Northeast Ohio’s 30 Best Ice Cream Shops - The News-Herald
Whether you’re chasing soft serve, inventive vegan scoops or over-the-top sundaes, these local shops deliver frozen treats and nostalgic favorites that are worth the drive. By Christina Rufo
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