When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Dessert in Desert
Why Dessert in Desert is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dessert in Desert is an exceptional dessert destination located in Scottsdale, Arizona, known for its innovative and unique dessert offerings that make it a perfect place to meet up with friends. This spot stands out with its signature dessert, the fish cone — a crisp-on-the-outside, soft-and-chewy-on-the-inside edible cone that holds a variety of delightful ice creams and flavors not found elsewhere. The ambiance of the location is clean and inviting, with friendly staff providing prompt service which enhances the welcoming atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy the diverse menu including smooth ice creams and refreshing snowflake ice, adding a cooling treat especially appreciated on hot Scottsdale days. The place’s combination of distinctive dessert creations, high-quality ingredients, and a comfortable setting makes it an ideal hangout for casual meet-ups or celebratory gatherings. Its appeal also comes from its ability to offer something truly special for dessert lovers looking to try something beyond the typical sweets.
Here's what people think of Dessert in Desert
As of recent, Dessert in Desert holds a 4.9-star rating based on 482 reviews.
Users consistently praise Dessert in Desert for its unique dessert experience and high-quality offerings. Positive reviews frequently highlight the creativity of the menu, especially the fish cone that is described as a must-try due to its perfect texture combination and unique presentation. Several guests mention the refreshing snowflake ice and dense, flavorful ice creams, noting them as standouts. The friendly and attentive staff coupled with the clean, inviting environment also contribute to the positive overall experience noted in many reviews. However, some negative feedback focuses on specific items such as the cheesecake, which a few reviewers felt was just like a spongey angel food cake and not worth the price, as well as certain milkshakes described as only average in taste. Despite isolated critiques, the overwhelmingly high rating (4.9 from 482 reviews) indicates strong customer satisfaction, with most reviews emphasizing the uniqueness and quality of the desserts. In conclusion, Dessert in Desert is celebrated for delivering a distinct, enjoyable dessert experience that many guests return to repeatedly, with minor criticisms not overshadowing the overall positive impression it creates among its clientele.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
zerofever “Isadoriana” peligrie
If you're looking for a cool place for fun ice cream, this is the place! Shown: Strawberry Egg Waffle, Fish (warm soft waffle) Cone with milk soft serve and Nutella lining, custard filled Taiyaki (the fish shaped cookie looking ones, and a blue lemonade fizzy (soda) drink. The Strawberry Egg Waffle was the star of the show but everything we tried was tasty, fun, fresh,and yummy. It's all pretty standard flavors that you'd expect with nothing too out of the ordinary for what we chose. Definitely enjoyed the experience and would try it again if in Scottsdale. I would ask for more strawberries for the egg waffle since we ran out by the last 3rd of the dessert but otherwise pretty cool place to stop in for a date, friend gathering, or a kid-friendly stop in. They even have a photo booth with headbands, ears, accessories and glasses to wear in the booth! Fun!
Christopher Zahn
An amazing little gem in northern Scottsdale. Some great soft serve options - black sesame was our favorite, a bean fish cone - it was amazing. Prices were very reasonable (and worth it), and the staff were amazingly friendly. Highly recommend!
Becky Tran
We came in late at night on a rainy day and it was packed! In my opinion, the best Asian dessert spot in North Scottsdale! Their soft serve is delicious and the flavors are just right. I'm not personally a fan of fluffy cheesecake, but theirs is good. They also have a photo booth if you want to take pictures.
Sara Turner
My husband and I were craving some Japanese sweets since our trip to Japan last October and this was the perfect place! I got the strawberry parfait with super fresh strawberries. My husband got the taro and milk fish cone with custard filling which was done to perfection. The shop is super cute with a little photo booth with props. The service was great, and the person working was super friendly. I will definitely be back to get the fruity fiesta egg waffle and taiyaki!
Tyler Green
This is a fun little dessert spot in Scottsdale! Taiyaki was fresh and delicious, establishment was clean and staff was inviting. Lots of different options if you're looking to try something new. Will definitely be coming back!
How to reach Dessert in Desert
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Why Dessert in Desert may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When thinking of a perfect meetup spot to enjoy time with friends or family, Dessert in Desert offers an irresistible blend of unique atmosphere, intriguing menu, and friendly service that makes gathering a genuinely memorable experience. With an outstanding rating of 4.9 from over 480 reviews, this dessert haven in Scottsdale has proven to be a favorite for those seeking more than just typical sweet treats. The modern, clean setting creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere where groups can relax, chat, and savor creative desserts together. Beyond the quality desserts, it’s the combination of unique offerings like fish-shaped cones and rare flavors such as black sesame and matcha soft serve that stir excitement and conversation among visitors. The attentive and approachable staff enhance the experience, making everyone feel welcome, whether it’s a casual afternoon out or a special occasion. This venue is perfect for socializing because it encourages sharing and trying new things, fostering camaraderie and fun. Plus, its convenient hours and accessibility features make it simple for groups of varying needs to come together in one sweet spot.
What activities and dessert experiences await groups at Dessert in Desert?
Dessert in Desert caters brilliantly to groups with a menu full of unique, Instagram-worthy treats designed to be shared and enjoyed loudly with friends. One main crowd-pleaser is their famous fish cone, which combines a crispy outer shell with a soft, chewy interior, filled with luscious soft serve ice cream, creating an interplay of textures that’s unlike anything found elsewhere. This novelty alone sparks curiosity and joy among groups eager to try something new. Beyond the fish cone, the shop offers a variety of soft serve flavors, including rarities such as black sesame and matcha, which provide rich and satisfying tastes different from standard vanilla or chocolate. For those wanting to cool down, the “snowflake” ice—light, fluffy shaved ice—is an ideal refreshing option that pairs well with fruit toppings or custards. Additionally, savory options like spiral potato snacks add a hot, crunchy contrast to the sweet treats, catering to groups who appreciate a variety of flavors and textures. The layout and ambiance are designed to facilitate group interaction, with seating that invites conversation and shared tasting. This place transforms a simple dessert stop into a full social experience, making it ideal for birthdays, casual hangouts, or family outings.
What makes Dessert in Desert perfect for group meetups compared to other dessert spots?
Dessert in Desert stands out as a group-friendly location because it offers more than just ordinary desserts—it creates an experience that sparks connection and excitement, making it much more suited for meetups with friends or relatives. The diversity and uniqueness of the menu encourage guests to order multiple items, which they can then share and discuss, turning the dessert tasting into a collective adventure. Unlike many dessert places that specialize solely in ice cream or cakes, Dessert in Desert’s fusion of flavors and textures—like flaky cones filled with dense purple ice cream, or fluffy angel food cake reimagined as a cheesecake—creates conversation starters that add to the enjoyment. The clean, modern, yet warm atmosphere ensures guests feel comfortable hanging out for an extended period, whether catching up, celebrating, or just relaxing after other activities. Staff friendliness and prompt service further elevate the experience by making groups feel valued and attended to, essential for a positive group dynamic. Additionally, the venue’s accessibility and payment options, including credit cards and mobile payments, ease logistical concerns, so groups can focus entirely on enjoying their time together.
How does Dessert in Desert accommodate diverse tastes and dietary needs in a group setting?
One challenge when hosting groups is catering to a variety of tastes, preferences, and dietary restrictions, and Dessert in Desert excels here by offering a thoughtfully crafted menu that respects these complexities. The variety of flavors goes beyond the usual to cater to adventurous eaters—such as black sesame or matcha soft serve—while still including options likely to appeal to more traditional palates. For guests with allergies or dietary sensitivities, the venue provides clearly marked menus that make it easy to identify safe choices, helping everyone feel included without worry. This conscientious approach to customer needs means groups can bring along members with diverse requirements without having to skip out on the fun. Moreover, the presence of both cold treats like soft serve and shaved ice, along with a hot food option like the spiral potato, ensures there is something satisfying for every craving. This comprehensive variety facilitates ordering for groups because each member can select something special, making shared experiences all the more enjoyable through culinary diversity.
Why is the location and ambiance of Dessert in Desert ideal for social gatherings?
Situated conveniently in Scottsdale, Dessert in Desert benefits from both accessibility and a vibrant local scene, making it an excellent meeting point for local residents or visitors. The venue boasts a clean, modern interior that is both stylish and inviting, designed to appeal to a wide demographic, from families to younger crowds seeking fun photo ops. The bright yet relaxed decor encourages lingering—perfect for groups who want to chat and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. It also accommodates accessibility needs, including wheelchair access, making it inclusive for everyone. Operating hours spread throughout the afternoon and evening allow meetups after work, school, or weekend outings, expanding flexibility for group planning. The bright, friendly environment combined with attentive customer service means visitors can expect a consistently positive experience whether gathering for a casual meetup or a special occasion celebration. This kind of environment naturally attracts groups who want a hassle-free, enjoyable place to share moments over dessert.
How does Dessert in Desert deliver on customer service for group visitors?
Exceptional customer service is indispensable when hosting groups, and Dessert in Desert’s friendly, attentive team is a key reason it maintains such a high reputation. Reviewers frequently highlight the welcoming demeanor of the staff, who are prompt and knowledgeable about the menu’s unique offerings. For groups, this means easier ordering, helpful recommendations on what to try or share, and smooth management of any special requests. The staff’s engagement ensures that even during busier hours, groups receive the attention they need to enhance the overall experience. This kind of service fosters a relaxed atmosphere where guests feel comfortable to ask questions, try new items, and spend quality time together without service-related frustrations. Moreover, clear communication about menu items, including allergy information, demonstrates the company’s priority on guest safety and satisfaction. With such thoughtful service, group meetups become more seamless and enjoyable, encouraging repeated visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.
What special features or events might make Dessert in Desert even more appealing for group meetups?
In addition to its everyday offerings, Dessert in Desert’s unique fusion menu and social atmosphere provide an ideal backdrop for special events or celebrations. Groups looking for a venue for birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers will appreciate the visual appeal of the desserts, which lend themselves perfectly to sharing photos and creating fun memories. The venue’s openness to customization and willingness to accommodate dietary restrictions make it flexible for different types of gatherings. While not a large banquet hall, the layout suits intimate to moderate-sized groups, allowing everyone to interact comfortably. Seasonal menu changes or special promotions could add an extra layer of excitement, giving groups reasons to return regularly and try new limited-edition items. Furthermore, the venue’s focus on community and experience-building means it could offer themed nights or tasting flights that encourage group interaction through the joy of discovery, reinforcing Dessert in Desert as a front-runner choice for social dessert meetups in Scottsdale.
Ultimately, Dessert in Desert shines as a premier destination for groups seeking to combine great taste, unique dessert experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere all in one vibrant location. The inventive flavors, signature fish cone, variety of options for all age groups and dietary needs, along with superior customer service, make it a sweet spot where friends and family can come together to enjoy life’s simple pleasures in an extraordinary way. Whether it’s a casual hangout, a celebration, or a chance to take a break and indulge after a day’s adventure, Dessert in Desert delivers an experience that goes far beyond the usual dessert outing.