There's no sweeter way to enjoy a summer afternoon than with a heaping cone of fresh-made ice cream. However, before you settle for freezer-burned sherbet from the local drugstore, consider one of GAYOT's favorite artisan ice cream parlors across the country. Serving up creative flavors like lemon ricotta cardamom and Fernet black walnut, our top creameries also showcase a commitment to local, organic and farm-fresh ingredients, making for a truly luxurious summertime snack. Take a look at our entire list to get the scoop on the hottest spots for a cold treat.
Bi-Rite Creamery & Bakeshop
San Francisco, CA
This small Dolores Park creamery and bakeshop features a commitment to top-tier local, organic ingredients and green practices. Winners include the celebrated salted caramel ice cream, caramelized-banana split, chai spiced milk chocolate ice cream and "Sam's sundae" -- chocolate ice cream topped with bergamot olive oil and sea salt. Seasonal baked goods, such as buttermilk upside-down cake and fruit pies, are the perfect complement to a scoop or two.
Lick Honest Ice Creams
Austin, TX
Austin-based Lick Honest Ice Creams is known for its interesting concoctions such as goat cheese, thyme and honey; roasted beets and fresh mint; and cilantro lime. The ice cream is made without using any preservatives, high fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors or flavors.
Dolcezza
Washington, D.C.
The gelato and sorbetto flavors at Dolcezza are often based on farm-fresh and seasonal ingredients, including lemon ricotta cardamom and strawberry tarragon. The D.C.-based mini-chain also plays around with chocolates, vanilla beans and salted caramel.
Bottega Italiana
Seattle, WA
If you're seeking a scoop of something cold and sweet near Seattle's Pike Place Market, Bottega Italiana has you covered. In the summer, opt for strawberry or green apple gelato; year-round, enjoy flavors like tiramisu, pistachio and Amaretto -- all served in cups or tucked inside a crispy waffle cone.
Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream
New York, NY
New York ice cream aficionados have been talking about Nick Morgenstern's creations since the day the shop opened. Unique flavors include Vietnamese coffee, banana curry and Fernet black walnut.
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