When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Icy-N-Spicy
Why Icy-N-Spicy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Icy-N-Spicy is a charming, family-run artisan dessert shop nestled in the historic Carlyle building lobby on Miami's famous Ocean Drive. With a 4.6-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, it has become a premier destination for ice cream lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. What makes Icy-N-Spicy exceptional is its creative fusion of European and Asian flavors, expertly crafted into unique ice cream and dessert offerings. The owner, Xiaoli Liu, brings culinary heritage from Sichuan, China, known for its spiciest food traditions, combined with generational family recipes passed through three generations of women. The menu features a broad array of handmade gelatos, nitrogen ice creams, soft serves, froyo, and fun treats like Japanese mochi ice cream paired with French macarons. The bright, colorful treats, including sorbets topped with gummy bears and delicately decorated mochi, are as visually stunning as they are delicious, making them exceptionally popular for Instagram and social media sharing. Guests appreciate the fresh local ingredients used to ensure top quality and the friendly service focused on creating memorable experiences. Its location on Ocean Drive makes it an ideal spot to grab a refreshing cone, milkshake, or cotton candy while enjoying a stroll along the sunny beachfront promenade. Altogether, Icy-N-Spicy offers a welcoming, sweet escape blending cultural flavors and a delightful atmosphere perfect for meetups with friends or family gatherings.
Here's what people think of Icy-N-Spicy
As of recent, Icy-N-Spicy holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1230 reviews.
Customer reviews for Icy-N-Spicy consistently highlight its delicious and innovative desserts that skillfully blend diverse influences, creating unique and flavorful experiences. Users praise the creativity of the menu items, such as the spicy ice creams inspired by Sichuan flavors and the combination of mochi with French macarons. Many appreciate the visual appeal of the treats, noting that the colorful and Instagram-worthy presentation adds to the overall enjoyment. Fast and friendly service is frequently mentioned, along with the shop’s cozy yet vibrant ambiance that enhances the social experience. Visitors also value the use of fresh, local ingredients, which they believe elevates the quality of the desserts. The location at the Carlyle on Ocean Drive is described as ideal for enjoying sweet treats while soaking up the vibrant South Beach atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for both locals and tourists after a beach day or during an evening stroll. On the other hand, some negative aspects mentioned in reviews include the relatively higher price point, especially for milkshakes, which some find a bit pricey considering portion size. A few customers have noted that the shop can get busy and seating is limited, which might affect those looking for a relaxed sit-down experience. Nonetheless, these critiques are often overshadowed by the overall positive impressions of the food quality, service, and ambience. In conclusion, reviews depict Icy-N-Spicy as a delightful and innovative dessert destination that successfully blends cultural inspirations with artistry, making it a must-visit spot despite minor drawbacks like cost and space limitations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shenita Boyd
If you’re looking for a whimsical, over‑the‑top ice cream treat in Miami Beach, Icy‑N‑Spicy delivers. It’s less about a full meal, more about artistry in dessert form—with bold flavors, playful presentation, and friendly service that sets it apart from a typical parlor. FYI: it’s absolutely worth it for a specialty shake or unique ice cream flavors after a day in the sun. Be prepared to pay a premium and zero customizations (asked for no whipped cream but my request could not be accommodated).
Estefani Zambrano
I visited Ice-N-Spicy to try the Dubai chocolate strawberries and they were so good! The place has a fun and vibrant decoration, making it perfect for young people or anyone with a sweet tooth. They offer a variety of ice creams, milkshakes, and other desserts, so there’s plenty to choose from. Definitely a fun spot to treat yourself!
Hannah
I stopped by this place tonight for a sweet treat. Marta was incredibly friendly and highly recommended their homemade Dubai chocolate bar. I’m so glad I tried it; it was one of the most filling bars I’ve ever had. The chocolate was just right—not too sweet, but definitely sweet enough. It’s definitely worth trying! 💕
Patricia Soledade
Icy-n-Spicy is simply amazing! The atmosphere is very welcoming and modern, with an impressive variety of flavors that please all tastes — from the most classic to the boldest. The highlight of my visit was, without a doubt, the impeccable service from Tatiana. She was extremely friendly, attentive, and knew every detail about the flavors offered, giving great recommendations. It’s rare to find such warm and professional service. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommend it to everyone who passes by!
Shalini Sankar
We went there specially to enjoy Chocolate ice cream but due to high demand it was over. We took another equally delicious flavor. Though it was quite late in day, the girl at the shop.was sweet and helpful.
How to reach Icy-N-Spicy
None
Website: None
Why Icy-N-Spicy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Icy-N-Spicy with your friends? Because this vibrant and charming ice cream shop on Miami Beach’s iconic Ocean Drive offers a perfect blend of atmosphere, unique flavors, and friendly hospitality that makes for an unforgettable group outing. With a stellar 4.6 rating from over 1,200 reviews, Icy-N-Spicy has become a go-to spot where friends and family can revel in sweet treats while soaking in the electric vibe of Miami Beach. The shop’s lush decor, filled with vivid colors, joyful balloons adorning the ceiling, and lively wall art, instantly lifts your spirits—making you feel like you've stepped into a joyful oasis. The owners, known for their warm, personal connections with guests, create a welcoming environment that’s as inviting as a family reunion, ensuring every visitor is treated like a cherished friend. Whether you're looking for a cool escape from the heat, a place to celebrate a special occasion, or just a chill spot to share laughs and indulgences, Icy-N-Spicy is an ideal destination to rally your group and make memories together.
What Makes Icy-N-Spicy Ideal for Group Meetups?
Icy-N-Spicy is designed to be more than just an ice cream shop—it’s a vibrant social hub perfect for group gatherings. The shop’s location inside the illustrious Carlyle Hotel on Ocean Drive puts it right in the heart of the bustling Miami Beach scene, allowing groups to conveniently meet up before or after other local activities like beach walks or sightseeing around South Beach. One key aspect that makes this place ideal for groups is its spaciousness combined with an inviting, colorful aesthetic. The ceilings filled with bright balloons and walls decorated with vivacious artwork create a playful setting that sparks conversation and joy among group members. The staff further enhances the experience with their friendly, attentive service, often remembered for making guests feel truly at home. Large groups can enjoy sharing a variety of the shop’s specialty items, from signature spicy ice creams to indulgent milkshakes with creative, Instagrammable presentations. The environment encourages mingling and sharing, making it easy and fun for friends or family to bond over delicious treats in a lively, photogenic setting.
What Activities Can Groups Enjoy at Icy-N-Spicy?
At Icy-N-Spicy, there’s a variety of activities and experiences tailored for groups looking to enjoy their time together beyond just eating dessert. Firstly, tasting sessions with unique offerings like their spicy ice cream—a special fusion inspired by the owner’s Sichuan heritage and a blend of European and Asian flavor traditions—offer a memorable culinary adventure. Groups can have fun sampling different flavors, from the classic creamy vanilla soft serve to the adventurous mango milkshake topped with a melting marshmallow rainbow rim and strawberry drizzle. Icy-N-Spicy also boasts vegan-friendly options, ensuring every guest, regardless of dietary preference, can indulge. Beyond delicious ice cream and shakes, the colorful setting offers perfect photo opportunities. Groups can turn their visit into a mini photo shoot, capturing the vibrant interior and their joyful moments together. The shop often becomes a social media hotspot because of these unique visuals, adding an interactive and creative dimension to the meetup. Additionally, the staff's warm energy and personal engagement often lead to storytelling sessions about the origin of recipes and the family-run nature of the business, enriching visitors' connection to the place.
How Does the Location Enhance Your Group Experience?
Situated in the lobby of the historic Carlyle Hotel on Miami Beach’s famed Ocean Drive, Icy-N-Spicy benefits greatly from a prime location that enhances any group outing. This position means groups can combine their visit with a stroll along the beautiful South Beach, a walk down Ocean Drive’s lively promenade, or a quick adventure into nearby shops and local attractions. Being centrally located also helps avoid lengthy travel, making it easy for everyone to gather without hassle. The neighborhood itself is energetic, full of music, street performers, and vibrant nightlife, adding a spontaneous layer of fun to your meetup. After indulging in the shop’s signature sweet and spicy concoctions, groups can continue their day together outside, enjoying the ocean breeze and famous Miami views. This seamless blend of charming indoor comfort and exhilarating outdoor ambiance makes Icy-N-Spicy more than just a place to eat—it’s a social experience that extends naturally into the wider area’s offerings. The convenience of nearby parking and public transport options further simplifies group planning and logistics, ensuring stress-free meetups.
Why Are the Flavors and Menu Items at Icy-N-Spicy Perfect for Sharing?
The menu at Icy-N-Spicy is crafted with a unique blend of cultural influences and a focus on quality that makes it perfect for group sharing. The owners, drawing on three generations of family dessert recipes from China’s Sichuan province, have created signature spicy ice creams that surprise and delight the palate—ideal for groups searching for something beyond ordinary ice cream. Their shakes are not only large and indulgent but also artistically presented, often featuring toppings like melted marshmallow rims and soft serve vanilla. These treats are designed to be savored slowly and shared among friends, fueling conversation and connection. The shop also caters to diverse dietary needs with vegan options like the mango sorbet, a favorite for its fresh and authentic taste. Sharing these varied treats allows groups to explore new flavor combinations together, engage in playful taste testing, and enjoy a communal, interactive dessert experience. This sharing culture around the menu is perfect for families with kids, friend groups celebrating special moments, or colleagues seeking a fun break from work.
How Does the Service Enhance Group Visits?
Exceptional customer service at Icy-N-Spicy is a standout feature that consistently elevates group visits. The owners and staff show genuine passion for their craft and a warm approach to guests, often personally greeting visitors and sharing stories about the shop’s origins and special recipes. This level of hospitality transforms a simple trip for dessert into a memorable experience that groups appreciate and talk about long after their visit. For groups, such attentive service means orders are handled efficiently, customized requests are welcomed, and everyone feels accommodated—whether it’s a large party or a family with young children. The promptness of service ensures that groups are not kept waiting, allowing them to enjoy a smooth, relaxing meetup. Furthermore, the friendly atmosphere encourages guests to linger, mingle, and enjoy themselves without feeling rushed. This combination of speed, warmth, and attentiveness creates a setting where all members of a group can feel included and valued, nurturing camaraderie and shared enjoyment.
What Makes Icy-N-Spicy a Unique and Photogenic Venue for Group Photos?
Icy-N-Spicy stands out as a uniquely colorful and aesthetically pleasing venue that naturally motivates groups to take photos together, creating lasting memories. The interior is festooned with bright balloons and lively artwork, making every corner a picture-perfect backdrop. This playful and energetic decor complements the joyful mood of a group meetup and invites spontaneous photography, ideal for social media sharing. The artistic presentation of the ice creams and milkshakes themselves often becomes the centerpiece of photos, adding layers of visual appeal to both the setting and the refreshments. Whether it’s candid shots of friends laughing over a shared sundae or carefully posed group photos framed by the balloon-decorated ceiling, Icy-N-Spicy offers an environment that encourages creativity and fun. This photo-friendly ambiance is a strong draw for groups who want to capture their outing digitally, ensuring that the experience continues to bring joy when revisited through these images. The shop’s reputation as a local hotspot for both taste and visuals makes it a go-to destination not only for eating but also for social storytelling through photography.
Why Is Icy-N-Spicy Perfect for Celebrations and Special Occasions?
Celebrating milestones with friends or family at Icy-N-Spicy adds a unique and festive twist to any special occasion. The shop’s lively décor, combined with its innovative menu, creates an atmosphere of joy and indulgence that is ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual get-togethers. The staff’s warm hospitality often includes personalized touches, enhancing the feeling of a customized and memorable celebration. The shop’s offerings, like cupcakes with cotton candy or elaborate milkshakes, bring a fun, almost whimsical element to the event, impressing guests both young and old. Because it accommodates dietary preferences and provides options that are as much a visual treat as a taste delight, Icy-N-Spicy ensures every celebrant finds something special. The central location on Ocean Drive provides added appeal for guests coming from different parts of the city, simplifying planning. Celebrating at Icy-N-Spicy means enjoying high-quality desserts in a vibrant setting that naturally elevates the spirit and camaraderie of any group occasion.