It turns out that Chicago has A LOT of ice cream shops. You could spend each of July’s 22 remaining days trying out somewhere new. And honestly, I might.
I even found some vegan options, so there’s really no excuse to sit out of the month’s revelry.
D’Fruta La Vida (Logan Square)
This charming spot at 3739 W. Fullerton Ave. offers a variety of unique frozen treats. All of the ice cream at D’Fruta La Vida is handcrafted, but it doesn’t stop there. From paletas and magonadas to smoothies and freshly squeezed juices, you’re sure to find something you like.
- 🍧 This summer, their five new flavors are: Piña Colada, Coco en Agua, Ferrero, Café de Olla, Pie de Limón, and Strawberry Cheesecake.
B&B Ice Cream and Candy (Auburn Gresham)
Ellen Brazley opened B&B Ice Cream and Candy at 8238 S. Racine in 2016 in honor of her grandparents, who ran a food and game room in the neighborhood throughout the 1980s.
Some of the shop’s most popular treats include: ice cream (duh), Italian ice, candies, and fresh chocolates. There’s also a second location in Brainerd at 1308 W. 95th St.
- 🐝 Did you know that the shop’s mascots, Grandpa Bee and Grandma Bee, represent the family business’ origin story?
Richard’s Super Premium Ice Cream (Pullman)
Since 1999, Richard’s Super Premium Ice Cream at 11033 S. Langley Ave. has brought the city homemade speciality flavors. Seriously, think of any flavor, and they’ve probably already turned it into an ice cream. From Rum Raisin to Sweet Potato Pie to Orange Dream Crush, all of the shop’s flavors share one key ingredient: happiness.
- 🍌Check out this summer’s special flavor, Original Banana Pudding. They say it “tastes better than the real thing!”
Runaway Cow (Bridgeport)
If you and milk don’t really get along, don’t worry! I’ve still found a way for you to celebrate National Ice Cream Month. Well, actually, it’s the owner of Runaway Cow at 608 W. 31st St. who deserves the credit.
She learned she’d developed an intolerance to milk while working in her family’s 50-year-old ice cream shop and wasn’t ready to give up her favorite dessert. Thus, Runaway Cow was born. All of the ice cream is made from an oat milk base, which gives it a creamy and rich flavor.
- 🍦Try a speciality sundae like the Fluffernutter, which is vanilla ice cream topped with marshmallow, peanut butter, nuts, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
