When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
22 Below
Why 22 Below is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
22 Below stands out as a beloved local spot in the Portland area, celebrated for its authentic bagels and creamy ice cream offerings. It has earned a reputation as the best bagel shop in the Beaverton/Hillsboro area, with many customers highlighting the real bagel experience and unique flavors like their popular chicken salad, which often sells out quickly. The shop also features a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy a casual, delicious meal or treat. Whether you crave a classic bagel breakfast or a decadent ice cream dessert, 22 Below’s consistent quality and friendly vibe make it a favorite hangout spot. Located conveniently in Portland’s Goose Hollow neighborhood, the ice cream is noted for its creamy texture and well-blended flavors, offering a satisfying complement to the savory bagel options.
Here's what people think of 22 Below
As of recent, 22 Below holds a 4.2-star rating based on 474 reviews.
Customer reviews of 22 Below largely praise the quality of the bagels and ice cream. Positive feedback often emphasizes the authentic bagels, especially the standout chicken salad and the creamy, well-mixed ice cream served by knowledgeable staff in the old location. These aspects appeal strongly to regular patrons who appreciate the dedication to quality and flavor. However, some negative reviews mention concerns with service, including instances of incorrect orders and occasional rudeness from employees, which have clearly impacted the customer experience. Despite these sporadic service issues, the overall sentiment remains positive due to the high quality of the food products and the charm of the shop’s atmosphere. In conclusion, while service improvements could enhance the experience, 22 Below’s reputation as a top-tier bagel and ice cream spot maintains its strong appeal to both locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kristina S
Really yummy, fun place to watch them roll the ice cream . 13 year old loved it. Used a Groupon.
Rory Kerekes
The workers there was very nice, she also did great at rolling the ice cream. i never had rolled ice cream before until found here and i’m so happy i got to go there with my friend and try it for the first time. I got the pretty pink flavor and my friend got the new york style!
Nickalous Montano
Love this place. I don't like rolled ice cream but this place was fresh and had great flavors. They even do vegan friendly fruit based roles. They took the time to ask and clean the freezing unit before making the ice cream. Great staff. Will go back
Angelyka Cava
I've come here twice during work breaks for some ice cream on hot summer days, and I absolutely love it! First of all, it's really cool seeing the process of how rolled ice cream is made. The workers do it so quickly and effortlessly! Second, they have some really interesting flavors and what I've tried so far tastes fantastic. I've had the Green Monster (matcha and oreo blend), as well as their Honey Lavender flavor. I've already recommended this place to several people I know and I will keep coming back!
Patricia R
Loved the old location. Employee knew what they were doing. Ice-cream was actually creamy and mixed well. They don’t even have the real menu out. Had to ask why my choices seemed off from what I remembered and the employee pulled out a hole different menu. I’m sure this is a way better location but the consistency of great service and good quality rolled ice cream is gone. Such a sad day.
How to reach 22 Below
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Website: None
Why rally at 22 Below with your friends?
When considering a perfect spot to hang out with friends or family, 22 Below stands out as an exceptional choice. This ice cream shop offers a unique experience centered around handcrafted rolled ice cream and a variety of fresh bubble teas. Unlike traditional ice cream parlors, 22 Below creates your dessert on a cold steel plate right before your eyes, which adds a fun and interactive element to your visit. Friends and families can enjoy watching the skilled staff mix and roll the ice cream, turning dessert time into an engaging social event. The place boasts an extensive menu with over 30 flavors, ranging from classic vanilla to daring options like flaming hot Cheetos, catering to a broad spectrum of tastes and adventurous palates. The atmosphere is casual and lively, perfect for casual meetups, celebrations, or simply enjoying a refreshing treat together. Moreover, the pricing is reasonable, making it accessible for groups without compromising quality. All these elements make 22 Below not just a dessert shop but a memorable gathering place where every visit feels like a mini celebration.
What activities can you enjoy at 22 Below that make it ideal for group meetups?
22 Below is much more than just an ice cream shop; it’s an interactive experience, perfect for groups seeking fun and flavor. One of the signature activities is watching the rolled ice cream being made on the spot. This process is fascinating as you see various ingredients mixed and spread on a cold plate, then skillfully rolled into delicate spirals. This live preparation serves as a great conversation starter and keeps everyone entertained—especially for kids and those new to rolled ice cream. Aside from the ice cream rolling spectacle, the shop features a diverse bubble tea menu created fresh to order, making it a delight for tea lovers in the group. For those wanting to personalize their treat, 22 Below offers customization options where guests can choose their favorite flavors and mix-ins, adding a personal creative touch to their dessert. Groups can easily gather around and share different flavor combinations, turning dessert into a social, shareable event. Additionally, the casual and welcoming environment is conducive to relaxation and enjoyment, whether you’re catching up after a long week or celebrating a special occasion.
How does the variety of flavors at 22 Below enhance group enjoyment?
One of the greatest strengths of 22 Below is the sheer variety of flavors available, accommodating a wide array of tastes within one group. With over 30 original rolled ice cream flavors on the menu, everyone from traditionalists to adventurous eaters can find something to savor. Classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate provide comfort, while innovative choices such as flaming hot Cheetos introduce a playful twist for those who enjoy bold tastes. This extensive flavor range encourages group members to try different options and share their favorites, making the outing more communal and engaging. The option to customize your ice cream creation by selecting various mix-ins also fosters a sense of collaboration and creativity within the group. Members can exchange ideas on flavor combinations or challenge each other to invent new tastes. This variety turns a simple dessert run into a dynamic tasting session that amplifies the fun and excitement of group gatherings.
Why is 22 Below's location and atmosphere conducive to meetups?
Apart from the menu, 22 Below’s environment enhances its appeal as a meetup spot. Located in Portland with multiple locations across Oregon, it is easy to access for local groups. The interior design is modern yet cozy, balancing a welcoming vibe with vibrant energy that complements the lively atmosphere of ice cream rolling. The seating arrangements encourage social interaction, giving groups enough space to converse comfortably while enjoying their treats. The playful and colorful decor aligns with the youthful and fun spirit of the brand, making it an inviting space especially for families and younger crowds. Additionally, the casual setting allows groups to stay as short or as long as they want without pressure, a critical factor for relaxed social gatherings. This flexible and friendly ambiance coupled with attentive service results in a place that naturally invites friends and families to rally, share laughs, and create memories together.
What makes 22 Below's customer experience stand out?
Customer experience at 22 Below is driven by the passion and creativity of its team. Founded in 2017 by a young couple who prioritized fun and flavor, the business has grown but retained a commitment to quality and customer connection. Staff members at 22 Below are noted for being skilled and engaging, enhancing the visit with expertise and personality. Watching the ice cream made live is inherently entertaining, but the welcoming service adds warmth to the experience. Customers often praise the freshness of ingredients and the meticulous preparation of bubble teas and ice creams alike. Although some reviews mention service inconsistencies, the overarching impression is one of a vibrant local business eager to satisfy and delight. The customization options encourage personal engagement, making each customer feel special and involved in crafting their dessert. This personalized and lively experience is a key factor in why groups choose 22 Below as their gathering place.
How does 22 Below cater to different age groups and tastes in a gathering?
22 Below’s diverse menu and interactive setting make it suitable for all ages. Kids are naturally drawn to watching their ice cream made with flair, enjoying the visual treat of seeing ingredients transform before their eyes. For teens and young adults, the trendy vibe and unusual flavor choices foster a sense of discovery and novelty. Adults appreciate the quality ingredients, sophisticated bubble tea options, and the chance to relax in a friendly environment. The shop ensures there’s something for everyone, whether it’s a simple scoop, an adventurous new flavor, or a sweet tea refreshment. This broad appeal makes 22 Below a versatile venue where family members across generations can bond over shared delights. It accommodates different dietary preferences and cravings, making group planning straightforward. By delivering an inclusive experience that delights varied palates and age groups, 22 Below ensures every meetup feels unified and joyful.