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Owned by the same family since 1920, this venerable south suburban shop is known as much for its handmade chocolates as its homemade ice cream and fountain creations. Indeed, one has to pass the long display of chocolates to reach the ordering area. The usual sundae creations are on offer here, including the Gayety Special ($7.95), three scoops (vanilla, strawberry and banana) with fruit salad (pineapple and cherries in the mix), whipped cream and chopped nuts. Originally in South Chicago, Gayety's moved deeper in the suburbs when the steel mills closed, and now has locations in Lansing and Schereville, Indiana. 3306 Ridge Road, Lansing; 800-491-0755; eatmychocolates.com — Phil Vettel
Owned by the same family since 1920, this venerable south suburban shop is known as much for its handmade chocolates as its homemade ice cream and fountain creations. Indeed, one has to pass the long display of chocolates to reach the ordering area. The usual sundae creations are on offer here, including the Gayety Special ($7.95), three scoops (vanilla, strawberry and banana) with fruit salad (pineapple and cherries in the mix), whipped cream and chopped nuts. Originally in South Chicago, Gayety’s moved deeper in the suburbs when the steel mills closed, and now has locations in Lansing and Schereville, Indiana. 3306 Ridge Road, Lansing; 800-491-0755; eatmychocolates.com — Phil Vettel
“There is nothing modern about us,” brags this 28-year-old fixture in downtown La Grange, its walls filled with vintage photos and shelves of for-sale knickknack toys. Ice cream is the main draw, though there are plenty of fans of the apple-cider doughnuts and other nonfrozen treats. Among the ice-cream treats is the Tate’s Walking Waffle sundae ($5.89), which features two scoops of your choosing topped with hot fudge, whipped cream and cherries in a waffle cone. It’s certainly portable; the challenge is avoiding the socially awkward “whipped cream nose” that results from determined eating. 25 S. Ashland Ave., La Grange, 708-352-4848 — Phil Vettel
Kimberly Elam opened her first ice-cream shop in 2010 in St. Charles, later adding a location in downtown Wheaton. The latter is a pink palace, from the street-side facade to the painted walls and the labels on the take-home pints in the self-serve freezer. Imaginative flavors include such enticements as Aztec hot chocolate, “Coffee & Donuts,” maple bacon, white-chocolate salty oatmeal and Parent Trap (vanilla, peanut-butter ribbon and Oreos). Traditional flavors are $3.49 and $5.25 for one or two scoops, respectively; gourmet flavors are $3.75 and $5.50. Enjoy them in bowls, cones or in a “soon to be famous” Sparkle Cone, which is a sugar cone dipped in white chocolate and coated with sugar sprinkles (colors change seasonally; for July, it’s red, white and blue stars). Pictured is the Sparkle Cone with chocolate-chip cookie dough and yellow-cake batter ice creams. 1 W. Illinois St., St. Charles; 109 E. Front St., Wheaton; kimmersicecream.com — Phil Vettel
“Don’t even ask,” says the tongue-in-cheek “Nutritional Information” sign by the front door, which promises only “gobs of rich Wisconsin cream” and “boat-loads of luscious flavors” that isn’t “low-fat, low-calorie or low anything.” That defiant manifesto notwithstanding, this Northwest-suburban spot offers dairy-free (soy-based) ice cream options and gluten-free cones, among other allergy-aware accommodations. Though it’s only a few years old, Daisy’s Malt Shoppe has an old-timey look that includes black-and-white tiles on the floor and countertop, and old-fashioned chairs and tables. Flavors, however, take a turn toward the modern, offering varieties such as Kitty Kitty Bang Bang, Munchie Madness and French Toast (along with the more familiar Door County cherry, Key lime pie and blueberry cheesecake). Chief among the indulgences is the Crazy Daisy sundae ($6.50), which starts with an ice cream of salted caramel, fudge and cashews, mixed with peanut butter, M&Ms, pretzels and whipped cream in a cookie bowl (soft chocolate-chip cookies molded to order). 807 N. Quentin Road, Palatine, no phone; daisysmaltshoppe.com — Phil Vettel
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Capannari Ice Cream has the air of a shop that's been around for generations, yet it opened in 2001. The fact that the business is housed in a smartly restored building dating from 1882 helps generate that feeling of permanence, as do the high-school-kid-first-job kind of earnest service and, most important, the ice cream. Small batch, rich and thick, boasting true flavors of the add-in ingredients, it feels old-fashioned. Go for the black raspberry chip for flavor as deep as the dark purple color ($3.50) — although the house-made, chocolate-dipped ice cream bars I spied on the way out gave me a twinge of order regret. 10 S. Pine St., Mount Prospect, 847-392-2277, capannaris.com. — Joe Gray” title=”Capannari Ice Cream has the air of a shop that’s been around for generations, yet it opened in 2001. The fact that the business is housed in a smartly restored building dating from 1882 helps generate that feeling of permanence, as do the high-school-kid-first-job kind of earnest service and, most important, the ice cream. Small batch, rich and thick, boasting true flavors of the add-in ingredients, it feels old-fashioned. Go for the black raspberry chip for flavor as deep as the dark purple color ($3.50) — although the house-made, chocolate-dipped ice cream bars I spied on the way out gave me a twinge of order regret. 10 S. Pine St., Mount Prospect, 847-392-2277, capannaris.com. — Joe Gray” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/ZKVKKTJILNAS5FJ5LRNJ4BBXUQ.jpg”>
Capannari Ice Cream has the air of a shop that’s been around for generations, yet it opened in 2001. The fact that the business is housed in a smartly restored building dating from 1882 helps generate that feeling of permanence, as do the high-school-kid-first-job kind of earnest service and, most important, the ice cream. Small batch, rich and thick, boasting true flavors of the add-in ingredients, it feels old-fashioned. Go for the black raspberry chip for flavor as deep as the dark purple color ($3.50) — although the house-made, chocolate-dipped ice cream bars I spied on the way out gave me a twinge of order regret. 10 S. Pine St., Mount Prospect, 847-392-2277, capannaris.com. — Joe Gray
Any day in Chicago at Shawn Michelle's you can choose from flavors including chocolate Melanin Magic, banana pudding or lunchroom butter cookie. Get it to go in cups, cones, pints or on a cobbler sundae ($5.99 small, $9.99 large). This Black-owned ice-cream parlor, founded by Yahya Muhammad, anchors a corner of the historic Rosenwald Courts apartment building on the South Side. Walk the grounds where boxer Joe Louis, poet Gwendolyn Brooks and singer Nat King Cole once lived among other prominent residents in the Bronzeville neighborhood. 46 E. 47th St., ?773-615-3238?, shawnmichelles.com — Louisa Chu
Any day in Chicago at Shawn Michelle’s you can choose from flavors including chocolate Melanin Magic, banana pudding or lunchroom butter cookie. Get it to go in cups, cones, pints or on a cobbler sundae ($5.99 small, $9.99 large). This Black-owned ice-cream parlor, founded by Yahya Muhammad, anchors a corner of the historic Rosenwald Courts apartment building on the South Side. Walk the grounds where boxer Joe Louis, poet Gwendolyn Brooks and singer Nat King Cole once lived among other prominent residents in the Bronzeville neighborhood. 46 E. 47th St., ?773-615-3238?, shawnmichelles.com — Louisa Chu
My way of ordering Lickity Split's My Way Sundae hasn't changed in years: vanilla frozen custard, hot fudge, whipped cream, chopped nuts and a cherry — or two, if I manage to snag the one on your sundae. I love the play of silky vanilla frozen custard with the thick hot fudge (which is never so hot that it melts the custard too quickly), the slightly sweet whipped cream, the crunchy nuts — and that cherry. For me, there's no reason to change that order, but do feel free to get the My Way Sundae your way. Choose your size: kid's size is $3.75; one scoop is $4.55; two scoops, $5.25. Then select a custard flavor from the three or four offered, then pick one topping, which can range from banana to M&M's to Whoppers. The whipped cream, chopped nuts and cherry come standard. You can add other toppings too. Most are 75 cents, but extra nuts are 85 cents. 6056 N. Broadway, 773-274-0830; 7000 N. Western Ave., 773-293-7239; lickitysplitchicago.com — Bill Daley
My way of ordering Lickity Split’s My Way Sundae hasn’t changed in years: vanilla frozen custard, hot fudge, whipped cream, chopped nuts and a cherry — or two, if I manage to snag the one on your sundae. I love the play of silky vanilla frozen custard with the thick hot fudge (which is never so hot that it melts the custard too quickly), the slightly sweet whipped cream, the crunchy nuts — and that cherry. For me, there’s no reason to change that order, but do feel free to get the My Way Sundae your way. Choose your size: kid’s size is $3.75; one scoop is $4.55; two scoops, $5.25. Then select a custard flavor from the three or four offered, then pick one topping, which can range from banana to M&M’s to Whoppers. The whipped cream, chopped nuts and cherry come standard. You can add other toppings too. Most are 75 cents, but extra nuts are 85 cents. 6056 N. Broadway, 773-274-0830; 7000 N. Western Ave., 773-293-7239; lickitysplitchicago.com — Bill Daley
Colored a bubblegum pink and studded with whole pine nuts, the creamy and not overly sweet “pinon” ice cream scooped at this Rogers Park neighborhood paleteria is a winner. The presentation is basic: Ice cream scooped into a foam cup and garnished with a plastic spoon, but honestly, who cares? The pine nut ice cream is the thing. Enjoy it by itself, or try a scoop of another flavor; coconut is a favorite pairing of mine. $4.30 for two scoops. 6649 N. Clark St., 773-381-2842. — Bill Daley
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Newly reopened, Baobing is Stephanie Izard's Taiwanese street food-inspired, takeout-only window around the corner from Duck Duck Goat. The "Jian Bing Thing" is one of its standouts. Sweet, savory and spicy, it starts with a jianbing crepe that's custard-coated, spread delicately with hoisin caramel, then filled with cool vanilla ice cream and a layer of crispy fried wonton wrappers. Here's where it may require a more adventurous palate: Sweet and crunchy chili oil and even cilantro are in there. Who knows how long this crazy concoction will last, so BYO moist towelettes ASAP. Next time, snag the namesake shaved ice while you're at it. $8. 857 W. Fulton Market (window on Peoria Street), 312-902-3825, baobingchi.com. — Louisa Chu” title=”Newly reopened, Baobing is Stephanie Izard’s Taiwanese street food-inspired, takeout-only window around the corner from Duck Duck Goat. The “Jian Bing Thing” is one of its standouts. Sweet, savory and spicy, it starts with a jianbing crepe that’s custard-coated, spread delicately with hoisin caramel, then filled with cool vanilla ice cream and a layer of crispy fried wonton wrappers. Here’s where it may require a more adventurous palate: Sweet and crunchy chili oil and even cilantro are in there. Who knows how long this crazy concoction will last, so BYO moist towelettes ASAP. Next time, snag the namesake shaved ice while you’re at it. $8. 857 W. Fulton Market (window on Peoria Street), 312-902-3825, baobingchi.com. — Louisa Chu” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/2T2TGVUBFVCWTIFPZRYYGEAQRI.jpg”>
Newly reopened, Baobing is Stephanie Izard’s Taiwanese street food-inspired, takeout-only window around the corner from Duck Duck Goat. The “Jian Bing Thing” is one of its standouts. Sweet, savory and spicy, it starts with a jianbing crepe that’s custard-coated, spread delicately with hoisin caramel, then filled with cool vanilla ice cream and a layer of crispy fried wonton wrappers. Here’s where it may require a more adventurous palate: Sweet and crunchy chili oil and even cilantro are in there. Who knows how long this crazy concoction will last, so BYO moist towelettes ASAP. Next time, snag the namesake shaved ice while you’re at it. $8. 857 W. Fulton Market (window on Peoria Street), 312-902-3825, baobingchi.com. — Louisa Chu
The Original Rainbow Cone features chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), and pistachio ice creams, topped off with orange sherbet. This year, the Beverly institution not only added its first suburban location, but a fleet of mobile ice cream trucks as well, with one available for private events. Keep your eyes peeled. 9233 S. Western Ave., 773-238-9833, rainbowcone.com — Adam Lukach
The Original Rainbow Cone features chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), and pistachio ice creams, topped off with orange sherbet. This year, the Beverly institution not only added its first suburban location, but a fleet of mobile ice cream trucks as well, with one available for private events. Keep your eyes peeled. 9233 S. Western Ave., 773-238-9833, rainbowcone.com — Adam Lukach
Korea's bingsoo is a small mountain of ice traditionally served with red bean, rice cakes and ground nut powder. Nowadays, you'll find chopped fruit, lychee jelly, mochi, ice cream and other syrups drizzled on top. The fruit bingsoo ($6.99) at Java & Mug is served in a shell-like bowl and starts with tiny granules of ice splashed with 2% milk before being topped with a scoop of strawberry ice cream, strawberries, kiwi, red bean, roasted grain powder, mochi, Fruity Pebbles cereal, bananas, fruit cocktail and strawberry syrup. I'd recommend bringing a friend because bingsoo is typically larger in format, unless you have a stronger appetite game than I do. 3247 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. — Grace Wong
Korea’s bingsoo is a small mountain of ice traditionally served with red bean, rice cakes and ground nut powder. Nowadays, you’ll find chopped fruit, lychee jelly, mochi, ice cream and other syrups drizzled on top. The fruit bingsoo ($6.99) at Java & Mug is served in a shell-like bowl and starts with tiny granules of ice splashed with 2% milk before being topped with a scoop of strawberry ice cream, strawberries, kiwi, red bean, roasted grain powder, mochi, Fruity Pebbles cereal, bananas, fruit cocktail and strawberry syrup. I’d recommend bringing a friend because bingsoo is typically larger in format, unless you have a stronger appetite game than I do. 3247 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. — Grace Wong
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Sushi-San is known for omakase and hip-hop, but don't sleep on the emochi ($3 each), a mashup of your favorite emojis and deliciously creamy ice cream surrounded by a chewy mochi exterior. There are multiple flavors you can choose from, and they switch out depending on availability, like tropical and fragrant mango Thai basil, sweet strawberry and an earthy, light matcha. These Instagram-worthy bites are a perfect way to round off a sushi meal. 63 W. Grand Ave., 312-828-0575, sushisanrestaurant.com — Grace Wong” title=”Sushi-San is known for omakase and hip-hop, but don’t sleep on the emochi ($3 each), a mashup of your favorite emojis and deliciously creamy ice cream surrounded by a chewy mochi exterior. There are multiple flavors you can choose from, and they switch out depending on availability, like tropical and fragrant mango Thai basil, sweet strawberry and an earthy, light matcha. These Instagram-worthy bites are a perfect way to round off a sushi meal. 63 W. Grand Ave., 312-828-0575, sushisanrestaurant.com — Grace Wong” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/KVLMUWPTWBF4PBBFNPLNBRG3JI.jpg”>
Sushi-San is known for omakase and hip-hop, but don’t sleep on the emochi ($3 each), a mashup of your favorite emojis and deliciously creamy ice cream surrounded by a chewy mochi exterior. There are multiple flavors you can choose from, and they switch out depending on availability, like tropical and fragrant mango Thai basil, sweet strawberry and an earthy, light matcha. These Instagram-worthy bites are a perfect way to round off a sushi meal. 63 W. Grand Ave., 312-828-0575, sushisanrestaurant.com — Grace Wong
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Autumn Bastyr scooped Italian ice through high school, but it wasn't until just a couple of winters ago that she first made her own. Last summer, she rolled out her ice bikes, scooping traditional lemon, mango and a changing menu that includes her 10-year-old twins' favorite flavors when possible, watermelon and coconut. My only complaint? She's spoiled me for most other Italian ice around town. Bastyr makes her recipes in the tiny kitchen of her new Portage Park shop using only fruit, water and sugar to taste. Radiant strawberry, so fluffy and light yet intensely infused with the flavor of ripe berries, may need a new native name. Perhaps Midwestern summer snow? $4 (small). 5035 W. Montrose Ave., 224-601-5858, www.littlelulusitalianice.com. — Louisa Chu” title=”Autumn Bastyr scooped Italian ice through high school, but it wasn’t until just a couple of winters ago that she first made her own. Last summer, she rolled out her ice bikes, scooping traditional lemon, mango and a changing menu that includes her 10-year-old twins’ favorite flavors when possible, watermelon and coconut. My only complaint? She’s spoiled me for most other Italian ice around town. Bastyr makes her recipes in the tiny kitchen of her new Portage Park shop using only fruit, water and sugar to taste. Radiant strawberry, so fluffy and light yet intensely infused with the flavor of ripe berries, may need a new native name. Perhaps Midwestern summer snow? $4 (small). 5035 W. Montrose Ave., 224-601-5858, www.littlelulusitalianice.com. — Louisa Chu” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/R6SSN7OKWVFGVEFRGNLDMRFD7Q.jpg”>
Autumn Bastyr scooped Italian ice through high school, but it wasn’t until just a couple of winters ago that she first made her own. Last summer, she rolled out her ice bikes, scooping traditional lemon, mango and a changing menu that includes her 10-year-old twins’ favorite flavors when possible, watermelon and coconut. My only complaint? She’s spoiled me for most other Italian ice around town. Bastyr makes her recipes in the tiny kitchen of her new Portage Park shop using only fruit, water and sugar to taste. Radiant strawberry, so fluffy and light yet intensely infused with the flavor of ripe berries, may need a new native name. Perhaps Midwestern summer snow? $4 (small). 5035 W. Montrose Ave., 224-601-5858, www.littlelulusitalianice.com. — Louisa Chu
What exactly is an Irish-inspired ice cream shop? Mostly, it just means that it is owned by Sean McGuire, who was born in Ireland. And sure, you can order the Hair of the Dog, which contains Bailey's, Guinness and Jameson-flavored ice cream, but mostly this is just a charming ice cream shop. I settled on the booze-free West Looper, a sundae topped with graham cracker, pecans, hot caramel, whipped cream and, of course, a cherry. While there's plenty of room inside, don't miss the enormous side patio. $7.75. 1047 W. Madison St., 312-666-5111, conechicago.com. — Nick Kindelsperger
What exactly is an Irish-inspired ice cream shop? Mostly, it just means that it is owned by Sean McGuire, who was born in Ireland. And sure, you can order the Hair of the Dog, which contains Bailey’s, Guinness and Jameson-flavored ice cream, but mostly this is just a charming ice cream shop. I settled on the booze-free West Looper, a sundae topped with graham cracker, pecans, hot caramel, whipped cream and, of course, a cherry. While there’s plenty of room inside, don’t miss the enormous side patio. $7.75. 1047 W. Madison St., 312-666-5111, conechicago.com. — Nick Kindelsperger
Dinah Grossman opened Spinning J in a former Humboldt Park art gallery, but the bakery and soda fountain feels as if it's been there forever. The pastry chef uses her skills for not only pie a la mode and a pie crust ice cream cone, but also housemade syrups with their own recipes using fruits, herbs, botanicals and essential oils. Get an ice cream float with pink and fizzy strawberry rhubarb phosphate, when available, made with a hint of beguiling persimmon bitters. Nothing celebrates the season and nostalgia better. $6. 1000 N. California Ave., 872-829-2793, spinningj.com. — Louisa Chu
Dinah Grossman opened Spinning J in a former Humboldt Park art gallery, but the bakery and soda fountain feels as if it’s been there forever. The pastry chef uses her skills for not only pie a la mode and a pie crust ice cream cone, but also housemade syrups with their own recipes using fruits, herbs, botanicals and essential oils. Get an ice cream float with pink and fizzy strawberry rhubarb phosphate, when available, made with a hint of beguiling persimmon bitters. Nothing celebrates the season and nostalgia better. $6. 1000 N. California Ave., 872-829-2793, spinningj.com. — Louisa Chu
Politics and presidents aren't the typical decor for an ice cream shop, but Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream in Edgebrook carries it off with style as rockin' as the music on the sound system. For me, the menu item of choice is a classic hot fudge sundae made with two scoops of vanilla and topped with hot fudge, whipped cream, chopped nuts and a cherry ($7.61). A friend goes a wilder route, choosing a scoop of an intensely fudgy Zanzimint made with Zanzibar Chocolate swirled with mint ice cream, and a nutty Exhausted Parent, bourbon-spiked espresso ice cream with bittersweet chocolate chunks ($7.31) Either way, you can't go wrong. 5337 W. Devon Ave., 773-763-9778, chocolateshoppeicecream.com. — Bill Daley
Politics and presidents aren’t the typical decor for an ice cream shop, but Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream in Edgebrook carries it off with style as rockin’ as the music on the sound system. For me, the menu item of choice is a classic hot fudge sundae made with two scoops of vanilla and topped with hot fudge, whipped cream, chopped nuts and a cherry ($7.61). A friend goes a wilder route, choosing a scoop of an intensely fudgy Zanzimint made with Zanzibar Chocolate swirled with mint ice cream, and a nutty Exhausted Parent, bourbon-spiked espresso ice cream with bittersweet chocolate chunks ($7.31) Either way, you can’t go wrong. 5337 W. Devon Ave., 773-763-9778, chocolateshoppeicecream.com. — Bill Daley
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="During summer break, this classic Wilmette ice cream shop becomes a prime first-job provider for North Shore teenagers, while also serving up some serious homemade ice cream. The most famous flavor is peach, which the shop proudly proclaims is made from Georgia peaches and only available during the summer. This fastidiousness with fresh fruit means the peach ice cream actually tastes like peaches and not artificial peach flavor. Like all the ice cream at Homer's, it's also extra creamy and smooth, making for a great stop no matter your age. $3.15. 1237 Green Bay Road, Wilmette; 847-251-0477; homersicecream.com. — Nick Kindelsperger” title=”During summer break, this classic Wilmette ice cream shop becomes a prime first-job provider for North Shore teenagers, while also serving up some serious homemade ice cream. The most famous flavor is peach, which the shop proudly proclaims is made from Georgia peaches and only available during the summer. This fastidiousness with fresh fruit means the peach ice cream actually tastes like peaches and not artificial peach flavor. Like all the ice cream at Homer’s, it’s also extra creamy and smooth, making for a great stop no matter your age. $3.15. 1237 Green Bay Road, Wilmette; 847-251-0477; homersicecream.com. — Nick Kindelsperger” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/7SQPKY7G6BCBHJHDN2YV5E4LOA.jpg”>
During summer break, this classic Wilmette ice cream shop becomes a prime first-job provider for North Shore teenagers, while also serving up some serious homemade ice cream. The most famous flavor is peach, which the shop proudly proclaims is made from Georgia peaches and only available during the summer. This fastidiousness with fresh fruit means the peach ice cream actually tastes like peaches and not artificial peach flavor. Like all the ice cream at Homer’s, it’s also extra creamy and smooth, making for a great stop no matter your age. $3.15. 1237 Green Bay Road, Wilmette; 847-251-0477; homersicecream.com. — Nick Kindelsperger
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="I am not the sort who likes his ice cream too tarted up. Don't put all kinds of nuts and caramel in it. And keep your mix-ins away, thank you very much. But the Buckeye Blitz Chocolate Chip at Graeter's? I'll make an exception. A buckeye is the chocolate-dunked peanut butter nugget confection famous in Ohio. Graeter's, an Ohio creation itself, mixes peanut butter, cocoa and peanut butter cookie dough into its chocolate chip base. Here, the well-loved blend of peanut butter and chocolate proves its everlasting primacy in the American candy universe. Bonus: Take your ice cream across the street to Hubbard Woods Park to down it amid the trees, flowers and laughing, shouting kids. $4.50. 940 Green Bay Road, Winnetka; 1347 Shermer Road, Northbrook; graeters.com — Joe Gray” title=”I am not the sort who likes his ice cream too tarted up. Don’t put all kinds of nuts and caramel in it. And keep your mix-ins away, thank you very much. But the Buckeye Blitz Chocolate Chip at Graeter’s? I’ll make an exception. A buckeye is the chocolate-dunked peanut butter nugget confection famous in Ohio. Graeter’s, an Ohio creation itself, mixes peanut butter, cocoa and peanut butter cookie dough into its chocolate chip base. Here, the well-loved blend of peanut butter and chocolate proves its everlasting primacy in the American candy universe. Bonus: Take your ice cream across the street to Hubbard Woods Park to down it amid the trees, flowers and laughing, shouting kids. $4.50. 940 Green Bay Road, Winnetka; 1347 Shermer Road, Northbrook; graeters.com — Joe Gray” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/RF46CT2XFVFWZFC3UY7H7Y2JZM.jpg”>
I am not the sort who likes his ice cream too tarted up. Don’t put all kinds of nuts and caramel in it. And keep your mix-ins away, thank you very much. But the Buckeye Blitz Chocolate Chip at Graeter’s? I’ll make an exception. A buckeye is the chocolate-dunked peanut butter nugget confection famous in Ohio. Graeter’s, an Ohio creation itself, mixes peanut butter, cocoa and peanut butter cookie dough into its chocolate chip base. Here, the well-loved blend of peanut butter and chocolate proves its everlasting primacy in the American candy universe. Bonus: Take your ice cream across the street to Hubbard Woods Park to down it amid the trees, flowers and laughing, shouting kids. $4.50. 940 Green Bay Road, Winnetka; 1347 Shermer Road, Northbrook; graeters.com — Joe Gray
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Step into this shop, and you'll immediately face a case of freshly made cookies. This is not a bad thing, but it's also only the beginning. Because at Cream Bar you can make cookie sandwiches, which feature two cookies stuffed with one hefty scoop of ice cream. I went with hot-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies and strawberry cheesecake ice cream. After one bite, my face was coated in melted chocolate from the cookie, and melted ice cream started dripping down my arms. Did I care? Not a bit. But do know that these are precarious creations, so make sure you have plenty of napkins nearby. $4.99. 601 N. Martingale Road, No. 165, Schaumburg; 224-653-8771; eatcreambar.com. — Nick Kindelsperger” title=”Step into this shop, and you’ll immediately face a case of freshly made cookies. This is not a bad thing, but it’s also only the beginning. Because at Cream Bar you can make cookie sandwiches, which feature two cookies stuffed with one hefty scoop of ice cream. I went with hot-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies and strawberry cheesecake ice cream. After one bite, my face was coated in melted chocolate from the cookie, and melted ice cream started dripping down my arms. Did I care? Not a bit. But do know that these are precarious creations, so make sure you have plenty of napkins nearby. $4.99. 601 N. Martingale Road, No. 165, Schaumburg; 224-653-8771; eatcreambar.com. — Nick Kindelsperger” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/W6RYH3NB4RHRHF3MAM76JLBBNA.jpg”>
Step into this shop, and you’ll immediately face a case of freshly made cookies. This is not a bad thing, but it’s also only the beginning. Because at Cream Bar you can make cookie sandwiches, which feature two cookies stuffed with one hefty scoop of ice cream. I went with hot-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies and strawberry cheesecake ice cream. After one bite, my face was coated in melted chocolate from the cookie, and melted ice cream started dripping down my arms. Did I care? Not a bit. But do know that these are precarious creations, so make sure you have plenty of napkins nearby. $4.99. 601 N. Martingale Road, No. 165, Schaumburg; 224-653-8771; eatcreambar.com. — Nick Kindelsperger
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="The Nutella Bar gets the crowds, but the real highlight of the first floor of Eataly is the Gelato Bar. Freshly made each morning, the gelato is ultra-creamy and intensely flavored, so if something is labeled pistachio, it will taste appropriately rich and nutty. Going with a medium cup allows you to fill your it with two flavors, so I paired the pistachio with extra dark chocolate, which adds a rich bitterness. $5.20. 43 E. Ohio St., 312-521-8700, eataly.com/us_en/stores/chicago. — Nick Kindelsperger” title=”The Nutella Bar gets the crowds, but the real highlight of the first floor of Eataly is the Gelato Bar. Freshly made each morning, the gelato is ultra-creamy and intensely flavored, so if something is labeled pistachio, it will taste appropriately rich and nutty. Going with a medium cup allows you to fill your it with two flavors, so I paired the pistachio with extra dark chocolate, which adds a rich bitterness. $5.20. 43 E. Ohio St., 312-521-8700, eataly.com/us_en/stores/chicago. — Nick Kindelsperger” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/IKFWPNCYFNGN7LJRSSXPNABXB4.jpg”>
The Nutella Bar gets the crowds, but the real highlight of the first floor of Eataly is the Gelato Bar. Freshly made each morning, the gelato is ultra-creamy and intensely flavored, so if something is labeled pistachio, it will taste appropriately rich and nutty. Going with a medium cup allows you to fill your it with two flavors, so I paired the pistachio with extra dark chocolate, which adds a rich bitterness. $5.20. 43 E. Ohio St., 312-521-8700, eataly.com/us_en/stores/chicago. — Nick Kindelsperger
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Haven't ordered a black cow since I was what would have been called a tween – if the word had been in use then. One sip of the black cow at this long-running Evanston store, and I was left wondering what took me so long? A large black cow, aka a root beer float, costs $5.65. There are two big creamy scoops of vanilla ice cream, and the pour-over is a freshly opened bottle of Hank's Gourmet Root Beer. (They give you the bottle, so you can replenish your cup.) The root beer has an appealing fizzy spice note that complements the cool sweetness of the vanilla ice cream. It's a refreshing, old-fashioned treat. 2909 Central St., Evanston; 847-491-1232; hartigansicecreamshoppe.com. — Bill Daley” title=”Haven’t ordered a black cow since I was what would have been called a tween – if the word had been in use then. One sip of the black cow at this long-running Evanston store, and I was left wondering what took me so long? A large black cow, aka a root beer float, costs $5.65. There are two big creamy scoops of vanilla ice cream, and the pour-over is a freshly opened bottle of Hank’s Gourmet Root Beer. (They give you the bottle, so you can replenish your cup.) The root beer has an appealing fizzy spice note that complements the cool sweetness of the vanilla ice cream. It’s a refreshing, old-fashioned treat. 2909 Central St., Evanston; 847-491-1232; hartigansicecreamshoppe.com. — Bill Daley” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/DDKCN5YBT5HXPBK25WUVWH2OTE.jpg”>
Haven’t ordered a black cow since I was what would have been called a tween – if the word had been in use then. One sip of the black cow at this long-running Evanston store, and I was left wondering what took me so long? A large black cow, aka a root beer float, costs $5.65. There are two big creamy scoops of vanilla ice cream, and the pour-over is a freshly opened bottle of Hank’s Gourmet Root Beer. (They give you the bottle, so you can replenish your cup.) The root beer has an appealing fizzy spice note that complements the cool sweetness of the vanilla ice cream. It’s a refreshing, old-fashioned treat. 2909 Central St., Evanston; 847-491-1232; hartigansicecreamshoppe.com. — Bill Daley
The dilemma I face every time I walk into Jessica Oloroso's Black Dog Gelato is whether to embrace one of the many seasonal flavors or to go with some cherished favorite I know will be amazing. To break this impasse, I like to get a regular cup, so I can get two flavors. That's how I ended up with a scoop of the 606 (named for the popular elevated trail), which somehow manages to combine peanut butter, coconut, saffron, cinnamon and honey. Nutty, creamy, complex, spicy and only slightly sweet, it's undoubtedly aggressive, but it's also an oddly balanced combination of sensations and flavors. To round out the bowl, I got a scoop of chocolate because I knew it would be smooth, intricate and alluring. $4.50. 859 N. Damen Ave., 773-235-3116, blackdogchicago.com. — Nick Kindelsperger
The dilemma I face every time I walk into Jessica Oloroso’s Black Dog Gelato is whether to embrace one of the many seasonal flavors or to go with some cherished favorite I know will be amazing. To break this impasse, I like to get a regular cup, so I can get two flavors. That’s how I ended up with a scoop of the 606 (named for the popular elevated trail), which somehow manages to combine peanut butter, coconut, saffron, cinnamon and honey. Nutty, creamy, complex, spicy and only slightly sweet, it’s undoubtedly aggressive, but it’s also an oddly balanced combination of sensations and flavors. To round out the bowl, I got a scoop of chocolate because I knew it would be smooth, intricate and alluring. $4.50. 859 N. Damen Ave., 773-235-3116, blackdogchicago.com. — Nick Kindelsperger
The Anderson family has owned a dairy business since 1901, and Colonial Cafe is still serving up its ice cream to seniors in church attire, families with energetic children and teenagers on a first date. It seems that they have figured out there's no better way to bond than to consume an enormous amount of shamelessly decorated ice cream in a miniature kitchen sink. The World Famous Kitchen Sink ($15.39) has been around since 1976 and is made of two whole bananas, six scoops of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream; chocolate, pineapple and strawberry syrup; whipped cream; toasted almonds; and a maraschino cherry to top it all off. The menu suggests that two people can finish the delightful treat, but I brought four adults with me, and there was still at least a scoop or two of melted ice cream and whipped cream left at the bottom, so unless your sweet tooth is really acting up, it may be wise to bring some backup. To prove your dessert-eating prowess, the ice cream also comes with a bumper sticker that proudly declares your consumption of the Kitchen Sink. 1101 S. Washington St., Naperville; 630-420-7722; check website for other locations, colonialcafe.com. — Grace Wong
The Anderson family has owned a dairy business since 1901, and Colonial Cafe is still serving up its ice cream to seniors in church attire, families with energetic children and teenagers on a first date. It seems that they have figured out there’s no better way to bond than to consume an enormous amount of shamelessly decorated ice cream in a miniature kitchen sink. The World Famous Kitchen Sink ($15.39) has been around since 1976 and is made of two whole bananas, six scoops of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream; chocolate, pineapple and strawberry syrup; whipped cream; toasted almonds; and a maraschino cherry to top it all off. The menu suggests that two people can finish the delightful treat, but I brought four adults with me, and there was still at least a scoop or two of melted ice cream and whipped cream left at the bottom, so unless your sweet tooth is really acting up, it may be wise to bring some backup. To prove your dessert-eating prowess, the ice cream also comes with a bumper sticker that proudly declares your consumption of the Kitchen Sink. 1101 S. Washington St., Naperville; 630-420-7722; check website for other locations, colonialcafe.com. — Grace Wong
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Argentine-style gelato is the hook at Frio Gelato in Evanston, where the flavors include tramontana, chocolate chip with caramel, and avocado. The tramontana, left, had a marvelous texture because of all the little chocolate chips studding the ice cream. The avocado, right, tasted like, well, avocado. I know that sounds simple and obvious, but making something taste the way it's supposed to can be a challenge. Frio nailed it, both in flavor and texture. The plastic spoons that are provided are small but do force one to slow down and savor the flavor. $4.99 (medium cup). 1301 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8767; 3721 N. Southport Ave., Lakeview, 773-799-8683; friogelato.com. — Bill Daley” title=”Argentine-style gelato is the hook at Frio Gelato in Evanston, where the flavors include tramontana, chocolate chip with caramel, and avocado. The tramontana, left, had a marvelous texture because of all the little chocolate chips studding the ice cream. The avocado, right, tasted like, well, avocado. I know that sounds simple and obvious, but making something taste the way it’s supposed to can be a challenge. Frio nailed it, both in flavor and texture. The plastic spoons that are provided are small but do force one to slow down and savor the flavor. $4.99 (medium cup). 1301 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8767; 3721 N. Southport Ave., Lakeview, 773-799-8683; friogelato.com. — Bill Daley” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/ECFY4HYVM5HBRIQXXINVOBQ6N4.jpg”>
Argentine-style gelato is the hook at Frio Gelato in Evanston, where the flavors include tramontana, chocolate chip with caramel, and avocado. The tramontana, left, had a marvelous texture because of all the little chocolate chips studding the ice cream. The avocado, right, tasted like, well, avocado. I know that sounds simple and obvious, but making something taste the way it’s supposed to can be a challenge. Frio nailed it, both in flavor and texture. The plastic spoons that are provided are small but do force one to slow down and savor the flavor. $4.99 (medium cup). 1301 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8767; 3721 N. Southport Ave., Lakeview, 773-799-8683; friogelato.com. — Bill Daley
<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Brothers Mike "Miko" and Rick Roombos opened the first Miko's Italian Ice two decades ago in Bucktown. With a base of water, sugar and a little bit of alchemy, they capture the essence of ripe local fruit and suspend the season's memories. Recently, sour Michigan cherries were transformed into a smooth ruby snow, with the flavor of floral, tart jam. Classic lemon ice is always available at the original walk-up window, as well as in Logan Square and at the Irving Park storefront, too. But regulars know to watch for their favorites from over 25 flavors, because all shops are only open spring until sometime too soon in fall. $3, 2236 N. Sacramento Ave., 773-645-9664, www.mikositalianice.com. — Louisa Chu” title=”Brothers Mike “Miko” and Rick Roombos opened the first Miko’s Italian Ice two decades ago in Bucktown. With a base of water, sugar and a little bit of alchemy, they capture the essence of ripe local fruit and suspend the season’s memories. Recently, sour Michigan cherries were transformed into a smooth ruby snow, with the flavor of floral, tart jam. Classic lemon ice is always available at the original walk-up window, as well as in Logan Square and at the Irving Park storefront, too. But regulars know to watch for their favorites from over 25 flavors, because all shops are only open spring until sometime too soon in fall. $3, 2236 N. Sacramento Ave., 773-645-9664, www.mikositalianice.com. — Louisa Chu” src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/06/04/LPYQYZODRZC7LG3HZRNTUZFSQE.jpg”>
Brothers Mike “Miko” and Rick Roombos opened the first Miko’s Italian Ice two decades ago in Bucktown. With a base of water, sugar and a little bit of alchemy, they capture the essence of ripe local fruit and suspend the season’s memories. Recently, sour Michigan cherries were transformed into a smooth ruby snow, with the flavor of floral, tart jam. Classic lemon ice is always available at the original walk-up window, as well as in Logan Square and at the Irving Park storefront, too. But regulars know to watch for their favorites from over 25 flavors, because all shops are only open spring until sometime too soon in fall. $3, 2236 N. Sacramento Ave., 773-645-9664, www.mikositalianice.com. — Louisa Chu
You could order vanilla ice cream at this Niles dessert spot, but what you really want is to explore unique Filipino offerings that populate the menu, including sapin-sapin (rice and coconut) and ube (purple yam) ice cream. My favorite option is a bowl of halo-halo ($6.89), which is shaved ice mixed with sweet condensed milk and topped with an assortment of shockingly bright and colorful ingredients. Look out for sweet red beans, creamy leche flan, a chunk of cooked yam, a couple of spheres of bright purple ube ice cream, strips of coconut and a sprinkling of pinipig, crispy toasted rice. Each spoonful brings up a different texture and flavor, but the end result is a deeply refreshing treat, one that would provide temporary relief on a muggy Illinois summer day just as well as it would in the Philippines. 8000 Waukegan Road, Niles; 847-965-9805; villagecreamery.com — Nick Kindelsperger
You could order vanilla ice cream at this Niles dessert spot, but what you really want is to explore unique Filipino offerings that populate the menu, including sapin-sapin (rice and coconut) and ube (purple yam) ice cream. My favorite option is a bowl of halo-halo ($6.89), which is shaved ice mixed with sweet condensed milk and topped with an assortment of shockingly bright and colorful ingredients. Look out for sweet red beans, creamy leche flan, a chunk of cooked yam, a couple of spheres of bright purple ube ice cream, strips of coconut and a sprinkling of pinipig, crispy toasted rice. Each spoonful brings up a different texture and flavor, but the end result is a deeply refreshing treat, one that would provide temporary relief on a muggy Illinois summer day just as well as it would in the Philippines. 8000 Waukegan Road, Niles; 847-965-9805; villagecreamery.com — Nick Kindelsperger
I was never one of those kids who snuck raw cookie dough from a mixing bowl, but if you are, then Cookie Dough Creations has a treat for you. There are eight flavors to choose from (chocolate chip, M&M, Oreo, cake batter, fudge brownie, peanut butter, turtle and brown sugar) but if it's your first time, go for the classic chocolate chip cookie dough (medium, $4.56), which offers a creamy and rich texture and a slight hint of flour reminding you that it is indeed cookie dough and not ice cream. The consistency of this cold treat is smooth and thick and relentlessly coats the inside of your mouth with sugar, so the chocolate chips provide a needed crunch in the generous scoop. You also have the option of eating it sandwiched between two cookies — cookie on cookie on cookie. Although you may be tempted to, don't try to bring this home and bake it because it will turn into a melted mess, said owner Jeff Schultz. 22 W. Chicago Ave., 630-369-4833, cookiedoughcreations.com — Grace Wong
I was never one of those kids who snuck raw cookie dough from a mixing bowl, but if you are, then Cookie Dough Creations has a treat for you. There are eight flavors to choose from (chocolate chip, M&M, Oreo, cake batter, fudge brownie, peanut butter, turtle and brown sugar) but if it’s your first time, go for the classic chocolate chip cookie dough (medium, $4.56), which offers a creamy and rich texture and a slight hint of flour reminding you that it is indeed cookie dough and not ice cream. The consistency of this cold treat is smooth and thick and relentlessly coats the inside of your mouth with sugar, so the chocolate chips provide a needed crunch in the generous scoop. You also have the option of eating it sandwiched between two cookies — cookie on cookie on cookie. Although you may be tempted to, don’t try to bring this home and bake it because it will turn into a melted mess, said owner Jeff Schultz. 22 W. Chicago Ave., 630-369-4833, cookiedoughcreations.com — Grace Wong