I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Truly, who can resist our favorite frozen dessert that is the perfect treat for a hot summer day? When it comes to ice cream in Chicago, the best are locally owned. Warning: Testing all these delicious places may result in a new summer addiction!
Margie’s Candies | Bucktown & Ravenswood | 1960 N Western Ave & 1813 W Montrose Ave
A Chicago institution! The original location will have you feeling like you stepped back in time to 1921. From homemade ice cream to candy, this is the place to be when you’re feeling like having a retro afternoon.
Pretty Cool Ice Cream | Logan Square & Lincoln Park | 2353 N California Ave & 709 W Belden
Sometimes ice cream is best on a stick! Pretty Cool is one of our faves with tons of unique flavors and even “pony” sizes- perfect for kids! They also have an array of options for vegans that won’t leave you feeling left out in the slightest.
Taiyaki Chicago | Lincoln Park | 2618 N Clark St
Taiyaki is a Japanese dessert cake traditionally shaped like a fish and is traditionally filled with red bean paste. Taiyaki Chicago spins their version by filling the cake with ice cream! If you’ve never had it, you’re missing out and need to try it ASAP!
Kurimu | LIttle Italy, Wicker Park and Schaumburg | 1159 W Taylor St, 1632 W Division St & 601 N Martingale Rd, #165 (Schaumburg)
There is something nostalgic about soft serve that brings us back to childhood. We love the twist of unique, rotating flavors including our favorite, Taro. You can even get boba or gold leaf added for a tasty treat!
Black Dog Gelato | Ukrainian Village | 859 N Damen Ave
If you’re in the mood for unique gelato flavors, this is the place to be! They serve fun concoctions like avocado-cinnamon and sesame-fig-chocolate chip, plus you can grab a fabulous cup of Turkish coffee on the side!
Eli’s Ark | Wicker Park | 1843 W North Ave
Calling all parents or the young at heart! This hot spot serves up fun cones shaped like animals! Think of a panda with Oreos for ears or a pig with marshmallows for a snout. Adorable and delicious!
Vaca’s Creamery | Wicker Park & Lincoln Square | 1436 W Blackhawk St & 2324 W Giddings St
Vegan soft serve with milkshakes, handshakes and every topping under the sun? We love the vegan decadence as well as some seriously yum coffee beverages.
Lickity Split Frozen Custard & Sweets LLC | Edgewater & West Ridge | 6056 N Broadway Ave & 7000 N Western Ave
Indulge your sweet tooth at this iconic retro ice cream shop featuring custard, pastries, a candy bar, retro soda and gourmet chocolate. This delicious spot has it all! Pro tip: Try a concrete- custard with a cupcake hand-mixed in. You will thank us!
Brothers Creamery Frozen Custard | Lakeview | 2928 N Broadway St
A certain Gillman Group husband is obsessed with their frozen custard. Can you guess who? It’s Nick! Marissa’s hubby.
Scooter’s Frozen Custard | Lakeview | 1658 W Belmont Ave
Custard brought straight from Wisconsin with rotating flavors made daily. This place features sundaes with an endless assortment of mix-ins and add-ons.
Logan Vegan | Logan Square | 2535 N Kedzie Blvd
If you are vegan, this is your haven! The high quality ice cream uses only the best ingredients including a local cacao manufacturer, Rawmio. Don’t feel like ice cream? Try their gluten free cookies or a savory sandwich. You will leave wanting more!