Seattle’s Top 10 Ice Cream Spots

Seattle’s known for its coffee and rain, but when summer arrives it is hot, sunny and great to be outside.  The heat can get to you, but the city has some of the best frozen treats in the country. Whether you’re looking for small-batch, nostalgia, or just a killer milkshake, the city delivers. Here are Seattl's top 10 ice cream spots to get your frozen fix, from a local who’s tried them all—probably too many times.

1. Husky Deli & Cafe (West Seattle)
A West Seattle institution since 1932, Husky Deli isn’t just old-school—it defines it. Their house-made ice cream has that rich, no-nonsense flavor that brings you right back to childhood. Try the Swiss Chocolate—locals swear by it.

2. Salt & Straw (Ballard & Capitol Hill)
Yes, it’s Portland-based, but Salt & Straw has earned its place here. Creative, rotating flavors like Honey Lavender or Pear & Blue Cheese might sound wild, but they work. It's worth the line.

3. Full Tilt Ice Cream (White Center, Ballard, U-District)
Pinball machines, punk rock, and ice cream with attitude. Full Tilt makes small-batch flavors with bold personality. Thai Tea and Blue Moon are local favorites.

4. Sweet Alchemy (U-District)
Organic, sustainable, and seriously delicious. Sweet Alchemy’s texture is smooth and dense, and you can taste the quality. Try the Earl Grey or Pistachio.

Sweet Alchemy

5. Frankie & Jo’s (Capitol Hill & Ballard)
Plant-based and shockingly creamy. Even dairy die-hards admit this spot is legit. Salty Caramel Ash is the go-to, and don’t skip the gluten-free waffle cone.

6. Shug’s Soda Fountain (Downtown/Pike Place)
Retro vibes and banana splits with a view of the Market. What more do you want?

7. Cupcake Royale (Multiple Locations)
Known for cupcakes, but their ice cream game is strong. Scout Mint and Whiskey Maple Bacon are cult classics.

8. The Cookie Counter (Greenwood)
All vegan, all the time, and their cookie ice cream sandwiches are unreal.

9. Full Tilt Ice Cream (again, yes, they deserve two shout-outs)
They make custom flavors for local events. Find one and try it.

10. Burgermaster (Various Locations)
Technically a burger joint, but their thick, creamy milkshakes are elite. Get a chocolate one and enjoy it with your fries—you won't be sorry.