By: Lindsay Garbacik By: Lindsay Garbacik | May 17, 2022 | Food & Drink, Guides,
Warmer weather and sunnier days means any chance to stop for ice cream is a good one. Vegan ice cream shops have come a long way since the dairy-free flavors were first introduced to frozen dessert menus and we’re obsessed. Whether you love vegan ice cream for its health or environmental benefits, or are just looking to try something new, we’ve rounded up five of the best vegan ice cream shops in Chicago that you must try!
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This nationally-loved brand has a number of tasty vegan ice cream flavors that are worth trying. Texas sheet cake, caramel pecan sticky buns, cold brew with coconut cream, lemon bar, and dark chocolate truffle are just a few of the dairy free, vegan flavors the brand offers. Better yet, all of their flavors are available in pints for online ordering and delivery.
2353 N California Ave. / Website
Enjoy vegan handmade frozen novelties like ice pops and ice cream bars from this inventive shop. The founder, Dana Cree, follows a strict gluten free diet, so guests can expect all products to be gluten free as well. The shop is highly aware of food allergies, making it a great stop for people with severe allergies but be sure to check their website’s section on allergens to ensure you or your crew won’t experience cross-contamination.
838 N State Street / Website
With the entire store vegan and gluten free, there’s a lot to choose from for careful eaters. The shop offers tasty vegan ice cream in cookie sandwiches, in dishes, and in pints. Swing by the shop for a large selection of vegan baked goods and desserts, as well.
931 W Belmont Ave. / Website
There’s a host of vegan frozen dessert options at the Sundae Stop. Vegan ice cream flavors include mocha, ube, matcha, mint chip and key lime pie. They also offer many sorbet flavors, like guava, mango, strawberry and grape. This classic train-themed establishment is sure to offer something from its large menu that’s sure to please your whole crew.
1436 W Blackhawk Street / Website
Known as the very first vegan ice cream shop in Chicago, Vaca’s does vegan ice cream like nowhere else. The shop has vanilla and chocolate soft serve ice cream and offers the option to swirl the two together just like classic soft serve. Top it off with a chocolate or peanut butter shell and a variety of vegan toppings. Milkshakes are also vegan and are made with the oat milk based soft serve used for cones.
Photography by: Kenta Kikuchi / Unsplash