ZipPicks Awards
Best Ice Cream in Long Island City
Master Critic Review
Emack & Bolio's
8.0
Vibes:
Sweet Treats Escapes
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Instagram Worthy Wonders
A playful scoop shop known for rotating flavors and the cereal-rim cone move that turns a simple order into a full-on dessert. Best when you go one classic plus one wild-card flavor so the cone doesn’t overwhelm the ice cream itself.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toasted S'moreo, Oreo (or cookies-and-cream lane), Cereal-rim cone with a rotating seasonal scoop
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Rotating flavors plus the signature cereal-rim cone experience.
Who should go: Cone people and family dessert runs
When to visit: Weekend afternoons for peak selection
What to order: One rotating seasonal, one chocolate-forward scoop, cereal-rim cone
Insider tip: Do one scoop in a cup first if you’re unsure about the cereal rim.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive, especially on weekends; metered street spots nearby and paid garages within a few blocks are the safest bet.
Dress code: Casual—sneakers, jeans, summer fits all welcome.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy conversation, but can get lively with families during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during busy afternoon and early evening rushes
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most flavors are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—usually a few sorbets or dairy-free rotating options.
Gluten-free options: Yes for scoops; cones and cereal rims contain gluten, but cups are safe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a casual, low-pressure date—fun flavors give you something to talk about, but it’s more playful than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations; it’s counter service with limited seating, so expect to stand or take your cone to-go if it’s busy.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—bright flavors, cereal cones, and quick service make it great for kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Playful, customizable cones and rotating flavors that feel fun and indulgent without being overly serious.
Consider Alternatives If: You want ultra-premium, chef-driven ice cream or a quiet sit-down dessert experience—look to more artisanal scoop shops instead.