When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Frankie & Jo's University Village
Why Frankie & Jo's University Village is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Frankie & Jo's University Village stands out as a popular plant-based ice cream shop in Seattle, highly regarded for its innovative vegan offerings and inviting atmosphere. Located in the vibrant University Village neighborhood, this shop is an ideal meet-up spot for friends looking for delicious, healthy, and thoughtfully crafted desserts. The space uniquely blends a Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic featuring deep green tones, textured concrete blocks, and bold wallpaper, creating a warm yet contemporary environment that complements the natural, plant-based ethos of the brand. Since its opening, Frankie & Jo's has become much more than just an ice cream shop; it is a community hub where people gather to enjoy creative flavors made from local, seasonal ingredients. The menu boasts a variety of distinct, dairy-free ice cream flavors that provide options for vegans and non-vegans alike, delivering an inclusive experience for dessert lovers. Though seating is limited, the welcoming atmosphere and quick-moving service encourage patrons to savor their ice cream while socializing or exploring University Village. As part of a growing local brand with other locations in Capitol Hill and Ballard, Frankie & Jo's University Village melds artistic design with culinary innovation, making it a memorable destination for those seeking a healthy twist on a classic treat.
Here's what people think of Frankie & Jo's University Village
As of recent, Frankie & Jo's University Village holds a 4.6-star rating based on 244 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Frankie & Jo's University Village for its outstanding vegan and plant-based ice cream options, noting the creative and delicious flavors that appeal to both vegans and non-vegans. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the ice cream, the friendly and efficient service, and the unique atmosphere inspired by desert warmth and modern design. Positive reviews often mention the enjoyable taste-testing experience that allows customers to sample various flavors before ordering and commend the shop’s commitment to local, seasonal ingredients which elevate the ice cream experience. However, some negative feedback points to the limited seating space, which can make longer visits challenging, and occasional waits during peak times, though most agree the line moves quickly. Additionally, a few customers wish for an expanded seating area or a larger venue to better accommodate groups. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall reception is highly favorable, underscoring Frankie & Jo's as a must-visit spot for those craving innovative vegan desserts in a lively, aesthetically pleasing setting. The shop’s consistent 4.6-star rating based on hundreds of reviews reflects its strong reputation and loyal customer base.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
K L
I recently had the chance to try Frankie & Jo’s at University Village, and I have to say, I was genuinely surprised by how good the ice cream was – especially considering it’s vegan! While I'm not vegan myself, I’m always down to try new things, and this was definitely a pleasant surprise. The flavors are rich, creamy, and full of flavor, which is not always the case with vegan ice cream or food. I also loved that I could sample multiple flavors before making my final choice – a nice touch that made the decision process much easier! The vibe of the shop is super chic and modern, which adds to the whole experience. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy some ice cream. Definitely a fun, first-time visit for me! The only downside (and it’s a minor one) is the use of coconut in a lot of the flavors. While I don’t have any allergies myself, I know a few people who are allergic to coconut, and it's something to keep in mind. Coconut’s a healthy alternative, but it might not work for everyone. Overall, Frankie & Jo’s is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area – a surprising, delicious vegan ice cream spot with a cool vibe! But if you are allergic to nuts or coconut — you may want to explore other options.
Timothy Williams
We were impressed with this place. It’s a plant based/vegan ice cream with a good selection of flavors, including some seasonal ones that were pretty good. Coconut Joy was my favorite. I didn’t care much for the gluten-free waffle cone. The place was nice and clean, and the staff was friendly. One of the biggest surprises was how creamy the ice cream was. We will go back for sure.
Manish Kedia
Yummy. My first time trying vegan ice cream. I liked the salted caramel ash but definitely has a coconut milk taste The waffle cone was crisp and perfect.
D T
They have gluten free waffle cones for their delicious gluten free and vegan ice cream! I got their strawberry & cookies and cream flavors and they were so yummy!! I can't remember the last time as a gluten free person I had a waffle cone. It was magical!
Aurora Dongelmans
Great vegan+gluten free ice cream!! We go all the time and it never disappoints. Definitely get a box of their shortbread cookies while you’re there!
How to reach Frankie & Jo's University Village
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Why Frankie & Jo's University Village may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Frankie & Jo's University Village with your friends?
Frankie & Jo’s University Village is an exceptional destination for gathering with friends due to its unique blend of delicious offerings, welcoming atmosphere, and meaningful experience. What sets this place apart is its commitment to plant-based, gluten-free ice cream that challenges conventional dessert ideas while delivering on flavor and creativity. Whether you and your friends are vegan, have dietary restrictions, or simply love trying innovative food, Frankie & Jo’s accommodates all tastes with its diverse menu of inventive ice cream flavors like chocolate tahini and miso moon. The ice cream is not only indulgent but also thoughtfully made, making it a conversation starter and a shared delight for any group. The location in University Village provides an accessible and vibrant outdoor shopping environment where you can stroll around before or after enjoying your treat. This combination of community-focused values, tasty products, and a lively setting makes Frankie & Jo’s far more than just an ice cream shop—it becomes a memorable social hub perfect for meetups, celebrations, or casual hangouts with loved ones. Its 4.6-star rating and hundreds of positive reviews further underscore the high quality and popular appeal that will satisfy diverse groups looking for a fun and tasty social outing.
What kinds of activities are available at Frankie & Jo’s University Village?
While Frankie & Jo's primarily shines as a modern plant-based ice cream shop, the experience extends well beyond just eating. The University Village setting allows you to engage in a range of activities perfect for groups. Initially, indulging in an array of unique vegan ice cream flavors is an engaging activity in itself—each scoop is a surprise and a topic for flavorful discussion. The shop also offers seasonal specials and a variety of toppings, ensuring every visit feels fresh and exciting. For larger gatherings, purchasing ice cream by the tub makes sharing easy and festive. Beyond ice cream, the broader University Village area features a selection of nearby shops, cafés, and services where your group can continue the meetup seamlessly. Whether it’s shopping for fashionable items, gifts, or outdoor gear, the variety of stores ensures everyone in your group can find something enjoyable. Additionally, the pedestrian-friendly environment is perfect for leisurely walks, window shopping, and spontaneous stops at other local favorites, making it a full-day outing hotspot. This combination of culinary delight and surrounding activities makes Frankie & Jo's a versatile place to rally for multiple group-centered experiences.
Why is Frankie & Jo’s the perfect spot for a group meetup?
Frankie & Jo’s University Village excels as a group meetup location due to its inclusive, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere that caters to all preferences, including those with dietary needs such as vegan and gluten-free. Its menu intentionally promotes shared enjoyment; the availability of tubs of ice cream means you can order a variety of flavors without the limitation of individual servings, encouraging tasting and sharing among friends or family. The comfortable seating arrangements and easy-to-navigate layout of the shop invite socializing and lingering, allowing groups to savor both the food and companionship. Moreover, the vibrant vibe of University Village enhances the social experience, where groups can combine their ice cream outing with casual shopping, dining, and strolling in an open-air environment. The long opening hours (11 AM to 10 PM daily) also provide flexibility for scheduling meetups at any time that fits the group. The consistently high customer satisfaction, evidenced by a 4.6-star rating and nearly 250 reviews applauding both the quality of the ice cream and friendly service, assures that groups can expect a positive experience. All these elements—creative and ethical cuisine, community-oriented space, and a lively surrounding neighborhood—make Frankie & Jo’s ideal for memorable gatherings.
What makes the ice cream at Frankie & Jo’s stand out for friends and family outings?
The ice cream at Frankie & Jo’s University Village distinguishes itself by being 100% plant-based and gluten-free, crafted with dedication to flavor innovation and ingredient quality. This commitment means it can accommodate a wide array of dietary preferences and restrictions, making it an inclusive option for families and diverse friend groups. The flavors are anything but ordinary, featuring creative blends like brown sugar vanilla, chocolate date, and gingerbread golden milk, which invite curiosity and conversation—and often surprise with how rich and satisfying they are despite being entirely dairy-free. The shop's seasonal specials and diverse toppings allow groups to personalize their dessert experience, satisfying both adventurous eaters and those who prefer classic tastes. This focus on delicious, thoughtful recipes elevates the experience into something special, encouraging friends to sample multiple flavors and share feedback, which adds a fun interactive component to the meetup. Beyond the taste, the knowledge that the ice cream supports ethical and sustainable food choices adds meaningful value, resonating with conscious consumers. At Frankie & Jo’s, the ice cream becomes a centerpiece for connection and celebration, perfect for joyful moments shared with friends and family.
What nearby amenities and features complement the meetup experience at Frankie & Jo’s?
Frankie & Jo’s University Village is more than just an ice cream parlor; it's part of a dynamic shopping and dining district that enriches any social gathering. Once you've indulged in your scoop or tub, your group can explore a network of carefully curated local and national retailers, including fashion boutiques, gift shops, outdoor gear, and beauty services. This variety means friends can split off to follow their personal shopping interests without losing the group’s social vibe. The area is designed for pedestrian comfort and social ease, which encourages leisurely strolls and spontaneous stops at various shops or outdoor seating areas. If the group wants to extend the outing, several nearby dining options offer diverse culinary experiences, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner following your ice cream treat. The University Village is also wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, ensuring that everyone in your group can enjoy the environment comfortably. In addition, regular community events and seasonal activities in the shopping area may further enhance the meetup ambiance with entertainment, live music, or pop-up markets, giving friends more reasons to return and revisit. Together, these amenities create a holistic environment where a simple ice cream outing can organically evolve into a delightful, multifaceted social experience.