The Scoop on the Best Ice Cream in Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine, is known for its charming waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and, of course, its delicious food scene. And no summer trip to Portland is complete without indulging in some of the city's best ice cream.
From classic flavors to unique creations, Portland offers a wide variety of ice cream shops to satisfy every sweet tooth. Here's a guide to some of the best places to grab a cone in the city:
1. The Holy Donut
While technically a donut shop, The Holy Donut deserves a spot on this list. Their innovative, Maine-made donuts are available in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to unique flavors like blueberry basil and lavender honey. The shop also offers a seasonal ice cream selection that pairs perfectly with their donuts, making for a truly indulgent treat.
2. Gelato Fiasco
This popular spot is known for its authentic Italian gelato, made with fresh, local ingredients. Gelato Fiasco offers a rotating selection of flavors, including classics like chocolate and vanilla, as well as seasonal specialties like strawberry rhubarb and honey lavender.
3. The Ice Cream Bar
This Portland institution is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The Ice Cream Bar offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors, including unique options like salted caramel brownie and peanut butter pretzel. They also have a great selection of toppings, including homemade sauces and fresh fruit.
4. B&M Baked Beans
While primarily known for their baked beans, B&M Baked Beans also serves up a delightful selection of ice cream flavors. Their soft serve ice cream comes in classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla, and is a perfect way to cool off after a long day of exploring Portland.
5. The Daily Planet
This casual, family-friendly restaurant also boasts a fantastic ice cream menu. The Daily Planet offers a variety of flavors, including classics like chocolate and vanilla, as well as unique options like chai tea and pumpkin spice.
Honorable Mentions:
- Salt & Honey: This charming shop offers a unique selection of ice cream flavors, including lavender honey and black sesame.
- Little Giant: This popular spot offers a rotating selection of small-batch ice cream flavors, with an emphasis on local ingredients.
- The French Confection: This bakery and cafe offers a small but delicious selection of homemade ice cream flavors.
No matter what your taste buds desire, Portland has an ice cream shop that will satisfy your cravings. So, grab a cone, sit back, and enjoy the sweet side of Maine!