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Cambridge Dining Guide

Best Ice Cream in Cambridge

Cambridge's best ice cream shops — from iconic scoops to artisan gelato. Cool down with the city's sweetest spots.

3 restaurants curated

Cambridge is arguably the ice cream capital of New England. The city is home to iconic shops that have been scooping since the mid-20th century alongside newer artisan gelaterias and creative small-batch producers. Summer lines out the door are a rite of passage, but true locals know these shops are worth visiting year-round.

Insider TipSkip the weekend afternoon lines. Weekday evenings after 7 PM are the sweet spot — full flavor selection, minimal wait.

Central Square

1

Toscanini's Ice Cream

Ice Cream · Central Square

The New York Times called it 'the best ice cream in the world.' People Magazine named their vanilla the best in America. I've known the Rancatore family my entire life - I worked for Mimi (Gus's sister) in high school, scooping ice cream and learning what it means to be obsessive about quality. Gus was my daughter's first babysitter. This isn't just a recommendation; Toscanini's is family. They still make everything from scratch, still source the best ingredients, still refuse to cut corners. The Burnt Caramel is legendary. The B3 (brown butter, brown sugar, brownie) is my order. Cambridge institution since 1981.

4.7$$T accessible

Kendall Square

1

Toscanini's Ice Cream - Kendall

Ice Cream · Kendall Square

The Kendall Square outpost of the ice cream shop that the New York Times called 'the best in the world.' Same obsessive quality, often less crowded than Central. Perfect for the biotech crowd who need a reminder that life is about more than data. The MIT students know - this has been fueling late-night problem sets for decades. People Magazine named their vanilla the best in America.

4.6$$T accessible

Harvard Square

1

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

Ice Cream · Harvard Square

Brooklyn-based artisan ice cream shop opened in Harvard Square. Known for rich, creative flavors using high-quality ingredients. Vegan options available. Opened Fall 2024.

4.5$$T accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

Cambridge is home to several nationally recognized ice cream shops that have been local institutions for decades. The city's ice cream scene is considered one of the best in New England.

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