Milwaukee, known for its vibrant food scene, is a city that takes its ice cream seriously. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, finding the best ice cream spots can be a daunting task. But fear not, because this ultimate guide has got you covered. From classic flavors to unique creations, we’ll explore the top ice cream joints that Milwaukee has to offer. So get ready to treat your taste buds and embark on a delicious journey through the city’s best ice cream parlors.
1. Historic Ice Cream Shops
Milwaukee is home to several historic ice cream shops that have been serving frozen treats for generations. One such establishment is Leon’s Frozen Custard, a beloved spot that has been satisfying the sweet tooth of locals since 1942. Leon’s is famous for its creamy and rich frozen custard, made with a secret family recipe that has been passed down through the years. The old-fashioned ambiance of the shop adds to the experience, transporting you back in time as you enjoy your delicious treat.
Another iconic frozen custard shop in Milwaukee is Kopp’s Frozen Custard. Founded in 1950, Kopp’s has become a staple in the community, known for its large portions and wide variety of flavors. Each day, Kopp’s offers three different flavors of custard, including classics like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique creations like turtle sundae and black raspberry chip. Don’t be surprised if there’s a long line at Kopp’s on a hot summer day – the wait is definitely worth it!
If you’re craving frozen custard, Gilles Frozen Custard is another must-visit in Milwaukee. This longstanding establishment has been serving up nostalgia-inducing frozen treats since 1938. Gilles prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients and creating their custard from scratch daily. With flavors ranging from classics to seasonal specials, there’s always something new and exciting to try at Gilles. Friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
2. Artisanal Ice Cream Parlors
For those seeking a more unique and artisanal ice cream experience, Milwaukee has a vibrant scene of specialty ice cream parlors to satisfy your cravings. One standout is Purple Door Ice Cream, a small-batch creamery dedicated to creating inventive and flavorful ice cream. With a rotating menu of flavors that includes everything from classic options like salted caramel to more adventurous offerings like whiskey and pecan, Purple Door never fails to surprise and delight ice cream enthusiasts.
La Lune Creamery is another gem in Milwaukee’s artisanal ice cream scene. This family-owned parlor takes pride in creating small-batch ice cream using only the highest quality ingredients. The result is a rich and velvety treat that is bursting with flavor. From unique concoctions like lavender honey to traditional favorites like cookies and cream, La Lune Creamery offers something for everyone.
If you’re looking to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your caffeine fix, Holey Moley Coffee + Doughnuts is the place to go. This trendy spot combines artisanal ice cream with freshly made doughnuts, creating the ultimate indulgence. Not only can you enjoy a delicious scoop of ice cream, but you can also pair it with a warm, pillowy doughnut for an unforgettable treat. With flavors like cinnamon sugar and blueberry cheesecake, Holey Moley is a must-visit for any ice cream connoisseur.
3. Unique Flavors
When it comes to unique and inventive ice cream flavors, Milwaukee has some standout options that are sure to tickle your taste buds. Miss Katie’s Diner is a beloved local spot known for its homemade ice cream and creative flavor combinations. From classics like chocolate peanut butter cup to more unconventional options like bacon maple, Miss Katie’s offers a wide range of flavors to suit every palate. Be sure to check their rotating menu for seasonal specials and limited edition flavors.
Scratch Ice Cream is another hidden gem in Milwaukee, offering a rotating menu of small-batch ice creams made with local and organic ingredients. With flavors like strawberry balsamic and olive oil sea salt, Scratch Ice Cream pushes the boundaries of what ice cream can be. Their commitment to using fresh and unique ingredients ensures that every scoop is a delightfully surprising experience.
If you’re on the lookout for a refreshing and fruity treat, Pete’s Pops is the place to be. This small-batch ice popsicle shop offers a variety of delicious and unique flavors, all made with fresh and natural ingredients. From classics like strawberry lemonade to more adventurous options like cucumber chili, Pete’s Pops has something for everyone. The bright and colorful popsicles are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
4. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try something different, Milwaukee has a variety of options for those seeking vegan and dairy-free ice cream. On the Bus is a popular vegan food truck that also offers a delicious selection of vegan ice cream desserts. Their dairy-free ice cream is made from a combination of coconut milk and other plant-based ingredients, resulting in a creamy and satisfying treat. With flavors like chocolate peanut butter and matcha green tea, On the Bus proves that vegan ice cream can be just as indulgent as its dairy-based counterparts.
Exit Strategy is another fantastic option for those seeking dairy-free ice cream in Milwaukee. This innovative ice cream shop specializes in non-dairy frozen desserts made from scratch. They use a combination of nut milks and natural sweeteners to create their velvety and delicious treats. With flavors like chocolate coconut and salted caramel almond, Exit Strategy offers a dairy-free ice cream experience that is sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Classic Slice, a popular pizzeria in Milwaukee, also offers dairy-free ice cream options. Their rotating selection of vegan gelato and sorbet is the perfect way to end a pizza feast. Made with plant-based ingredients, these dairy-free treats are just as creamy and flavorful as their dairy counterparts. With flavors like mango sorbet and dark chocolate gelato, Classic Slice proves that you don’t have to compromise taste when choosing a dairy-free dessert.
5. Gelato and Sorbet
If you’re craving a taste of Italy, Milwaukee has several gelato and sorbet shops that will transport you to the streets of Rome. Divino Gelato Cafe is a local favorite, known for its authentic Italian gelato made with traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. Their silky-smooth gelato comes in a variety of flavors, from classics like pistachio and stracciatella to more unique options like lavender honey and ricotta fig. With a rotating menu that includes seasonal specials, Divino Gelato is the perfect spot to satisfy your gelato cravings.
Purple Door Ice Cream, in addition to their artisanal ice cream offerings, also serves up a selection of gelato flavors. Made with fresh ingredients and traditional Italian techniques, Purple Door’s gelato is a creamy and luxurious treat. With flavors like tiramisu and chocolate hazelnut, their gelato is a must-try for any gelato enthusiast.
For a taste of both gelato and Italian ice, Zarlengo’s Gelato and Italian Ice is the place to go. This family-owned shop has been crafting authentic Italian frozen treats for over 100 years. Their gelato is made using traditional recipes and techniques passed down through the generations. With flavors like lemon ice and amaretto gelato, Zarlengo’s offers a taste of Italy right in the heart of Milwaukee.
6. Ice Cream Trucks
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat on the go, Milwaukee’s ice cream trucks are sure to satisfy your cravings. Oscar’s on a Roll is a popular food truck that specializes in frozen custard treats. Their menu includes classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla, as well as unique creations like blue moon and raspberry cheesecake. Keep an eye out for this colorful truck as it makes its way through the city – it’s hard to resist stopping for a scoop!
For a twist on traditional ice cream, check out the Atomic Chocolate Company’s ice cream truck. This mobile dessert shop offers a variety of unique and handcrafted frozen treats. With options like chocolate-dipped ice cream sandwiches and homemade ice cream bars, the Atomic Chocolate Company’s ice cream truck is a delight for both chocolate lovers and ice cream enthusiasts alike.
Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co., known for its locally roasted coffee, also operates an ice cream truck during the warmer months. Paired with their delicious coffee, Anodyne’s ice cream treats are the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. From classic flavors like mint chocolate chip to more adventurous combinations like lavender honey, Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co.’s ice cream truck offers a variety of flavors to suit all tastes.
7. Ice Cream Delivery Services
Sometimes, you just want to enjoy a cold and creamy treat from the comfort of your own home. Luckily, Milwaukee has a few ice cream delivery services that can bring the frozen goodness right to your doorstep. Purple Door Ice Cream, in addition to their storefront, offers local delivery for their delicious ice cream. Whether you’re craving a pint of your favorite flavor or want to try something new, Purple Door’s delivery service allows you to enjoy their artisanal creations without leaving your home.
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company is another option for ice cream delivery in Milwaukee. This family-owned company has been churning out high-quality ice cream for over 50 years. With a wide selection of flavors, including classics and seasonal specials, Chocolate Shoppe’s delivery service is a convenient way to satisfy your ice cream cravings without having to step foot outside.
Kopp’s Frozen Custard, in addition to their brick-and-mortar locations, also offers delivery services in Milwaukee. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic sundae or a simple scoop of custard, Kopp’s delivery service ensures that you can enjoy their delicious frozen treats from the comfort of your own home.
8. Farm-to-Table Ice Cream
For those who value locally sourced ingredients, Milwaukee’s farm-to-table ice cream shops are the perfect destination. The Sassy Cow Creamery, located just outside of Milwaukee, is a family-owned creamery that prides itself on using milk from their own herd of cows. This ensures that their ice cream is not only delicious but also made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients. With flavors like butter pecan and sweet cream, The Sassy Cow Creamery offers a taste of the Wisconsin countryside.
Kelley Country Creamery is another farm-based creamery that focuses on creating delicious and artisanal ice cream from their own cows’ milk. This family-owned operation offers a wide range of flavors, from traditional favorites to creative concoctions like honey malt and cranberry white chocolate. The picturesque setting of the creamery, surrounded by rolling fields and grazing cows, adds to the farm-to-table experience.
Wilson’s Farm Market, located just a short drive from Milwaukee, is a charming farm stand that also serves up delectable homemade ice cream. Using fresh fruit from their own orchards and locally sourced ingredients, Wilson’s Farm Market creates mouthwatering flavors like strawberry rhubarb and peach pie. Enjoy your ice cream while taking in the scenic beauty of the farm, making it a delightful outing for the whole family.
9. International Ice Cream Treats
If you have a craving for international flavors, Milwaukee has a few spots that will transport your taste buds to different parts of the world. Aguilera’s Pupuseria is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in traditional Salvadoran cuisine. In addition to their delicious pupusas and other savory dishes, Aguilera’s also offers homemade Salvadoran-style ice cream. Flavors like horchata and coconut are creamy and refreshing, making them the perfect ending to a savory meal.
El Rey Ice Cream Parlor is another spot where you can find a taste of Latin American flavors. This vibrant ice cream parlor offers a variety of traditional Mexican and Latin American ice cream flavors, including mango, guava, and dulce de leche. Whether you prefer a classic scoop or want to try a unique helado de agua (water-based ice cream) flavor, El Rey has something to satisfy your cravings.
Yo Mama! Original Frozen Custard, in addition to their classic custard flavors, also offers a selection of Filipino-inspired ice cream flavors. Their halo-halo sundae, a popular Filipino dessert made with an assortment of sweet ingredients, is a must-try. With flavors like ube (purple yam) and coconut, Yo Mama! brings a taste of the Philippines to Milwaukee.
10. Ice Cream Events and Festivals
Milwaukee is no stranger to ice cream events and festivals, bringing together ice cream enthusiasts from near and far to celebrate the frozen treat. The Milwaukee Ice Cream Festival is an annual event that features a wide variety of ice cream vendors showcasing their sweet creations. From classic flavors to unique creations, this festival is a paradise for ice cream lovers. With live music, games, and activities for all ages, the Milwaukee Ice Cream Festival is a delightful way to spend a summer day.
The Milwaukee County Zoo also hosts an annual Ice Cream Social, where visitors can enjoy delicious ice cream while exploring the zoo. A variety of ice cream vendors set up shop throughout the zoo, offering scoops of their tasty treats. Guests can enjoy their ice cream while strolling through the exhibits and enjoying the zoo’s animal residents. With entertainment and activities for the whole family, the Ice Cream Social at the Zoo is a summer tradition that should not be missed.
The Wisconsin State Fair, held annually in West Allis, is another event where ice cream takes center stage. The fair is known for its wide variety of food offerings, and ice cream is no exception. From classic cones to extravagant sundaes, there is something for every ice cream lover at the State Fair. Indulging in a cold and creamy treat while enjoying the fair’s bustling atmosphere is a quintessential summer experience in Milwaukee.
In conclusion, Milwaukee offers an impressive array of ice cream options for every palate and preference. From historic ice cream shops that have stood the test of time to artisanal parlors pushing the boundaries of flavor, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re seeking unique flavors, vegan and dairy-free options, gelato and sorbet, ice cream trucks, farm-to-table treats, international flavors, or a chance to indulge at ice cream events and festivals, Milwaukee has it all. So grab a spoon and prepare yourself for a sweet adventure through the best ice cream spots in Milwaukee.