Top 14 ice cream and gelato shops in NYC, ranked

Having explored many ice cream shops across NYC myself, I can attest that this city is a paradise for ice cream and gelato lovers. The ranking based on over 100 million Beli ratings really shows the diverse range of flavors and unique creations available here. For example, spots like Eddie’s Sweet Shop shine with their nostalgic banana splits and fudge sundaes, while places like Taku Parlor captivate fans of matcha soft serve, a delightful Japanese twist to frozen desserts. One standout for me was Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain, where classic American sundaes and affogatos taste as authentic as a nostalgic soda fountain experience. Anita La Mamma del Gelato offers indulgent Italian-style pistachio and chocolate gelatos that are perfectly creamy and rich. Salt & Straw adds creative flavors like salted malted chocolate and honey lavender, offering something unexpected for adventurous palates. For those who love a mix of textures, Max & Mina’s ice cream with Nutella and Biscoff adds the right crunch and sweetness, while Julia Jean’s vanilla with speculoos creates a smooth, delicate flavor profile that's hard to resist. Whether you prefer traditional dairy ice cream or silky gelato, each shop on this list brings their own flair and passion for frozen desserts. Besides the quality and flavor, I found that many shops excel in the experience—friendly staff, Instagram-worthy presentation, and sometimes cozy decor add to the overall enjoyment. If you’re visiting NYC or a local looking to explore new sweet spots, checking out these top 14 ranked ice cream and gelato shops is a must. Remember to bring your appetite and maybe an ice cream buddy to share because the temptation to try multiple flavors is real!