When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Morgenstern's BANANAS
Why Morgenstern's BANANAS is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Morgenstern's BANANAS offers a unique and vibrant twist on traditional American soft serve ice cream, making it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Located at 2 Rivington Street in New York City, this cheerful venue is designed with a nostalgic and playful ambiance reminiscent of a 1960s Coney Island boardwalk, featuring a bright yellow facade and checkerboard floors. The shop specializes in both dairy and non-dairy soft serve options, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences including many vegan choices. Their soft serve is crafted from scratch without preservatives, stabilizers, or emulsifiers, emphasizing a commitment to quality and authentic flavor. Unique flavors such as coconut vanilla, sumo yuzu, salted chocolate peanut butter, and banana caramel make each visit an exciting experience. Additionally, a variety of house-made dips and toppings, like pickled mango tapioca and rainbow rice krispies, provide delightful customization. Open daily from noon to midnight, Morgenstern’s BANANAS is a lively spot perfect for casual meetups, especially during warm weather when one can enjoy cool, creative treats in a fun atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Morgenstern's BANANAS
As of recent, Morgenstern's BANANAS holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1919 reviews.
Customer reviews for Morgenstern's BANANAS are generally positive, reflected by its solid 4.2-star rating from over 1900 reviews. Patrons consistently praise the shop's creative and vibrant flavor offerings, highlighting standout options like salted chocolate peanut butter and banana caramel soft serve. Many appreciate the vegan-friendly options and the quality of the soft serve, noting the absence of preservatives and the freshness of the ingredients. Reviewers also comment positively on the playful, nostalgic décor and the friendly, attentive staff who enhance the welcoming environment. The unique house-made dips and unconventional toppings receive frequent mentions for adding an exciting dimension to the tasting experience. On the downside, some reviewers note that the shop can get crowded, particularly on warm weekends, leading to longer wait times. A few customers mention that not all menu items are vegan or nut-free despite many vegan options, which requires communication with staff to navigate allergies and preferences. There are also occasional remarks about the pricing being on the higher side compared to typical soft serve offerings. Overall, the reviews affirm Morgenstern’s BANANAS as a must-visit spot for ice cream enthusiasts seeking inventive soft serve treats in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
perle75nyc
Was walking by Morgenstern’s when I stumbled upon this eye-catching, trendy-looking ice cream spot called Bananas — so of course I had to check it out. They offer a bunch of dairy-free, vegan-friendly options: sorbets, sundaes, soft serve… lots to choose from. I went with a few friends and we ordered a bunch of different things to try. Prices were definitely on the higher side, but the flavors were decent overall — until I got to the pineapple on the bottom. It tasted… off. Like, weirdly fermented. Totally ruined the last bite. Wish I had stopped a spoonful earlier.
Michael Panton
It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the City on Mother’Day. After some pizza at Lombardi’s on Spring St., it was time for a dessert. A great option close by (right off of Bowery) is Morgenstern’s, and that’s where I headed. I’m a regular there because their ice cream flavors are just so good and interesting. On this occasion I had the salted peanut butter, which was excellent and refreshing. I’ve had most things on the menu and my two current favorites being the salted peanut butter and the banana teddy graham, which I’ll come back for next weekend. So good! This is one of my favorite places in the City for soft serve ice cream because they have many creative and interesting flavor options and combinations. If you try Morgenstern’s I’m sure it’ll become one of your favorites. It can be an expensive venture, but recommended!
Cassia A
The chocolate and peanut butter flavours are great. Sometimes you can swirl them, and that’s the best. You should alwaysss be able to swirl them. The chocolate is really dark and delicious. It’s vegan (dairy free) but you wouldn’t know it. The peanut butter dip is not worth the $0.77. The shell is super dooper thin and adds nothin’. Some spots to sit. They sell tubs of Morgensterns and Bananas.
Jacqueline Y.
We ordered the Banana and Chocolate flavors from Morgenstern’s Bananas, and they were absolutely amazing! The Banana flavor was pure, creamy, and packed with real banana goodness—nothing artificial, just smooth, natural sweetness with the perfect texture. It tasted like the best version of a banana, elevated into ice cream form. The Chocolate was incredibly rich and decadent, with a deep cocoa flavor that was bold yet silky. Every spoonful was super satisfying, like a luxurious chocolate experience in frozen form. Both flavors were perfectly balanced, not too sweet, and had that signature high-quality texture Morgenstern’s is known for. If you love premium ice cream with intense, real flavors, this place is a must-try.
Alix B
Absolutely delicious. Had the mixed midnight chocolate and salted peanut butter. It was rich, not too sweet.. some of the best (if not the best) vegan ice cream I’ve ever had!!! Wish there was some better seating in/outside as I was on crutches and it was busy- tiny shop. But it seriously was so incredible! Husband got - midnight choc cone I got- midnight choc and pb swirl regular size Best friend- got banana soft serve with strawberry sauce in a mini!!!!
How to reach Morgenstern's BANANAS
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Why Morgenstern's BANANAS may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Morgenstern's BANANAS with your friends? This spot stands out as the perfect gathering place for friends or family who want a unique and delicious experience centered around high-quality, dairy-free soft serve ice cream. Located on 2 Rivington Street in New York City’s vibrant Lower East Side, the ambiance combines the charm of an iconic neighborhood with a modern, welcoming ice cream parlor vibe. What makes this place truly special is its focus on all dairy-free soft serve, which caters beautifully to vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, or anyone looking to explore flavorful, guilt-free treats. The quality is top-notch, as their ice cream is made fresh in-house with many vegan-friendly toppings and flavors that cater to different dietary preferences without compromising taste. With generous operating hours from noon to midnight or later on weekends, it’s easy to drop in anytime to satisfy that sweet craving while catching up with loved ones. The solid 4.2-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviewers attests to its popularity and consistency as a great spot to hang out, making it an excellent choice for a memorable social occasion.
What activities and experiences await groups at Morgenstern's BANANAS?
Morgenstern's BANANAS offers more than just ice cream; it provides an interactive and flavorful experience perfect for group meetups. Visitors can dive into an adventurous tasting session, exploring a wide array of dairy-free soft serve flavors such as banana-based classics along with seasonal or specialty options like Midnight Chocolate. Since many toppings are vegan, groups have the freedom to customize their desserts extensively, mixing textures and flavors for a personalized treat that sparks conversation and discovery. The venue’s layout supports social engagement — it’s cozy yet spacious enough for group seating, encouraging shared enjoyment without feeling cramped. Additionally, since it offers takeout and is wheelchair accessible, it ensures that everyone in your group can join comfortably. Socializing over shared ice cream encourages lighthearted fun and connection, making this spot ideal for casual celebrations, after-dinner hangouts, or spontaneous meetups. Evening visits bring a lively atmosphere with the late hours, allowing groups to extend their social time long after the typical dinner hour.
Why is Morgenstern's BANANAS ideal for group meetups and gatherings?
The key to hosting a successful group meetup lies in finding a place that caters well to diverse tastes and preferences, and Morgenstern's BANANAS excels here by offering 100% dairy-free soft serve crafted fresh daily. For mixed groups, including vegans and those with dietary restrictions, this is a rare, welcoming treat destination, eliminating the stress of trying to find inclusive options. The location in the Lower East Side is both trendy and accessible, making it easy to arrange meetups that can start or end with a stroll through a lively neighborhood full of vibrant street art, shops, and cafés. The ambiance is casual and fun, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxed conversation and laughter among friends or family. The staff is known to be friendly and helpful, enhancing the group experience with attentive service that keeps visits smooth and enjoyable. Moreover, the wide operating hours accommodate a variety of schedules, whether your group prefers midday outings or late-night dessert sessions, offering ultimate flexibility for planning.
What makes the ice cream and menu at Morgenstern's BANANAS stand out?
Morgenstern's BANANAS specializes in dairy-free soft serve that doesn’t compromise on creaminess or flavor — a common concern for non-dairy treats. Their signature banana-based soft serve serves as a rich, naturally sweet foundation that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Beyond the base, the menu features a rotating selection of creative flavors, including options such as regular vanilla-style and bold Midnight Chocolate, ensuring there is something exciting for every palate. Toppings enhance these offerings with choices that range from fresh fruit and crunchy nuts to vegan-friendly sauces and sprinkles, allowing every visitor to build a dessert tailored just for them. The focus on fresh, in-house preparation means everything tastes vibrant and authentic, creating a sensory experience that feels both nostalgic and new. This commitment to quality dairy-free frozen desserts sets Morgenstern's BANANAS apart as a destination where innovation meets tradition, perfect for those who want an alternative to typical ice cream shops without sacrificing taste.
How accessible and convenient is Morgenstern's BANANAS for groups?
Convenience and accessibility play crucial roles in making Morgenstern’s BANANAS a prime meetup spot. Situated at 2 Rivington Street, it is nestled in a well-connected area accessible by multiple subway lines, making it easy for groups traveling from different parts of the city to congregate without hassle. The shop is wheelchair accessible, which is a must-have for inclusive meetups, ensuring that everyone can participate fully without barriers. The option for takeout also means groups can opt to enjoy their treats in nearby parks or other social settings if preferred. Accepting credit cards simplifies payment for groups, avoiding common frustrations during group orders. The flexible hours — open from noon to 11 PM on weekdays and until midnight on weekends — accommodate different group schedules, facilitating spontaneous gatherings after work or late-night indulgences. These factors combine to provide a seamless experience from arrival through to departure, prioritizing group comfort and enjoyment.
What do customers say about their experience at Morgenstern's BANANAS?
With nearly 2,000 reviews and a solid 4.2-star average, customer feedback paints a consistently positive picture of Morgenstern's BANANAS as a community favorite. Many patrons highlight the unique appeal of the dairy-free soft serve, often remarking on the creamy texture and delicious flavors that rival traditional ice cream. The inclusivity of vegan options receives special mention, with visitors valuing the chance to enjoy a dessert outing regardless of dietary restrictions. Reviewers also praise the friendly and attentive staff, who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere that keeps groups coming back. Some note its location in a bustling, artsy part of the Lower East Side adds to the overall charm and excitement of visiting, making it an experience rather than just a dessert stop. While a few mention the shop can get busy, especially on weekends, this only underscores its popularity and status as a favored spot for social outings.
In what ways can Morgenstern's BANANAS enhance your next social event or celebration?
Morgenstern's BANANAS offers an excellent setting for enriching any social event, from casual friend meetups to small celebrations like birthdays or reunions. Its specialty dairy-free soft serve appeals to a broad audience, ensuring no one feels left out because of dietary preferences or restrictions. The customizable menu allows each attendee to create their own dessert experience, sparking interaction and fun as everyone shares their favorite flavor combos. The vibrant neighborhood setting invites groups to combine dessert with a wider outing, perhaps including nearby galleries or walks through local parks. For celebrations, the shop’s friendly staff can help accommodate larger groups with smooth service and timely order fulfillment, ensuring the focus stays on the gathering instead of logistics. The overall ambiance of fun, freshness, and inclusivity makes it an ideal backdrop to create memorable moments with people you care about. Whether popping in after dinner, spending an afternoon exploring the city, or capping off a night out, Morgenstern’s BANANAS adds a sweet, social touch to any occasion.