As temperatures start to rise, so do Tulanian’s cravings for cool treats. When you’re glistening like Edward fromTwilight (yes, that reference was just made) due to sweat and humidity clinging to your body, what’s the first thing that comes to mind: ice. In New Orleans, one can find a variety of options to satisfy that cold desire. From ice cream to snowballs to freezes and gelato—here’s a definitive ranking of NOLA’s top frozen confectionaries.
Ice Cream: Ice Cream 504
Although I do love Creole Creamery, my roommate told me I had to try Ice Cream 504. Just a quick walk from campus, on the corner of Freret and Jena stands this quaint parlor. Mr. Michael Southall owns and operates the ice-cream shop himself. He make all his small batch ice cream (and cones too) in house with no additives. The delicious flavors range from your basic chocolate and vanilla (although both are richer than any I’ve ever tasted), to blueberry basil and almond petit four. Seasonal flavors get added to the mix too —bing cherry was a recent addition. With all these choices, thankfully Mr. Southall isn’t stingy with his sample spoons, but be reasonable— no dining and dashing— frankly, you’ll want more after you sample, so this won’t be an issue. Caveat: Ice Cream 504 is CASH ONLY, so make sure to have some $$$ on you when you go.
Recommendation: Peach petit four in a waffle cone (also made in house, the cones are awesome)
2. Gelato: Angelo Brocato
Otherwise known as A. Brocato, or simply Brocato’s, this Italian bakery and “gelateria” has been a New Orleans institution since 1905. Going to Brocato’s is like taking a step back in time. Dimly lit antique display cases filled with old school Italian pastries —everything from cannolis to tiramsu— immediately grab your attention. After staring longingly at the cookies, you then notice something glorious: the gelato freezer. Stocked with about two dozen different types of homemade sorbets and gelato, choosing a flavor proves quite difficult. Luckily, Brocato’s is also pretty lenient with their sampling policy and allow two flavors in a small cup too. Warning: there is a card minimum of $5, but buy a few cookies in addition to your gelato and you’ll meet the minimum easily.
Recommendation: the Classic Pistachio is a must.
3. Snoballs: Sal’s Snoballs
A lot of animosity exists around which snowball stand is the best, but I must say, Sal’s Snoballs have won my heart. Although it’s all the way out in Meterie, the drive for these cold, sugary treats is worth it. Their ice is shaved well, and the syrups are all made in house, but what really sets Sal’s apart from the others is their soft-serve ice cream. I generally get my soft-serve atop my mountain of syrupy ice; however, you can also get your snoball stuffed —where the snoball covers the ice cream. Seemingly the case with all NOLA ice cream shops, Sal’s is also cash only.
Recommendation: Wedding cake and chocolate snowball with soft-serve on top. *pro tip*: add hard chocolate sauce to the outside of your soft serve —you won’t regret it.
4. Freezes: Camilla Grill
NOLA’s homage to the milkshake, a freeze is a milkshake with ice in it. I know, I know, ice in a milkshake? Trust me, it’s good and Camilla Grill on S. Carrollton makes them the best. Camilla, New Orleans’ upstanding, old-time dinner, is also known for it’s good ol’ diner food. Next time you’re craving a greasy burger and fries, take a short walk down grab yourself a burger, fries, and make sure to order a freeze—if you still have room, order their pecan pie or take a slice to go (it’s just that good).
Recommendation: Chocolate-Cherry Freeze.
5. Fro-Yo: Yogurtland
Everyone has their favorites, but free samples and gummy bears? Enough said.
Recommendation: Try every sample and then decide #noshame.