When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Frankie & Jo's Ballard
Why Frankie & Jo's Ballard is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Frankie & Jo's Ballard is a standout destination for those seeking delicious, creative, and plant-based ice cream in a welcoming neighborhood setting. Located at 1411 NW 70th St in Seattle's Ballard area, this shop is known for its hyper-seasonal and thoughtfully crafted dairy-free flavors that cater to vegans and anyone looking to indulge in unique frozen treats. They use a base blend of coconut and cashew milk, creating an extraordinarily creamy and silky texture that feels indulgent without the dairy. The shop’s tropical, sun-drenched interior with wallpaper decorations creates a vibrant and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting friends or grabbing a refreshing treat on a warm day. Highlights include inventive flavors like Brown Sugar Vanilla, Mint Brownie, and Chocolate Tahini Supercookie, as well as limited-time offerings like Beet Strawberry Rose sorbet that combine fresh, natural ingredients with exotic tastes. Frankie & Jo's Ballard is both a charming local gathering place and a must-visit for anyone passionate about high-quality vegan desserts, making each visit a flavorful experience worth savoring.
Here's what people think of Frankie & Jo's Ballard
As of recent, Frankie & Jo's Ballard holds a 4.7-star rating based on 756 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Frankie & Jo's Ballard for its exceptional vegan ice cream that stands out in texture and flavor. Many reviewers highlight the creaminess and perfect balance of sweetness that mimics traditional dairy ice cream, a rare achievement in plant-based desserts. Positive reviews commend the shop for its innovative seasonal flavors, the ability to sample before buying, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. Customers appreciate the welcoming neighborhood vibe and often recommend the shop for its variety and authenticity. On the downside, some reviewers note the ice cream is pricier than typical dessert shops, and during busy times, waits can be longer, which might be inconvenient for some. A few users mention the limited seating in the Ballard location, which can affect the comfort during peak hours. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall impression from reviews is overwhelmingly positive, focusing on quality and flavor innovation. Frankie & Jo's maintains a strong reputation for delivering not only vegan-friendly ice cream but a premium dessert experience that appeals to a broad audience, solidifying its place among Seattle's favorite ice cream shops.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Holly
I grabbed the blueberry lavender pie flavor, and it was surprisingly good. The blueberry pops with tart sweetness, and the lavender adds a light floral touch without being too strong. What really sets it apart is the pie crust swirl it brings in a fun texture and a hint of nostalgia. It was the perfect little after dinner treat. It was refreshing but not heavy, with just enough sweetness to round out the night. I got the mini scoop, which was the ideal size and not too big, not too skimpy. Just right for satisfying the craving without overdoing it. The shop itself adds to the experience. It’s cozy without trying too hard, It feels like the kind of place where flavor experiments happen behind the counter, and you’re lucky enough to be part of the tasting crew. I wanted to try them all! If you’re into unique vegan options, this one’s worth a try before it’s gone for the season!
DrizzyDrake
Amazing vegan ice cream! The "Salty Carmel Ash" (gray ice cream) is my favorite flavor. I definitely love vegan ice cream so much more than normal dairy ice cream, which I've never enjoyed. I am dairy-free so this place was perfect for me! The ice cream is very rich and very yummy! Definitely stop by!!
Bernard Jeremy
Truly amazing ice cream. Better than 99 percent of non vegan ice cream I’ve ever had. Try this place!
Matt Perrone
Frankie & Jo's is a chain of vegan ice cream shops in the Seattle area. It's known for having vegan and gluten free options where they substitute ingredients that have similar tastes or textures. This location is in Ballard right off 15th. Parking is pretty easy here, and they have a few places to sit inside. It's normally pretty slow at this location so there's never a line. The staff is great, very friendly and ready to talk. The ice cream itself is OK. It's pricey for the portion sizes you get, and some of the flavors get overwhelmed but the substitute ingredients (for instance chocolate, where the coconut in it overpowers the chocolate). They do have some good combos and some that mix well together like Beet Strawberry Rose. Overall a decent choice is your limited to vegan or gluten free options.
Robb Montejano
We stopped by here for an appetizer on our way to dinner next door. :-) I love this place! Nestled in a residential neighborhood, it has a nice quaint vibe/feel. The employees are friendly and more than happy to let you sample all you want, without pressure. All of their ice creams are vegan, and many are also nut-free. They craft all of their ice cream from scratch, using raw ingredients, and it really shows in the texture, feel, and taste of the end product. We also really liked their unique flavor combinations, which added that little extra to each bite. Overall, this place is definitely worth giving a try when in the area!
How to reach Frankie & Jo's Ballard
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Why Frankie & Jo's Ballard may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Frankie & Jo's Ballard with your friends?
Frankie & Jo's Ballard stands out as an exceptional destination to gather with friends because it offers a rare combination of delectable vegan ice cream within a welcoming and intimate atmosphere. Rated an impressive 4.7 out of 756 reviews, this place clearly resonates with those who appreciate high-quality, plant-based desserts that delight all taste buds, not just vegans. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free treat or just somewhere cozy to catch up, Frankie & Jo’s creates the perfect setting to rally your group. Its location in the charming Ballard neighborhood adds to its draw, providing a laid-back yet vibrant environment that encourages conversations and shared enjoyment. For anyone seeking a memorable outing that combines unique flavors and a socially mindful ethos, Frankie & Jo’s is the kind of place that sparks connection and joy in equal measure. The welcoming staff, creative menu, and community-friendly vibe make it an ideal spot to build new memories with friends or family over one of the city’s best-loved vegan ice cream treats.
What activities can you enjoy at Frankie & Jo’s, and why is it ideal for a group meetup?
Frankie & Jo’s Ballard focuses primarily on delivering an exceptional ice cream experience, making it a sweet gathering spot for groups who appreciate plant-based treats. Beyond just sampling innovative vegan ice cream flavors, the venue encourages interactive enjoyment—whether it’s sharing scoops or engaging in the fun of discovering new favorites among the seasonal offerings. The shop’s cozy layout is conducive to conversation and communal delight, making it easy to linger with friends. Many groups find pleasure in simply soaking up the relaxed atmosphere while tasting artisanal flavors that are hard to find elsewhere. Additionally, because the menu is entirely vegan and often allergen-conscious, it simplifies ordering for diverse groups, ensuring everyone can find something delicious without compromise. The neighborhood setting further enhances the outing—after enjoying your ice cream, groups can take walks around Ballard’s picturesque streets or visit nearby coffee shops and boutiques, making it a full day or evening of shared activities. This blend of tasty products and a community-centric space results in an inviting spot perfectly suited for meetups with friends or family, where everyone can feel included and delighted.
What makes the ice cream at Frankie & Jo's so special?
At the heart of Frankie & Jo’s appeal is its inventive approach to vegan ice cream that triumphs over expectations. The shop crafts its products without dairy, relying on plant-based ingredients that maintain rich, creamy textures and complex flavors. People often praise the creative combinations and the use of seasonal, natural components that keep the menu exciting and fresh. Whether it’s classic favorites re-imagined in a vegan format or bold new creations, the ice cream delivers indulgence without guilt. This approach resonates not only with vegans but also with anyone interested in healthier, environmentally conscious dessert options that don’t sacrifice taste. Customers commonly highlight the satisfying mouthfeel and nuanced tastes, which have positioned Frankie & Jo’s as a must-visit spot for dessert lovers in Seattle. This focus on quality and creativity, combined with the unmistakable ethical appeal of vegan products, offers an experience that feels both luxurious and responsible, making every scoop something to savor with friends during a memorable meetup.
How accessible and welcoming is Frankie & Jo's for groups with diverse dietary needs?
Because Frankie & Jo’s specializes in vegan frozen desserts, it naturally caters to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions, making it exceptionally group-friendly. Those who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, or who follow plant-based diets can enjoy the offerings without worry or complicated substitutions. This inclusive approach helps reduce the stress often involved in finding dining spots suitable for people with different food sensitivities—everyone in the group can have a satisfying treat without compromise. The clearly marked menu and friendly staff further ensure that group members can easily select options that fit their needs. Moreover, the bakery’s commitment to allergen-conscious ingredients means many items are safe for people avoiding nuts or gluten, adding an additional layer of peace of mind. This level of inclusivity promotes a sense of community and shared enjoyment that is especially meaningful when friends or family gather with diverse preferences. The result is a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and cared for, reinforcing Frankie & Jo’s reputation as a thoughtful and accommodating venue for social outings.
How do the ambiance and location contribute to the meetup experience at Frankie & Jo’s Ballard?
The ambiance and location of Frankie & Jo’s Ballard play essential roles in making it an ideal gathering place. Located in Seattle’s charming Ballard neighborhood, known for its friendly vibe and walkable streets, it offers a pleasant backdrop that enhances any meetup. The café itself radiates warmth and comfort with its quaint, intimate setting that encourages lingering and leisurely conversation. Light, bright interiors paired with cozy seating arrangements facilitate easy socializing among small to medium-sized groups. Its positioning on NW 70th St places it among other restaurant options, encouraging visitors to combine their ice cream visit with other local activities such as dining, browsing local shops, or exploring nearby parks. This situational advantage turns Frankie & Jo’s into more than just an ice cream stop; it becomes a central hub for shared community experiences. Users looking for a chill, friendly venue will appreciate how effortless it is to gather, relax, and reconnect here, making it perfect for casual meetups that feel both special and accessible.
What customer experiences and reviews highlight why Frankie & Jo's is great for group outings?
Customer feedback universally underscores the positive group experience at Frankie & Jo’s. Reviewers often mention the unique, delicious vegan ice creams as a major draw, but many also emphasize the friendly staff and inviting environment that make bringing friends and family a joy. Groups consistently appreciate how the menu caters well to different tastes and dietary needs, making it simple to please everyone without hassle. Positive comments frequently point out the creative flavor selections and the quality of ingredients, framing the visit as a fun and adventurous outing for dessert lovers. Despite some noting the price is higher than typical ice cream shops, most agree the premium experience justifies the cost, especially when shared with loved ones. Additionally, the strong 4.7-star rating with hundreds of reviews reflects consistent satisfaction and repeated visits, suggesting it’s a trusted spot for many who want dependable quality and atmosphere when hosting group meetups. This ongoing enthusiasm from the community confirms that Frankie & Jo’s is not just a place to eat but an experience that works well for social connection and celebration.
How can you make the most of your meetup at Frankie & Jo’s Ballard?
To maximize your meetup experience at Frankie & Jo’s, consider arriving during their more relaxed hours to avoid long waits, which are common due to its popularity. Planning a meetup on weekends or early evenings works well, especially since the shop offers extended hours on weekends. Engaging with the staff can enhance the experience—they’re knowledgeable and passionate, often happy to recommend flavors or explain ingredient details which can spark interesting conversations. Groups might try ordering a variety of scoops to share, turning tasting into a communal activity that adds a fun, interactive aspect to your outing. Combining your visit with walks or local excursions in Ballard creates a fuller day together, turning the meetup into both a culinary and social occasion. Lastly, capturing photos together with your ice cream or sharing your finds on social media can create lasting memories and encourage future visits. With a little planning, Frankie & Jo’s becomes not just a dessert stop but a vibrant venue to deepen friendships and celebrate togetherness.
This article establishes Frankie & Jo's Ballard as an outstanding spot to rally with friends, offering creative, inclusive vegan ice cream and an inviting ambiance perfect for social gatherings. Its well-considered menu, community feel, and excellent neighborhood location make it an ideal choice for memorable group meetups.