When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Scooter's Frozen Custard
Why Scooter's Frozen Custard is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Scooter's Frozen Custard, located at the vibrant intersection of Belmont and Paulina in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, has been a cherished spot for frozen custard lovers since its opening in 2003. Founded by Mardi and Denny Moore, longtime Chicago natives who transitioned from careers in telecommunications sales to the ice cream business, Scooter's offers a welcoming atmosphere coupled with delicious, freshly made frozen custard. The shop is known for its daily made custard, including classic vanilla and chocolate flavors, along with a rotating "Flavor of the Day" that keeps visitors excited to return. The menu features a variety of treats such as concretes, sundaes, shakes, malts, floats, and cones, with options to customize concretes with over 30 mix-ins and flavorings. Many customers enjoy unique specials like the blueberry pie concrete and the popular PB&J concrete, made with vanilla custard blended with liquid peanut butter and black raspberry topping. Scooter's commitment to quality and community is reflected in its enduring popularity, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends, enjoy a sweet treat, and savor a friendly neighborhood atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Scooter's Frozen Custard
As of recent, Scooter's Frozen Custard holds a 4.7-star rating based on 843 reviews.
Reviews for Scooter's Frozen Custard overwhelmingly highlight the quality and taste of their custard, earning a solid 4.7-star rating from nearly 843 reviews. Positive feedback frequently mentions the rich, thick texture of the frozen custard and the freshness of flavors, with many patrons appreciating the daily flavor schedule posted on their website, allowing customers to plan visits around their favorite flavors. Customers praise the concretes and creative mix-ins, noting the blueberry pie and PB&J as standout options. The friendly service and welcoming vibe are also commended by many visitors, making it a local favorite for casual, enjoyable dessert outings. However, some negative reviews cite occasional issues with service, describing staff as less friendly on certain visits and pointing out that some flavors can be hit or miss, which affects the overall experience for a few customers. Despite these few critiques, the consensus remains that Scooter's Frozen Custard delivers a delightful, high-quality frozen custard experience that is well worth the visit. Overall, customers recognize Scooter's as a unique and reliable spot that brings the community together through its delicious treats and inviting environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Leah
This place has the best custard I've ever had. Super flavorful and creamy! My go to is the concrete with black raspberry and chocolate chips. I don't know what chocolate they're using but it's DELICIOUS. Would highly recommend even if you're not in the area (it's worth the drive). The line can be long but it moves fast.
Julie Pham
Super creamy, crazy delicious, and always fun — their Concretes are next-level yum. Friendly vibes, big scoops, and rotating flavors? Yes, please! Pictured is the Raspberry Crave (vanilla custard with raspberry topping, marshmallow, and chocolate chunks) and a chocolate custard with cookie dough and marshmallow.
Nicole H
Omg. Their custard is sooo good! They mixed a good amount of strawberries and just the right amount of oreo cookies! We got the Blackhawk concrete and Java lava concrete. We always go to Andy’s Custard and this beats it. We will always come by here for now on when we’re in the area.
Jeff Grimm
I only ever get the ‘Elvis has left the building’ because it’s that good. Banana, custard, and Reese’s…the perfect dessert!
Maddy Eichenberg
Definitely the best custard in the area, but be prepared to wait in a long line. I must have been in line for the walk up window for an hour or more. That said, the concrete flavors are creative and have lots of mix ins, and I definitely enjoyed the Caramel Fudge Nut Brownie Chip (aka CFNBC).
How to reach Scooter's Frozen Custard
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Website: None
Why Scooter's Frozen Custard may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Scooter's Frozen Custard with your friends? This iconic Chicago establishment offers more than just a place to grab a sweet treat; it provides an experience rich in tradition, incredible flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for socializing. With a stellar 4.7 rating from over 800 reviews, Scooter’s has earned its reputation as one of the city’s premier frozen custard spots. Unlike typical ice cream, frozen custard boasts a dense, creamy texture thanks to the addition of egg yolks, giving every bite a luxurious mouthfeel that’s uniquely satisfying. Meeting up here means you and your friends get to explore a wide variety of custard flavors—from classic vanilla and chocolate to inventive tastes like cookies and cream, banana, and peanut butter. The friendly, speedy service and the inviting environment make it easy to relax and enjoy. Plus, its location in the vibrant West Lakeview/Roscoe Village neighborhood of Chicago places it near other fun venues, allowing for a full day or evening of entertainment. Whether it's a casual hangout or a special occasion, Scooter’s Frozen Custard provides an excellent setting to create sweet memories with your friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Scooter's Frozen Custard, and why is it perfect for group meetups? Scooter's is not only about eating frozen custard; it offers various ways to customize and enjoy your dessert, making it an interactive experience for groups. You can indulge in sundaes, thick milkshakes called Boston shakes topped with hot fudge and whipped cream, refreshing floats, Italian ice, or the rich concretes—custard blended with mix-ins like caramel fudge or strawberry. Sharing these flavors sparks conversation and fun among friends as everyone samples different combinations. Moreover, the shop's casual, friendly atmosphere encourages groups to linger and savor their treats together. Scooter’s also offers savory options like the Chicago-style Scooter Dog, which can be a surprising and satisfying accompaniment for those who want something beyond sweets, advancing the appeal for diverse tastes within a group. The space often features street parking and primarily opens in the afternoon and evening, making it a great destination for after-work or weekend gatherings. The provision for pets and the availability of gender-neutral restrooms enhance its inclusivity for all group members, ensuring no one feels left out during your meetup.
How accessible and convenient is Scooter's Frozen Custard for hosting a meetup? Located at 1658 West Belmont Avenue at the corner of Belmont and Paulina in Chicago, Scooter’s Frozen Custard is easily reachable by various modes of transport, which is a huge plus when gathering a group of friends or family. Public transit options include the Brown Line to Paulina, as well as buses 9, 11, 50, and 77, making it very convenient for those not driving. For those coming by car, street parking is available nearby, though it can fill up quickly during peak hours, so arriving earlier can be advantageous. The shop's open hours—typically mid-afternoon to evening with weekend hours extending slightly longer—make it a flexible option for meetups whether it’s a casual weekday hangout or a weekend celebration. The shop also accepts Apple Pay, contactless payments, and credit cards, which simplifies the payment process for groups, avoiding hassles with cash or splitting bills. This combination of ease in access and payment options significantly lowers logistical barriers for group outings.
What makes the flavor and menu options at Scooter's Frozen Custard unique and memorable? Scooter’s excels in offering an extensive variety of frozen custard flavors and dessert options that cater to diverse palates. Their daily staples include rich vanilla and chocolate custards, but what truly excites customers are the rotating “flavor of the day” options such as banana Oreo and whisky caramel, which keep regular visitors coming back. The concretes, dense custard smoothies loaded with mix-ins like s’mores or coconut cream pie, offer an indulgent and satisfying treat that stands out from typical frozen desserts. Besides sweet options, the signature Chicago-style Scooter Dog with classic toppings gives a savory twist to your visit. This varied menu means groups can easily find something to satisfy every member’s taste, turning each visit into a mini tasting adventure. The high quality and artisanal approach to custard, along with the shop’s longstanding history as Chicago’s oldest frozen custard shop, imbue every dish with a sense of place and tradition, enhancing the communal feel of sharing this local favorite.
Why is the overall atmosphere at Scooter's Frozen Custard ideal for socializing and group gatherings? The ambiance at Scooter’s combines a nostalgic neighborhood charm with a lively, casual vibe that invites relaxed socializing. The interior is cozy yet spacious enough for small groups to gather comfortably without feeling cramped. The upbeat energy from both staff and customers creates a friendly environment that encourages conversation and shared enjoyment. Because custard is served fresh and fast, groups aren’t left waiting long, which keeps the momentum of the meetup going. Being a beloved community spot, Scooter’s often has a line, but this queue becomes part of the experience—allowing friends to chat and build anticipation together. This environment makes it an ideal hangout location for people looking to catch up, celebrate small milestones, or just enjoy a treat after a day out in the neighborhood.
How does Scooter’s Frozen Custard cater to diverse group needs regarding service and inclusivity? Scooter’s shows attention to inclusivity and accessibility that makes it a welcoming spot for any group. The presence of gender-neutral restrooms caters to all guests' comfort, and the pet-friendly policy extends the invitation to pet owners who want to bring their furry friends along, which is an uncommon and appreciated hospitality feature. The staff is known for being polite and efficient, contributing to a positive customer experience that suits groups who want a smooth, hassle-free outing. Also, the broad range of flavors and complementary menu items assure that groups with different dietary preferences or cravings can all find something delightful to enjoy. This mix of attentive service, diverse options, and thoughtful accommodations reinforces Scooter’s as a community-centric business ideal for hosting meetups with friends and family.
What makes Scooter’s Frozen Custard a standout destination in Chicago? Scooter’s Frozen Custard holds a distinctive place in Chicago’s culinary landscape as the city’s oldest frozen custard shop. This historic authenticity, combined with the shop’s consistent high ratings and glowing reviews, underlines its status as a must-visit location. Visitors come not just for the dessert—they come for the experience that has been perfected over decades. The balance of traditional flavors and creative new ones appeals to a wide demographic, from longtime locals to curious tourists. Moreover, its strategic location in a bustling, lively neighborhood amplifies the festive spirit that groups can tap into when arranging social outings. The blend of superior product quality, welcoming service, and community roots make Scooter’s a memorable and enriching meetup spot that goes beyond just satisfying sweet cravings. Whether for casual visits or special occasions, Scooter’s Frozen Custard stands out as a top choice in Chicago for those looking to gather, indulge, and share joy through food.