As the summer heat intensifies, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as indulging in a bowl of ice cream. Lucky for Lakeview residents, this neighborhood is chock-full of frozen treat spots to help combat the Chicago summer heat.
This northside neighborhood offers an impressive array of spots to find delicious, chilly desserts that’ll help reduce your body temperature and satiate your sweet tooth. From traditional ice cream parlors to innovative dessert cafes, here’s a guide to the best places for frozen desserts in Lakeview.
A Midwest favorite, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is well-known among locals and visitors. Committed to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, Jeni’s offers a variety of unique and delectable flavors. Though there are a few shops around the city, the Jenny’s on Southport is the go-to spot for summery satisfaction.
Popular ice cream choices include Brambleberry Crisp, Brown Butter Almond Brittle, and their dairy-free sorbets. Jenny’s is also known for its wild, inventive flavors, such as goat cheese and cherries. The creamy texture and rich flavors make Jeni’s a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers. Whether craving something classic or adventurous, Jenny’s has something to satisfy every palate.
Located on Broadway, Brothers Creamery Frozen Custard combines traditional custard with modern flavors and presentation. This ice cream shop is renowned for its ultra-smooth custard, which is made daily in-house. The menu features classic options like vanilla and chocolate alongside inventive flavors such as salted caramel and matcha.
Their specialty sundaes are particularly popular, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. With a contemporary interior and a commitment to quality, Brothers Creamery provides a satisfying experience for custard lovers.
Annette’s Italian Ice on North Bissell is the perfect choice for those looking for a dairy-free alternative. Just a little southwest of Lakeview, Annette’s offers a variety of refreshing Italian ice flavors from standard to adventurous. Each flavor is made with real fruit, giving it an authentic and vibrant taste. Annette’s also offers soft-serve ice cream for those who need a dairy-filled summer treat.
Due to its immense popularity, you might have to wait in line before ordering. However, Annette’s delicious flavors are definitely worth the anticipation.
Scooter’s Frozen Custard, located on Belmont Avenue, has been a staple in Lakeview since 2003. Known for its rich and creamy frozen custard, Scooter’s offers a delightful array of flavors and toppings.
The custard is made fresh daily, ensuring a smooth and delicious experience. If you are easily bored with the typical ice cream selections, Scooter’s changes its flavors weekly, with a new flavor of the day scheduled for each summer afternoon. Scooter’s friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a favorite among Lakeview locals and visitors.
Windy City Sweets on Broadway Avenue is a candy lover’s paradise offering a fantastic selection of ice cream and frozen desserts. The shop features a wide range of homemade ice cream flavors, including classics like vanilla bean and chocolate to beloved favorites like mint chocolate chip.
In addition to ice cream, Windy City Sweets offers gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. The colorful, whimsical atmosphere and extensive selection of treats make Windy City Sweets a delightful destination for dessert enthusiasts of all ages.
Heading north of Lakeview, you’ll find Lickity Split Frozen Custard & Sweets, another northside gem specializing in frozen custard. This shop offers a variety of classic and seasonal flavors, perfect for beating the summertime heat.
If you’re looking for a more decadent ice cream option, Lickity Split is renowned for its colorful sundaes and concretes, made by blending custard with mix-ins like brownies, cookie dough, and fresh fruit. The charming, retro-inspired decor and inviting atmosphere make Lickity Split a fun and nostalgic place to enjoy a frozen treat.
When you think of purchasing a frozen dessert, you might pass up this specialty crepe spot. Known aptly as The Crepe Shop, this Lakeview staple serves some of the best gelato on the north side alongside its signature French delicacy. This cozy cafe offers a rotating selection of gelato flavors, including pistachio, stracciatella, and hazelnut.
The Crepe Shop’s gelato is made with high-quality ingredients and crafted to perfection, resulting in a creamy and flavorful experience. The Crepe Shop’s whimsical decor and delicious offerings make it a great spot to relax and enjoy a sweet treat.
Traveling up on North Clark Street, you’ll end up at one of Chicago’s most beloved spots for sweet treats. Kilwin’s, the confectionary company, offers a wide range of desserts, including ice cream, cakes, and caramel apples.
Kilwins in Andersonville has a variety of wonderful flavors, from Cake Batter and Mackinac Island Fudge to the children’s classic Blue Moon. In addition to ice cream, Kilwins also offers an assortment of handmade chocolates and fudge. The shop’s nostalgic decorations and friendly service create a welcoming environment for those seeking out all kinds of desserts.
Chicago’s northside is home to some of the best ice cream shops in the city. Lakeview’s diverse selection of frozen treat spots ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer traditional ice cream, dairy-free options, or creamy frozen custard, this welcoming neighborhood has plenty of satiating desserts for the whole family.
