5 Tasty Ice Cream Shops in Memphis, TN

What Is It?

Jeremiah's Italian Ice in Memphis is a vibrant spot known for its deliciously refreshing Italian Ice, creamy Soft Ice Cream, and their signature Gelati, a delightful mix of the two. With over 40 flavor options, including fan favorites like Mango and Cookies and Cream, there's something for every palate. The treats are hand-crafted daily, and guests are encouraged to sample flavors, ensuring a delightful frozen experience. Families are warmly welcomed at this popular local gem, which boasts a bright and fun atmosphere.

The Experience

As you step into Jeremiah's Italian Ice, the bright colors and cheerful decor instantly lift your spirits. Children are laughing and playing in the kid area while you gaze at the enticing flavor options displayed prominently, trying to decide between the luscious Strawberry Shortcake Gelati or the tantalizing Brownie Batter. You’re greeted by friendly staff who offer you a sample of the Grasshopper gelati, and it’s divine! With that small taste, you can't help but smile, feeling like a kid again.

After much deliberation, you opt for a refreshing mix of cherry and blueberry Italian Ice topped with creamy vanilla soft serve. As you enjoy your treat, you take a moment to soak in the atmosphere; the patio is buzzing with laughter, and the resounding joy fills the air. You've managed to snag a seat outside, and the canopies overhead provide the perfect shade from the sun, making every bite even more delightful.

Your kids are thoroughly entertained in the play zone and even try some of the unique mix-ins, becoming instant fans of the service and the ambiance. It’s a wonderful family outing, filled with games, flavors, and smiles. Each time you take that first delicious bite, you wonder how they manage to pack such flavor into each scoop. You may have to rope in some friends for next time because sharing this experience sounds like a blast!

Before leaving, you take a moment to reflect as you watch others come and go, their hands full of colorful cups and happy faces. You spot a couple of guests sipping on dainty dessert drinks, and it's clear that Jeremiah’s has a treat for everyone! Filled with joyful memories and sweet treats, you leave feeling light-hearted and eager to come back again soon.

When to Go

For those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle, visiting Jeremiah's Italian Ice earlier in the day or during weekdays can be a game changer. It's generally less crowded before 5 PM, allowing you to fully enjoy the ambiance and make quicker decisions without the pressure of long lines.

What Is It?

Kaye's Pints & Scoops is your go-to ice cream shop in Memphis, specializing in small-batch, hand-crafted premium ice cream. They offer an array of mouthwatering flavors like butter pecan, strawberry brownie, and salted caramel, ensuring there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

The Experience

Walking into Kaye's Pints & Scoops on a Saturday feels like stepping into a world of creamy indulgence. The cozy atmosphere is filled with the sweet aroma of freshly made ice cream, and the owner greets each guest with a warm smile. You can’t help but feel excited as you scan the colorful selections of ice cream in the display. As you approach the counter, the owner enthusiastically shares the story behind each flavor, making it hard to choose just one. You might end up snagging a pint of buttery pecan that promises rich, creamy bliss with its roasted pecan pieces.

On your first bite, the flavor bursts in your mouth, a sweet and nutty delight that transports you to ice cream heaven. Nearby, others are eagerly trying the birthday cake flavor, with guests commenting on how delicious it is—a sweet reminder of childhood celebrations. The pints and cups are neatly packaged, and you can’t resist taking a few home to share or simply keep to yourself for later indulgence.

As you savor your ice cream, the vibe in the shop is cheerful, with other customers chatting about their favorites. Some are already planning their next visit, highlighting how much they appreciate not only the flavors but also the supportive environment of a Black-owned, woman-owned business. You might overhear a guest enthusiastically sharing how much they enjoyed a surprise monthly subscription, eagerly counting down the days until their next scoop awaits.

The visit wraps up with stellar customer service that stands out, ensuring each guest feels valued and satisfied. It's the kind of experience that draws not just locals but even those from outside the area, making Kaye's Pints & Scoops a sweet gem in Memphis where memories and flavors blend seamlessly.

What Is It?

Sugar Ghost Ice Cream and Bubble Tea is a lively ice cream and bubble tea spot in Memphis, TN, where the community can come together to enjoy delicious, in-house made ice cream and a variety of refreshing bubble teas. With a vibrant and fun atmosphere, this charming shop has quickly become a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to satisfy their sweet cravings. The extensive menu, which features unique flavors and delightful combinations, ensures that every visit is a treat!

The Experience

Walking into Sugar Ghost Ice Cream and Bubble Tea, you’re immediately struck by the bright decor that invites you in. The vibrant color scheme and playful ghost-themed elements create a quirky yet cozy vibe, perfect for indulging in a sweet treat. As you glance over the menu board, you can’t help but feel excited by the intriguing flavors available. Admittedly, you've heard whispers about their renowned Ube ice cream, so you decide to try that alongside a scoop of the Lavender Honey flavor.

The staff greets you with warm smiles and are more than willing to let you sample a few different ice creams before you make your final choice. It’s clear they genuinely enjoy what they do. After placing your order, you grab a spot at one of the adorable tables, eager to dive into your ice cream. When it arrives, the rich colors and creamy textures are nothing short of stunning! The Ube ice cream is a beautiful purple, and it’s as delicious as you imagined, with a unique flavor that transports you straight to a tropical paradise.

Next, you take a sip of the brown sugar bubble tea, and it doesn’t disappoint. The tapioca pearls are soft, providing a perfect chew that complements the velvety drink. The sweetness level is spot on—enough to satisfy your cravings without being overwhelming. You notice other guests around you enjoying an assortment of flavors too, with smiles on their faces, showcasing just how much everyone loves this spot. The atmosphere buzzes with laughter and happy chatter.

As you lick the last bit of your ice cream, you can't help but feel grateful for the lovely afternoon you spent at Sugar Ghost. The combination of delicious flavors, welcoming service, and the shop's cute interior left a lasting impression. It’s clear why this place has quickly become a go-to spot for ice cream lovers in Memphis!

When to Go

If you're looking to avoid the crowds at Sugar Ghost, aim to visit during the earlier hours of the day or later in the evening, particularly right before closing time. The busiest rush seems to hit around 6 PM, so arriving around 3 or 8 PM could lead to a more relaxed experience with less waiting in line.

What Is It?

Sweet Magnolia Gelato Co. is a delightful treat maker that specializes in delicious gelato, sorbets, and unique flavor combinations made with local ingredients. Set in the vibrant Crosstown Concourse area of Memphis, this gelato shop has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors alike, with its cozy ambiance and delicious offerings.

The Experience

Stepping into Sweet Magnolia Gelato Co. feels like stumbling upon a refreshing gem right in the heart of Crosstown Concourse. The moment you walk in, the inviting aroma of sweet cream and fresh ingredients hits you, making your taste buds tingle with anticipation. The friendly staff greets you with warm smiles, ready to help you navigate the tantalizing array of flavors. It’s a fun experience, trying to decide between classics like blueberry cheesecake and more adventurous options like whiskey pecan or banana pudding—surely, an ice-cream lover's dream!

As you finally settle on a scoop of that creamy strawberry gelato, you’re taken aback by its freshness and delightful tartness. It’s a perfect balance that brings a little sunshine to your day. You find a cozy spot to sit, perhaps near the playful atmosphere filled with families and creatives, all enjoying their own tasty choices at the eclectic tables. You may even sneak a taste of your friend’s cookie dough gelato, marveling at how smooth and flavorful it is—definitely worth the visit!

You take a moment to soak in the vibe. The Crosstown area’s artistic spirit drifts through the air, making this gelato place not just about dessert but about experience too. As you savor each bite, you can’t help but appreciate the dedication to using local ingredients. The creativity displayed in portions and pairings leaves your taste buds dancing, urging you to return for more.

A quick chat with a staff member reveals their passion for their craft. They’re eager to share recommendations for new flavor combinations to try next time. Before you know it, your bowl is empty, but it’s not without the promise to bring home a pint for later. Sweet Magnolia not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also invites you into a community that celebrates delicious food together!

What Is It?

Zio Matto Gelato is an authentic Italian gelateria located in the heart of downtown Memphis, treating patrons to handmade gelato, refreshing sorbets, and delightful specialty desserts crafted by Matteo Servente. With a cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for ice cream lovers seeking quality and flavor.

The Experience

From the moment you step into Zio Matto Gelato, there's a warm and inviting vibe that hits you. The colorful decor and friendly smiles from the staff set the tone for an enjoyable experience. As you approach the gelato case, your eyes may widen at the enticing array of flavors. You can’t help but ask for a taste of the pistachio and tiramisu, since they come highly recommended. Each bite of the creamy gelato transports you to Italy with the authentic flavors dancing on your taste buds.

While savoring the delicious gelato, you notice how attentive and caring the staff are. One patron recalls how they went above and beyond to assist a couple who seemed overwhelmed by the choices. This heartfelt service creates a cozy, homey atmosphere, making you feel like part of the Zio Matto family. After settling on your favorite flavors, you can’t resist adding a macaron or two to your order, as they also come from a local bakery and taste absolutely heavenly.

As you enjoy your gelato, you overhear guests sharing their own recommendations and excitement about trying different flavors, all while the sun peeks through the large windows, illuminating this vibrant little shop on South Main. It’s not just the fabulous gelato that keeps the crowd coming back, but the entire experience from friendly service to delightful ambiance.

Before you leave, you may find yourself chatting with the owner about the story behind the shop and the passion for quality gelato, making the experience even more special. You promise to return, perhaps with friends or family, to share the joy of discovering new flavors at this fantastic gem in downtown Memphis.