The Best Ice Cream Sundaes in New York City

New York City is renowned for its plethora of dessert options, and ice cream sundaes are no exception. Each ice cream parlor or shop in the city offers their own spin on this classic dessert, making it a challenging feat to find the best. In this article, we explore the top contenders and the sundaes that have earned their place at the top of the list.

Max Brenner in Union Square: The S'Mores Sundae

If you're looking for a unique and memorable ice cream sundae, Max Brenner in Union Square is the place to go. Serving as much more than a simple ice cream shop, Max Brenner offers gourmet treats that are designed to surprise and satisfy. Their signature S'Mores Sundae is not just a copy of the classic campfire treat; it is an elevated version that brings a whole new level of indulgence to the table.

This sundae features a rich layer of chocolate ice cream, melded with a gooey graham cracker cookie, and enhanced with a generous scoop of toasted marshmallow. To top it all off, a drizzle of rich homemade chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of white chocolate chips bring the flavors together in perfect harmony. The smokey and toasty notes of the toasted marshmallows complement the creamy chocolate ice cream beautifully, creating a sundae that is both comforting and luxurious.

ABC Kitchen: Decadent Salted Caramel Sundae

For those with an appreciation for more complex and refined flavors, ABC Kitchen offers a decadent salted caramel sundae that is impossible to resist. The chocolate ice cream forms the base, with a rich and creamy texture that is neither overbearing nor too sweet. It is punctuated with homemade Cracker Jack hot fudge, which adds a depth of flavor that is both sweet and slightly bitter. Contrasted against this is a layer of rich caramel sauce, which is drizzled over the sundae in such a way that it enhances the overall texture and taste.

As the caramel sauce pools over the ice cream and fudge, it creates an bursts of flavor that are both indulgent and sophisticated. To finish the sundae off, whipped cream is added to give it a light and fluffy texture. The touch of sea salt scattered on top adds just the right amount of contrast to the sweet and caramel flavors, making this sundae a true dessert lover's delight. The combination of rich, indulgent flavors and the slight bitterness of the salted caramel make this a truly unforgettable experience.

Emack Bolio’s: A Classic Ice Cream Parlor Experience

While the previous sundaes offer something unique and complex, Emack Bolio’s in the West Village provides a truly unadulterated experience of the classic ice cream parlor. This quaint ice cream parlor has been serving up homemade, nostalgic treats for over a century, and it shows in every sundae they serve. For those who are looking for a true taste of old-school ice cream desire, this is the place to go.

The ultimate ice cream sundae offered here is a testament to the parlor’s commitment to quality and tradition. It features rich chocolate ice cream, topped with a generous layer of homemade cracker jack hot fudge made with caramel, nuts, and popcorn. A sprinkle of almonds on top provides the perfect crunch, while a serving of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream create a nice contrast. For those who prefer something a little more adventurous, Emack Bolio’s also offers a variety of toppings to choose from, including butterscotch, caramel, and fudge sauce.

Serendipity 3 and Shake Shack: Must-Try Sundaes

Of course, any discussion about the best ice cream sundaes in New York City would not be complete without mentioning Serendipity 3 and Shake Shack. Serendipity 3 is a classic New York institution known for its whimsical decor and decadent dessert menu. Their S’mores Sundae is a nod to the classic campfire treat, featuring rich chocolate ice cream with graham crackers, marshmallow, and a whipped cream drizzle, all of which are bathed in a dark chocolate sauce.

Shake Shack, on the other hand, has gained a reputation for its innovative and delicious food offerings. While not primarily an ice cream shop, their dessert menu includes a Chocolate Avocado Chocolate Mousse Sundae, which is a unique and healthy spin on the classic sundae. The rich and creamy chocolate mousse paired with fresh strawberries, fresh whipped cream, and a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce makes this sundae a guilty pleasure that is both indulgent and healthy.

These options, with their unique twists and rich flavors, make Shake Shack a must-try for those in search of a novel and delicious ice cream sundae experience.

Conclusion

When it comes to the best ice cream sundaes in New York City, each establishment offers something that sets it apart. From the unique and sophisticated flavors of Max Brenner’s S’Mores Sundae to the nostalgic and delightful options at Emack Bolio’s, there is something to suit every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic or something truly innovative, these options provide an unparalleled dessert experience.