Buffalo, New York, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its delicious food scene. And while Buffalo's culinary offerings are extensive, one area that particularly shines is its incredible selection of ice cream parlors and restaurants. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite or a tourist exploring the city's sweet side, this guide highlights 17 of the best ice cream restaurants in Buffalo, ensuring you'll find the perfect scoop (or two!) to satisfy your cravings. We'll explore diverse options, from classic ice cream shops to unique dessert destinations, guaranteeing a truly sweet Buffalo experience.
Classic Creameries & Iconic Ice Cream Shops
These establishments represent the heart of Buffalo's ice cream scene, offering time-tested recipes and a nostalgic atmosphere.
1. Anderson's Frozen Custard
Anderson's has been a Buffalo institution for decades, known for its creamy frozen custard. Their classic flavors are always a hit, but don't miss out on their seasonal specials. Pro Tip: Try the Concrete, a thick, frozen custard blend mixed with your favorite toppings.
2. Abbott's Frozen Custard
A close competitor to Anderson's, Abbott's offers another take on the frozen custard experience. They often feature unique flavor combinations and generous portions. Their location offers a great atmosphere for a family outing.
3. Sophia's Restaurant
While known primarily for its Italian cuisine, Sophia's boasts a surprisingly impressive ice cream selection to complement your meal. Their homemade ice cream is the perfect sweet ending to a savory Italian feast.
4. Pearl Street Creamery
This charming creamery focuses on using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Expect creative and often seasonal flavor combinations that highlight the best of Buffalo's agricultural bounty. Look for: Their rotating selection of unique fruit-based flavors.
Unique & Upscale Ice Cream Experiences
These spots offer a more refined and sometimes adventurous take on the classic ice cream parlor.
5. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
While primarily a BBQ joint, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que's ice cream selection is a delightful surprise. Their creative and sometimes unexpected flavors pair perfectly with their smoky BBQ dishes. Don't miss: Their seasonal variations which frequently feature unique BBQ-inspired ice cream flavors.
6. The Black Sheep Restaurant
This restaurant focuses on elevated comfort food, and their desserts follow suit. Their ice cream creations are often works of art, incorporating gourmet ingredients and unexpected flavor pairings.
7. Taqueria Los Mayas
This popular taqueria might not be the first place you'd think of for ice cream, but their selection of Mexican-inspired ice cream flavors is a delightful surprise. Think churro ice cream, mango sorbet, and other unique additions to the Buffalo dessert landscape.
Beyond the Scoop: Ice Cream with a Twist
These locations offer ice cream in unique and creative formats, going beyond the simple scoop.
8. Sweetness 7
This ice cream shop specializes in creative sundaes, ice cream cakes, and other decadent desserts. They frequently feature unique, seasonal flavors that showcase the changing seasons.
9. Lloyd Taco Truck
While known for their fantastic tacos, Lloyd Taco Truck also offers a rotating selection of unique ice cream treats. Their flavors often incorporate unexpected ingredients and spice combinations.
10. Five Guys Burgers and Fries
Five Guys may be known for burgers and fries, but their ice cream selection is surprisingly good. They offer a range of classic flavors and reasonable prices, making it a great stop for a quick and satisfying treat.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
These smaller, often less-known places offer a truly local ice cream experience.
11. The Frozen Custard Shop
A local favorite with a loyal following, The Frozen Custard Shop offers classic frozen custard and a variety of toppings. Their simple menu and focus on quality ingredients make it a must-visit for those looking for a straightforward yet delicious treat.
12. More Than a Scoop
The name says it all; this shop offers far more than just scoops of ice cream. Expect gourmet ice cream sandwiches, unique toppings, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ice Cream Beyond the City Center
These spots offer a slightly different experience outside of downtown Buffalo.
13. Lake Effect Ice Cream
Located outside of the city center, Lake Effect Ice Cream is known for its high-quality ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. Their unique offerings often feature local ingredients and seasonal fruits.
14. Dairy Queen (Various Locations)
While a chain, Dairy Queen provides a reliable option for classic ice cream treats throughout the Buffalo area. It's a good choice for a quick and familiar experience.
15. Baskin-Robbins (Various Locations)
Similar to Dairy Queen, Baskin-Robbins offers a wide variety of flavors and is conveniently located throughout the city and suburbs.
Unique Dessert Experiences
These locations offer ice cream as part of a broader, unique dessert experience.
16. Chocolate Bar
This chocolatier offers unique ice cream creations often incorporated into their delicious chocolate confections. Their ice cream flavors are often matched to their specialty chocolates.
17. Resurgence Brewing Company
While a brewery, Resurgence frequently features unique ice cream creations paired with their craft beers. This is an excellent choice for those looking for a unique combination of sweet and savory.
This list showcases the incredible diversity of ice cream experiences available in Buffalo. From classic creamery staples to upscale dessert destinations, there's a perfect scoop waiting for you. So, grab a spoon and embark on a delicious adventure through Buffalo's best ice cream restaurants! Remember to check individual locations for hours of operation and seasonal availability. Enjoy your sweet explorations!
