When asking yourself about something to do near me in Durham with a group of friends or family, consider
CocoCrissi Tropical Icees
Why CocoCrissi Tropical Icees is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
CocoCrissi Tropical Icees specializes in delicious, mobile New York style Italian ice with a tropical twist, making it an excellent spot to meet up with friends. Established in 2009 as the largest mobile Italian ice vendor on the East Coast, CocoCrissi is family owned and operated and has a strong presence at large concerts and festivals. What makes this place special is its smooth, creamy texture and authentic NYC Italian Ice flavors, which are dairy-free and especially appealing to those with dietary restrictions such as Alpha Gal allergy. The menu features a vibrant variety of flavors such as Lemon, Blue Raspberry, Mango, Strawberry, Rainbow, Sour Apple, Cherry, and a unique signature flavor called CocoCrissi. Available for purchase both at events and via UPS shipping, customers can enjoy 3 to 8 container packages delivered directly to their door, especially convenient for the Raleigh Durham area and beyond. The welcoming atmosphere, fresh and non-syrupy taste, and high-quality ingredients create a refreshing experience ideal for social gatherings, outdoor events, and casual meetups during warm days.
Here's what people think of CocoCrissi Tropical Icees
As of recent, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees holds a 4.6-star rating based on 55 reviews.
Customers consistently praise CocoCrissi Tropical Icees for its authentic, rich flavors and excellent customer service. Positive reviews highlight the freshness of the Italian ice, noting that flavors taste true and are not overly sweet or artificial. Fans love the variety offered, particularly the coconut, mango, and cherry flavors, with several customers mentioning the effort to create dairy-free options that meet specific allergy needs. The mobile aspect of their business is also appreciated for bringing the product to community events and festivals, enhancing the friendly, fun vibe of each experience. On the downside, a few customers mention occasional difficulty in locating the truck at events or desire more frequent stops in certain areas. Some also wish for an expanded flavor menu or more consistent availability outside the main service areas. Despite minor drawbacks, the overwhelmingly positive reception signals that CocoCrissi Tropical Icees remains a beloved choice for authentic Italian ice lovers seeking a tropical flair. Overall, the reviews portray a company dedicated to quality, accessibility, and customer satisfaction, making it a standout in the local and regional frozen dessert scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
SinsAngel
CocoCrissi was the cutest surprise! It was blazing hot outside, and my fiancé told us to get in the car—no explanation, no heads-up—just one of those “I got you” moments he does so well. He pulled up to this adorable spot like he had it planned all along, and honestly? He nailed it. The flavors were delicious, the kids size was perfect for our toddler, and the whole thing just felt thoughtful and sweet. Can’t wait to go back and try more… hopefully with another surprise stop soon. 💕
Jennifer Vickers
CHECK THIS PLACE OUT! So many flavors to choose from. I bought a small coconut and the flavor was so fresh and light. Absolutely delicious! Flavorful without being over the top sweet. The consistency was like fresh snow. Can't wait to go back!
Arthur Zak
Tasty Italian ices (try the Swedish Fish flavor! The star for wife and me.) A little pricy for essentially frozen flavored sugar water, but worth it on a hot summer day. Brings back NYC memories of Corona Ice King.
Al Be (Al Be)
The icees, the atmosphere, and the service were top notch. Felt like way more than your typical icee spot. Not syrupy and seemed to be homemade. The owner was very friendly and personable at the grand opening. Will def be back with the family.
Tiashondra Harris
I visited this Beautiful NY Italian icee shop today and OMG....I tried 5 different flavors and they were DELICIOUS! Authentic NY icees and Cortez was the sweetest person. He made sure I left happy with the flavors I wanted. PLEASE STOP AND ENJOY THIS PLACE, YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!! THANKS CORTEZ.
How to reach CocoCrissi Tropical Icees
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Why CocoCrissi Tropical Icees may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at CocoCrissi Tropical Icees with your friends? Because it offers more than just a place to grab a sweet treat—it's a vibrant, community-focused tropical ice destination bound to turn any meetup into a memorable occasion. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from 55 reviews, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees provides a unique blend of authentic New York-style Italian ice with tropical flair, guaranteed to refresh and delight your group. Whether you're escaping the summer heat or just craving a nostalgic, dairy-free dessert, this place is a crowd-pleaser for its variety of natural, flavorful options like Mango, Lemon, Blue Raspberry, Coconut, and Rainbow, all made with care to mimic the classic taste of Italian ice that many found missing elsewhere. The atmosphere, though modest and without air conditioning indoors, exudes great vibes and energetic community spirit, making it a gathering spot that feels welcoming and exciting. Beyond delicious treats, CocoCrissi's dedication to the local community through mentorship, scholarships, and events adds meaningful depth, making your meetup not just fun but also connected to positive social impact. This combination of taste, vibe, and community makes CocoCrissi Tropical Icees an exceptional spot to rally your friends and family for a cool, enjoyable day out.
What activities are available at CocoCrissi Tropical Icees, and why is it perfect for groups? Primarily, CocoCrissi serves its famous Italian ice, with over half a dozen flavors to indulge in—from classic Lemon and Cherry to tropical Mango and creative Rainbow options. Groups can share or sample different flavors, creating an interactive tasting experience. Beyond ice treats, the company frequently participates in large concerts, festivals, and community events, which translates to a lively atmosphere even at their fixed location. Their event bookings are flexible, allowing groups to arrange special meetups with catering options, ideal for celebrations or casual hangouts. Although the physical location may have limited indoor seating and no air conditioning, the outdoor setting promotes social mingling and casual conversation, perfect for groups seeking relaxed, laid-back vibes. Additionally, the company’s availability for shipping containers of Italian ice means you can plan larger gatherings with pre-ordered icees, eliminating hassle on the day of your meetup. The range of delivery options from local (Raleigh-Durham area) to out-of-state further expands possibilities for group enjoyment, whether directly at CocoCrissi or in your own backyard.
How does CocoCrissi Tropical Icees create a community-focused meetup experience? The company stands out not only by offering delicious, authentic Italian ice but also through its strong commitment to community enrichment. CocoCrissi actively supports educational programs such as financial literacy courses and scholarships and provides mentorship and internship opportunities focused on local youth and adults alike. This focus on "paying it forward" creates a setting where visitors feel part of a larger purpose when they support the business. For groups looking to host meetups that go beyond just hanging out, CocoCrissi’s philosophy can spark meaningful conversations on giving back and collective success. Their partnerships with universities and corporate companies further demonstrate how they integrate community building into their operations, making gatherings feel socially impactful. This deep-rooted community involvement enriches the atmosphere and makes each meetup feel like a celebration of culture, friendship, and shared support.
What makes the food and beverage offerings at CocoCrissi Tropical Icees particularly appealing for a group gathering? The wide variety of Italian ice flavors addresses diverse taste preferences, which is essential for groups where everyone might have different favorites. The Italian ice is known for its authentic New York-style smoothness and tropical fruit flavors that aren’t overly sweet or artificial. This quality has won rave reviews from customers with allergy considerations, such as those needing dairy-free options, expanding accessibility for everyone in a group. Their menu is designed to evoke both nostalgia and novelty, combining classic favorites with innovative tropical twists like coconut and mango. The option to order various quantities of icees, including bulk delivery options, makes it easy to cater to larger groups or events without logistical stress. Besides the flavor variety, customers often praise the freshness and natural ingredients, ensuring a premium, refreshing treat that can satisfy the palate and complement any social gathering.
Why is the atmosphere and location at CocoCrissi Tropical Icees ideal for casual meetups with friends or family? Located at 1705 E US 70 Hwy in Durham, NC, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees offers a convenient spot for locals and visitors alike. Although the physical storefront is described as modest—without air conditioning or indoor seating—the emphasis on outdoor gathering space encourages informal, spontaneous hangouts. This casual vibe is perfect for relaxed meetups where the focus is on enjoying good company and refreshing treats rather than formal dining. The environment has been praised for its great energy and welcoming feels, enhancing the social experience. Many visitors appreciate the blend of New York attitude with a tropical edge, something that adds cultural uniqueness to the location. The business's active participation in local festivals and community events spills over energy into their physical location, so meetups often feel lively and upbeat, ideal for groups looking to enjoy a fun, energetic atmosphere.
How can CocoCrissi Tropical Icees enhance your event or special occasion? CocoCrissi offers booking options for events, making it an excellent choice for birthday parties, family reunions, and casual coworker meetups. The ability to cater with multiple flavors of Italian ice, shipped either locally or out-of-state, means your group can enjoy a seamless experience with delicious refreshments tailored to your occasion. Their experience with large-scale concerts and festivals means they can handle crowds efficiently while maintaining quality service. Groups can coordinate with CocoCrissi to provide customized flavor selections that match the theme or preference of attendees. The company’s high customer service rating and reputation for friendly staff and authentic flavors add reassurance that your event will be enjoyable and smooth. Whether you want an icee station at your picnic or bulk deliveries for a backyard gathering, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees offers versatile options to elevate your social event.
What do customers say about the quality and service at CocoCrissi Tropical Icees? With a strong 4.6-star average rating from 55 reviews, CocoCrissi's reputation is built on authentic flavors and excellent customer service. Many clients mention the genuine taste of the Italian ice, praising it as reminiscent of New York classics but with a unique tropical flair that keeps the experience fresh and exciting. Customers highlight the coconut and mango flavors as favorites, emphasizing that the ice treats aren’t overly sweet or artificial but rather clean and true to natural fruit flavors. The delivery service and responsiveness of the staff also receive accolades, reflecting a business committed to customer satisfaction. Regular followers express enthusiasm for repeat visits and ordering, indicating a trust in both product quality and company reliability. This level of customer approval strengthens the appeal for group meetups, as everyone can expect a pleasant treat and friendly, attentive service.
Why is CocoCrissi Tropical Icees a standout choice among dessert vendors on the East Coast? Since its founding in 2009, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees has grown into the largest mobile Italian ice vendor on the East Coast, a testament to its popularity and quality. Their ability to serve at huge concerts and festivals alongside their storefront operations offers unmatched flexibility and widespread recognition. They blend New York style with tropical flavors, carving out a niche that appeals to a broad demographic, from locals craving nostalgia to those seeking novel sweet experiences. Their community engagement programs and business philosophy focused on success through service distinguish them from typical dessert vendors. This combination of scale, quality, and social responsibility makes CocoCrissi Tropical Icees uniquely positioned to host meetups that are memorable, delicious, and meaningful.
In summary, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees stands as a perfect meetup spot because it offers authentic, flavorful Italian ice in a vibrant and welcoming environment. Its strong community values, flexible service options, appealing range of flavors, and highly rated customer experience create a setting where groups of friends or family can enjoy delicious treats, engaging conversation, and positive social connection. Whether you gather for a casual hangout or a special event, CocoCrissi Tropical Icees turns simple moments into joyful gatherings.