Patch Picks: Cool Off At Ridgefield's Ice Cream Joints

Although the weather has cooled off a bit, it’s still the season for ice cream.  If you are craving a refreshing sweet treat, here are five places to visit:

– 381 Main St., (203) 438-0065

Deborah Ann’s expanded ice cream section is now open next door to the main Sweet Shoppe.  There are 24 rotating flavors of decadent ice cream made in store.   The menu is in the process of being finalized; in addition to ice cream, they will have ice coffees, smoothies, banana splits, sundaes, frozen yogurt & sugar-free ice cream. www.deborahanns.com

– 24 Prospect St., (203) 438-8200

Piccolo has a gelato bar with 8 flavors, including 2 with fruit (non dairy), 2 with nuts, and chocolate & chocolate chip.  Four rotate every day, while chocolate chip, chocolate, hazelnut & mixed berry remain as staples.  Sizes range from kid size ($3.50) to a pint ($14.50).  If you have not tried Gelato yet, you should: it is much denser than regular ice cream, which means it is lower in fat and calories, and more flavorful. www.piccolopizzeria.com

– 424 Main St., (203) 431-2130

A sweet treat that tastes good AND is good for you?  Hard to believe, but it’s true!  Swizzles’ frozen yogurt is made with natural ingredients, and contains probiotics and lots of calcium.  A new addition to the scene, Swizzles is here just in time for the hot weather.  With a variety of flavors available in the self-serve dispensers, and all priced at 59 cents an ounce, you will have fun creating your own concoction. www.swizzlesyogurt.com

– 680 Danbury Rd., (203) 438-3094

You will feel like you are visiting another decade when you visit the Ridgefield Ice Cream Shop.  The delicious ice cream, milk shakes and malts have been bringing customers in for years, and will likely continue for decades to come. 

– 113 Danbury Rd., (203) 438-7424

Carvel is a Ridgefield institution, in business for more than 20 years.  Create your ideal ice cream concoction with the wide variety of toppings available.  And for your next special occasion, take home one of the delicious, beautifully decorated, ice cream cakes. www.carvel.com

– 90 Danbury Rd., (203) 438-3331

With 31 flavors, you are bound to find something to suit your taste buds.  Try one of the many popular flavors, such as Oreo® Cookies ‘n Cream, or Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.  If you are looking for something on the lighter side, choose one of the low-cal, fat-free, dairy-free, or no sugar added “Bright Choices” options.

www.baskinrobbins.com

Who needs hot weather to have ice cream?  What are your favorite flavors?