NYC's go-to for artisanal ice cream, w/ unique flavors & *amazing* dairy-free options. From honeycomb to rich vanilla, & even ice cream cake!
This ice cream shop is a beloved NYC institution, known for its inventive flavors and commitment to high-quality ingredients. While many flock for their classic dairy options, they also offer an impressive range of dairy-free alternatives that go beyond simple sorbets. From unique creations like honeycomb ice cream to rich, custard-like vanilla, there's a flavor to satisfy every palate. They even offer ice cream cake, replicating the nostalgic experience of a classic ice cream cake slice.
This establishment is lauded for its artisanal ice cream, with particular praise for its extensive and creative dairy-free options that cater to those seeking alternatives beyond sorbet. Flavors like honeycomb ice cream, peanut butter brownie honeycomb, and a highly-rated Sour Cherries and Cream are frequently mentioned. The Madagascar vanilla is described as rich and custard-like. While most feedback is positive, one user had a mediocre overall experience but found the dulce de leche cookies and cream flavor to be exceptional.
"Highly recommended are the honeycomb ice cream and the Sour Cherries and Cream flavor. The Madagascar vanilla is also noted for its rich, custard-like quality."
Customers rave about the unique and high-quality ice cream flavors, particularly highlighting the excellent dairy-free options and rich, custard-like textures. However, there are some mixed feelings regarding the business's expansion and payment policies.
Important Note
One user reported a negative experience regarding payment methods, where cash was not accepted for ice cream but was taken for tips. Additionally, the restaurant was noted to have been fined for not accepting cash payments.
"The overall experience was mediocre ('meh'), but the dulce de leche cookies and cream flavor was exceptional, making the reviewer feel like they were 'levitating'."
Neutral"The user was surprised to find that their local Van Leeuwen ice cream shop is open until midnight."
Positive"This commenter added that the black cherry chip ice cream from Van Leeuwen is even better as a milkshake, calling it 'absolute heaven on earth'."
Positive"The black cherry chip ice cream from Van Leeuwen is highly praised as a favorite flavor."
Positive"States Van Leeuwen has private equity investment for expansion but is still largely family-owned."
Neutral"Critiques Van Leeuwen's slogan and trademarking costs, deeming the slogan lazy and awful."
Negative"Categorizes Van Leeuwen as a 'good' VC-backed case due to its local success and expansion, unlike sudden overnight successes."
Positive"Praises Van Leeuwen for its extensive vegan and non-dairy options, seeking alternatives."
Positive"Notes that Van Leeuwen was fined for not accepting cash payments."
Neutral"Defends Van Leeuwen's deliciousness, dismissing counter-arguments."
Positive"Has mixed feelings about Van Leeuwen's expansion into national grocery stores after receiving funding."
Neutral"Recounts a negative experience at Van Leeuwen where cash was not accepted for ice cream but was taken for tips."
Negative"Considers Van Leeuwen a success story that expanded locally, not a villain, and appreciates its product integrity."
Positive"Suggests that Van Leeuwen's VC backing is obvious, criticizing its perceived lack of authenticity."
Negative"Lists Van Leeuwen as a VC/PE-backed ice cream shop."
Neutral"This user stated that Van Leeuwen's Madagascar vanilla ice cream is incredibly rich, comparable to custard."
Positive"Van Leeuwen offers an ice cream cake flavor that replicates the experience of ice cream cake, specifically a cookies and cream flavor with frosting chunks."
Positive"This user is also searching for the Sour Cherries and Cream flavor, in addition to the Orange Creamsicle flavor."
Neutral"The user expressed enthusiasm for the Sour Cherry flavor, stating it was "unreal good.""
Positive"The user stated that the Van Leeuwen location at 97th and Broadway has the requested Sour Cherries and Cream flavor."
Positive
