When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Why Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, founded in 2002 by James Beard Award-winning ice cream maker Jeni Britton in Columbus, Ohio, offers a unique and exciting destination to meet up with friends over extraordinary ice cream. What sets Jeni's apart is not just its commitment to quality, but its artful and innovative approach to flavors—like Salty Caramel, Wildberry Lavender, and Brambleberry Crisp—that you won't find anywhere else. The ice cream is crafted from scratch using super fresh milk from family dairy farms, Direct and Fair Trade ingredients, and proprietary recipes perfected over 20 years. The shop has a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere rooted in its history at the North Market and expanded presence around Columbus. Sampling Jeni's ice creams together is a shared experience that pushes flavor boundaries and offers a smooth, buttercream texture with a clean finish. Beyond being just an ice cream shop, Jeni's is a place where creativity, social responsibility, and delicious treats come together, making it a great spot to gather with friends for indulgence that feels special and unique.
Here's what people think of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
As of recent, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams holds a 4.6-star rating based on 368 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams for its exceptional flavors and quality, reflected in an excellent 4.6-star rating from 368 reviews. Positive reviews highlight the creative, unique flavor combinations and the smooth, rich texture that sets Jeni’s apart from more conventional ice cream shops. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff who generously offer samples and make ordering enjoyable. The value is generally seen as fair given the premium quality, and the half-scoop option is especially popular for trying multiple flavors. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention that the ice cream can be on the pricier side and that the atmosphere or seating options at some locations may feel limited or less inviting. Occasionally, a small number of customers report disappointment with particular flavors or issues like inconsistent sweetness or intensity. However, the majority consensus is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing Jeni’s artistry, quality, and community ethos. Overall, Jeni's is widely regarded as a must-visit ice cream destination that combines creativity, quality, and a welcoming vibe for gathering with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Owen Cornelius
This place is very vegetarian-friendly, with a great variety of dairy-free ice cream options that still taste amazing. I was really impressed by how flavorful everything was, even without the dairy. It’s a hip, fun spot that’s perfect for hanging out with friends or family, and the atmosphere has a cool, relaxed vibe. The servers were also very kind and welcoming, which made the experience even better. Definitely worth checking out!
Jess
I recently discovered this place and instantly fell in love. The service has always been friendly and you’re welcome to try as many samples as you’d like. I even like that they offer half scoop portions just in case you’re trying to be mindful of your portion control. They also have every flavor available in a to go pint and even offer these cute individual cups which would be perfect for parties.
Tyson Sawin
Great spot for Ice cream! I highly recommend the butter cake flavor. Parking was easy, the location is great. Very clean, very friendly staff. Pretty quick as well
Nikki A
What a lovely ice cream spot !! The person who helped us was so wonderful- wish I got her name . She was patient and let us try some samples ! We went with four half scoops ! It’s just a dollar more than the three scoops . They have some great flavors and great service ! Definitely worth a stop if you’re in town ! There’s always a line but it goes by pretty fast and is worth the wait .
DHAIRYA KAPOOR
Great place, amazing ice cream! My husband loves it, it automatically became my favourite go to place!🩷
How to reach Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
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Why Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is a delightful choice because it offers more than just ice cream; it provides a unique social experience centered around creativity, quality, and shared enjoyment. This place is known for its exceptional and inventive flavors that break away from the ordinary, sparking conversations and excitement among groups as they sample and debate their favorites. The atmosphere, while modern and simple, encourages relaxed mingling, especially during warmer days when the outdoor patio becomes a vibrant hub of laughter and chatter. Jeni's commitment to artisanal, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is worth savoring, making it a tasteful way to celebrate moments. Additionally, their staff are friendly and engaging, often offering generous samples so everyone can discover something new together, which is perfect for groups with diverse tastes. Whether it’s a casual hangout, a birthday gathering, or a stop during a group outing, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams sets the stage for memorable experiences where the joy of ice cream becomes a communal celebration.
What activities can a group enjoy at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams?
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams offers a variety of activities ideal for groups seeking enjoyable and interactive experiences. First, flavor exploration is a communal adventure here. Groups can sample an array of rotating, inventive flavors—ranging from classics to unusual blends like Everything Bagel ice cream with crunchy toppings or Brambleberry Crisp—making every visit potentially a new tasting experience. The availability of samples encourages friendly debates and sharing, which naturally fosters connection and laughter. Secondly, the location’s outdoor patio seating provides a cozy setting for conversation amidst a lively environment, perfect for casual meetups or small celebrations. It’s an excellent spot for friends to relax and enjoy their treats while soaking up the atmosphere. Moreover, Jeni’s occasionally hosts special events or ice cream tastings, which can add a fun, educational layer to your visit by deepening appreciation for artisanal ice cream craft. Lastly, since the store is situated in Columbus, which has a vibrant food scene, it can be part of a larger group outing including dinner or other entertainment, making it a flexible and fun social destination.
Why is Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams perfect for a group meetup?
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is particularly well-suited for group meetups due to several key features. One major plus is the variety of distinctive flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates, allowing everyone in your group to find something they love—even those with adventurous tastes or dietary preferences. The option to try samples before purchase reduces uncertainty and encourages interactive conversation as friends share their opinions. Another reason is the friendly and attentive service, which helps groups feel welcomed and well cared for, enhancing the social experience. While the interior is modern and minimalistic, the outdoor seating available during warm weather maximizes space for groups, making it both comfortable and communal. Furthermore, Jeni’s Ice Cream provides high-quality artisanal products that elevate a simple meetup into a special treat, distinguishing it from conventional ice cream shops. Its reputation as a local favorite with national recognition adds to the appeal, giving groups a sense of pride and excitement in enjoying a celebrated local gem together.
What makes Jeni's ice cream flavors stand out in a group setting?
Jeni's ice cream flavors stand out in a group setting because they combine creativity with quality, sparking curiosity and conversation among friends. Unlike traditional ice cream parlors that stick to common flavors, Jeni’s offers experimental concoctions like the "Everything Bagel" flavor, which intriguingly includes notes of onion and garlic alongside cream cheese, challenging tastes while delighting the adventurous. Flavors like "Brambleberry Crisp" provide a balance of comforting familiarity and surprising complexity, appealing to various preferences. This diversity invites the group to sample a wide range of options through the generous tasting policy, promoting discussions and shared discoveries. The use of fresh and artisanal ingredients means these flavors are rich and creamy, making the tasting experience indulgent and memorable. Sharing such unique flavors turns an ordinary dessert outing into a fun, interactive event as everyone weighs in on favorites and new finds, making it ideal for social gatherings that thrive on novelty and connection.
How does the atmosphere at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams enhance social meetups?
The atmosphere at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams plays a significant role in enhancing social meetups by providing a lively yet relaxed environment. The store's modern and clean design creates a welcoming space that doesn’t overwhelm but serves as a perfect backdrop for conversation. Although the interior is somewhat minimalistic, the charm comes through in the friendly interactions with staff and the buzz of customers sampling exciting flavors. During warm months, the outdoor patio becomes a favorite gathering spot, allowing groups to enjoy fresh air while indulging in their ice cream—a setting conducive to longer, more leisurely socializing. The steady flow of customers and the excitement over new flavors add a layer of communal energy that visitors often find contagious. This combination of thoughtful design, engaging service, and dynamic sensory appeal fosters an atmosphere where friends and family feel comfortable to relax, chat, and create memories fueled by delicious ice cream.
What should groups expect regarding pricing and portion sizes at Jeni's?
Groups visiting Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams should be aware that the experience focuses on quality and creativity, which may come with a higher price point compared to conventional ice cream shops. Portions tend to be on the smaller side, as some reviewers mention that scoop sizes are modest, leading some customers to describe them as "diet-sized" or smaller than typical servings. This can be ideal for groups who want to sample multiple flavors without feeling overly full but might be a drawback for those expecting large, hefty portions. The pricing reflects the artisanal ingredients and unique preparations, so it's an investment in flavor and culinary craftsmanship rather than just quantity. Sharing is encouraged, as smaller scoops make it easier for friends to try several flavors together via samples or scoops. Being informed about these aspects allows groups to plan accordingly and set expectations, ensuring that the experience remains pleasurable and worth the cost.
How can Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams be integrated into a broader day out with friends?
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams fits seamlessly into a broader day out with friends in Columbus due to its convenient location and appeal. Whether you are planning a day of shopping, dining, or sightseeing, Jeni's serves as a perfect dessert pit stop that offers both refreshment and a unique tasting adventure. Its proximity to local eateries, including vegetarian-friendly restaurants, means you can plan your meals around Jeni's for a well-rounded culinary experience. The ice cream shop can be the highlight after dinner or a mid-afternoon treat, giving your group a lively break with delicious rewards. Additionally, because of its creative flavor lineup and sociable environment, it turns a routine meet-up into a fun event filled with conversation and shared discovery. The option to sit outside during pleasant weather enhances the outing by allowing your group to soak in the local vibe comfortably. Thus, Jeni's can anchor both casual and planned social excursions, making it a versatile destination when hosting friends or family in Columbus.
What unique benefits does Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams offer for family gatherings?
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams offers several unique benefits that make it an excellent choice for family gatherings. The wide spectrum of flavors, including both adventurous and more traditional options, ensures that family members of all ages and tastes can find something they enjoy, creating inclusive dining moments. Their sample-friendly policy encourages kids and adults alike to explore and try flavors they might not otherwise choose, making it an engaging and educational taste experience for everyone. The friendly and attentive staff are accustomed to serving groups and make families feel welcome and comfortable. Outdoor seating options provide ample space for gatherings with children, allowing families to relax without feeling cramped. Lastly, the premium quality of ingredients and artisanal methods mean that this treat is a special indulgence, lending a sense of occasion to family celebrations, birthdays, or casual get-togethers, where delicious ice cream becomes a centerpiece that brings everyone together.