When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Nico's Ice Cream
Why Nico's Ice Cream is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nico's Ice Cream, established in 2021 by Nico Vergara, has quickly become a beloved spot to meet up for a delicious, unique treat in Portland and beyond. What makes Nico's Ice Cream stand out is its signature New Zealand-style soft serve, which combines a creamy vanilla base with fresh, locally sourced Willamette Valley fruit, such as blueberries, kiwis, mangoes, marionberries, and strawberries. This blend creates a fresh and vibrant ice cream experience unlike traditional offerings. The company started as a food cart and now operates two brick-and-mortar locations in Portland’s trendy neighborhoods of Cully and Vernon, featuring colorful artwork and neon signage that add to a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Their innovative flavors are complemented by toppings like chamoy, coconut flakes, graham cracker, tajin seasoning, and rainbow sprinkles, appealing to adventurous palates. Beyond Portland, Nico's has expanded to Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz, California, reflecting its growing popularity. Additionally, customers can find half-pint containers at around 100 locations across Oregon and Washington, making it easy to enjoy Nico's unique soft serve from home. Their seasonal cart and event rental service add a festive, community-centric dimension to the brand, making Nico’s a great place not only to grab a refreshing dessert but also to socialize and celebrate special occasions.
Here's what people think of Nico's Ice Cream
As of recent, Nico's Ice Cream holds a 4.5-star rating based on 322 reviews.
User reviews of Nico's Ice Cream consistently highlight the quality and uniqueness of the product. Many patrons praise the use of real, fresh fruit blended on-site, which gives the soft serve an authentic and refreshing flavor profile that stands out from conventional ice cream shops. Positive reviews often mention the pleasant atmosphere of the Killingsworth Street location, noting the colorful artwork, friendly staff, and the variety of creative topping options. Customers appreciate the versatility of the flavors, especially enjoying special themed days such as “Tropical Thursday,” which offers exotic combinations like pineapple, banana, and mango. On the service side, people find the staff welcoming and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience. Negative reviews, while fewer, sometimes point out wait times during peak hours and occasional limited seating, which can impact comfort during busy times. A small number of customers desired more flavor variety or wished the shop had extended hours. Overall, the feedback strongly leans positive, emphasizing the innovative New Zealand-style soft serve as a unique treat worth trying. The combination of quality ingredients, vibrant ambiance, and strategic locations contributes to Nico’s growing reputation as a must-visit ice cream destination in Portland and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
jeannine davis
We look forward to going for birthday treats! The staff made it such a fun special experience too! A favorite stop in Portland.
R Y
This is a very yummy treat. My mom, daughter, and I all got the cup serving with different flavors and toppings. We went on Thursday, apparently this day had different flavors from the rest of the week. Our options were banana, pineapple, and mango. I think the regular flavors are different kinds of berries. I was pleased with the serving size for the price. We all enjoyed the flavors, I got banana with coconut topping. Each flavor was pleasant, however not super fruity. It is very fun to watch the mixing process, each serving is hand done one at a time. I imagine this could make quite a line on a hot day. We were got there very close to 1pm on a Thursday and there were a few people, but it was quiet enough we were able to sit at the counter and eat. There was one woman behind the counter and she was super friendly and gave good service There were coloring pages with crayons available (I snagged a couple to go because it was very crowded by the time we were finished) and there is ice cream for sale by the pint to go in a cooler. You can get a free scoop of ice cream on your birthday too! The cons/factors to know: street parking only, (we parked across the street in residential parking). It is a very small shop, very little seating. There are about five seats inside and two outside. It gets very crowded inside and I don't think they have a public bathroom. If you are hard of hearing the music was playing a bit loud when we were there.
Samantha Thompson
I was going to wait to write this review until I had more photos back from our wedding, but decided that I didn't want anyone who is on the fence to miss out in hiring Nico and team for a summer event! We are big ice cream lovers so decided to have an ice cream cart instead of cake for our wedding, and are SO HAPPY with our choice!!! Nico is so communicative, friendly, easy to work with, flexible, and the cart was such a cool visual element also! Guests were able to pick from four different flavors, in cup or cone, with option to add from a whole assortment of toppings. Going into my wedding night I said, "I cannot wait to be on the dance floor, with an ice cream cone in hand, surrounded by all the people I love", and the moment I looked around while that was happening made me over-the-moon joyful! The ice cream is EXCELLENT, with real fruit flavors - I received so many compliments from guests. My only regret is not hanging a big flashing sign to make sure all attendees knew to get a serving because those who didn't missed out! THANK YOU NICO AND TEAM! (**updated with additional photos)
LT
I saw the store on CNBC make it. The store on how he opened the store was very inspirational. Also I have never tried Ice cream with a fresh fruit in side so I wanted to check out the place. I went a little early so I waited outside. They have chairs outside which was nice. One thing I noticed was the inside was small but cozy. The customer service was amazing the music was so nice. The ice cream was 15/10 it was so creamy and sweet. The coconut toping was nice too. The waffle cone was fresh. I had such a great experience 🙏🏾
Linda Collins
Went to Nico’s for the first time (finally!!!! What were we waiting for?!) and it did not disappoint. I love soft serve ice cream and it’s blended with fresh fruit!? What more could you ask for. It was a Saturday evening around 8 and there were a couple people in line before us. Ordering was quick, but since it’s all made to order there was a small wait for our cones but only about 5min. I could see how busier times you might have to wait longer, but it’s worth it! The shop is small. They only allow 8 people in at a time because there’s not much more room than that, but it was a very pleasant evening so everyone was enjoying their ice cream outside. We live walking distance from a salt and straw, gelato and eb & bean but Nico’s will definitely be worth the short drive for me!
How to reach Nico's Ice Cream
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Why Nico's Ice Cream may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nico’s Ice Cream with your friends? Because it offers a unique blend of exceptional quality, welcoming atmosphere, and a shared experience centered around delicious, real fruit soft serve ice cream that everyone can enjoy. Nico’s Ice Cream is not just an ordinary dessert spot; it’s a place where friends and family come together to savor high-quality, fresh ingredients that bring a refreshing and healthier twist to traditional ice cream. With a strong 4.5-star rating from over 300 reviews, it’s clear that people consistently enjoy both the delicious flavors and the vibe of the place. The soft serve is celebrated for its real fruit content, including tropical flavors like pineapple, banana, and mango, making it appealing not only to those who crave indulgence but also to health-conscious guests. When you visit with your friends, you’re not just grabbing a treat—you’re creating memorable moments infused with laughter, good conversation, and the delight of a unique culinary experience that everyone will appreciate. This combination makes Nico’s Ice Cream an ideal rallying point for social meetups and celebrations.
What activities can you enjoy at Nico’s Ice Cream that make it perfect for a group meetup? First, the core attraction is, of course, the real fruit soft serve ice cream, which allows guests to customize their own dessert with a variety of fresh and vibrant fruit combinations. This interactive choice adds a playful element to group outings, where each person’s preferences can be explored and shared. The shop’s laid-back and cool ambiance, often described as having "cool vibes," fosters an inviting environment where groups can comfortably linger, chat, and enjoy their treats together. This is vital for meetups, as it encourages socializing without pressure to leave quickly. Furthermore, Nico’s is located in trendy neighborhoods, such as the lively Northeast Fremont Street and Killingsworth Street in Portland, areas known for their modern eateries and vibrant cultural scenes—providing an extended experience for groups who might want to combine their visit with other nearby activities like dining or walking tours. Even the simple joy of sitting outside or near the shop while indulging in guilt-free ice cream creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for friends and family to reconnect.
Why is the ice cream selection at Nico’s Ice Cream a standout for group enjoyment? Nico’s specializes in New Zealand-style ice cream that emphasizes the use of fresh, real fruit in their soft serve, which sets them apart from typical ice cream parlors. This focus on authenticity gives groups the opportunity to explore a variety of flavors, from tropical blends to berries, something appealing to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Because the menu is simple yet thoughtfully curated, it reduces the overwhelm often associated with large group orders, ensuring everyone can quickly find something they enjoy. Taste testers within groups can discuss and exchange opinions on the unique combinations—for example, tropical day with pineapple, banana, and mango makes for a deliciously refreshing option. This kind of ice cream appeals to those who want indulgence without compromising on quality or feeling overly heavy, making it ideal for health-aware groups as well as those just seeking fun, flavorful treats. Sharing small samples or swapping creations adds a communal, festive aspect to the meetup.
How does the location and setting of Nico’s Ice Cream enhance the group experience? Nico’s Ice Cream is strategically situated in neighborhoods that encourage social exploration and leisure. The Portland locations on Northeast Fremont and Killingsworth Streets offer access to vibrant streetscapes filled with other boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural spots. This means groups aren’t limited to just ice cream — they can build an entire outing around their visit, like grabbing dinner nearby and capping it off with Nico’s as the perfect dessert spot. The surroundings encourage casual strolling, seating, and mingling, which helps groups stretch their time together naturally. Moreover, the shop’s design and vibe are conducive to interaction: it’s modern but warmly inviting, often frequented by families, friends, and locals who appreciate quality food and genuine experiences. This makes it suitable not only for casual hangouts but also for more special occasions such as birthday celebrations or reunions.
What makes Nico’s Ice Cream a sociable and memorable meetup venue? Beyond the fantastic ice cream and prime location, Nico’s offers an experience that feels personal and refreshing. The emphasis on real fruit ingredients coupled with soft serve’s light texture ensures that every bite feels fresh and satisfying without being overly rich or heavy, which is especially appreciated in group settings where some may prefer lighter dessert options. The easygoing environment encourages groups to stay longer, share laughs, and enjoy each other's company without the pressure of rushing. Customers often comment on the "cool vibes," describing a friendly, neighborhood feel that appeals equally to families and groups of friends looking for a low-key but special place to gather. Plus, with multiple locations and plans to expand to other cities, Nico’s is quickly becoming a recognizable name for quality and community-centered ice cream experiences, which makes planning repeat meetups and sharing the spot with others simple and exciting. The combination of atmosphere, quality, and community spirit makes it much more than just an ice cream shop—it’s a place to create lasting social memories.
How does Nico’s Ice Cream accommodate diverse group preferences and needs? The simplicity and quality of its menu, focusing on natural, fresh, and sometimes tropical fruits, make it an excellent choice for groups with diverse tastes or dietary considerations. Unlike chain ice cream shops that can overwhelm with sugar-heavy or artificial flavor options, Nico’s appeals to those seeking "real food" treats, including health-conscious adults, kids, and those who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship in food. This inclusivity means groups rarely have difficulty deciding, as everyone can find flavors they enjoy, whether they want something indulgent or more natural. The staff’s friendly and efficient service further supports the group experience, making ordering smooth and flexible—even for larger parties. Moreover, the setting and layout of the shop accommodate casual gatherings, allowing friends and family members to relax, mingle, and savor their selections without crowding or hassle.
What are the seasonal and special offerings that make group visits to Nico’s Ice Cream even more exciting? Nico’s Ice Cream frequently offers special flavor “days” or collaborations that make repeated group visits fresh and enticing. For example, a “tropical day” might introduce unique blends of pineapple, mango, and banana, while other days focus on berries or other fresh fruit assortments. These limited-time flavors spark enthusiasm for return visits, as groups look forward to trying what’s new together. The shop also stays active through social media, providing updates on new flavors and collaborations, which keeps the community engaged and eager to plan their outings. For groups, this element of surprise and shared exploration adds a dynamic layer to meetups that goes beyond just eating ice cream. It transforms each outing into a mini event and conversation starter, strengthening group bonds around the shared love of discovering delicious flavors.
Why choose Nico’s Ice Cream for your next family or friend meetup over other dessert venues? Nico’s stands out in a saturated market of ice cream and dessert shops because of its commitment to quality, authenticity, and community experience. The use of real fruit in their soft serve means the desserts taste naturally sweet and fresh—not artificially flavored or overly rich—appealing to all ages and tastes. The welcoming, relaxed environment encourages guests to stay longer and connect rather than just grab and go. Its locations in culturally rich neighborhoods offer ample opportunities to combine dessert with other fun group activities nearby. The consistently high ratings and glowing reviews from diverse customers underline its reliability as a go-to spot for groups looking to enjoy quality ice cream in a sociable setting. This focus on genuine flavor, ambiance, and service creates a refreshing alternative to crowded chains or generic ice cream shops—and the perfect home base for memorable meetups.
How does Nico’s Ice Cream support community and local culture, making it special for group gatherings? Nico’s emphasis on real, fresh ingredients sourced thoughtfully aligns with a commitment to supporting local farmers and sustainable food practices. This philosophy resonates with many Portland locals who value community-minded businesses. Gathering at Nico’s means participating in a food culture that prioritizes quality and sustainability, strengthening the communal feel. Many patrons appreciate not only the taste but the values behind the brand, which encourages repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth within communities. For groups, this shared value adds depth to the outing, transforming it from just a casual meet-and-eat into a purpose-driven social experience. Gathering to enjoy real fruit soft serve together in a business that celebrates both taste and ethics enriches the meetup beyond dessert alone.
How accessible and convenient is Nico’s Ice Cream for groups planning a meetup? With multiple locations in Portland and plans expanding to other cities like Monterey, CA, Nico’s Ice Cream is becoming increasingly accessible for a variety of groups, regardless of where they’re coming from. Its presence in bustling neighborhoods with good transit options and parking availability makes it easy for groups of all sizes to gather without logistical headaches. The staff’s reputation for quick, simple service benefits busy groups who want to focus on socializing rather than waiting. Additionally, the shop occasionally offers pints and take-home options through pint locators, allowing groups to extend the experience beyond the store, whether for after-parties, celebrations, or casual hangouts at home. This blend of accessibility, service, and product availability ensures that Nico’s Ice Cream can accommodate many types of meetups, from casual weekend hangouts to planned family celebrations.
In summary, Nico’s Ice Cream is more than just a place to grab a treat. Its commitment to real fruit soft serve, inviting atmosphere, convenient locations, and engaging community values make it an outstanding choice for hosting gatherings with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a lively social space, a creative culinary adventure, or a tasteful celebration spot, Nico’s offers an experience that elevates ordinary meetups into memorable events filled with joy and connection.