As the weather becomes warmer, cold desserts are making their comeback. No matter what flavor, ice cream remains a constant during the spring and summer seasons. Although chain businesses offer consistency and cheap prices, local businesses create experiences unique to the city. Here are a few reviews of local shops for cold treats: 

La Michoacana

In an Instagram poll filled out by over 200 people, La Michoacana was voted the best local shop by 47%. With multiple Memphis locations, La Michoacana offers a large variety of cold treats, as well as an assortment of snacks. One feature that makes this destination stand out is its homemade ice cream.

“It’s a little bit less sweet than others, which is what I really like about it because I don’t really have much of a sweet tooth,” Johave Laureano (9) said. “There’s just different tastes, different textures.”

I have only been to La Michoacana a couple times, but I thoroughly enjoyed each visit. I ordered a simple cookies & cream ice cream, but it seemed to taste better than the typical one. The flavor was not too sweet, and it had the perfect consistency. La Michoacana makes their own ice cream, which makes the experience much more interesting. 

Jerry’s Sno Cones

Jerry’s Sno Cones is one of the oldest and most well-known spots in Memphis. They are known for their long list of unique snow cone flavors and ice cream, and also offer burgers. The building stands out with its colorful paint and special decorations.

“They have a room there that’s fully decorated in Memphis stuff, and I think that kinda sets it apart [from other stores] because everyone else is more focused on the brand and Jerry’s Sno Cones is more focused on the city itself and the people who shop there,” Erin Maury (9) said.

Jerry’s Sno Cones is a classic for anyone who lives in Memphis. I don’t go to Jerry’s Sno Cones very often, but it’s rejuvenating every time I do. I prefer fruity flavors because of their refreshing and crisp taste. The typical flavors are enhanced by asking for ice cream in the middle, and the term “World Famous Snow Cone Supreme” is well deserved.

The Milk Dessert Bar

The Milk Dessert Bar is not the most popular location in Memphis, but certainly not an ordinary one. Although only located in Memphis, they ship custom cakes nationwide. The most notable items on the menu are their large milkshakes that are topped with a variety of candies. Despite the eye-catching sweets, the building itself is out of sight in a busy shopping center.

“It’s so hidden, so not many people go there so you don’t have to wait in long lines,” Madeline Frost (11) said. “It’s just a fun place to go on the weekends … or if you just want to hang out with some friends without a lot of people around.”

I have only been to The Milk Dessert Bar once, and it was definitely a unique experience. I ordered the Circus Milkshake; vanilla ice cream topped with rock candy, a candy bracelet, a lollipop and whipped cream, but due to the size I could not finish it. I would recommend splitting a milkshake, so this is a cute spot for the perfect springtime date. 

Sweet Noshings

Although it is most widely known for being a candy shop, Sweet Noshings also sells ice cream. Sweet Noshings has locations in Overton Square, as well as a new location in East Memphis. They have the classic ice cream flavors, as well as distinctive ones such as Banana Pudding and Blueberry Cheesecake. Along with the flavors, an aspect that convinces customers to return is the service.

“The workers are really nice and the store is really clean,” Meg Rainey (10) said. “It’s just a good environment, and it’s really cool inside.”

I’ve been to Sweet Noshings many times to purchase candy, but have only bought ice cream there a couple of times. I ordered a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough milkshake, which was just the right level of thick and had a wonderful, chocolatey taste. Sweet Noshings is a great place for people who enjoy a variety of flavors and enjoy trying new things.