8 Ice Cream Shops That’ll Keep You Cool This Summer

We all scream for new flavors and old favorites at these Bergen County staples.
Anastasiia Chokhliad,
Close Up Of Scooping Ice Cream In Gelato Cafe

 

The temperature is creeping up, and we are already looking for ways to keep cool. You could take a dip in a pool or grab an Italian ice, but you also can’t go wrong with a classic—who doesn’t love ice cream in the summer?

Thankfully, Bergen has no shortage of fantastic spots where you can grab something cold and sweet. We are always excited to return to our favorite creameries this time of year (maybe you want to celebrate National Chocolate Ice Cream Day today?), and we can’t get enough of these top-three picks in our 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards:

  • Taking the top spot last year was Van Dyk’s Ice Cream in Ridgewood, a local favorite and staple for over 30 years. This cash-only establishment offers cups and cones, and you can also take home quarts or pints to enjoy later, or an ice cream cake to celebrate.
  • You can’t miss Cranberry Junction Ice Cream in Hackensack, with its bright pink exterior and yellow trim. In addition to hard ice cream and sundaes, Cranberry Junction also serves gelato.
  • No tour of Bergen’s sweet treats would be complete without Conrad’s Confectionery, which has been in operation since 1928. You can go beyond average scoops here with their handmade ice cream sandwiches and ice cream pies, in addition to ice cream bars dipped in Conrad’s dark chocolate.

Want something new instead? You can check out the newly opened Maroons Creamery in Ridgewood, with its elaborate sundaes and innovative tea floats. And if you’re just looking for a few favorite flavors at an old favorite creamery, you don’t need to look far. Check out these innovative flavors:

  • Yuzu at Ice Cream on Grand in Englewood. Try this Japanese citrus fruit flavor in homemade, hard ice cream.
  • Halo Halo at Francy’s Artisanal in Bergenfield. A Philippines-inspired menu wouldn’t be complete without this flavor, made with red beans, macapuno, coconut gel, bananas and evaporated milk.
  • Lemon Poppyseed at Daniela’s in Closter. This place has assorted regular, gluten-free, vegan and sorbet options, but we can’t resist this flavor, which is reminiscent of a favorite muffin. 234 Closter Dock Rd., Closter, 201.428.9600;
  • PB&J at Ice Cream Charlie’s in Rutherford. The classic sandwich as ice cream? Dreams do come true! Watch this cash-only shop’s Facebook page for the flavors of the day.

What’s your favorite spot in Bergen for ice cream? Let us know on Instagram @bergenmagnj!