In honor of National Ice Cream Month we’ve rounded up the coolest treats in town to keep you chillin’ on these hot summer days.
Liks Ice Cream: This Capitol Hill staple has been serving locally made treats (pictured) for over three decades -- originally under the name Lickety Split -- and has now branched to South Denver-metro with a second location. Family-owned, they hand make small, individual batches -- many as a result of customer requests. You'll find traditional flavors as well as nontraditional ones, like blueberry pecan, ancho chile -- a mild heat complemented with a swirled chocolate fudge ribbon -- and Avery Iceland, which is tinged with a Louisiana hot sauce. Gourmet yogurts and sorbets are also available.2039 E. 13th Ave.; 303-321-23705270 E. Arapahoe Road, Centennial; 720-489-4411
The LocaL: Twelve flavors are available daily -- traditional as well as original -- at this Wash Park cafe that is "by the locals for locals." With much of the menu created in Denver or with locally grown ingredients, it's no surprise their creamy treats are made in-house. Mix and match to create a shake or malt specifically to your taste or liven up your cone with a sprinkling from their candy reserve.2217 E. Mississippi Ave.; 303-425-6225
Gelato d’Italia: Keep cool as ice without worrying about your waistline with an authentic gelato -- an Italian ice cream with plenty of flavor, but less fat and fewer calories than traditional American ice cream. All ingredients here are natural and imported straight from the homeland. For an even lighter treat, order a sorbetto, created with only fruit puree.250 Detroit St.; 303-316-9154
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream: Locally owned, the DU-area ice cream parlor with its easily recognized red and white striped awning, has been lighting up children's -- and adults' -- faces for 20-plus years with their decadent treats, created with all-natural ingredients. Sit at one of the old-fashioned style swivel stools as you enjoy a cone filled with the likes of gran marnier chocolate chip, cherry mash, lemon ginger, caramel apple or any number of other creative (and yes, a few traditional) delights. Sherberts and sorbets are also offered.799 S. University Blvd.; 303-777-0808
The Daily Scoop Frozen Custard: The philosophy at this little Congress Park joint is that eating ice cream should be fun and uncomplicated. They certainly keep it simple -- you’ll find only three custard flavors at the popular neighborhood hangout: chocolate, vanilla and scoop of the day, including cinnamon, cherry ice and crème brulee along with an array of other freshly made creations. Need more selections? Daily Scoop also offers floats, malts, sundaes and shakes as well as a slew of fruit and sugary toppings.3506 E. 12th Ave.; 303-388-3245