Mattheessen's: Nashville's Sweetest Spot for Giant Cookies & Creamy Ice Cream
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 05 Dec 2025 15:36
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TL;DR: Mattheessen's - Ice Cream, Cookies, Fudge Grab Dessert is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Nashville
Mattheessen's is a family-owned dessert parlor nestled in the heart of downtown Nashville, making it the perfect place to meet up with friends for a sweet escape. Located just steps from Broadway, this cozy shop is known for its giant, freshly baked cookies, creamy homemade ice cream, and decadent marble slab fudge. The inviting aroma of warm cookies and the colorful display of treats in the window make it impossible to walk by without stopping in. Whether you're craving a half-pound cookie, a scoop of their signature brownie boom ice cream, or a slice of homemade key lime pie, Mattheessen's delivers indulgence with every bite. The shop's friendly atmosphere and quick service make it easy to linger with friends, snap some fun photos, and enjoy a sugar recharge after exploring the city. With its central location, Mattheessen's is also a great spot to grab a treat before or after hitting the nearby shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The combination of delicious desserts, a welcoming vibe, and convenient downtown access makes Mattheessen's a must-visit for anyone looking to sweeten their Nashville experience.
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What people think of Mattheessen's - Ice Cream, Cookies, Fudge, based on reviews
As of recent, Mattheessen's - Ice Cream, Cookies, Fudge holds a 4.8-star rating based on 690 reviews.
Mattheessen's has earned a stellar reputation from visitors and locals alike, with a 4.8-star rating based on nearly 700 reviews. Many reviewers highlight the shop's giant, soft, and chewy cookies, often describing them as "as big as your head" and "worth every calorie." The ice cream is consistently praised for its rich flavors and high quality, with several customers noting that it stands out even compared to other top ice cream destinations across the country. The homemade key lime pie and marble slab fudge also receive frequent compliments for their freshness and taste. Positive reviews often mention the quick service, friendly staff, and the fun, photogenic atmosphere, making it a favorite for both solo visits and group outings.
On the other hand, a few negative reviews mention that the shop can get crowded during peak hours, leading to short waits or limited seating. Some customers note that the menu is focused on sweets, so those looking for savory options or a full meal might be disappointed. A handful of reviewers also mention that the giant cookies, while delicious, can be overwhelming for some appetites.
Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a beloved dessert destination that excels in delivering indulgent treats and a memorable experience. While there are minor drawbacks, the overwhelming consensus is that Mattheessen's is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting Nashville.
How to reach Mattheessen's - Ice Cream, Cookies, Fudge
123 2nd Ave N fl 1, Nashville, TN 37201, USA
FAQ about Mattheessen's - Ice Cream, Cookies, Fudge, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Nashville, Tennessee
Mattheessen's Ice Cream, Cookies, Fudge in downtown Nashville is more than just a dessert stop—it’s a vibrant destination that warmly invites groups looking to enjoy a sweet celebration together. Whether it’s a weekend treat, a post-dinner indulgence, or a casual outing to catch up, Mattheessen’s offers a welcoming atmosphere and an extensive variety of artisanal ice cream flavors, oversized gourmet cookies, and rich, handmade fudge. The shop’s cozy, inviting interior with soft country music playing in the background creates a relaxed mood perfect for conversation and laughter. Add to this the friendly, attentive staff who enhance the experience with genuine hospitality, and you have an ideal spot for friends or families to gather and create memorable moments. Its location in the bustling 2nd Ave N district makes it easy to access and an excellent complement to a day or night out in Nashville’s vibrant cityscape. With a reputation for quality and a glowing 4.8-star rating from nearly 700 reviews, you can count on both an impressive menu and a convivial environment where everyone feels at home.
The primary delight is, of course, indulging in their freshly made treats, designed to please a crowd. The selection of homemade ice cream includes a rotating variety of unique and traditional flavors — from classics to inventive blends like brownie boom or freshly grated coconut — allowing everyone in the group to find something they love. Sharing a giant half-pound cookie is an inherently social activity, encouraging groups to split warm, gooey chocolate chip, sugar, or other cookie varieties while chatting and relaxing. On top of that, Mattheessen’s offers specialty ice cream sundaes and root beer floats, adding playful options that can spark nostalgic joy or new favorite memories. The on-site seating and upstairs additional space provide a comfortable setting where groups can linger, savor their desserts, and enjoy each other's company without rushing. The vibe is informal yet charming, making it ideal for everything from family gatherings to casual meetups among friends or coworkers.
Beyond the delectable food, the ambiance here promotes connection and celebration in a bright, cozy environment. The seating arrangement can accommodate small to medium-sized groups comfortably, with enough room for people to spread out or sit close depending on their preference. The décor has a warm, local flavor reflective of Nashville’s artistic and musical heritage, creating a space that feels authentic and welcoming without being overcrowded or noisy. The soft country music gently playing in the background adds a layer of comfort without overpowering conversation. Additionally, the friendly, approachable staff ensure guests feel valued, often going beyond to make personalized recommendations or cater accommodations for group preferences. For anyone looking to host a casual celebration—be it a birthday, reunion, or end-of-week treat—Mattheessen’s conveniently balances great food, easy accessibility, and a supportive, joyful environment.
The menu’s combination of generous portions and high-quality ingredients is key to its popularity among groups. Diners often comment on how the ice cream scoops are satisfying and plentiful, making it easy to share and sample multiple flavors. The cookie sizes are especially noteworthy; these giant cookies, often compared to the size of a dinner plate, invite sharing and discussion about flavors and textures. Many guests gravitate towards the brownie explosion sundae or the combination of warm, fresh cookies with cold, creamy ice cream, which strikes a perfect balance between comforting and indulgent. Beyond ice cream and cookies, the homemade fudge options also offer an additional layer of sweetness to explore, ideal for gifting or sampling among friends. This variety encourages groups to mix and match orders, ensuring that everyone’s tastes and dietary needs are met. The venue also serves root beer floats, lemonades, teas, and coffee, rounding out the menu to suit a broader range of preferences, from a child’s thirst for a fun drink to an adult’s craving for caffeine.
Located at 123 2nd Ave N, Mattheessen’s benefits from a prime downtown Nashville setting with several practical amenities that make group visits straightforward. Paid street parking, nearby parking lots, and multi-storey parking facilities make it accessible even for those driving in from different parts of the city or suburbs. Inside, the venue offers wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating arrangements, ensuring inclusivity for all guests. Payment options are modern and flexible, covering credit and debit cards as well as NFC mobile payments, which simplifies transactions when managing group orders. The availability of dine-in as well as takeaway services accommodates various meetup styles – from relaxed in-store hangouts to quick dessert stops after other activities. The venue’s hours, including late-night options, enable groups to gather spontaneously or plan ahead, whether it’s an after-dinner delight or a late-night indulgence during Nashville’s lively nightlife hours.
Reviews consistently praise the high quality of both the food and the service, emphasizing how the friendly, attentive staff improve the overall experience. Patrons have shared glowing remarks about the extensive flavor variety of ice cream and the oversized, delicious cookies, often recounting how their group couldn’t resist returning multiple nights in a row during their visit. This repeat enthusiasm underscores the shop’s position as a standout destination for social sharing and enjoyment. Price considerations are sometimes noted as on the higher side, but customers generally agree that the generous portion sizes, exceptional quality, and welcoming ambiance justify the cost—especially when experienced with friends or family. The sense of joy and indulgence that Mattheessen’s fosters has made it a must-visit spot within Nashville, ideal for anyone wanting to share a sweet moment in a warm, inclusive setting.
From the friendly service to the extraordinary portion sizes and variety, it invites friends and families alike to rally, reconnect, and celebrate through sweet indulgence. Whether you’re planning a casual outing, a festive celebration, or just a spontaneous gathering, Mattheessen’s creates the perfect backdrop for lasting memories, one delicious scoop and giant cookie at a time.