1. The Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Ice Cream District, Commercial Boulevard
OK, technically there is no such thing as the Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Ice Cream District. Although there could be. Stand at Commercial and A1A facing the ocean and look around you. On the north side of the street, you’ve got Kilwin’s for traditional ice cream and chocolates, as well as The Hyppo and its “gourmet ice pops.” Across the street you’ve got Sloan’s, bright pink and with pretty much every ice cream topping known to man. And just a few doors towards the beach you’ve got the Italian stylings of 4D Gelateria. Everything that’s good and frozen, all within one square block.
2. Wilton Creamery, 2301 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors
This place takes ice cream seriously. They’ve got rotating seasonal flavors as well as small batches of new stuff they’re working on. There are sugar-free options for those with dietary requirements or who are looking for something a little healthier, sorbets and toppings you’ve probably never even thought of. Oh, and in case the pupper’s feeling left out, they’ve got dog-friendly ice creams too. And it’s all served up in a stylishly chic spot on that excellent people-watching street, Wilton Drive.
3. Leo’s Gourmet Frozen Treats, 4750 N Dixie Hwy., Suite 6
Vegan ice cream, dairy-free gelato – if dairy’s not a part of your diet, or if you’re just looking for something a little different (but still tasty), Leo’s got you. And in addition to the more standard flavors, they’ve got tastes such as Caipirinha (regular and passion fruit), sangria and even avocado. And did we mention they deliver?
4. Yo Mama’s Ice Cream, 901 Sunrise Ln.
We can all return to the beach now, the spring breakers have gone. And while we’re there, we can stop in this place in the fun little area between Sunrise and the Bonnet House. With a massive toppings bar, ice cream made on premises and gourmet popcorn and frozen lemonade for anybody not feeling the ice cream vibe, this is a tucked-away gem.
5. Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor and Restaurant, 128 S Federal Hwy., Dania Beach
Listen. We know you know about Jaxson’s. Everybody knows about all the flavors, about the Kitchen Sink, about the excellent burger joint menu that you have to be careful with because you don’t want to spoil your appetite before the ice cream. But not mentioning Jaxson’s would be like making a list of Dolphins quarterbacks and leaving off that Marino fella. Visit the institution.
