Soft Serve
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
While known for their mouthwatering fried chicken, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken also offers a unique twist on soft serve ice cream. Inspired by the flavors of Asia, their soft serve offerings include flavors like “Matcha Green Tea” and “Black Sesame.” Creamy, smooth, and bursting with unique flavors, Gus’s soft serve is the perfect way to refresh your palate after indulging in their famous fried chicken.
Snow Factory
Embark on a journey to Asia without leaving St. Louis at Snow Factory. This Asian-inspired dessert shop specializes in a unique style of soft serve ice cream known as Thai rolled ice cream. Made by pouring a liquid ice cream base onto a frozen slab and then rolling it into thin, delicate layers, Thai rolled ice cream is as visually stunning as it is delicious. With flavors like “Mango Sticky Rice” and “Thai Tea,” Snow Factory offers a taste of Thailand in every creamy bite.
Custom Creations
Clementine’s Creamery
At Clementine’s Creamery, customization is key. This artisanal ice cream shop allows you to create your own unique flavor combinations by choosing from a wide array of mix-ins, toppings, and sauces. With options like “Brownie Bits,” “Caramel Swirl,” and “Peanut Butter Cups,” the possibilities for custom creations are endless. Whether you prefer a classic combination or something more adventurous, Clementine’s Creamery ensures that each scoop is a reflection of your personal taste.
The Fountain on Euclid
Located in the trendy Central West End neighborhood, The Fountain on Euclid offers a delightful and quirky ice cream experience. This vintage-inspired ice cream parlor allows you to create your own custom ice cream soda by choosing your favorite soda flavor, ice cream flavor, and mix-ins. From traditional combinations like “Root Beer with Vanilla Ice Cream” to more unique pairings like “Ginger Ale with Cherry Limeade Sherbet,” The Fountain on Euclid gives you the opportunity to craft your own fizzy and refreshing masterpiece.
Ice Cream Trucks and Pop-ups
I Scream Cakes
If you’re on the hunt for delicious ice cream on the go, look no further than I Scream Cakes. This local ice cream truck specializes in serving up unique ice cream creations in the form of ice cream cakes and sandwiches. With rotating flavors and toppings, each visit to their colorful truck is a surprise. Indulge in a decadent ice cream sandwich made with freshly baked cookies or treat yourself to a slice of their signature ice cream cake. Wherever you spot I Scream Cakes, you can be sure that a frozen delight awaits.
Sia’s Italian Ice
Cool down on a hot St. Louis day with a refreshing treat from Sia’s Italian Ice. This delightful pop-up shop offers a variety of Italian ice flavors that are as refreshing as they are delicious. Made with real fruit and available in both classic and unique flavors, Sia’s Italian Ice is the perfect way to beat the heat. From traditional options like “Lemon” and “Cherry” to more exotic choices like “Mango Tango” and “Blue Raspberry,” each scoop of Italian ice is a burst of fruity goodness.
With its wide range of classic shops, experimental flavors, gourmet gelato, vegan options, unique creations, farm-to-cone delights, Asian-inspired treats, custom creations, and on-the-go options, St. Louis truly is a paradise for ice cream lovers. Whether you’re a local looking to indulge in your favorite flavors or a visitor wanting to explore the city’s creamiest delights, St. Louis has something for everyone. So, grab a cone, enjoy a scoop or two, and treat yourself to the endless wonders of St. Louis’ vibrant ice cream scene.