Seattle's Best Ice Cream [Updated 2025]

After sampling an impressive 12 unique flavors across the city's top creameries, my taste buds are ready to take you on a delicious journey.

Seattle’s ice cream scene is a vibrant tapestry of local ingredients, innovative flavors, and artisanal craftsmanship.

From classic staples that evoke nostalgia to daring combinations that push the boundaries of flavor, there’s something for everyone.

I'll share my top picks, highlighting what makes each spot special, so you can find your new favorite scoop in this incredible city.

Frankie & Jo's Capitol Hill

Highlights
Unique vegan flavor offerings
Courteous and patient staff
Inviting shop ambiance
Delicious waffle cones
Highly recommended desserts

One sunny afternoon, I made my way to Frankie & Jo's Capitol Hill, an enchanting little gem in the heart of Seattle. Right away, the shop's inviting ambiance wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, and I was greeted by a courteous and patient staff that seemed genuinely excited to share their unique offerings.

What sets Frankie & Jo's apart is their tantalizing range of vegan flavors that are as creative as they are delicious. I indulged in their signature chocolate olive oil, which delivered a rich, unexpected depth that danced on my palate. Each scoop is kissed with natural ingredients, making it stand out in a sea of traditional dairy options.

As I savored my cone, I was equally impressed by their delicious waffle cones—crispy and perfectly textured, they elevated the experience even further. The shop's atmosphere, adorned with charming decor, provided a perfect setting for relaxation, and I found myself wishing for just one more scoop.

If you're looking for a unique and delightful ice cream experience in Seattle, Frankie & Jo's is undoubtedly a must-visit, where every bite reflects the magic of plant-based innovation.

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Shug's Soda Fountain and Ice Cream

Highlights
Charming location near Pike Place
Delicious brownie and s'more sundaes
Friendly and efficient service
Nostalgic ice cream parlor vibe
Outdoor and indoor seating options

Nestled near the iconic Pike Place Market, Shug's Soda Fountain and Ice Cream is a delightful escape for those craving a touch of nostalgia paired with delicious treats. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by the charming atmosphere reminiscent of a classic ice cream parlor. The eclectic decor set the stage for my indulgence.

I couldn't resist trying their famous brownie sundae, which was nothing short of heavenly. The warm, fudgy brownie was topped with a generous scoop of velvety ice cream, drizzled with rich hot fudge, and showered with nuts—a true symphony of flavors and textures. If that wasn't enough, I also sampled their s'mores sundae, combining creamy ice cream with toasted marshmallows and graham cracker crumbles. It was a delightful nod to campfire memories.

But what truly set Shug's apart was the friendly and efficient service. The staff was eager to help, radiating positivity that made the experience even sweeter. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, it’s the perfect spot to savor your scoop while watching the world go by. Overall, Shug's Soda Fountain and Ice Cream is a favorite destination for anyone seeking the best ice cream experience in Seattle.

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Indigo Cow - Seattle

Highlights
Smooth and creamy ice cream
Friendly and impressive service
Hokkaido soft serve available
Located in cute Wallingford
Unique matcha and milk swirl

Indigo Cow - Seattle, nestled in the charming Wallingford neighborhood, is truly a delightful gem for ice cream lovers. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a warm atmosphere and exceptionally friendly staff ready to guide me through their offerings. I couldn’t resist trying their Hokkaido soft serve, which boasts a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture that seemed to melt in my mouth.

The standout for me was their unique matcha and milk swirl—a harmonious blend that perfectly balances the earthy notes of matcha with the sweet creaminess of milk. Each lick was an exquisite experience, instantly transporting me to a world of joyful indulgence.

What sets Indigo Cow apart is not just the quality of their ice cream but the impressive service that elevates the entire visit. It feels more like a cozy gathering place rather than just an ice cream shop. If you're wandering through Wallingford and looking for a sweet treat that tickles your taste buds, I wholeheartedly recommend stopping by Indigo Cow. It’s an experience that makes you fall in love with ice cream all over again!

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D'Ambrosio Gelato

Highlights
Authentic Italian Gelato
Rich, Velvety Flavors
Tasty Affogato Option
Popular in Ballard
Not Too Sweet

D'Ambrosio Gelato is a delightful gem tucked away in the charming Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. As I stepped inside, the authentic Italian vibes enveloped me, instantly transporting me to a sun-kissed piazza. The rich, velvety flavors offered here are nothing short of divine. I opted for a scoop of the pistachio, which was both creamy and packed with nutty goodness, striking that perfect balance between indulgence and sophistication.

What truly sets D'Ambrosio apart is their commitment to crafting gelato that isn’t overly sweet. This refreshing approach allows the natural flavors to shine through—each bite feels like a decadent yet light experience. I couldn't resist trying their affogato, a delightful marriage of warm espresso poured over a scoop of gelato; it was an ecstatic combination of hot and cold, bitter and sweet.

With its cozy ambiance and sincere dedication to quality, D'Ambrosio Gelato has carved a sweet niche in Seattle's ice cream scene. For anyone seeking a taste of Italy in the Pacific Northwest, this is the place! Don't miss out on the enchanting flavors that delight your taste buds and elevate your day. Indulge yourself!

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Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream

Highlights
Unique vegan flavor options
Seasonal flavors always a hit
Locally sourced ingredients
Compostable serving materials
Fun and informative website

One sunny afternoon, I wandered into Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream, and let me tell you, it was like stepping into a whimsical wonderland of creamy delights. Immediately, I was struck by their commitment to locally sourced ingredients—a true testament to their passion for quality and community. As a fan of all things unique, I was thrilled to see a variety of vegan flavor options, making this spot inclusive for everyone!

What really stood out were their seasonal flavors—I opted for a scoop of the Lavender Honey and a taste of their Summer Berry Sorbet. Each bite transported me to the essence of a sunny Seattle day. The flavors were vibrant, bursting with freshness and creativity. And as someone who cares about the planet, I appreciated their use of compostable serving materials—kudos for making sustainability delicious!

The icing on the cake? Their fun and informative website! It reflected their playful spirit, providing a glimpse into the ice cream-making magic behind the scenes. Overall, my visit to Molly Moon's was nothing short of delightful—a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, satisfying my sweet tooth with every creamy bite. I’ll be back for more!

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Sweet Alchemy Ice Creamery

Highlights
Unique and rotating flavors
Friendly and welcoming staff
Cozy outdoor seating area
Recommended S'mores Tart
Convenient U-District location

Visiting Sweet Alchemy Ice Creamery in the U-District was like stepping into a whimsical world of flavors that spark the imagination. Upon entering, I was greeted by the friendly and welcoming staff, who directed me to their tantalizing array of unique and rotating flavors. It’s not every day you find gem-like options that change regularly—perfect for the adventurous palate.

I couldn’t resist their S'mores Tart flavor, which transported me straight to a cozy bonfire night with its rich chocolate undertones and graham cracker crunch. Each scoop was a delightful balance of creamy indulgence and playful texture, making it a must-try. Additionally, the cozy outdoor seating area provided a lovely spot to enjoy my treat while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere around me.

What stood out to me most was the passion infused in each creation; the staff’s enthusiasm for their craft was palpable. If you’re searching for a truly delightful ice cream experience, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore Sweet Alchemy. It’s an adventure for your taste buds that blends creativity with classic comfort in every scoop.

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Salt & Straw

Highlights
Exceptional customer service
Unique flavor combinations
Seasonal flavors rotating
Multiple locations available
Tantalizing array of options

Salt & Straw is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Seattle. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with exceptional customer service that felt as warm as a summer day. The staff are not just serving ice cream; they're storytelling artists, eager to share the inspiration behind their unique flavor combinations.

I decided to indulge in a scoop of their signature flavors, which rotate seasonally, ensuring that there's always something new to savor. You could go from classic caramel to adventurous lavender honey, each bite bursting with personality and creativity. It’s a true testament to their commitment to craftsmanship and local ingredients.

The vibrant atmosphere positively drips with excitement, making it impossible for any ice cream enthusiast to resist. I dare you to try the “Honey Lavender” – an infusion of floral notes that dances on your palate! And if you find yourself overwhelmed by choices, fret not; the staff will eagerly guide you through their tantalizing array of options.

In short, Salt & Straw isn’t just another ice cream shop; it's an experience wrapped in a cone, begging you to indulge and return again and again. 🍦✨

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Lil' Tiger Ice Cream

Highlights
Homemade ice cream delights
Community-driven story
Unique flavor options
Charming local atmosphere
Specialty desserts available

Lil' Tiger Ice Cream is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Seattle, and it swept me off my feet with its homemade ice cream delights. As I stepped inside, I was immediately charmed by the inviting atmosphere that feels both airy and locally grounded. What struck me the most was their commitment to community—each flavor has a story, making each bite not just delicious but meaningful.

The selection is anything but ordinary; I found myself torn between their unique flavor options, which showcase inventive combinations that tantalize the taste buds. I finally settled on the lavender honey vanilla, and it was a revelation! The creaminess and subtle floral notes danced harmoniously, creating a truly refreshing experience. It’s clear that their ice cream isn’t just an afterthought; it’s crafted with passion and creativity.

What’s more, Lil' Tiger offers tempting specialty desserts, perfect for anyone looking to indulge in something beyond traditional scoops. Overall, my visit to this charming spot was a delightful adventure, and I can confidently say that Lil' Tiger Ice Cream is a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast in Seattle. Prepare yourself for a treat that will have you coming back for more!

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Fainting Goat Gelato - Wallingford

Highlights
Best gelato in Seattle
Amazing hazelnut and peach flavors
Perfectly balanced salted caramel
Creamy yet soft texture
Tiramisu flavor a must-try

Fainting Goat Gelato - Wallingford is an absolute gem when it comes to gelato in Seattle. As soon as I walked in, the warm, inviting atmosphere beckoned, making it hard to resist the delicious concoctions behind the glass. I decided to dive into their offerings and was completely taken by their hazelnut gelato—a flavor so rich and nutty, it practically danced on my palate.

The peach gelato was another highlight, bursting with fresh fruit flavor that felt like a summer day in every scoop. But the real showstopper? The salted caramel. Its perfect balance of sweet and salty left me savoring each creamy bite, reluctant to finish. And let’s not forget the tiramisu flavor—a heavenly nod to the beloved Italian dessert that transported me straight to a café in Rome.

The texture is undeniably creamy yet soft, melting in your mouth just the way gelato should. Fainting Goat isn’t just about the flavors; it’s about the experience. Walking out with a cup full of joy, I understood why this place is frequently heralded as the best gelato spot in Seattle. If you’re searching for a delicious escape, this whimsical delight is not to be missed!

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Matcha Man Ice Cream & Taiyaki

Highlights
Charming aesthetic
Customizable flavor options
Unique cherry blossom flavor
Variety of snacks and drinks
Fun touch screen ordering

Matcha Man Ice Cream & Taiyaki is a whimsical delight nestled in the heart of Seattle. From the moment I walked in, the charming aesthetic pulled me in, with vibrant decor and a playful ambiance that sparks joy. I was thrilled to discover their customizable flavor options, which allowed for a creative concoction that spoke to my adventurous spirit.

What truly caught my attention was their unique cherry blossom flavor — delicate and floral, it was a refreshing departure from the usual offerings. Each creamy, dreamy bite was like a stroll through a spring garden. Alongside their ice cream, they serve a variety of snacks and drinks that perfectly complement the heavenly frozen treats. Fun touch screen ordering added to the experience, making it interactive and engaging.

Pondering my choices as I sipped on a refreshing matcha latte, I couldn’t help but appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation at Matcha Man. This spot is more than just a place to cool down; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Each scoop is not just ice cream; it's a delightful memory waiting to be savored. If you’re in Seattle, don’t miss out on this delightful stop!

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Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream

Highlights
High-quality ice cream
Variety of flavor choices
Located in U-Village
Offers brownie bites
Sticker merchandise available

Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream is an ethereal experience nestled in the charming U-Village area, and boy, does it deliver! From the moment I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly churned cream and playful flavors enveloped me like a warm hug. With a fantastic selection of flavors that range from classic vanilla to more adventurous options like lavender or honey balsamic strawberries, I felt like a kid in a candy store—if that candy store was stocked with high-quality ice cream.

As I savored my scoop, I was blown away by the rich, creamy texture that danced on my palate. It was evident that Molly Moon’s prioritizes quality ingredients, which elevate each bite into a delightful treat. I couldn’t resist pairing my ice cream with their decadent brownie bites—a match made in dessert heaven.

Not only is the ice cream stellar, but the fun sticker merchandise adds a quirky charm that invites visitors to take home a piece of the experience. If you’re seeking a true Seattle gem in the ice cream world, you absolutely must indulge in the magic at Molly Moon’s. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Cold Plate

Highlights
Delicious rolled ice cream
Variety of choices available
Hidden cafe vibe
Great service experience
Perfect sized sundaes

Cold Plate Review

Tucked away in a cozy corner of Seattle, Cold Plate is a gem that serves up some of the most delectable rolled ice cream I've had the pleasure of trying. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a delightful hidden cafe vibe that immediately put me at ease. It felt like a secret spot, perfect for indulging in a little sweet escape.

The variety of choices available is impressive! With options ranging from classic vanilla to more adventurous flavors, there’s something to satisfy every palate. I opted for a rich chocolate base adorned with tantalizing toppings that made my taste buds dance. The delicious rolled ice cream was an experience in itself—so creamy and perfectly rolled, it gave an aesthetic appeal that made it even harder to resist.

What truly stood out was the great service experience. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about their craft. They guided me through the menu, making suggestions that elevated my sundae to the next level. Speaking of size, the perfectly sized sundaes allowed me to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. If you're in Seattle and a true ice cream aficionado, don't miss out on Cold Plate—it's a delightful treat waiting to be savored!

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