Pinoys face the heat all year round, even during the rainy season! The easiest way to beat the heat is to grab a cup, cone, or even a pint of ice cream. While it's tempting to pick up a tub from the grocery store or grab a quick fix from your favorite fast food place, nothing quite compares to the experience of visiting a dedicated ice cream shop. There’s something special about seeing all the flavors laid out before you, sampling a few (much to the server’s amusement), and finally settling on your favorite. Here are five ice cream shops to check out on your next ice cream run:
1. Carousel Creamery
Famous for its tagline of having “101 Flavors” to try, Carousel Creamery invites you to take your taste buds on an adventure. Whether you’re up for classic flavors like Vanilla Bean and Pistachio or ready to explore the wild side with Wasabi, White Rabbit, Cough Syrup, Puto & Cheese, and more, this spot has something for everyone.
Location: San Juan
2. Mad Mark’s Creamery
Mad Mark’s Creamery serves up deliciously thick ice cream with a range of flavors, from beloved classics like Rocky Road and Double Dutch to creative twists like Walnut Cinnamon, Javan Hot Chocolate, and their unique take on vanilla, Half-Baked Madagascar.
Locations: Pasig, Quezon City, Makati, and Taguig
3. Gelato by Chef Miko
Created by award-winning chef Miko Aspiras, Gelato by Chef Miko offers a selection of unique and intriguing flavors, inspired by both Italian and Filipino tastes. You’ll find options like Nocciola (hazelnut), Tiramisu, and Espresso alongside Filipino-inspired choices like Salted Caramel Muscovado, Scramble, and Polvo (inspired by polvoron).
Locations: Taguig, San Juan, and Makati
4. Sebastian’s Ice Cream
Sebastian’s Ice Cream is known for its wide range of artisanal flavors, many of which celebrate Filipino culture. Try their rotating selection of Filipino-inspired flavors like Sapin-Sapin, Biko, and Ube Pili. If you’re looking for something different, they also offer popsicles, ice cream cakes, and “Chilly Burgers” (ice cream sandwiches) that are just as tempting.
Location: Mandaluyong
5. Carmen’s Best
While you can easily find Carmen’s Best ice cream at many grocery stores, there’s something special about visiting one of their brick-and-mortar parlors. Indulge in a scoop (or two) of your favorite flavor, like Brown Butter Almond Brittle or Butter Pecan, in a more immersive setting. For a twist, try your favorite flavor in sundae or milkshake form—something unique to their stores.
Locations: Makati and Pasay