Cibik’s Dairy Island
Why we love it: Located beside Fantasy Island Mini Golf, this Chagrin Falls favorite is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The family-run, walk-up stand is known for its handcrafted ice creams and frozen custards. It also serves Dole Whip, a nondairy option, and hosts a “Create Your Own Ice Cream” contest that invites customers to invent new flavors. Try this: The classic E.T. sundae ($7.50) features vanilla ice cream topped with peanut butter, hot fudge, Reese’s Pieces, whipped cream and a cherry. 8295 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, 440-543-7382, dairyisland.com
CP's Cooler Homemade Ice Cream & Treats
Why we love it: This family-owned Willowick shop crafts small-batch ice cream with bold, homemade flavors like toasted almond & coconut and banana made with eight pounds of real fruit per batch. It is also known for its egg-free cookie doughs and vegan options. Try this: Get a cake batter shake ($5.95-$8.95) for a sweet, on-the-go delight. 32433 Vine St., 440-944-2665, Willowick, cpscooler.com
Daisy’s On Fleet
Why we love it: A beloved Slavic Village institution since 1977, the shop continues to serve Toft’s Ice Cream, a regional favorite. With its iconic red-and-yellow sign and welcoming picnic tables, Daisy’s remains a cherished gathering spot for the community. Try this: A scoop of Toft’s Superman ice cream ($3.25) caps off an evening. 5614 Fleet Ave., Cleveland, facebook.com/DaisysOnFleet
Dariview
Why we love it: Known for its creamy soft serve and fruit-flavored swirls, decades of summer traditions are rooted in this nostalgic, family-owned walk-up. Owner Shelley Shupp says, “Ice cream has always been fun.” Try this: An orange swirl cone ($2.75-$4) with vanilla soft serve and orange sherbet is the perfect way to cool down. 22004 Lorain Road, Fairview Park, 440-734-4797, facebook.com/p/Dariview
East Coast Original Frozen Custard
Why we love it: This Cleveland-area institution has been churning rich, velvety custard since 1985, using a recipe inspired by the original Coney Island version from 1919. With dozens of rotating daily flavors and nearly 30 toppings, there’s always something new to try. The retro neon signage adds charm across its five locations, and the mobile custard truck brings the creamy goodness to events across Northeast Ohio. Try this: The buckeye concrete ($7.75) mixes vanilla custard with chocolate syrup, peanut butter sauce and peanut butter cups, topped with whipped cream. Various locations, eastcoastcustard.com
Courtesy Ebony's Ice Cream
Ebony's Ice Cream
Why we love it: Since 2023, this Black-owned, family-run shop has offered handcrafted, small-batch ice cream with a personal touch. Owner Ebony Turner says, “I’m doing it for the love of ice cream. I am creating unique flavors that remind me of things my children loved when they were younger, and I use those as mix-ins.” Try this: Enjoy a scoop of a staple flavor, lemon cake ($5). It is a vanilla-based loaded with chunks of lemon pound cake for a bright surprise in every bite. 9981 Vail Drive, Twinsburg, 330-620-7680, ebonysicecream.com
*Recently moved from previous location at 115 E. Aurora Road, Northfield Center.
Fairport Harbor Creamery
Why we love it: Nestled just steps from the Lake Erie shoreline, this charming shop crafts all its ice cream in-house. The menu features creative flavors like caramel macchiato and boozy pints infused with whiskey and creme de menthe. Vegan options, including Dole Whip, are also available. Try this: The sampler flight of four scoops ($7.50) ensures you get a bite of all your favorite flavors. 202 High St., Fairport Harbor, 440-898-0030, fairportharborcreamery.com
Courtesy Fenik's Frozen Custard
Fenik’s Frozen Custard
Why we love it: A staple in Avon Lake since 2004, Fenik’s serves up small-batch frozen custard. The interior features checkered floors, a neon sign and a chalkboard menu that reflects a rotating lineup of more than 20 vegan, oat or soy-based ice cream options. Flavors change weekly, alongside the fresh-baked cookies that can be eaten solo or used to make an ice cream sandwich. Try this: The vanilla custard, made with an original 1950s family recipe, ($5.25-$13.95) is most popular. It can be added to a brownie bowl, put into a colorful cone, topped with Oreos, hot fudge or a multitude of options. 684 Avon Belden Road, Avon Lake, facebook.com/FeniksFrozenCustard
Foster’s Homemade Ice Cream
Why we love it: A Willoughby Hills landmark since 1947, Foster’s continues to honor its nearly 80-year legacy under current owner Mark Palko. Using the Foster family’s original recipes, still handwritten on vintage index cards, the team makes all ice cream and desserts in-house. The red, white and blue shop serves 32 rotating flavors like black cherry, chocolate peanut butter, pistachio almond and seasonal favorites. Outside, families can enjoy scoops at picnic tables in the backyard. Try this: Get a turtle or Oreo ice cream pie ($17.50-$20) to share with your friends for any occasion. 30551 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills, facebook.com/Fosters-Homemade-Ice-Cream
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Why we love it: Born in Youngstown in 1945, Handel’s has grown into a national favorite without losing its small-batch roots. Each location makes ice cream fresh daily, offering 48 flavors on-site from a rotating selection of more than 140, including fan favorites like Graham Central Station, cherry cordial and salty caramel truffle. Handel’s continues to expand across the U.S. and has more than 20 stores in Northeast Ohio. Try this: Can’t decide? A 4-scoop sampler ($5.75) explores classic and seasonal specials. Various locations, handelsicecream.com
Courtesy Honey Hut Ice Cream
Honey Hut Ice Cream
Why we love it: A Cleveland staple since 1974, Honey Hut has built a loyal following among its four Northeast Ohio locations. Each family-owned and operated shop offers 13 signature flavors. Its iconic smiling bee logo signals a sweet experience before you even step up to the window. Try this: Brighten up your day with a scoop of orange blossom ice cream ($4.25) made with orange zest and sweetened with orange blossom honey. Various locations, gohoneyhut.com
Christina Rufo
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Why we love it: Born in 2002 in Columbus, Jeni’s has become a national sensation by pushing the boundaries of flavor with a lineup that includes classics like salty caramel and brambleberry crisp, alongside bold creations such as Savannah buttermint and goat cheese with red cherries. Try this: Stop in at the only Jeni’s scoop shop in Cleveland for a scoop of the citrus glazed pound cake paired with the gooey butter cake ($6.70) — a decadent afternoon pick-me-up. 67 N. Main St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-2064, jenis.com/scoop-shops/cleveland
Jerry’s Dari-Pride
Why we love it: A longtime Wickliffe favorite, this no-frills walk-up stand delivers old-school charm and homemade ice cream in flavors like cherry vanilla and lemon ice. Jerry’s keeps things simple with cones, sundaes, flurries and a cash-only policy. Try this: You can’t go wrong with any of the various sundae flavors ($2.95-$4.50), including hot fudge, marshmallow, butterscotch and more. 30136 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, facebook.com/profile
K-Cream Parlour
Why we love it: This nostalgic walk-up stand is known for its creamy soft serve, vibrant exterior and outstanding views of Lake Erie just across the street. The menu, an extension of K-Cream Korner, includes old-school favorites like twist cones, slushies, sundaes and shakes, plus corn dogs, burgers and fries for a full snack stop. Try this: The vanilla-orange twist cone ($5.50) is a fan favorite for its smooth texture and burst of citrusy sweetness. 903 E. Erie Ave., Lorain, 440-240-8256, facebook.com/profile
King Kone
Why we love it: Established in 2013, this iconic neon pink stand is a hard-to-miss gathering spot in both the Chardon and Perry communities. With more than 30 Hershey’s hard-serve flavors, over a dozen toppings and a 24-flavor soft-serve machine, the menu is packed with unlimited options. The pastel-colored exterior and friendly staff add to the welcoming atmosphere. Try this: The No Name ($4.99-$6.99) is a famous crowd favorite. The indulgent sundae includes vanilla soft serve in a cone, rolled in pretzels, dipped in chocolate and topped with sea salt and caramel. 10621 Grant St., Chardon, 440-724-7385; 3266 N. Ridge Road, Perry, 440-724-7391, king-kone.com
Kirtland Creamery
Why we love it: Serving up some of the creamiest ice cream around, this family-owned shop uses Toft’s Ice Cream from Sandusky — made with 10% butterfat. Kick back on the covered patio with shaded picnic tables. The shop is also pet-friendly, offering pup cups so your furry friend can join in on the fun. Try this: Grab a scoop of the Lake Erie Cookie Island Monster ($3.75-$6.75) featuring blue cake batter ice cream, cookie dough and cream-filled chocolate cookies. 9304 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, 440-744-9023, kirtlandcreamery.com
Krieg’s Farm Market & Custard
Why we love it: A Vermilion institution for more than 35 years, this family-run market and custard shop blends homemade charm with fresh, fruity flavor. Its frozen custard comes in rotating weekly flavors, while the market features local produce, hanging flower baskets and strawberries picked from their fields. Try this: The strawberry shortcake sundae ($8) is served on top of warm biscuits and topped with fresh cut fruit, whipped cream, nuts and a cherry. 3175 North Ridge Road, Vermilion, 440-988-9228, facebook.com/kriegsmarketandcustard
Lake Erie Scoops
Why we love it: This grab-and-go ice cream and treat shop in Cleveland’s Gordon Square Arts District is a Saturday-morning cartoon dream come true. Founded by Jennifer Taggart, the shop channels pure nostalgic joy with nods to '70s, '80s and '90s vibes, and a menu full of homemade ice cream, novelties and retro sweets. Everything is pre-packaged for convenience. Try this: Grab an orange creamsicle ($4.50) or a quick scoop of the cookie butter or vegan blackberry coconut ice cream ($4.25). 6604 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-870-8169, lakeeriescoops.com
Courtesy Little Mountain Creamery
Little Mountain Creamery
Why we love it: New to Concord Township, this gem churns fresh gelato daily, using quality ingredients like seasonal fruit and local honey. Along with a rotating lineup of creamy classics and dairy-free sorbets, it offers multiple gluten-free options, espresso drinks and baked goods. Guests can swing by the drive-thru or linger on the stunning covered patio — complete with a cozy fire feature. Try this: A scoop of coconut crunch or lemon sorbet ($5.50-$6.75) makes for a decadent treat any time of day. 7872 Crile Road, Concord, 440-754-3158, lmcreamery.com
Malley’s Chocolates
Why we love it: This Cleveland classic has been renowned for its rich confections and old-fashioned ice cream parlors since 1935. Lakewood, Mentor and North Olmsted locations feature full-service parlors where you can enjoy more than 25 ice cream flavors in fluted glassware. The North Olmsted shop even boasts a working carousel inside, and the Lakewood location is Alice in Wonderland-themed. The pastel pinks and greens transport you back in time with nostalgic menu items like classic ice cream sodas and phosphates. Try this: The hot fudge sundae ($5.95) comes with two scoops of any ice cream flavor, with Malley’s Famous Fudge Sauce served on the side for personal pouring. Various locations, malleys.com
Mason’s Creamery
Why we love it: This Ohio City gem crafts small-batch ice cream with big creativity, offering 16 rotating flavors that range from baklava, Graza olive oil with flaky sea salt, vegan peaches and cream and its signature, ube, a purple sweet potato with a vanilla-marshmallow aftertaste. Four vegan flavors are always available, including a rotating oat milk soft serve. Try this: Try any two scoops of ice cream served in a fluffy, warm bubble waffle cone ($8) and topped with house-made whipped cream that comes in a variety of flavors. 4401 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, 216-762-1095, masonscreamery.com
Mickey’s Ice Cream & Hot Dogs
Why we love it: Opened in 2022 by longtime Willoughby resident Mickey Coyne, this family-owned shop brings a nostalgic, community-first vibe to the area. The menu features hard and soft serve ice cream, specialties, hot dogs and jumbo pretzels. The cozy interior and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot for families and ice cream enthusiasts alike. Try this: The Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sammy ($6) combines velvety ice cream and rich, chocolate goodness. 14 E. Spaulding St., Willoughby, 440-710-6015, mickeysdtw.com
Courtesy Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Why we love it: Founded by Cleveland brothers Pete and Mike Mitchell in 1999, this beloved local chain has grown into a Northeast Ohio staple with nine scoop shops and a flagship kitchen in Ohio City. Mitchell’s is known for its commitment to sustainability and community, crafting each batch of ice cream in-house using local dairy and fair-trade ingredients. The menu features a rotating selection of more than 35 flavors, with vegan and dairy-free options available. Visitors can see the quality for themselves and watch the ice cream-making process through large glass windows at the Ohio City location. Try this: With so many flavors to choose from, the Taster’s Trio ($6.85) allows you to pick three flavors for the full experience. Various locations, mitchellshomemade.com
Mount Granita Italian Ice
Why we love it: This seasonal spot in Cleveland’s Little Italy brings a taste of Sicily to the neighborhood with its handcrafted granita, blended fresh daily using real fruit and a water base. “A lot of people think it’s like shaved ice or a snow cone, and it’s not that. It’s a very smooth and creamy texture,” says owner Chris Giancola. Starting as a sidewalk cart in 2020, the beloved storefront offers a rotating menu of flavors, including coconut, mango and mint mojito. The shop’s commitment to traditional Sicilian methods makes it a standout destination for refreshing, dairy-free treats. Try this: The flight ($12) allows you to pick four flavors, perfect for trying the seasonal options throughout the summer. 2024 Murray Hill Road, Cleveland, mountgranita.com
Gavin Tennyson
Pop Culture CLE
Why we love it: This Solon-based dessert shop reimagines frozen treats with a mess-free, portable twist. Specializing in handcrafted ice cream and sorbet popsicles, Pop Culture CLE offers a dense, creamy texture by eliminating air from its mixtures. Try this: Customize any pop ($4.50-$8) with drizzles and a variety of toppings for a unique treat. Its menu boasts more than two dozen flavors, including vegan options like avocado lime and cookie butter, as well as seasonal specials. Beyond popsicles, it serves Liege waffles, cinnamon rolls, boozy “poptails” for adults and so much more. The shop’s vibrant atmosphere and inventive offerings make it a standout destination. 33549 Solon Road, Solon, 216-245-7316, popculturecle.com
Remixx Ice Cream & Cereal Bar
Why we love it: Take your breakfast favorites to the next level. Remixx puts a nostalgic spin on dessert by letting you mix your favorite cereals and toppings into a custom ice cream creation. Choose from vanilla, chocolate or dairy-free bases and blend in everything from Reese’s Puffs to brownie bites, Pop Tarts and more. Vegan-friendly and wildly creative, this shop is perfect for those who want to revamp their usual ice cream orders. Try this: Overwhelmed by the options? The 90s Kid ($6-$7) includes a rainbow of classics: Fruity Pebbles, Fruit Loops, a strawberry Pop Tart and marshmallow drizzle. 11512 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, 216-205-4844, remixxicecream.com
Rosati’s Frozen Custard
Why we love it: A Northeast Ohio favorite since 2000, Rosati’s churns its rich, velvety frozen custard in-house in continuous batches throughout the day, creating a smooth, dense texture that sets it apart from traditional ice cream. With locations in Northfield Center and Brunswick, this family-friendly shop offers a rotating selection of daily flavors, along with staples like chocolate, vanilla and twist. Try this: The cherry cordial sundae ($7.95) is layered with hot fudge, cherries, chocolate chips and whipped cream. 95 E. Aurora Road, Northfield, 330-908-0889 ; 922 Pearl Road, Brunswick, 330-220-5050, rosatisfrozencustard.com
Valley Villa Custard
Why we love it: A Chesterland icon for more than 70 years, Valley Villa specializes in soft serve made fresh in-house with more than 30 rotating flavors — from amaretto and creme de menthe to apricot and tutti-frutti. The custard is rich, silky and melts in your mouth with every bite. Grab a cone and relax at one of the outdoor picnic tables for a true summertime ritual. Try this: The Wolverine-Chocolate sundae ($6.75) comes with custard topped with Oreos and smothered in hot fudge, all finished off with whipped cream and a cherry. 8200 Mayfield Road, Chesterland, 440-321-8453, valleyvillacustard.com
Weber’s Premium Custard & Ice Cream
Why we love it: A Cleveland institution since 1931, Weber’s is beloved on the West Side for its rich, vintage-style frozen custard. Weber’s owns the last pair of continuous commercial ice cream machines known to exist, which were first manufactured in 1909. Today, It offers a rotating selection of classic and modern flavors, including peanut butter Oreo, salted caramel and black cherry, The shop’s nostalgic charm and commitment to quality make it a must-visit for dessert lovers. Try this: Its signature Frosted Malt ($5.50), a thick, chocolatey treat, has deep roots in local history, famously inspiring the version once served at Higbee’s department store. 20230 Lorain Road, Fairview Park, webersvintageicecream.com
Courtesy Zero Zest
Zero Zest
Why we love it: A longtime staple in the Parma community, this walk-up has been serving up soft serve for decades — and now, under new ownership in its second season, it’s continuing that legacy with care. Beloved for its colorful Flavor Burst cones, classic sundaes and dairy-free options, the retro vibe and outdoor seating make this a go-to summer spot for locals of all ages. Try this: The flavor burst cone ($3.25-$4.25) is a vanilla cone injected with flavored syrups such as “blue goo,” green apple, banana ripple, black cherry and more. Choose up to three flavors, and make a rainbow cone. 6096 State Road, Parma. 440-886-6473, facebook.com/Zero-Zest
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