Asking who makes the best ice cream in Philadelphia is like asking who makes the best cheesesteak—everyone has a strong opinion. Instead of taking sides, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s most beloved ice cream shops, from historic creameries to artisanal newcomers. Whether you crave classic vanilla, adventurous flavors, or vegan scoops, this guide covers the best places to get ice cream, each offering a unique spin on the beloved treat.

A Scoop of History: Philadelphia Ice Cream

It is believed that in the late 13th Century, Marco Polo brought Chinese ice cream recipes with him back to Italy. So, while we cannot take credit for inventing ice cream, Philly did come up with a new recipe! 

In the 1830s, August Jackson, a Black chef who served four Presidents at the White House, including James and Dolly Madison, moved backed to his hometown of Philadelphia. Here, he pioneered modern methods for manufacturing ice cream and created a new recipe, without eggs, which became known as “Philadelphia Style.” He sold ice cream wholesale, in his confectionery and catering business, becoming one of the wealthiest men in the City, earning the title, “The Father of Ice Cream.”

Philly’s Historic Ice Cream Companies

Bassett’s, established in 1861, is the oldest Philly ice cream company still in existence, not just here but in the nation. A family-owned business, now in its 6th generation, it was founded by Lewis Dubois Bassett, a Quaker school teacher and farmer who made his first batch of ice cream on his Salem, New Jersey farm using a mule for power. In 1885, he opened his first ice cream parlor at 5th and Market, then relocated to Reading Terminal in 1892, where it is still available today. This makes Bassetts the only remaining original merchant in the Terminal Market. Every day, customers flock to Bassett’s 125-year-old marble counter for their unique recipe, which is irresistibly creamy due to its high butter and fat content. In addition to the usual suspects, their flavors include S’Mores, Green Tea, and Pomegranate Blueberry Chunk. Bassett’s ice cream can also be enjoyed at La Mousse locations in Chinatown, South Street & University City, as well as at Bredenbeck’s Bakery in Chestnut Hill. 

The next Philly ice cream company that stood the test of time is Breyer’s, which was started in 1866 by William A Breyer. His first store was on Frankford Avenue. & Somerset in Port Richmond. By 1882, Breyer had five ice cream shops and a delivery service. He opened his first wholesale manufacturing plant in 1896. In 1924, Breyer had a plant at 2501 Germantown Avenue and another in West Philadelphia on 43rd Street. Breyer’s became known for their use of pure vanilla beans in their vanilla ice cream, which helped turn it into a national brand. The company was sold several times, and the Philadelphia plant was closed in 1995. It remains one of the best-selling ice cream brands in the nation.

Abbott’s started as a dairy company in 1886. After buying an existing ice cream company, they opened a plant at Lehigh & American St. Although Abbott’s eventually closed in 1984, after 108 years in business, you may still find their nostalgic signs hanging over luncheonettes, especially in South Philly, Kensington, and Port Richmond.

The Best Ice Cream Shops in Philly Today

Entering Franklin Fountain, 112 &116 Market, feels like stepping back into the Victorian era, right down to the Tiffany-style lamps and marble countertop. This belies the fact that it was opened in 2004 by brothers Eric and Ryan Berley, who began making their ice cream two years later. Sodas are dispensed from an early 1900s soda fountain. Check out the authentic tin walls, ceilings, and original porcelain mosaic tile floor. Stop by for a sundae, milkshake, ice cream soda, or a cone. They also offer vegan ice cream. Open every day 11 am – midnight. Franklin Fountain also has a sister shop next door, selling old-fashioned candies and chocolate, Shane Confectionery.

With ice cream shops in Rittenhouse Square and Fishtown, chances are you have sampled Weckerly’s exotic ice cream flavors: Tahini Date Nugget, Lavender Goat Cheese, or Ginger Honey Miso. Not to worry, they also make Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry. Their chunky mini ice cream sandwiches are just the right size for a child’s hands or a lucky pup’s mouth. 

Founded in 2012, this homegrown operation started small and grew into a micro-creamery specializing in small-batch, handmade ice cream at Globe Dye Works, a repurposed textile plant in North Philadelphia. Unlike other brands, you don’t need a magnifying glass to read their ingredients, which are listed on the front of each pint. Besides locations at 1600 Spruce and 9 W Girard, you’ll find Weckerly’s at many retailers, including South Philly Coop, Weavers Way Coop, Riverwards Produce, Rally Cafe, Herman’s Coffee, Schmear It Bagels, and Liberty Grounds.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream was founded in 2008 in NYC by brothers Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen. Competition-wise, this may be the richest, most flavorful, addictive ice cream this side of the Atlantic. The richness is due to the addition of eggs, making it French, rather than Philadelphia-style, ice cream. But you be the judge! 

If you are a coffee lover, dip a spoon into their Coffee Affogato, based on the classic Italian dessert of vanilla gelato with a shot of espresso. Other flavors unique to Van Leeuwen include Black Cherry Chip, Lemon Poppyseed Muffin, and Earl Grey Tea. Vegan? They’ve got you covered with non-dairy ice cream made from coconuts, cashews, and oats, including Strawberry Shortcake, Cookies & Cream Caramel Swirl, plus chocolate-covered vegan ice cream bars. Find their shops at 119 S. 13th St, 115 S. 18th St, 1601 Frankford Ave, and 3631 Walnut. Also sold at Whole Foods, Giant, CVS, Target, and Weavers Way Co-op.

Next time you are in the Italian Market, stop by La Guerrerense at 9th & Ellsworth for an eye-popping view of 100 flavors of Mexican-style ice cream and ices. That includes (helados), homemade water or milk-based popsicles (paletas), and ices made with fresh fruits. They also serve Mexican-style corn on the cob, elotes, fresh mango, and sundaes that defy the imagination. If you can think it, they can make it!

From the 19th-century legacy of Philadelphia-style ice cream to the creative innovations of today’s artisanal makers, Philly’s ice cream scene offers something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a cone at Reading Terminal Market or discovering a new flavor in the Italian Market, the city is full of sweet spots worth exploring.