When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Two Roosters Ice Cream
Why Two Roosters Ice Cream is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Two Roosters Ice Cream is a celebrated ice cream parlor founded in Raleigh, North Carolina in 2015 by NC State alumnus Jared Plummer. Starting from humble beginnings as a travel trailer-turned ice cream truck, it quickly grew into a favorite local spot with six locations throughout The Research Triangle including Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, and Cary. Known for its inventive and non-traditional ice cream flavors—ranging from grilled cheese to pizza—Two Roosters offers something unique that intrigues and delights adventurous palates. They maintain eleven permanent flavors alongside rotating seasonal and guest collaboration flavors, providing a fresh experience throughout the year. The parlor’s commitment to local ingredients and working closely with North Carolina farmers, brewers, and artisans gives their ice cream a distinct, homegrown quality. Its welcoming atmosphere invites patrons to relax and reconnect, echoing the family tradition and community spirit from which the business grew. Two Roosters has received multiple accolades including "best local ice cream" in the WRAL Voter's Choice Awards and recognition from USA Today and Food & Wine, underscoring its exceptional reputation. The varied menu, warm environment, and strong community roots make it an ideal meeting spot for friends and families looking for a memorable ice cream outing.
Here's what people think of Two Roosters Ice Cream
As of recent, Two Roosters Ice Cream holds a 4.6-star rating based on 534 reviews.
Reviews from customers highlight Two Roosters Ice Cream as a top destination in Raleigh and the wider Triangle area, with an overall strong rating of 4.6 from over 500 reviews. Positive feedback frequently praises the creative and delicious flavors, customer service, and cozy locations. Customers appreciate the unique flavor combinations and the quality of ingredients, often mentioning favorites like the lemon curd ice cream or the Nutella Brownie. The family-owned nature and local collaborations enhance the welcoming feeling patrons experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional wait times or limited seating during busy periods, as well as variability in flavor availability due to the rotating seasonal menu. A few reviews note that the price can be a bit higher than average, but this is generally justified by the quality and originality offered. Overall, the positive reviews far outweigh the negatives, and the warmth of the service combined with inventive ice cream options strongly contributes to its success. The consistent praise from locals and visitors alike confirms Two Roosters Ice Cream as a beloved and vibrant ice cream destination in North Carolina.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Taia Jenkins
Such a fun spot to treat yourself! You can have your ice cream just the way you like it, with tons of mix-and-match options and featured flavors that change often. Watching them make the waffle cones in house is a cool bonus. While the interior is small, the large outdoor patio gives you plenty of space to relax and enjoy. Whether you’re sticking with a classic scoop or getting creative with the cartons, the options are endless!
Megan Perez
The best ice cream in North Carolina! My husband and I love Two Roosters, the staff are always friendly & the merchandise is great too. We love their rotating guest flavors, especially when it includes chocolate, brownies, or cookie dough! Jared the owner is so nice & remembers us even when we run into him randomly around town. We even had the opportunity to meet Jaccob Slavin from the Carolina Hurricanes when Two Roosters hosted a meet and greet. If you stop by I suggest getting a milkshake and adding in sprinkles or a flight so you can try up to six flavors!
Christopher Shively
Terrrrrrible price for the amount given. We paid $6 for two child size scoops claiming to be adult size. The flavors aren't bad. But you're telling me for 2 child size scoops it's ok to charge $6? My business means nothing if I go or don't go, this hipster pricing for somewhat decent food for small portions needs to end. Again I know you don't care and nothing will change. Good day.
Elizabeth Cass
Fantastic mom and pop in our local neighborhood. It can get busy on a nice night but they always do a great job on the line and ample free parking is available. The seasonal flavors are so fun and gets me excited to check each month. However their permanent flavors are amazing too. My favorite is coffee bourbon, blackberry hibiscus, and strawberry and honey. They are also very involved with the community and are exactly what you want in your neighborhood!
Christal
Stopped by for a tiny scoop after enjoying some sushi. We sampled a few of the flavors before making a decision. We got the Horchata Oreo and Coffee Bourbon, absolutely delicious.
How to reach Two Roosters Ice Cream
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Why Two Roosters Ice Cream may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Two Roosters Ice Cream with your friends?
Two Roosters Ice Cream is an ideal gathering spot for friends and family looking to enjoy a laid-back, delicious treat in a vibrant and welcoming setting. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from over 500 reviews, this locally beloved ice cream shop has built a reputation for quality and variety that keeps people coming back time and again. The diverse flavor options—including dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free choices—make it an inclusive destination that caters to many dietary preferences, ensuring everyone in your group can find their perfect scoop. The friendly and attentive staff create a warm atmosphere where you feel valued, enhancing the overall experience. Located conveniently in Raleigh on Lead Mine Road, Two Roosters offers not only a fantastic menu but also a charming environment with unique decor that adds to the fun of sharing a cold treat on a warm day. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply catch up with friends, it’s a place where memories are sweetened as much as the ice cream.
What activities can you enjoy at Two Roosters Ice Cream, and why is it perfect for a group meetup?
Two Roosters Ice Cream provides more than just exceptional ice cream; it offers a social experience that caters perfectly to groups. The core activity here is, of course, indulging in their innovative assortment of ice cream flavors. The establishment regularly rotates creative monthly flavors, providing something fresh and exciting on every visit. This makes it fun for groups to sample and compare their favorite picks as part of an informal tasting party. The shop’s ice cream bar concept, often used for events like weddings, highlights its appeal for group celebrations too—they can even bring their ice cream truck for private parties, proving ideal for large gatherings. The layout inside the shop encourages lingering and socializing, with ample seating and charming decor that makes for great photo ops with friends. Additionally, staff members are exceptionally accommodating, making it effortless to coordinate orders for groups with diverse tastes and dietary needs. This combination of delicious variety, space to socialize, and welcoming service makes Two Roosters a natural choice for meetups, where the atmosphere is as enjoyable as the treats they serve.
How does Two Roosters Ice Cream accommodate special dietary needs for group members?
One remarkable feature that makes Two Roosters Ice Cream especially group-friendly is its commitment to inclusivity regarding dietary restrictions. The shop offers many flavors that are dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, ensuring that guests with allergies, intolerances, or lifestyle choices do not feel limited when selecting their dessert. This sensitivity to dietary diversity removes a common barrier many groups face when dining out, enabling everyone to participate fully in the shared joy of ice cream. Whether someone is lactose intolerant, follows a plant-based diet, or has other food sensitivities, Two Roosters has thoughtfully curated options to accommodate these needs without compromising on flavor or quality. This inclusiveness makes it particularly attractive for social gatherings, where organizers can confidently bring their whole crew without worrying about accommodating every individual’s requirements separately. The staff are knowledgeable about these options and happy to guide customers to make suitable choices, promoting an inviting and stress-free group experience.
Why is the service and ambiance at Two Roosters Ice Cream ideal for making memorable meetups?
The quality of service and ambiance at Two Roosters Ice Cream complements the deliciousness of its offerings, creating a relaxed yet lively environment perfect for meetups. Reviews consistently praise the staff’s friendliness, efficiency, and attentiveness, which ensures groups feel welcomed and well looked after even during busy times. The team’s positive attitude and helpfulness add to the warm, community-focused vibe that encourages guests to linger and enjoy their time together. The interior decor is thoughtfully designed with a bright and modern aesthetic that’s both cute and comfortable, making it a visually pleasing backdrop for conversations and selfies alike. The spaciousness accommodates groups comfortably without feeling cramped, allowing for easy movement and social interaction. Whether meeting on a sunny afternoon or a balmy evening, the shop’s atmosphere maintains a casual charm that invites relaxation and connection, turning simple moments into memorable experiences shared with friends and family.
How does Two Roosters Ice Cream stand out compared to other ice cream shops in the area?
In a competitive market of ice cream venues around Raleigh and the surrounding Triangle area, Two Roosters Ice Cream distinguishes itself by combining high-quality artisanal ice cream with a carefully curated selection of unique flavors that rotate frequently. It isn’t just about the standard options; customers rave about inventive choices like lemon ice cream with lemon curd and playful seasonal specialties that provide new surprises on every visit. The shop’s ability to deliver consistently delicious and high-quality ice cream has earned it recognition from prominent food publications, including being named the best ice cream in North Carolina by Food & Wine magazine. Unlike more generic places, Two Roosters balances creativity with inclusivity, catering expertly to dietary restrictions—something not all competitors emphasize as strongly. This commitment to quality, innovation, and customer care creates an experience that not only satisfies taste buds but fosters loyalty and enthusiasm among regulars and newcomers alike, making it a standout spot for group outings around Raleigh.
What makes Two Roosters Ice Cream an excellent venue for special occasions with friends or family?
Two Roosters Ice Cream is particularly well-suited for celebrating special occasions because it offers more than just ice cream—it provides an engaging and festive atmosphere that naturally elevates gatherings. Many customers have chosen it as an alternative to traditional desserts at weddings and parties, often opting to have the ice cream truck present to serve guests in a fun and interactive way. This unconventional approach to celebrations has proven wildly popular, with many noting how guests appreciate the variety of flavors and the approachable, joyful vibe of the setting. The ability to pre-select flavors and taste test before major events ensures that the menu can be tailored precisely to the preferences of any group, making the experience feel personalized and special. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, family reunion, or casual get-together, the shop’s blend of quality, customization, and lively charm makes it an excellent choice for making memories around a shared passion for great ice cream.
How accessible and convenient is Two Roosters Ice Cream for groups planning a meetup?
Convenience and accessibility are important factors when organizing group meetups, and Two Roosters Ice Cream scores highly on both counts. Located at 7713 Lead Mine Road in Raleigh with another location in Durham, it is strategically positioned to serve a wide area with ease. The shop operates on a schedule that suits weekend and evening plans well, being open into the late evening hours on Fridays and Saturdays, which is ideal for after-dinner socializing. Its layout facilitates wheelchair access and offers ample parking, ensuring no guest feels excluded or inconvenienced. The ordering system is straightforward and efficient, even when serving large groups, thanks to the helpful staff who expediently handle multiple requests. This seamless accessibility combined with comfortable seating and a pleasant atmosphere means groups can arrive, order, and settle in without hassles, making gatherings both smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
What do customers appreciate the most about their experience at Two Roosters Ice Cream?
Customers consistently highlight several key aspects that make their visits to Two Roosters Ice Cream memorable and enjoyable. Foremost is the outstanding quality and creativity of the ice cream flavors, often described as rich, fresh, and delightfully unique. Fans particularly enjoy flavors like Eller's Blackberry Oreo and seasonal specials that showcase the shop’s commitment to fresh and innovative ingredients. Alongside the food, many praise the warmth and helpfulness of the staff, who make even busy days feel personal and welcoming. The comfortable yet lively ambiance invites visitors to relax and savor their time, whether stopping by for a quick treat or spending an hour catching up with friends. Additionally, the shop's sensitivity to dietary needs and the accommodating service style earn repeated commendations, as they make everyone—from kids to adults—feel included and cared for. These consistently positive experiences contribute to the shop’s strong rating and enthusiastic local reputation.