Did you know July is National Ice Cream Month? Even better — National Ice Cream Day is coming up on Sunday, July 20. There’s no better time to treat yourself and explore all the frozen delights Long Island City has to offer.
From rich gelato to tart sorbet, from traditional cones to modern soft serve — LIC is home to a variety of shops serving cold treats to keep you cool and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a classic vanilla loyalist or chasing the latest flavor trend, there’s something for everyone.
Below, we’ve rounded up some sweet specials and seasonal offerings happening now — including exclusive Ice Cream Day deals. Be sure to check each business’s website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, flavor availability, and seasonal offerings. Some specials may only be available while supplies last.
Soft Swerve NYC
24-17 Jackson Ave. (inside JACX&CO)
This summer, Soft Swerve is serving up two seasonal vegan-friendly sorbets:
- Mango Coconut Sorbet – Sweet, tropical, and dairy-free.
- Lychee Dragon Fruit Sorbet – A light and subtly exotic blend of floral lychee and mild dragon fruit.
Ice Cream Day Special: Get a FREE double scoop upgrade with any single scoop purchase — Sunday, July 20 only.
Softbite
42-60 Crescent St.
Flavors include classic vanilla and a limited-time yuzu — a bright, citrusy option perfect for summer.
Ice Cream Day Special: On Sunday, July 20 from 5–7 p.m., Softbite is giving out FREE ice cream — no purchase necessary, while supplies last.
Chip City Cookies
42-15 Crescent St.
Their popular summer sundaes are back through Labor Day. Build your own with a Thin Chip cookie, your choice of ice cream, and all the toppings — just $9.
Manducatis Rustica VIG
46-35 Vernon Blvd
Enjoy authentic Italian gelato served on imported waffle cones. A local favorite for traditional, no-frills frozen indulgence.
Mango Mango LIC
47-43 Vernon Blvd
Mango Mango has teamed up with Tajín® for a bold mash-up of Asian and Mexican flavors, featured in their signature shaved ice and the ever-popular Mangonada.
Emack & Bolio’s
5-36 50th Ave
Ice Cream Day Special: Get an extra scoop free on any specialty cone — all day on Sunday, July 20.
Taku Parlor
5-50 50th Ave
Serving Japanese craft soft serve in flavors like matcha — smooth, earthy, and perfect for summer.
Santa Chiara Caffè
52-41 Center Blvd
Ice Cream Day Special: Buy two, get one free — featuring a brand-new seasonal flavor: Ricotta & Pear.
Whether you’re local or just visiting, Long Island City is the place to chill this July.
Tag your frozen adventures with #LICQNS and support local small businesses while staying cool.
Photo courtesy of Soft Swerve
