Discover Portland's Beloved Fifty Licks Ice Cream: A Perfect Gathering Spot with Unique Flavors
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 23 Dec 2025 15:43
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TL;DR: Fifty Licks Ice Cream Go for Ice Cream is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Portland
Fifty Licks Ice Cream, established in 2009 by Chad Draizin, is a cherished ice cream parlor with multiple locations throughout Portland, Oregon. What makes Fifty Licks a great place to meet up with friends is not only its warm and inviting atmosphere, but also its commitment to crafting small-batch, handmade ice cream using high-quality ingredients like carbon-neutral milk and cage-free egg yolks. The parlor is known for offering a luscious, high butterfat content that creates a rich and creamy texture in every scoop. Customers can enjoy about eleven daily flavors along with two soft serve options, including both dairy and expanding non-dairy, vegan-friendly selections that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. The flavors lean towards elegant and aromatic profiles, featuring unique choices such as mango sticky rice and coconut lemon saffron, alongside classic favorites like strawberry and chocolate. Fifty Licks began as a summer-only ice cream truck, gaining recognition as one of Portland's best new food carts in 2011, before opening its first brick-and-mortar location in 2013. The friendly staff, frequent free samples, and gluten-free cone options further enhance the social and inclusive experience, making it an ideal hangout spot for ice cream lovers and groups looking to enjoy innovative treats in a cozy community space.
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What people think of Fifty Licks Ice Cream, based on reviews
As of recent, Fifty Licks Ice Cream holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1005 reviews.
User reviews of Fifty Licks Ice Cream overwhelmingly highlight the shop's unique and creative flavor offerings as a standout feature, with many customers expressing delight at the variety and quality of the ice cream. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and welcoming staff, which adds to the enjoyable experience of visiting the parlors. The availability of gluten-free cones and a growing assortment of vegan options have been praised for making ice cream accessible to people with different dietary preferences and needs. Customers also appreciate the opportunity to sample flavors before committing to a choice, which reflects Fifty Licks' dedication to customer satisfaction and product confidence. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on logistical issues such as the inability to order scoops online, with only pints available through that channel, which can be inconvenient for some patrons. Additionally, the business faced a significant challenge when a fire in 2024 damaged its historic Burnside location, though the company has demonstrated resilience by continuing to operate other stores and establishing a pop-up site. Overall, the sentiment in reviews leans strongly positive, with guests celebrating Fifty Licks' innovative approach to ice cream, quality ingredients, and community focus. The business continues to attract loyal fans who value both the taste and the atmosphere it fosters during social gatherings.
How to reach Fifty Licks Ice Cream
2021 SE Clinton St #101, Portland, OR 97202, USA
FAQ about Fifty Licks Ice Cream, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Portland, Oregon
Gathering friends or family at Fifty Licks Ice Cream in Portland is an experience designed to delight every member of your group with its unique charm and exceptional offerings. This location stands out because it combines a welcoming atmosphere, inventive ice cream flavors, and outstanding customer service, making it the ideal spot to reconnect and create lasting memories. With a stellar rating of 4.6 from over 1,000 reviews, it is clear that many visitors find Fifty Licks an exceptional place to share joyful moments. The friendly, knowledgeable staff add a personal touch that makes each visit feel special — whether you’re a first-timer or a regular. Moreover, the ice cream flavors are far from ordinary; they offer a creative menu including vegan options and gluten-free cones, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Sampling free tastes before you choose means your group can explore an assortment of delicious and sometimes surprising flavors together, sparking excitement and conversation. For ice cream lovers and those just looking for a fun, inviting meetup spot, Fifty Licks combines quality, atmosphere, and inclusivity to offer a truly memorable gathering place.
Fifty Licks excels as a venue for group gatherings due to its thoughtfully curated environment and menu that caters to diverse palates and dietary needs. Its unique flavor offerings go beyond the standard, featuring imaginative creations such as Mango Sticky Rice, Mocha Mud Pie, and other rich varieties made from scratch using local ingredients. This attention to quality and originality encourages group members to engage in flavor exploration together, which transforms a simple ice cream outing into a shared sensory adventure. The presence of several vegan and gluten-free options ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary preference, can indulge without worry. The shop’s layout and ambiance are casual yet vibrant, fostering an easy and interactive vibe where groups can comfortably socialize whether sitting inside or enjoying the fresh air nearby. Additionally, Fifty Licks offers a vintage blue ice cream truck for special occasions, bringing a nostalgic and festive feel to events such as birthdays, celebrations, and even weddings. This flexibility in hosting styles makes it possible for groups to tailor their experience, enhancing both comfort and fun.
While the core draw at Fifty Licks is undeniably the ice cream, the activities surrounding your visit enrich the experience for groups. Sampling a variety of rotating flavors together sparks enthusiastic discussions and friendly debates on favorites, turning your meetup into a lively tasting event. The welcoming staff often provide recommendations and can share stories behind unique flavors, adding an educational and interactive element. For groups who love to celebrate, Fifty Licks’ blue ice cream truck can be booked to come to your chosen location, allowing you to host an unforgettable event with convenience and style. This mobile feature is perfect for birthdays, casual parties, or even after-wedding celebrations, providing not just treats but fun memories. Additionally, the shop’s presence at pop-ups and local community events means that meetups can tie into larger social experiences around Portland, giving friends a chance to explore the city’s culture alongside their ice cream indulgence. The friendly environment encourages relaxed, casual conversation and a break from the everyday routine — a refreshing way to enjoy quality time.
The creativity and quality of Fifty Licks’ ice cream flavors are central to its reputation and popularity among both locals and visitors. Unlike conventional ice cream shops, Fifty Licks regularly rotates its offerings and includes bold, inspired options such as Bananas Foster (with spiced rum and roasted bananas) and Coconut Horchata (a cinnamon-rice inspired treat), inviting guests to experience complex and delicious flavor profiles. For vegan and dairy-free visitors, flavors like Chocolate Coconut Caramel and Guava Swirl provide lush, creamy alternatives that rival traditional ice cream in taste and texture. The use of local, fresh ingredients and cage-free egg yolks in their recipes reflects a commitment to ethical sourcing and gourmet quality, which resonates with conscious consumers and food lovers. This dedication to innovation means that each visit can be different and exciting, making Fifty Licks a destination in itself. The availability of free samples encourages experimentation, allowing each person in the group to discover new favorites and creating a fun, inclusive atmosphere.
Fifty Licks Ice Cream is thoughtfully designed to accommodate visitors with varying needs, making it an excellent choice for group outings. Located in Portland with multiple points of access including a main store on SE Clinton Street and pop-up spots in malls and other venues, it offers options that fit different group sizes and plans. Their hours are friendly to both afternoon and evening crowds, with openings extending into late evening on weekends, perfect for meetups after work or dinner. While parking can be a minor challenge, the shop’s central locations in lively neighborhoods mean there are usually public transit options or walkable routes that ease group arrival. For groups seeking a more private or mobile experience, the ice cream truck can come to you, providing flexibility without sacrificing the deliciousness Fifty Licks is known for. The staff’s accommodating and friendly service also ensures that group orders, whether simple scoops or larger catering-style selections, are handled efficiently and with care, preserving the fun and ease of the occasion.
The ambiance at Fifty Licks Ice Cream is a major part of why friends and families enjoy gathering here. The space blends a casual vibe with creative flair — bright, welcoming interiors invite laughter and conversation while the aroma and sight of freshly made ice cream enhance the sensory appeal. Friendly staff contribute warmth and attentiveness, making each guest feel valued and comfortable. The shop encourages a relaxed pace, inviting groups to linger as they savor their ice cream and each other’s company. The vibrant neighborhood setting offers opportunities for post-ice cream walks or strolls through local shops, extending the social experience beyond the shop itself. This combination of sensory pleasure, welcoming service, and community integration creates a unique atmosphere that encourages social connection and fun, making it a preferred destination for those seeking a memorable group meetup spot.
Fifty Licks takes group celebrations to the next level by offering customizable options for a range of events. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, rehearsal dinner, or casual gathering, their vintage ice cream truck provides an exciting and nostalgic addition that draws smiles and compliments. The ability to bring high-quality ice cream directly to your venue offers convenience and a special touch that heightens the festive mood. The team behind Fifty Licks is known for being easy to work with, communicative, and professional, ensuring that event needs are met smoothly and with attention to detail. Gluten-free and dairy-free options mean that hosts can confidently accommodate guests with allergies or dietary preferences. The reputation for delicious, scratch-made ice cream made with local ingredients assures that your group will enjoy not only great flavor but also a meaningful, high-quality indulgence that complements the celebration. This commitment to special treatment makes Fifty Licks an outstanding choice to cater group events with style and flavor.