10 Tasty Ice Cream Shops in Minneapolis, MN
Last updated in October 2024
Minneapolis really knows how to satisfy that sweet tooth, and what better way than with a scoop (or three) of ice cream? Whether it’s a hot summer day or just a need for a little pick-me-up, the city is full of delightful ice cream shops ready to indulge your cravings. Take Milkjam Creamery in Uptown, for example. Founded by chef Sameh Wadi, it offers a creative twist on classic flavors, not to mention a trendy vibe that’s perfect after a meal at the nearby World Street Kitchen. And don’t overlook Dream Creamery, located in Northeast’s Holland neighborhood, where you can not only dig into hand-packed pints of ice cream but also savor some seriously tasty smash burgers! From artisanal shops like Fletcher's Ice Cream & Cafe, where you can enjoy cozy bites alongside aromatic coffees, to the vibrant La Michoacana Purepecha with its colorful paletas, there’s something for everyone in this city. So, whether you're out for a stroll by the lakes or looking to cool off after a visit to Minnehaha Falls, these local favorites have got you covered!
Bebe Zito Ice Cream & Burgers
Located in Uptown Minneapolis, Bebe Zito Ice Cream & Burgers is a local gem offering handmade, small-batch ice cream made with local ingredients since 2019. Known for its inventive flavors and friendly service, this vibrant spot invites you to explore a menu that features ever-evolving choices, including vegetarian and vegan options. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick ice cream treat or to indulge in one of their juicy burgers, you’re guaranteed an enjoyable experience. Plus, the charming outdoor seating creates the perfect atmosphere for a summer outing!
What People Love
Incredible variety of unique and innovative ice cream flavors that are packed with quality and creativity.
Friendly and enthusiastic staff that create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Generous portion sizes make it worth the price, even if it feels a bit expensive.
The ice cream shop has a fun vibe, with a charming interior and outdoor seating perfect for enjoying a treat on a nice day.
The Bebe burger gets rave reviews for its juicy flavor and quality.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers feel that the pricing is quite high for the portion sizes, especially for a casual ice cream shop.
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There's a no-sampling policy for ice cream flavors, making it harder to try before you buy.
You Have to Try
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The Salted Caramel Flan Brulee, which features a deliciously smooth base with a crunchy top that adds a delightful texture.
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The Animal Frosting flavor is a fan favorite, blending nostalgia with creative genius.
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Don't miss out on the Maracuja (passion fruit) flavor for a tropical twist—it's a refreshing treat!
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For something classic yet uniquely crafted, the Romeu e Julieta combines cream cheese base with guava for a delightful experience.
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The Bebe burger has garnered mention for its juicy flavor and satisfying quality—definitely a hearty complement to the ice cream!
Dream Creamery
816 NE Lowry Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55418
Dream Creamery is a delightful ice cream shop located in the Holland neighborhood of Northeast Minneapolis. Brought to you by the renowned chef-owners of Travail, this spot isn’t just about ice cream; it's also home to some of the city's best smash burgers. With a menu that features everything from hand-packed pints to playful flavors and a friendly staff that encourages sampling, it’s a perfect place for families and ice cream aficionados alike. Outdoor seating offers a nice environment to enjoy the treats, making it an ideal stop during the warmer months.
What People Love
Incredible selection of unique ice cream flavors, including vegan options.
Standout smash burgers that many call the best in town.
Friendly and helpful staff that provide samples and quick service.
A playful and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families.
Delicious hand-cut fries that complement any meal.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers mention high prices, especially with added fees that catch them off guard.
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Parking can be tricky in the area due to ongoing construction.
You Have to Try
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The Dream Burger, known for its juicy patties and flavorful toppings.
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Pandan ice cream, which has received rave reviews for its unique taste.
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Brown sugar cookie dough ice cream that people can't stop talking about.
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Monkey bread praline ice cream, a favorite among regulars for its rich flavor.
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Cherry yuzu, recommended for those wanting a refreshing yet sweet treat.
Fletcher's Ice Cream & Cafe
Fletcher's Ice Cream & Cafe is a beloved local spot in Minneapolis known for its handcrafted, premium ice cream made with locally sourced ingredients. Not only do they offer a plethora of delightful ice cream flavors, but you can also indulge in aromatic espresso drinks and mouthwatering Belgian waffles. The cozy atmosphere invites everyone to relax and enjoy their treats, making it an excellent destination for families, friends, and even pups with their special dog-friendly options.
What People Love
Handcrafted, premium ice cream with a great variety of unique flavors.
Welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, creating a community vibe.
Delicious coffee and savory Belgian waffles that complement the ice cream offerings.
Offers a range of vegan and gluten-free options, making it accessible for all.
Great spot for families, with kid-friendly offerings and pup cups for dogs.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers find the prices a bit steep for the portion sizes offered.
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Inconsistencies in customer service, especially during busy hours.
You Have to Try
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Black as My Soul chocolate flavor, a chocoholic's dream.
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The delicious Lemon Poppy Seed ice cream that's been popular among visitors.
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Nana-Nilla, a banana pudding-inspired ice cream that includes bits of Nabisco wafers.
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Savory waffles, especially the Whiskey Apple Waffle, which is a standout.
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If you're up for something unique, definitely try the Ube flavor—it's a fan favorite!
Grand Ole Creamery
Located near the picturesque Lake Nokomis, Grand Ole Creamery is a charming spot known for its gourmet homemade ice cream. With an impressive selection of over 300 flavors, there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for classic favorites or exciting new tastes. The shop features a delightful outdoor seating area and is a popular destination after a day at the beach. The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, making it a wonderful stop for families and ice cream lovers alike.
What People Love
Variety of flavors with over 300 options to choose from.
Freshly made waffle cones that are a customer favorite.
Friendly and helpful staff that make the experience enjoyable.
Generous portion sizes that add value to your visit.
A lovely location near Lake Nokomis, perfect for a post-beach treat.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers feel that the ice cream can be a bit pricey for the portion sizes offered.
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A few have noted that they sometimes run out of popular flavors, like Black Hills Gold.
You Have to Try
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The Black Hills Gold flavor is a standout favorite among visitors.
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Freshly made waffle cones that perfectly complement any ice cream scoop.
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The unique Mac Daddy flavor is a hit for those looking for something special.
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Sampling the various sorbet options, especially on a warm day is highly recommended.
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Be sure to check out their cookie monster flavor - it's a crowd pleaser!
La Michoacana Purepecha
La Michoacana Purepecha has quickly become a beloved ice cream destination in Minneapolis since it opened its doors in 2018. With a mouthwatering selection of over 50 paletas and a variety of creamy ice creams, this spot is a true gem for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing mangonada, delicious elotes, or just want to try something new like their rich coconut ice cream, you’ll find something that'll tickle your taste buds. Plus, they offer a vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for enjoying a sweet treat, especially during those warm Minnesota summers!
What People Love
Incredible variety of flavors with over 50 paleta and 30 ice cream options to choose from!
Delicious snacks and desserts like mangonadas and elotes that really capture the essence of Mexican street food.
A vibrant and fun atmosphere that makes it a great spot for summer treats or just hanging out.
Fast and friendly service when the lines aren’t too long, which adds to the overall positive vibe of the place.
What People Don't Like
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Customer service can often be hit or miss, with some guests noting rude interactions and disorganization.
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Occasionally, the wait times can be frustrating, especially during busy periods when staff seems overwhelmed.
You Have to Try
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The mangonada is a fan favorite, combining creamy ice cream with refreshing mango and a kick of chili – it’s a must for adventurous eaters!
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Don’t miss out on the paletas, especially the piña con chile and tamarindo flavors, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
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Their agua fresca drinks, like watermelon and passion fruit, are refreshing and made with real fruit, offering a perfect complement to ice cream.
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For those who enjoy sweet treats, the Tres Leches cake ice cream is a highlight that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Milkjam Creamery
Milkjam Creamery has been brightening up Uptown Minneapolis since 2016 with its amazing selection of ice cream. Founded by local chef Sameh Wadi, it’s known for its inventive range of flavors, from classic favorites to exciting new options that rotate seasonally. Whether you’re looking for a rich, dairy-packed scoop, a delightfully creamy vegan treat, or even an ice cream cake, Milkjam aims to offer something delightful for everyone! Plus, with its fun and trendy vibe, it's a perfect spot to treat yourself after a meal at the World Street Kitchen next door.
What People Love
Creative and unique flavor options that keep changing regularly, including seasonal varieties.
Delicious vegan and dairy-free options available, appealing to a range of dietary preferences.
A fun and vibrant atmosphere that adds to the ice cream experience, along with friendly staff members.
The ice cream is described as rich and flavorful, with many finding it hard to choose a favorite flavor due to the excellent quality.
Convenient location with options for outdoor seating and easy access to parking.
What People Don't Like
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The pricing is often considered too high for the portion sizes offered, leading to some complaints about value.
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Service can be inconsistent, with some noting a lack of friendliness or attentiveness from staff.
You Have to Try
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Cereal Killer, a nostalgic flavor that perfectly captures the taste of fruity cereal milk.
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The Milkjam flavor itself, which blends caramelized goat and cow's milk for a uniquely sweet experience.
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Pineapple Lychee, a refreshing twist that's especially popular during warmer weather.
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The Black flavor, heralded as a must-try for dark chocolate lovers and noted for its rich, cake-like consistency.
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Ridin’ Duuurty, which combines flavors for a unique chocolate experience. Don't miss the monthly specials as they often showcase exciting new combinations.
Minnehaha Scoop
Minnehaha Scoop is a delightful ice cream and popcorn shop located in the vibrant Minnehaha Mile neighborhood of Minneapolis. Known for its super premium Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream and Rosati Italian Ice, this little gem offers a mouthwatering selection of flavors that cater to every taste, including great vegan options. The quaint outdoor seating area creates a cozy atmosphere where families can relax and enjoy their treats, making it a perfect stop after visiting nearby attractions like Minnehaha Falls.
What People Love
Delicious, high-quality ice cream with a variety of unique flavors.
Friendly and helpful staff that enhance the experience.
Generous portions for the price, making it great value.
Charming outdoor seating that’s perfect for enjoying ice cream on warm days.
A cozy neighborhood feel that makes it a great spot for family outings.
What People Don't Like
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Prices can feel a bit high, especially for single scoops.
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Being cash-only can be inconvenient for some customers.
You Have to Try
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Mint Oreo Oat ice cream - a top favorite and absolutely delicious.
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The Fat Elvis ice cream - a fun and creamy treat you don’t want to miss!
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Cotton Candy Twist and Lemon Meringue Pie ice cream - perfect for kids and those with a sweet tooth.
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The classic Orange Dreamicle float - a refreshing choice on a hot day!
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Dave's Popcorn varieties for a crunchy, tasty accompaniment to your ice cream.
Pumphouse Creamery
Pumphouse Creamery is a delightful ice cream shop located in Minneapolis, renowned for its creatively crafted flavors made using organic, locally sourced ingredients. This cozy spot offers a range of classic and unique flavors, including fantastic options for those who prefer dairy-free treats. The friendly staff make every visit enjoyable, and the reasonable prices on generous portions keep ice cream enthusiasts coming back for more. If you're in the neighborhood, it's definitely worth stopping by for a scoop or two!
What People Love
Unique, delicious flavors made from organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Generous portions at reasonable prices, including options for a sampler flight.
Friendly, welcoming staff who are patient and knowledgeable.
A cozy neighborhood vibe that feels family-friendly.
Many dairy-free and vegan options available for those with dietary restrictions.
What People Don't Like
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Limited indoor seating and parking can make visits a bit tricky.
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Some guests found the waffle cones to be less than ideal in texture or taste.
You Have to Try
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Lemon Infused Olive Oil with Sea Salt - a must-try that many rave about.
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Sea Salt Caramel Praline Pecan - rich and flavorful, a crowd favorite.
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The 5-scoop sampler flight to explore various unique flavors.
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Fresh Banana - often highlighted as the gold standard for banana ice cream.
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Honeyberry Raspberry Crisp - a refreshing treat that's perfect for summer.
Sebastian Joe's Ice Cream Shop
Sebastian Joe's Ice Cream Shop is a beloved family-run parlor in the cozy Linden Hills neighborhood of Minneapolis. Known for its homemade ice cream, the shop offers a delightful array of unique and rotating flavors that have customers coming back for more. The outdoor seating creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying a treat, especially after a stroll around nearby lakes. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it's a sweet spot worth visiting!
What People Love
Unique and delicious rotating flavors available all the time.
A fun and inviting atmosphere, especially with outdoor seating.
Friendly and helpful staff who make your visit enjoyable.
Long-standing neighborhood favorite that families love to return to.
Great spot to enjoy ice cream after a day out, especially near nearby lakes.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers mention the service could be slow and disorganized at times.
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A few felt the prices were a bit high for the portion sizes.
You Have to Try
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Raspberry chocolate chip – a fan-favorite flavor that's hard to beat!
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Nicollet Pot Hole – an inventive flavor that's frequently highlighted as a must-try.
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The Oreo flavor is consistently praised, with many considering it the best in town.
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Salted caramel – another popular choice that hits the sweet and salty spot.
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Ice cream sandwiches and the choco-taco are also fan faves to check out!
Sonny's Ice Cream Cafe
Sonny's Ice Cream Cafe has been a cherished part of the local scene for over 75 years, serving up artisanal ice cream, gelato, and sorbet all made from scratch. With an impressive selection of 22 revolving flavors crafted from locally sourced ingredients, there's always something new to try. The cafe's gorgeous outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a treat, complete with twinkling lights and beautiful surroundings that transport you straight to Europe. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic scoop or a daring flavor combination, Sonny's is a delightful escape for both locals and visitors alike.
What People Love
Unique and interesting flavors that rotate regularly, keeping things fresh and exciting.
A beautiful outdoor patio that creates an enchanting atmosphere, reminiscent of Europe.
Friendly and inviting staff who enjoy sharing samples and engaging with customers.
Quality ice cream and sorbet crafted from scratch using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.
The cozy and charming ambiance that turns a simple ice cream run into a delightful outing.
What People Don't Like
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Many feel the prices are on the higher side for the portion sizes offered.
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There have been some inconsistencies in customer service, with experiences varying from excellent to disappointing.
You Have to Try
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The affogato is a must-have and has received rave reviews for its delicious combination of hot and cold flavors.
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Yam ice cream is a standout flavor, often mentioned as a favorite for its unique taste.
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Creative flavors like cardamom black pepper and pineapple mango basil sorbet are highly recommended for adventurous palates.
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The carrot cake, especially when paired with ice cream, is noteworthy and has impressed many visitors.
