As we reach the final stretch of summer, sweltering August days may seem like a drag– especially with the smell of pumpkin spice just around the corner. This time of year still has one thing beat, however, and that’s the gratification of a good ice cream cone on a hot day. If you’re wondering about some of the finest that Lexington has to offer, look no further.
1210 Manchester Street / 3101 Clays Mill Road
There is perhaps no ice cream more synonymous with Lexington than Crank and Boom, serving gourmet frozen treats in flavors such as Bourbon & Honey and Kentucky Blackberry & Buttermilk. While their signature flavors are enjoyed across the community, they also have a rotating menu of seasonal and limited-batch ice cream, as well as sorbet and dairy-free options. Another distinctly Bluegrass trait of Crank and Boom is the ability to order ice cream floats made with bourbon cream and locally brewed rum thanks to a full menu of elaborately crafted “ice cream cocktails.”
836 Euclid Avenue / 1925 Justice Drive
If you’re from the Ohio and Kentuckiana area, there’s a high chance you’re familiar with Graeter’s. While their ice cream can be found in grocery stores across the US, their in-house scoops are considered by many to be unparalleled. While they are best known for their presence in their home state of Ohio (one of their perennial flavors being “Buckeye Blitz”) they’re also well-loved here in the Bluegrass state. Along with its famous french-pot ice cream, Graeter’s also has several fruit sorbets as well as vegan pints.
Freshie’s Ice Cream & Soda Fountain
3851 Kenesaw Drive
This relatively new but already popular spot isn’t just a good ice cream parlor; it’s an impressively devoted throwback to soda foundations of the 1950’s sporting a long list of both classic and unique flavors. It’s not without a modern twist, though– alongside their regular offerings, Freshie’s vegan menu includes a multitude of ice cream options as well as dairy-free milkshakes, whipped cream, and “egg” cream.
Sav’s Restaurant & Gourmet Ice Cream
630 E Main Street
While Sav’s traditional West African cuisine is what made this beloved local restaurant famous, their frozen menu is not to be underestimated (some local foodies would consider it heresy to go to Sav’s and not also order dessert.) While all the classics are here, if unique and tasty ice cream flavors like cinnamon and lavender are up your alley, then you’re in for a treat. Sav’s also serves up sorbet, including the signature BeeSop, or lemon-hibiscus, flavor.
591 W Short Street
Sorella Gelateria serves small-batch Italian gelato, but its frequent customers might say they serve up nothing short of heaven, especially as Lexington’s only specialized gelateria with authentic Italian ingredients to boot. You can get a delicious scoop (or scoops!) of flavors like strawberry and chocolate, but you can also find one-of-a-kind treats like a Nutella-flavored gelato.
