When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Sundaes Best
Why Sundaes Best is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sundaes Best is an inviting ice cream destination perfect for meeting up with friends and indulging in creative, flavorful treats. Originally opened in the summer of 2023 in Koreatown, New York City, it offers a unique twist on frozen desserts by featuring Asian-inspired gelato and sorbet flavors such as miso caramel, injeolmi (with bits of rice cake), and a tangy, slightly boozy makgeolli. The atmosphere is charming with playful pink decor and a neon "Love at first scoop" sign, creating a welcoming and photogenic environment. Beyond ice cream, they serve mochi doughnuts that add an extra layer of appeal and texture to your visit. Sundaes Best prides itself on smooth, creamy textures and inventive flavor profiles that go well beyond traditional ice cream options, making it a great spot to experience innovative dessert creations while catching up with friends.
Here's what people think of Sundaes Best
As of recent, Sundaes Best holds a 4.6-star rating based on 346 reviews.
Customer reviews for Sundaes Best reflect generally positive experiences focusing on the unique and inventive flavors alongside the creamy, buttery texture of the gelato. Positive reviewers highlight the well-thought-out Asian-inspired flavors, a refreshing change from typical ice cream offerings, as well as the friendly and helpful staff on most days. The mochi doughnuts also received praise for being cute and tasty additions. However, some negative feedback points to inconsistency in customer service, with at least one reviewer noting an initially poor experience due to unengaged staff and limited sampling options. Despite this, subsequent visits often turned out more positive, revealing a pattern of improvement and effort to provide quality service. Overall, the reviews suggest a distinctive and enjoyable ice cream spot that is worth visiting, particularly for those eager to try innovative flavors and support local ice cream artisans in Koreatown.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Najeeb Abdullah
Cool ice cream and dessert spot in K-Town. Clean and colorful aesthetic. They have a great selection of very unique ice cream flavors. I ordered the choco pie and tiramisu flavors, so good. It's a relatively small spot so it gets pretty tight inside during peak times and there might be a line out the door. Very much worth it!!
JJ
Delicious flavours. The staff are really friendly and helpful. Prices are pretty good too. I got the Kaya Coconut and Thai Tea scoops. They’re great together. Kaya Coconut is probably my favourite. There’s some seating available both indoors and outdoors which is handy and it’s conveniently located.
Isabella Grandic
I am usually a massive fan of “Asian inspired” dessert flavours. But this place was a massive flop. I sampled ~12 flavours and honestly struggled to create a semblance of something worth ordering. I went with pineapple basil (which was not a very good gelato texture - more like sorbet - but a decent flavour profile - at least relatively) and the pretzel chocolate one. The pretzel chocolate was a huge failure for a dark chocolate gelato, and tasted more like a low quality milk chocolate gelato. And these were the winners. The kalamansi was very sour. The tiramisu was weird. The peach was honestly one of the worst ice cream flavours I have had - potentially ever. Tasted like poorly executed children’s flavoured yogurt gone bad with a ton of sugar. Sesame Oreo was too strong for me - it dried out my whole mouth in one bite! Needless to say $8 for two scoops I could not even finish, will not be coming back Workers are super nice tho!! Tolerated all my sampling
Isabella Lin
Ice cream is so good. Smooth and sweet. The Falcons are super fresh and not artifical at all.mango is so accurate and the Ube is sweet but not too sweet with an aftertaste that is really similar to the real thing. Store is clean and cool. Staff is really nice. The yogurt is pretty basic but it isnt bad.I think the focal point is the ice cream.
Sonya Hu
Super cute ice cream shop with a ton of delicious and unique Asian-inspired flavors! I was walking through Koreatown on a Friday evening when my friend and I suddenly had a strong craving for a little sweet treat. There was a giant crowd outside of Sundae's Best, so we figured it had to be worth a try; the line was long but moved pretty quickly and, honestly, I needed the extra time to figure out what I wanted to get. They had a phenomenal spread of flavors, including injeolmi, Melona bars, banana milk, misugaru, and so much more. I finally settled on a half scoop of the injeolmi mochi and a half scoop of the Korean plum, both of which were delightful. The injeolmi mochi had a great nutty flavor from the sesame, and the mochi gave it a delightful little pop of chewiness and texture. The Korean plum was (1) dairy-free, so great for all my fellow lactose intolerant friends (not that I cared when it came to the injeolmi...), and (2) super refreshing and delicious. I loved the balance of tart and sweet flavors, and the sorbet was surprisingly smooth. One note if you have any allergies -- they do a good job of asking each customer about any allergies, but there's a lot of cross-contamination happening and most of the staff isn't ~super~ clear about what does / doesn't include certain allergens. I'd recommend looking at their list of flavors online or calling ahead of time if you have a severe allergy, and I think they're especially unsure about the ingredients in most of the toppings so I'd steer clear of those.
How to reach Sundaes Best
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Why Sundaes Best may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sundaes Best with your friends?
Sundaes Best offers an irresistible destination to gather with friends for a memorable outing centered around exceptional ice cream. Located in the vibrant Koreatown of New York City, Sundaes Best has quickly earned a strong reputation for delivering uniquely handcrafted, Asian-inspired ice cream flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. This innovative take on ice cream elevates the classic dessert experience, making it a perfect excuse to meet and share something new and exciting. The cozy yet lively atmosphere encourages relaxed chats and joyful indulgence, helping groups to bond over delicious treats. With a high rating of 4.6 from over 340 reviews, it’s clear that regulars appreciate both the product and the setting, which feels welcoming enough to spend a few hours savoring creative flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving an afternoon escape, Sundaes Best turns regular meetup moments into something special through its dedication to quality and inventive dessert artistry.
What activities can you enjoy at Sundaes Best for a group meetup?
Sundaes Best is more than a place to grab ice cream; it’s a social hub that offers engaging reasons to stay and bond. First and foremost, the star attraction is their diverse selection of ice cream featuring flavors inspired by Asian culinary traditions, with creative options such as Banana Milk with cacao nibs or deeper explorations beyond the common Green Tea and Ube. This makes tasting different scoops an interactive activity, especially fun for groups who love sharing and comparing tastes. The store environment encourages leisurely enjoyment, so friends can lounge over sundaes, try affogatos (ice cream with espresso), or sample multiple flavors in one visit. Because the place is thoughtfully designed to showcase these unique flavors, you can turn your visit into a tasting party, sparking lively conversations about new flavor profiles and preferences. The staff, generally friendly and knowledgeable, enhance the experience by recommending pairings and explaining the inspirations behind the flavors, turning a simple outing into an educational and tasty adventure.
Why is Sundaes Best ideal for group celebrations or family meetups?
Sundaes Best’s ambiance and offerings make it an excellent venue for group meetups, whether for family reunions or friend gatherings. The welcoming atmosphere combined with creative ice cream choices means you can cater to diverse tastes, from kids to adults who crave innovative desserts. Its location in bustling Koreatown means easy accessibility for city dwellers and tourists alike, providing a seamless gathering spot between other activities or city explorations. For family outings, the playful and exotic flavors excite children’s palates and encourage them to try new foods in a fun environment, while adults can appreciate the thoughtful craftsmanship behind each flavor. Additionally, the shop’s hours, extending into the evening on weekends, allow for flexible timing to accommodate different schedules, making it a dependable choice for meetups. With seating areas that invite lingering over desserts and conversations, Sundaes Best naturally fosters interactions, making group celebrations feel intimate even in a busy urban setting.
How does Sundaes Best’s unique flavor profile enhance your visit experience?
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Sundaes Best for your next meetup is its distinctive Asian-inspired flavor selection. The ice cream there is crafted by blending traditional flavors with unexpected ingredients, creating a sensory journey that stands out in a city crowded with ice cream options. Examples like the richly creamy Banana Milk flavor with cacao nibs showcase the creativity that goes into the menu. Unlike usual standard offerings, Sundaes Best dives into deeper, more nuanced tastes that reflect Korean and broader Asian desserts, providing guests the opportunity to explore beyond commonplace Green Tea and Ube. This approach not only excites adventurous eaters but also invites nostalgia or curiosity, making each visit a little discovery. For groups, this elevates the sharing experience into a conversation starter and a fun tasting challenge, prompting everyone to pick favorites and discuss flavor intricacies, which naturally bonds friends or family over the joyful exploration of taste.
What practical aspects make Sundaes Best convenient and comfortable for groups?
Beyond the delicious ice cream and vibrant flavors, Sundaes Best offers practical conveniences that benefit group outings. Situated at 4 East 32nd Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenue, the location is highly accessible in Manhattan’s Koreatown, making it easy for friends coming from different parts of the city or for visitors exploring the neighborhood. The shop’s hours are generous, opening from early afternoon well into the evening, especially later on Fridays and Saturdays, which suits a range of meetup plans—from afternoon breaks to after-dinner indulgences. The layout inside caters to social groups, with enough space to accommodate casual seating where everyone can relax comfortably. Moreover, the customer service experience, mostly praised for being attentive and helpful, ensures groups feel welcomed and that ordering for several people is smooth and hassle-free. These features come together to make Sundaes Best a practical and enjoyable option for hosting an impromptu ice cream party or a planned family gathering with minimal stress and maximum fun.
Can Sundaes Best accommodate dietary preferences or special requirements?
Sundaes Best understands the diverse needs of its customers, which is important when planning group gatherings where dietary preferences can vary widely. While the core of their offering is handcrafted ice cream, the shop incorporates ingredients and flavors that appeal to a range of tastes and sensitivities, including options that may suit those looking for less sweetness or wanting interesting textures like cacao nibs. The staff are typically willing to guide customers in selecting flavors that match personal preferences or dietary restrictions, enhancing accessibility for groups. While Sundaes Best does not position itself as exclusively vegan or allergy-free, its thoughtful approach to flavor creation means guests can often find choices that accommodate or at least offer appealing alternatives. This inclusivity helps make the venue a reliable choice for group organizers who want everyone to enjoy their visit without worrying about limited or unsuitable options.
What makes Sundaes Best different from other ice cream shops in NYC?
Sundaes Best distinguishes itself from the multitude of ice cream spots in New York by focusing on innovative, Asian-inspired flavors and a uniquely crafted dessert experience. Unlike popular chains or classic ice cream parlors that stick to predictable flavors, Sundaes Best ventures deep into flavor exploration rooted in Korean culinary traditions, reflecting the cultural richness of its Koreatown setting. This not only fills a niche for a unique ice cream experience but also offers something fresh for frequent ice cream lovers looking to try something beyond vanilla or chocolate. The attention to detail in texture and garnishes, such as cacao nibs, elevates the flavor profiles and the aesthetic presentation. Additionally, the store marries this distinctive product with a comfortable, inviting setting that encourages socializing and leisurely enjoyment, setting it apart from quick-serve or chain establishments. For groups, these factors combine to create a destination that feels both special and authentically local.
How does the location of Sundaes Best contribute to the group meetup experience?
Situated in Koreatown, a dynamic and culturally rich neighborhood in Manhattan, Sundaes Best benefits from and adds to an exciting urban atmosphere perfect for group outings. Koreatown itself is known for its vibrant energy, with bustling streets, diverse restaurants, and boutique shops, providing plenty of opportunities for friends or families to explore before or after indulging in ice cream. The location makes Sundaes Best accessible to various New Yorkers and tourists, positioned conveniently near major avenues and subway lines. For groups planning a day out, it can serve as a perfect sweet spot between meals or as a relaxing endpoint after a walk or shopping excursion. The neighborhood’s cultural vibe amplifies the unique flavor of Sundaes Best, making the entire meetup feel like an authentic slice of city life rather than a generic dessert pit stop. This blend of location and product creates an integrated experience that’s memorable and easy to coordinate.
What is the atmosphere like inside Sundaes Best for a social gathering?
Inside Sundaes Best, you’ll find a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that invites conversation and casual enjoyment—ideal for social gatherings. The space is designed to complement the uniqueness of the ice cream itself, with modern yet cozy décor that accommodates groups without feeling crowded or noisy. The bright, clean aesthetic mixes well with the vibrant presentation of the ice cream creations, helping create a positive ambiance encouraging guests to linger. The seating arrangement supports sharing, talking, and tasting, providing comfort that makes it easy for groups to stay for a while after ordering. The staff’s generally positive engagement adds to the welcoming vibe, enhancing the guest experience to feel personalized rather than rushed. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or celebrating a special occasion with family, the atmosphere encourages connection and makes ice cream more than just a snack—it becomes a communal experience.
How does the menu design facilitate sharing and trying new flavors?
Sundaes Best’s menu is curated to stimulate curiosity and sharing, making it a perfect complement to group visits. By emphasizing exotic and well-crafted Asian-inspired flavors, the menu invites guests to step out of their usual choices and try something adventurous. Many flavors come with thoughtful garnishes or textural inclusions that add to the tasting experience and make each scoop stand out. The ability to sample multiple flavors in one visit encourages group members to exchange bites and discuss their impressions, turning the act of ordering into an interactive event rather than just a routine purchase. Options like sundaes and affogatos offer different ways to enjoy ice cream, appealing to various preferences within the group. This variety and presentation encourage shared discovery and can even turn dessert time into a highlight of a meetup.
What makes Sundaes Best a reliable choice for repeat group visits?
Sundaes Best’s consistency in quality and innovative flavor offerings make it a dependable choice for groups looking for a repeat meetup spot. Since opening in 2023, it has quickly built a loyal following thanks to its distinctive menu and welcoming environment. Customers appreciate not only the taste but also the growth and response of the business to feedback, which shows commitment to continual improvement. The location’s convenience, combined with the store’s extended hours that accommodate varying schedules, gives groups flexibility to plan spontaneous or prearranged visits. Moreover, the menu’s rotation of new flavors alongside beloved staples keeps the experience fresh and exciting for return visits, while the comfortable, social atmosphere remains a constant draw. For groups who value a pleasant venue offering remarkable ice cream, Sundaes Best strikes an ideal balance of innovation, quality, and welcoming vibe for many future gatherings.